Hedland FASD Project

WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are warned that this webpage may contain images and voices of deceased persons.

Project Summary

This five-year research program aimed at reducing the prevalence and impact of FASD in the Pilbara, specifically in Port Hedland, Warralong and Yandeyarra. The work fostered genuine community leadership, and ownership of issues related to alcohol and other substance use in pregnancy.

Following on from Telethon Kid's previous work in the Kimberley and recognising the importance of ongoing action, the Hedland FASD Project worked in partnership with Wirraka Maya Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, the Hedland FASD Network and the Hedland FASD Community Reference Group. These partnerships supported local efforts in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, family support, capacity building and policy advocacy.

Working with existing Hedland, Warralong and Yandeyarra services, networks and communities, the project aimed to:

• Identify rates of alcohol use in pregnancy using AUDIT-C data routinely collected by midwives during antenatal care
• Reduce the rates of alcohol use in pregnancy among local Aboriginal women
• Increase the capacity of the local community and services to care for and support individuals and families affected by FASD

Download PDF Project Summary

Warajanga Marnti Warrarnja - Together We Walk on Country was launched at the Spinifex Gallery in South Hedland on 10 October 2016. The launch was attended by the Chair and CEO of Wirraka Maya, Elders and community members, Community Reference Group members, representatives from BHP, Telethon Kids Institute, and project staff.

Key achievements include:

• Public awareness of the dangers of drinking during pregnancy was found to be very high, at 94%. Awareness of FASD and the link between drinking and FASD and FASD symptoms was moderate at 60%.
• Over 1000 antenatal healthcare records were entered and analysed. Midwives were trained in the use of AUDIT-C to improve screening.
• 47 children were assessed for neurodevelopmental delays, with 27 children receiving a confirmed FASD diagnosis. Other diagnosis received by children included autism, ADHD, PTSD and global developmental delay.
• Long term sustainable change requires community participation and ownership, and a deep understanding of the unique issues and landscape of the area. The Hedland FASD Project placed a strong focus on building community capability and leadership through employing and training local community researchers, establishing a community reference group of respected Aboriginal elders, supporting the Hedland FASD Network and engaging with local service providers.

Community researchers and the community reference group embraced the opportunity and are speaking with their families and communities about FASD. Together with Perth-based researchers, the team collaborates with partners, shares learnings and seeks opportunities for advocacy.

The unprecedented support of BHP over five years has enabled this project to have an active presence in the Port Hedland, Warralong and Yandeyarra communities.

Project funder

We acknowledge the support and funding from BHP