KAMBU Health has officially celebrated the grand reopening of its Ipswich Clinic, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s 50th anniversary year.
The reopening brought together community members, Elders, staff, partners and stakeholders to reflect on five decades of service and to celebrate a new chapter for the community-controlled health organisation.
Established in 1976, Kambu Health has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving health service supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients across the Ipswich and West Moreton region.
The reopening of the upgraded medical centre at 27 Roderick St reflects five years of substantial growth, service expansion and strategic investment in the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader community.
During the last financial year, Kambu Health supported nearly 7000 Indigenous patients, with approximately 6000 attending regularly.
Across the year, more than 55,000 patient contacts were delivered, representing individual appointments completed. These figures highlight the scale of care and community engagement provided and demonstrate the strength and reach of the organisation’s services.
Board Chair Allan Fisher said the event was both a celebration of history and a strong statement of confidence in the future.
“As we celebrate 50 years of service to our community, this milestone stands as a powerful reminder of how far we have come,” Mr Fisher said. “Kambu Health has grown into a strong, sustainable organisation providing quality services to thousands of people each year.
“Supporting nearly 7000 patients and delivering more than 55,000 appointments in a single year speaks to both the need within our community and the trust placed in Kambu Health.
“This modern facility reflects our commitment to excellence, cultural integrity and community control.”
Over the past five years, Kambu Health has experienced significant expansion in patient numbers, workforce capability and service delivery.
Plans for continued growth were also highlighted during the event, including the forthcoming development of a new Children and Family Centre, the reopening of Dental Services later this year, and upgrades to clinic services in Laidley to improve equitable access across the region.
Director Maria Baker said the Board remains focused on sustainable growth guided by community voice.
“Our growth has been shaped by strong governance and the needs of our community. We are committed to building healthier futures for our people,” Ms Baker said.
As Kambu Health enters its 50th year, the reopening of the Ipswich Clinic stands as a testament to the generations of leaders, workers and families who have shaped the organisation’s legacy – and a clear signal that it will continue to grow, innovate and advocate, staying true to its vision of “Our People, Our Community, Our Health, Our Way.”
