Strong Hearts on Ngurra is a community-led health initiative focused on improving outcomes for Aboriginal children at risk of Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) across remote Pilbara communities.
Delivered in partnership with WA Country Health Service, Aboriginal Medical Services and regional health organisations, the program brings heart screening and early detection directly into communities, supporting children to receive timely care in culturally safe, trusted environments.
At the centre of the program is a model that empowers Aboriginal health professionals to lead handheld heart ultrasound (echocardiography) screening on country, supported by specialist cardiology expertise. This approach strengthens local capability while improving access to critical diagnostic services that are often limited in remote areas.
Program activities include:
Strong Hearts on Ngurra responds to one of the most significant and preventable health challenges facing children in the Pilbara, with a focus on early detection, culturally safe care, and long-term system improvement.
The Hanrine Foundation acknowledges and thanks Telethon for its support of this important initiative, helping to expand access to critical health services for children and families across the region.
