The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has released a new podcast series which explores the impacts of colonisation through the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander physiotherapists.

The Deadly Physios podcast series interviews Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander physiotherapists who are each on their own path of self-discovery, working towards making a difference in healthcare, and in particular, the physiotherapy profession.

Hosted by Kamilaroi man Cameron Edwards, the inaugural series will launch during National Reconciliation Week, kicking off on 28 May with an episode featuring Palawa man and APA National President Scott Willis.

In line with the National Reconciliation Week theme this year, ‘More than a Word. Reconciliation takes action’, the APA hopes the podcast will inspire Australians, in particular physiotherapists, to take action and become proactive in their reconciliation journey.

“The Deadly Physios podcast is fantastic. These are important discussions which highlight not only where we are as a profession, but also what we are working towards – one with healing, truth-telling and truth-listening embedded in our culture and community,” Scott said.

“The physiotherapy profession is on the right path with many initiatives already in place, but we can always do better. The Deadly Physios podcast series will be another means to continuing the push toward reconciliation.

“Closing the Gap is all about closing the health and life expectancy gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians, and the more we talk and reconcile as a country, the quicker we can move towards this goal.

“The series is for all those looking to learn about our history, both as individuals, as a country and as a profession. National Reconciliation Week is the perfect time to continue or begin this learning journey.

“This interview assisted me in my own reconciliation journey, vision, personal beliefs, and personal and professional goals.

“I tell my story of my childhood, personal struggles, achievements, memories, and the journey from high school to a leader of a peak health body. 

“The series hopes to inspire the next generation to continue working towards reconciliation through conversations with the likes of Michael Reynolds and Curtley Nelson, who are just some of the incredible people, with incredible stories, featured,” Scott said.

The Deadly Physios podcasts can be found on Apple Podcasts and Spotify or on the APA website.

-ENDS- 

Scott Willis is available for further comment.