Uncle Phillip Bowie, Deputy Chair of the Board of Directors for Torres Health wanted the community to know that COVID-19 isn’t going away any time soon. 

The 24-year veteran of Queensland Health’s Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Service said it’s better to get vaccinated now than wait to see how it goes. 

“It’s gonna be with us for as long as I live anyway. So, it’s better being prepared,” Uncle Phillip said. 

“And also getting vaccinated can improve their lifestyle because there’s a lot of restrictions that are around today.  

“So, people could travel interstate or something like that, or even travel down to Cairns from the islands or the Torres Straits in general.” 

The 72-year-old said he got the vaccine for two reasons. 

“Number one is because well, I don’t want to get sick and you know what happens after,” he said. 

“Number two, because of my age, I want to demonstrate to people, you’re never too old to get vaccinated.” 

Uncle Phillip said that though the jab wasn’t available on Thursday Island, he and a friend were so motivated to get their first vaccination, that they hopped on a ferry to Bamaga to get vaccinated. 

“They didn’t offer any vaccine here on T.I. at that time.  

“That was like, early last month. Myself and another friend we went across to Bamaga.  

“How keen is that?” 

Uncle Phillip said that even though he was super keen, those who have questions about whether the COVID-19 vaccination is right for them should try having a yarn with a health worker. 

“If there’s anything, especially if they’ve got some sort of chronic illness, to consult with their doctor before they get vaccinated.  

“…Or any health workers I might add.  

“When I say health workers, like Torres Health, we’re in the main street here, and also we’ve got a primary healthcare centre straight across the road from us.  

“And also, down at the hospital and the chemist.  

“They can go down and get advice from there too.” 

If you would like more information, or to book an appointment contact Torres Health.