On the Ground, In the Community: How Jock Peterson Is Strengthening Pathways to Better Health

At Sunraysia Community Health Services (SCHS), we know that real change happens in community, through connection, trust, and showing up. That’s exactly what Jock Peterson,  Aboriginal Health Promotions and Chronic Care (AHPACC) Worker, does each day.

With more than 20 years’ experience in community health and wellbeing, Jock has dedicated his career to advocating for the needs of First Nations people. His role is about much more than appointments and referrals it’s about creating pathways to local and affordable healthcare services, strengthening cultural safety, and ensuring First Nations People feel supported every step of the way.

Bridging the Gap Between Services and Community

As an AHPACC worker, Jock works to help mob access the care they need. He promotes healthy living, supporting people to navigate SCHS services, and collaborates with other organisations to make sure support doesn’t stop at one doorway.

For many First Nations People, accessing health services can feel daunting. Forms, appointments, unfamiliar faces it can all become a barrier.

“Sometimes as an Aboriginal person, health services can seem scary,” says community member Julie Brennan. “Having Jock there, someone who understands what we’re going through and who we all know from community, helps us get the services we need.”

Jock understands that trust isn’t built in an office. It’s built through conversation, consistency, and care.

“Reaching out to those who are in need can be as easy as a telephone call,” Jock says. “I bring my support to community, in their home where they feel comfortable, and share what services are available.”

More Than a Walking Group

One of the many ways Jock connects with community is through his cultural walking group, Fridays down at Bobbi and Me, from 9am to 12pm. On paper, it’s a walking group. But for those who attend, it’s so much more.

“It’s more about the social connection,” Julie explains. “We walk at our own pace, and we’re so busy talking we forget we’re walking.”

Julie joined the group during one of the most challenging times of her life, her cancer journey.

“Jock has been a big support for me throughout my cancer journey,” she says. “Through him, I got involved in the walking group. He has always been there to guide me, inform me about available services, and make sure I was connected to the support I needed.”

Before joining, Julie was struggling.

“It took me a while to get out of the house. I was very depressed and wasn’t interested in doing much,” she shares. “When I came to the group, I felt really comfortable. Now I get up and look forward to it every week even if it’s raining. That’s my goal.”

What makes the group special isn’t just the exercise. It’s the belonging.

“As you get older, you can fall into the habit of being alone. You think you’re too old to do this or that, or that nobody cares. But with Jock’s nature and personality, he gets you involved in things without you even realising he’s doing it.”

That quiet encouragement has had a powerful impact on Julie’s physical and mental health.

“I can’t thank Jock and Hollie enough for the role they played in my cancer journey and caring for my mental health.”

A Trusted Source of Information and Support

In community, Jock’s care doesn’t start at 9am and end at 5pm. Outside of his formal role, he continues to check in, making sure they remain supported and healthy as they age.

“He’s always caring for those who need it most,” Julie says. “He’s the first to reach out and make sure we’re doing okay.”

For Julie and many others Jock is the first call when they need guidance.

“For any services, whether they’re at SCHS or another program, he’s my source of information.”

That trust is powerful. It means people are more likely to attend appointments, follow up on referrals, and engage in programs that improve long-term health outcomes.

Improving Health Outcomes Through Connection

Jock is passionate about improving the health outcomes of his people. But he knows that better health starts with stronger relationships.

By being present in community, collaborating with other service providers, and meeting people where they feel safe, he’s helping to close gaps in access and understanding.

The impact of his work is felt not just in appointments attended or programs delivered, but in confidence restored, isolation reduced, and community strengthened.

As Julie puts it simply:

“Our community is such a better place with him in it.”

If you or someone you know could benefit from support connecting with SCHS or other local services, reaching out could be as simple as a phone call or a knock at the door. Because with the right support person beside you, healthcare doesn’t have to feel overwhelming it can feel welcoming.

If you would like to learn more about our the Aboriginal Health Support at Sunraysia Community Health Services, get in touch with Jock at jpeterson@schs.com.au or call (03) 5022 5444.