From ocean to outback: BreastScreen SA visits remote communities in the state’s far north

Country SA PHN Newsletter September 2025

Written by BreastScreen SA

In August, BreastScreen SA’s mobile screening unit travelled deep into the South Australian outback, visiting Marla, Marree and Coober Pedy to provide breast screening services for women in these remote communities.

Delivering services in the far north is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning months in advance. This includes coordinating client recruitment, transport and bookings in partnership with the Nganampa Health Council, Pika Wiya Outreach team and Umoona Tjutagku Health Service. The collaborative efforts help create a welcoming and supportive environment for women from all remote areas including the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands.

With the generous support of health services, local businesses and charity organisations, women were welcomed with care packs, blankets and other items to make their long journeys more comfortable. These small gestures, combined with the warm support of our staff, helped ensure the experience was as positive and accessible as possible.

During our visit, our team had the privilege of listening to women’s stories and learning from their cultural insights - conversations that continue to shape the way we deliver our service and strengthen relationships with Aboriginal communities. Our time in the outback was both rewarding and inspiring, with more women engaging in screening and numbers increasing across rural and remote areas. Above all, this work reflects our core belief that every woman - no matter where she lives - deserves access to high-quality health care. BreastScreen SA’s three mobile units continue to support our fixed clinics by delivering services across the state. To finish 2025, our units will be visiting Waikerie, Wallaroo, Port Adelaide, Port Pirie, Salisbury and Smithfield Plains. For more information, please visit www.breastscreen.sa.gov.au.

Published on: September 3, 2025

Last updated on: September 5, 2025