For many people in Cairns and across northern Queensland, accessing health care can be as simple as booking an appointment at a local clinic.
However, for those sleeping rough, living in cars, or moving between caravan parks and temporary accommodation, the barriers are much higher. Wheels of Wellness (WoW) exists to close that gap.
“Our goal is simple – we meet people where they are, without judgement, and bring health care to them when they need it most,” says Jodi Brown, CEO of Wheels of Wellness.
Through its after-hours and homelessness program, WoW operates mobile outreach clinics across Cairns. These clinics provide on-the-spot care and link people into ongoing support.
Thanks to funding from Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) through the After Hours Funding Program, WoW can deliver GP-led and Indigenous Health Practitioner-led services directly to those who need them most.
“Without NQPHN’s funding, this program wouldn’t exist. It allows us to put doctors and Indigenous Health Practitioners on the ground, where they can make a real difference every day,” says Jodi.
The clinics see a wide range of health issues – from untreated injuries and infections to chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease and respiratory illness.
Mental health challenges and substance use are also common.
The outreach model means people can be assessed, treated, and supported without the need to navigate complex systems on their own.
“The combination of clinical care and cultural knowledge is powerful,” explains Jodi.
“GPs provide comprehensive medical care, while our Indigenous Health Practitioners bring community connection and cultural understanding along with education.
“It means people not only get treatment, but also feel safe, respected, and understood.”
The impact is often life-changing.
One man, who had been living rough with unmanaged diabetes, was reluctant to seek help. Over time, he built trust with the WoW team – particularly through the support of an Indigenous Health Practitioner – and accepted treatment for a serious foot infection.
His condition was stabilised before it became life-threatening, and he was reconnected to ongoing care and housing support.
“One of our patients told us they felt ‘seen’ for the first time in years,” says Jodi.
“That’s the difference this program makes – it’s about health, but it’s also about dignity and hope.”
At the same time, the changing face of homelessness is putting growing pressure on services.
“Homelessness is no longer something that happens to ‘other people,’” says Jodi.
“With the housing crisis, it could be your neighbour or your workmate living in their car next week.
“We are caring for people who are still displaced after cyclone Jasper. We’re seeing more families, older women, and working people who simply can’t keep up with rising rents.”
Looking ahead, WoW sees the biggest opportunity in strengthening continuity of care and ensuring people experiencing homelessness can move seamlessly from outreach into longer-term health and social support.
However, as Jodi points out, housing remains central.
“Healthcare and housing are inseparable,” she says.
“If we want to close the gap in health outcomes for people experiencing homelessness, we need secure housing, alongside accessible, culturally-safe health services.”