The Deadly Heart Trek was developed in response to children being affected by rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities being underserved, lacking services and needing access to medical specialists.

There have been four Treks to the Northern Territory, Queensland and Central Australia/APY Lands – with 3907 children’s hearts screened and over 8000 people participating in RHD/heart/skin awareness education.

Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is a preventable disease but if it’s not diagnosed or treated, it can cause heart failure, disability and even death. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities experience some of the highest rates of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) globally. 
The Deadly Heart Trek is in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, local Land Councils and is a community-led and community-based program. We aim to empower Aboriginal leadership and self-determination and demonstrate that RHD needs political action and commitment.