Karratha Health Campus hosts international dignitary

Karratha Health Campus was abuzz with excitement on 24 July 2019 as staff prepared to welcome Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister, the Honourable James Marape.

Mr Marape spent the afternoon in Karratha to conclude an Australian tour with his delegation of PNG Governors and Ministers and, with only an hour to spare before flying home, took the opportunity to visit the campus which has been operational since September 2018.

Pilbara Regional Director Margi Faulkner, and West and Inland Pilbara Operations Manager Alistair Pinto greeted the delegation, which included Australian High Commissioner Mr Bruce Davis. The tour included a discussion about the design and construction of the campus, which is the biggest investment in a regional public hospital ever undertaken in WA, and a chance to showcase the incredible artwork throughout the building.

The delegation were eager to learn about the many challenges and opportunities encountered in the delivery of primary health services in regional WA and met and spoke to staff in population health, surgical services, pharmacy, inpatient and maternity wards and the emergency department.

Regional Director Margi Faulkner said it was an honour and privilege to host Prime Minister Marape and his delegation during their Australian tour.

“We are immensely proud of the Karratha Health Campus, not just the physical building and state-of-the-art facilities, but also the passionate staff who ensure their local community have access to the best healthcare, close to where they live.”       

“Prime Minister Marape’s visit was an opportunity to reflect on everything we have achieved as we approach the one year anniversary of the Karratha Health Campus opening,” Ms Faulkner added.