Aboriginal health in focus for Fitzroy Crossing Primary Health Manager Erica Sykes

Fitzroy Crossing Primary Health Manager Erica Sykes is focussed on the future of Aboriginal health and knows that involving Aboriginal people – and communities – in their care is the key.

With proud Wakaya, Ilperrelhelame, Garawa, Gangalidda and Indonesian heritage, Erica lives and works on Gooniyandi Country in Fitzroy Crossing.

As the WA Country Health Service Primary Health Manager at Fitzroy Crossing Community Health, Erica leads a dedicated team of nurses, midwives, diabetes educators, and Aboriginal Liaison Officers (ALOs).

Since 2020, Erica has played a pivotal role in Aboriginal health in the region, developing strong relationships with Aboriginal groups right across the Fitzroy Valley.

Erica is passionate about advocating for Aboriginal health, developing cultural awareness training, and fostering community collaboration.

Kimberley Executive Director Lisa Smith said Erica’s leadership has transformed community health in Fitzroy Crossing.

“Erica has strengthened community health programs and facilitated training opportunities.

“She has created a real sense of stability, empowered local ALOs, and fostered culturally sensitive health care.”

During the Fitzroy Crossing floods, Erica’s calm and compassionate leadership ensured effective health responses amidst significant challenges.

It’s this tireless dedication to community that has seen her named a finalist for Aboriginal Health Professional of the Year in the WA Rural Health Excellence Awards 2025.

The Community Health team’s impact is being felt across the Fitzroy Valley, with the boost in attendance at Bayulu Clinic’s recent paediatric clinic a clear example.

Erica and the team identified a major barrier to missed appointments was patients leaving the clinic for food, so the team now provides nutritious food at all paediatric clinics.

The success of the clinics was also made possible by the-on-the-ground work of Erica’s ALO team who worked with the community to gather local kids for their appointments, contributing to a 100 per cent attendance rate.

“The success of the paediatric clinic means we are heading in the right direction and making a genuine difference,” Erica said.

“This can only happen when our workforce is as diverse as the residents we service, who have strong cultural connections with – and knowledge of – local Aboriginal communities.

“I am so proud of Fitzroy Crossing Community Health and to be working with a supportive, passionate and motivated bunch of people from here and afar.”