Country clinicians in the spotlight at 2025 Rural Health Excellence Awards

Five outstanding WA Country Health Service clinicians have taken out their categories at the 2025 Rural Health Excellence Awards.

Hosted by WA Country Health Service and Rural Health West, the awards acknowledge the valuable contributions made by health professionals right across rural Western Australia.

This year's event saw more than 30 health professionals and teams recognised for their outstanding efforts, representing nearly every region in country WA in 12 different categories.

Joint winner of the Aboriginal Health Professional of the Year Sharon Lockyer was recognised for her tireless advocacy for cultural security.

WA Country Health Service Chief Executive Jeff Moffet said the Aboriginal Health Professional of the Year Award was an opportunity to highlight the unique contributions of Aboriginal healthcare professionals.

“This is the second year we’ve presented this award and Sharon Lockyer characterises everything the award stands for,” Mr Moffet said.

“Sharon empowers Aboriginal staff and educates clinicians to deliver respectful, patient-centred care, making her a vital leader in Aboriginal health.

A proud Nyul Nyul woman from Beagle Bay, Sharon has dedicated 14 years to improving Aboriginal health outcomes across WA.

As WA Country Health Service’s first Aboriginal Health Practitioner in the Pilbara, Sharon provides comprehensive, culturally safe care, including immunisations, health assessments, and chronic disease management, while also leading outreach to remote areas.

Sharon also plays a pivotal role in the delivery of the RHD NEARER SCAN project, enabling early detection and treatment of rheumatic heart disease.

Specialist (Non-GP) of the Year Dr Apaks Dede was praised for his commitment to the delivery of paediatric care not only in the Midwest, but in rural and remote areas around Australia.

For more than 12 years, Dr Dede has brought unparalleled expertise, compassion, and mentorship to the Midwest.

A champion of rural health, he has provided long-term care through remote clinics in Three Springs, Morawa, Meekatharra and Mount Magnet.

Another Midwest champion, Debra Collins, was named joint winner of the Community Health Professional of the Year.

Ms Collins has dedicated more than 40 years to serving the community, both as a nurse and St John Ambulance volunteer.

Passionate about supporting her community, she also visits local schools to talk to students about career pathways in health and first aid.

Holly Reid (Great Southern) and Xavier Cornwall (South West) took home Intern of the Year and Resident Medical Officer of the Year, respectively.

Mr Moffet said the junior doctors are an integral part of the team.

“Not only are they providing care to our communities while gaining invaluable experience at some of country WA’s most clinically diverse hospitals, they’re also busy honing their skills to become the next generation of healthcare leaders.”

Mr Moffet said the five winners embodied the compassion and dedication that country clinicians are well-known for.

“It’s an honour to be in a position to recognise each and every one of the nominees, finalists and winners.

“They represent the many exceptional health professionals who provide outstanding patient-centred care to country communities every day.”