Honouring decades of dedication to rural health
WA Country Health Service Chief Executive Jeff Moffet with Dr John Rosser Davies and Rural Health West Board Chair Gary Smith.
Thirty-eight medical practitioners from across WA were acknowledged for their extraordinary commitment to rural healthcare at the WA Rural Health Long Service Awards held last Friday.
Hosted by Rural Health West and WA Country Health Service, the annual awards recognise the incredible contribution of long-serving medical professionals who help sustain the health, wellbeing and resilience of rural communities.
Acknowledging milestones of 20, 30, 40 and 50 years in rural medicine, the awards acknowledge doctors who have devoted decades to serving the unique healthcare needs of rural areas.
This year’s cohort includes a remarkable 50-year milestone for Dr John Rosser Davies, as well as 40 years of service by resident rural doctors Dr Chris Hartley and Dr Clyde Jumeaux.
A further eight medical practitioners reached 30 years of service, while 27 were acknowledged for 20 years.
Rural Health West Chief Executive Officer Professor Catherine Elliott commended this year’s recipients for their outstanding contributions and dedication to rural WA.
“Across WA there are doctors who have built deep, trusted relationships with their communities that ultimately shape better health outcomes,” Professor Elliott said.
“Their continuity of service, advocacy and compassion strengthens the fabric of rural health, and we are incredibly proud to honour their contribution.”
Professor Elliott also highlighted Dr Rosser Davies’ extraordinary 50 years of service.
“To dedicate half a century to rural medicine is an exceptional achievement,” she said.
“Dr Rosser Davies’ commitment, expertise and generosity have made a great impact on the lives of countless patients, colleagues and communities.”
WA Country Health Service Chief Executive Jeff Moffet praised all award recipients and recognised the significant role they play in supporting country communities and health services.
“These incredible doctors have turned up for their communities year after year, offering stability and continuity of care to the residents of some of our most rural and remote areas.
“It speaks volumes to their steadfast commitment to the communities they serve that we’re celebrating such impressive milestones.
"Their compassion and dedication are central to the delivery of excellent healthcare in the bush.
"On behalf of everyone at WA Country Health Service, I’d like to pass on our thanks for all they do to support the people of country WA,” Mr Moffet said.