In our latest content feature, we take a look at the people behind RDA Pilbara – how they came to live here, what made them stay and what they hope to achieve through our organisation’s advocacy.
We continue our series with RDA Pilbara Committee Member and CEO of the of Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service, Robby Chibawe. Robby moved to the Pilbara more than a decade ago and is driven by his passion for improving health outcomes for First Nations people.
When and why did you move to the Pilbara and how was it that you ended up staying?
I moved to the Pilbara in October2014 to follow my passion of improving health outcomes for First Nations people of the Western Australian desert communities of Jigalong, Punmu, Parnngurr and Kunawarritji. I have always wanted to work in the primary health care sector especially in Indigenous health. Upon completion of my studies at Latrobe University in Victoria, I left general practice in Nagambie in country Victoria to work with Birgirdii Aboriginal Health Service in Rockhampton, Queensland. After a year, I wanted to save remote communities, hence my move to the Pilbara.
What’s your favourite thing about living and working in the Pilbara?
Immediately when I interacted with Martu people of the desert, I loved the desert fresh air and vast expanse of land. My main obsession was to work hard to meaningfully improve health outcomes for Martu. They still have one of the lowest life expectancies in Australia, if not in the world. The conviction that we can work collaboratively with like-minded stakeholders, individuals and government to change the status quo still drives me today.
What’s one thing you’d like people living outside the region to know about the Pilbara?
The Pilbara is a beautiful part of Australia for people wanting to experience unique cultures of the region. You tend to experience freshwater country desert, as well as coastal lifestyles. The most loving and welcoming people are found in the Pilbara too.
Why did you decide to join the RDA Pilbara Committee and what do you see as
RDAP’s key mission/purpose?
I consider RDA as a key driver of change in regional areas. RDA is well positioned to be a bridge between regional aspirations and the Commonwealth and State Governments. RDA can provide the much-needed focus areas of development, ensuring that resources are targeted at mutually beneficial priorities. RDA is such a pivotal partner in developing regional and remote areas. I’m passionate about achieving meaningful social determinants of health for remote areas, so that your post code does not determine the quality of your life. This is why I’m glad to be part of the RDA Pilbara Committee – when NACCHO CEO Pat Turner asked if I was interested, I gladly said ‘yes.'
What do you like to do when you aren’t working/advocating on behalf of the Pilbara?
My passions are fishing and learning or playing golf, and spending time with my family.
Commentaires