Kimberley health professionals sweep WA Rural Health Excellence Awards

Four Kimberley clinicians have cleaned up at this year’s WA Rural Health Excellence Awards as recognised leaders in their field of practice.

Shortlisted from more than 130 nominations, 13 health professionals and teams were honoured across 12 categories.

Director of obstetrics and gynaecology at WA Country Health Service Dr Jared Watts won the Specialist of the Year award for his career in supporting vulnerable women in remote and outreach Kimberley clinics.

Dr Watts started his career at Broome Hospital where he was born, working alongside the midwife who delivered him.

Podiatrist Sarah Tomlinson put her best foot forward and was named Rural Allied Health Professional of the Year for her success in establishing the first Interdisciplinary High-Risk Foot Clinic in the Kimberley based at Broome Hospital.

Dr Tomlinson was also the first WACHS Kimberley-based podiatrist in 14 years after making the move in 2021.

Broome-based medical officers Dr Jonathan Blundell and Dr Renita Whittle were also honoured with the Clinical Leadership award and WA Country Health Service RMO of the Year respectively.

Rural Health West chief executive Tim Shackleton said he was proud of the strong representation of WA regions amongst the finalists.

“We are extremely proud to celebrate everyone nominated this year for their commitment, dedication and passion,” he said.