Decades of dedication reaps award
A Hedland physiotherapist was recognised for her dedication at the Rotary Allied Health Professional of the Year awards last week.
Pilbara Population Health physiotherapist Carol Simpkins has worked in the Pilbara for more than three decades.
She was nominated by her primary health manager Andrew Heath, who said Mrs Simpkins had carved a career of dedication to physiotherapy as a profession and a commitment to excellent health care.
“Carol has worked tirelessly to support and develop the careers of junior physiotherapy staff, many whom have been recent graduates… Carol’s influence has not been confined to staff in Port Hedland, but also Newman-based staff,” he said.
Mrs Simpkins also played a significant role in extending physiotherapy services to the residents of Western Desert communities.
She was one of 25 nominees and accepted the award at the Mt Lawley Golf Club last Monday.
“It’s a great honour to receive the award and its good to see that Rotary do recognise allied health workers as they rarely are recognised,” Mrs Simpkins said.
“Port Hedland is a great environment to work in because there is a variety of work – some of the most challenging and rewarding work is visiting the indigenous communities,” she said.
Mrs Simpkins plans to spend the money she won on professional development courses focusing on paediatrics, and also touring South East Asia, looking at rehabilitation facilities.
