I am a Tubba-gah woman, who are the traditional owners of the land surrounds of the area now known as Dubbo, NSW. I was born and raised on the land of the Muluridji people and currently live and practice on the lands of Bindal people.

I am a qualified optometrist and work in private practice in Ayr while running after my children. Upon graduating from University of Melbourne in 2004, completing a Bachelor of Optometry I was recognised at the first female first nations optometrist of Australia. Over my 20year career as an optometrist I have provided eyecare to remote locations and communities in every state of Australia.

I have been fortunate enough to engage with communities such as Domadgee, Mornington Island and Palm Island. I am a member of Indigenous Allied Health Australia and a board member of the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand.

I would be Australia’s only First Nations Optometrist/Audiologist, which allows a unique perspective into allied health across both disciplines. Currently First Nations allied health providers in Australia make up 0.2% of the optometry workforce and there are fewer than 6 audiologists. For First Nations people, systemic barriers to accessing vision and hearing health services can make it more difficult to navigate an already complex health system.

Access may be affected by limited availability and accessibility of culturally appropriate health services, a lack of continuity of care, or racism or discrimination from health care providers. I would like to help to improve health outcomes for First Nation people across both eye and ear health services and contribute to access and provision of culturally safe services. My experience as an optometrist, my current training in audiology and involvement in various health service organisations means I well positioned to effect change within the First Nations allied health space.

I also hope that other First Nations people will consider a career in allied health and I am happy to lead the way forward.

Over the past six months, I have continued studying the Master of Audiology remotely through the University of Melbourne while living and working in Ayr, North Queensland. As I enter my final year, I continue to balance full-time study with running my own optometry practice and raising my two young children.

The greatest challenge this semester has been completing clinical placements. It has been hard to find local placements. This means travelling interstate for placements, as well as practical classes and examinations, requiring extended periods away from my practice and family. These commitments are demanding both financially and personally.

Despite these challenges, the past six months have been immensely rewarding. Developing my clinical skills through placement has been a highlight, allowing me to apply my knowledge in real-world settings and grow in confidence as a future audiologist. I am also proud of my continued academic progress as I work towards completing the degree.

The Rotary Health Scholarship has significantly eased the financial burden of travel and accommodation, allowing me to focus on my education. Upon graduation, I will become the first First Nations person to hold dual qualifications in optometry and audiology. I am sincerely grateful for Rotary Health’s investment in my education and the opportunity it creates to improve culturally safe hearing and vision care for regional, remote and First Nations communities.