Equity important to Pilbara therapists
The WA Rural Health Excellence Awards, organised annually by Rural Health West and WA Country Health Service, shine a spotlight on the exceptional individuals and organisations dedicated to improving rural health outcomes.
Announced at a gala event, 2025 winners included David and Hayley Rigby, from Pilbara Therapy Services, in the Clinical Leader of the Year category – proudly sponsored by the AMA (WA).
David and Hayley have transformed healthcare in the Pilbara. Founders of Pilbara Therapy Services, their journey began in 2014 when David provided physiotherapy from his car. Since then, they’ve expanded to offer occupational therapy, speech pathology, and more, culminating in a state-of-the-art facility in 2023.
Highly qualified in physiotherapy, exercise physiology and occupational therapy, they prioritise patient care over profit. Their initiatives include pro-bono services for aged care, outreach to underserved areas, and contributions to WA’s Integrated Chronic Disease Coordination program, reducing hospitalisations and enhancing community health.
Beyond clinical work, they foster a strong professional culture, support innovation, and ensure accessibility through an equipment library open to all. By championing inclusivity and quality care, David and Hayley have become clinical leaders, transforming rural healthcare and ensuring equitable services across the Pilbara.
The WA Country Health Service Intern of the Year was AMA (WA) member Dr Holly Reid from Albany Health Campus.
Having completed her internship in Albany, Holly is now undertaking her first Resident Medical Officer year there. Growing up on a sheep and grain farm in Kojonup, she has always loved rural life, including spending a year of her studies in Broome.
Holly has contributed to the Junior Medical Officers of the Great Southern Society, focusing on the education of medical students, and local quality improvement. She is a member of the Prevocational Education and Training Committee.
She will continue this work as the JMO Society President this year. Passionate about rural health, particularly preventative and mental health in rural communities, Holly aims to pursue physician training. Outside of work, she enjoys playing footy and mustering sheep on the family farm.
“This award demonstrates the incredible learning and working environment fostered at Albany Health Campus,” Holly said.
“It reflects my core belief in medicine, delivering the highest quality of care to each patient and continuously striving for excellence.”
