Dr Bob Batey with Bev Tyson
A Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) practitioner has won the prestigious Hepatitis NSW Cheryl Burman Award.
Aboriginal Sexual Health Practitioner Bev Tyson won the annual award for her out- standing work in NSW in the fight against viral hepatitis.
HIV/AIDS and Related Programs Unit (HARP) and Women’s Health Manager at WNSWLHD, Ann Ryan, said the District was extremely proud of Bev. “She is a standout. Bev has been a core member of the sexual health services in the WNSWLHD Northern Sector since starting her role as the Aboriginal Sexual Health Worker in 1999,” Ann said.
“She has been integral in building our service’s reputation for clinical excellence and community engagement.”
Bev completed her Aboriginal Sexual Health Practitioner qualification in 2017, and is now redefining how rural and remote positions like hers can operate to deliver better services to communities.
“Bev’s attitude is what makes her a standout. She is never ‘too busy’ to help anyone in the team and community and Bev consistently puts in extra effort to connect with, support and build the success of her colleagues and those around her,” Ann said. “Bev’s commitment to ensuring communities have equitable access to clinical services is evident by her willingness to get into small planes and fly out to far flung towns in need of outreach services, despite being petrified of flying in them.”
Bev is also involved in a number of outreach clinics including: Juvenile Justice, Alcohol & Other Drug Services in Dubbo and Wellington.
“With a ‘can do’ attitude and willingness to get in and keep the day-to-day work of the clinic working smoothly, Bev’s also open to trying new ways of working. An important mentor and support for incoming staff across all roles, Bev promotes cultural awareness and excellence in service delivery.”
She also supports initiatives like the Central Western Rainbow Alliance and Central West Trans and Gender Diverse Network to break down barriers and provide opportunities for people from all walks of life to better access the clinic services in community settings.