Meet Wayne

Regional Coordinator of Healthy for Life

Wayne is responsible for implementing programs surrounding chronic disease, such as health checks, to improve people’s overall health. He works with different agencies, implements new strategies, and develops better health programs throughout the region.

“I’m passionate and I love helping people. I suppose that is why I do the work that I do. Seeing a change in people’s health for the better and doing some good is rewarding.”

There programs cover a number of different areas, from cardiac rehabilitation to nutrition. He also works alongside a nurse and senior health worker.

The Healthy Life Program creates awareness for people to change their life for the better, positively impacting their overall health instead of putting a band aid over problems. Wayne understands it can be difficult for people for the first few weeks as they try to overcome ingrained habits. After the third or fourth week, however, it gets easier for them and clients see results. They receive lots of support and Wayne receives personal satisfaction from seeing clients undergo and achieve success through the program.

“I feel my job is important because it is a big task that involves a lot of different areas. When implementing programs, it involves everything from clients’ social life, hygiene, dental hygiene, and other aspects of their overall wellbeing.”

There is a strong sense of community with positive flow on effects. Through educating individuals, Wayne often sees them taking information back and sharing it with their families. Wayne enjoys living in a small-town community, which is within driving distance to Dubbo and Moree.

“It is a great reward and a great feeling, although it’s hard to explain. You know you’re helping your own mob, our Indigenous people, and educating them as well. We help them better their health, understand what is not working, and then change it completely. When I see that happen, it makes me feel good.”

He is most excited about the positive changes he is seeing from their latest Too Deadly for Diabetes Program, which involves Sydney exercise physiologist Ray Kelly. So far, he has seen three people who have suffered with Type 1 diabetes for more than a decade; after going on the program they are now on the verge of remission. Wayne says this is an amazing experience.

“One lady was planning her death and now she is reborn. That's why we are in the work we are in.”

Wayne admits it was a bit of a challenge moving interstate and familiarising himself with different contacts and agencies, although it’s the challenges in the role that he enjoys, as well as working with WAMS staff.

“WAMS is a great place to work. The employees are really supportive and helpful. They’re friendly, they welcome you in straight away and they are a good, happy crew to work with.”

Wayne has two children in high school and one in primary school, and encourages people to bring their families to Walgett. In his spare time, Wayne enjoys visiting places nearby, working in the garden, and attending local football matches and the country club. He looks forward to going fishing when the water returns.