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The Á½ÐÔÉ«ÎçÒ¹ Council has appointed Tim O’Brien as the new General Manager of Á½ÐÔÉ«ÎçÒ¹ Health Service (NHS), marking an important step toward addressing the distinct health challenges faced by Yarnangu on the Á½ÐÔÉ«ÎçÒ¹ Lands. With decades of experience in Aboriginal health across regional, metropolitan, and remote settings, Tim brings a strategic focus to NHS's unique mission of delivering a full spectrum of health services—from acute care to public health initiatives—in one of the most remote regions of Australia. O’Brien will oversee NHS’s three service delivery arms—Private Health, Primary Healthcare, and Public Health—managing 45 funding agreements totalling $30 million annually. These encompass hospital and clinic oversight, aged care services, community health clinics, dental and mental health support, and public health initiatives like environmental health. As General Manager, Tim’s focus is on driving a proactive approach to health and continuing the transition of the NHS to a more visionary and less reactionary funding model that can help address the deepest health needs on the Lands. “NHS is a vital service for Yarnangu on the Lands and the distinct health challenges they face,” Tim said. “NHS is unique in providing such a breadth of services under one umbrella,” “This remote geography creates challenges but also offers a rare opportunity to merge acute care with proactive public health strategies,” Tim said. “By focussing on preventive measures, we can help healthy Yarnangu enjoy even stronger health rather than predominantly reacting to acute needs. This is not just achievable—it’s essential,” Tim said. “With the health needs of 1,800 Yarnangu spread across an area larger than Victoria, NHS faces unique challenges and opportunities. While we will continue to provide acute services across the region, we can deliver impactful strategies like food and nutrition programs. These efforts can reduce disease prevalence, improve school attendance, and lower crime rates—outcomes that are not just achievable but essential.” Tim said. By fostering resilience and stronger communities, these strategies ensure Yarnangu remain strong on Country and thrive in a culture-rich environment.

With a career spanning decades in remote education and community leadership, Leigh Nelson’s appointment as the new General Manager – Community and Sustainable Development at Á½ÐÔÉ«ÎçÒ¹ Council brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the land. In this role, Leigh will support Yarnangu through employment programs, essential municipal services, financial well-being initiatives, and year-round community engagement. Leigh has long been associated with Á½ÐÔÉ«ÎçÒ¹ lands, having spent much of his career in education across remote locations, including Warburton, Wanarn, and the Cocos Islands. Most recently, he served as Director of Education, Goldfields, for the Department of Education—Australia’s largest education region. Born in Esperance and raised on pastoral lands in Salmon Gums, 100 km north of the town, Leigh’s connection to these lands spans over three decades. “My wife and I worked together in Warburton, and my first opportunity as a Principal was at the school in Wanarn,” Leigh shared. “That role began my journey as a School Principal across various schools, which lasted for 23 years.” Leigh’s leadership journey took a significant step when he became part of a cohort of education leaders selected for a Harvard Principal Fellowship, which catalysed his move into system leadership roles within the department. In recent years, Leigh also contributed to the Goldfields District Leadership Group (DLG)—a network coordinated by the Department of Communities to address local issues and drive improved outcomes. “The DLG brought together the Shire, the Council, Department of Justice, WA Police, NIAA, and the Department of Communities to collaborate for strong, shared outcomes in Warburton with a focus on youth engagement and food security,” he explained. Leigh’s leadership in the DLG deepened his connection to the Á½ÐÔÉ«ÎçÒ¹ lands. “Within the DLG, we had a sub-group focused on Warburton, which reaffirmed my ties to the area. As Chair of this group since its inception, I will now lead from my new role within the Council, ensuring continued collaboration across agencies.” He emphasised his belief in authentic co-design between community members and organisations. “The strongest outcomes on the Lands will come from genuine community voice and all the agencies working together towards lasting, collective impact.” With a strong commitment to the Á½ÐÔÉ«ÎçÒ¹ lands, Leigh intends to spend time in communities each month. “Improvement happens at the speed of trust, so I’m eager to strengthen those relationships with our leadership team on the ground, enabling us to make meaningful contributions to the Council’s shared vision of helping Yarnangu remain strong on Country.” Reflecting on his new role, Leigh said, “The most important thing for me—and what attracted me to this position—is the opportunity to work alongside Yarnangu, who are so integral to our country. Together, we’ll navigate the challenges and possibilities that developments like the Outback Way will bring to the lands.” Leigh’s appointment is also a full-circle moment. Fred Twine, the Community Development Advisor he worked alongside during his first Principal role in Wanarn, continues to serve the Council as Municipal Services Manager. Their renewed partnership, after 25 years, promises to further strengthen the Council’s commitment to the Á½ÐÔÉ«ÎçÒ¹ community and foster long-term, sustainable outcomes for Yarnangu.