We say farewell to a long standing staff member

Annette Lawrence is a proud, Noongar woman who has a passion for her family, community and her work to improve the health needs of both. Born in Beverly, Annette has been involved in delivering health services to Aboriginal people for most of her adult life.
 
Annette started with GP down south in 2007 with the then MACAHS – Manjimup and Collie Aboriginal Health Service – which subsequently became Down South Aboriginal Health Service.
 
The Manjimup and Collie Aboriginal Health Service was focused on health promotion, early intervention and prevention and improving access to health services for local Aboriginal people.  Commencing in 2007 as an Aboriginal Health Worker in Collie, Annette was one of the original staff members. 
 
Annette has used her passion for improving the health of the community to advocate at all levels on their behalf.  Including helping our staff improve their cultural awareness and mentoring her team to be a success in their roles.
 
“I think Annette would agree that in order for GP down south to support improvements in health for Aboriginal people, it is important for us to be open to learn from each other and work in partnership.  This is the basis of our soon to be launched Reconciliation Action Plan”, says CEO, Amanda Poller.
 
In 2012 Annette moved to Manjimup in a new role as Care Coordinator and was then appointed Program Manager for Down South Aboriginal Health in 2017.
 
Annette is a loyal and trusted member of the GP down south team who has demonstrated a high degree of commitment and professionalism to her work, often balancing competing loyalties to employment, family and community. She has worked diligently to maintained high standards amongst her team and provide the best service for the Aboriginal people they serve.
 
Annette will be greatly missed and leaves the organisation with well-deserved respect and our sincerest best wishes for a long and happy retirement.