Aunty Di joins Hall of Fame for dedication to service
Mingaletta's Aunty Di O'Brien is one of five people who have been inducted into the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network Dedication to Service Hall of Fame.
The citation stated: "Aunty Di (Dianne) O'Brien was taken at birth from her aboriginal mother as part of the Stolen Generation.
Not discovering her heritage until her 30s, Aunty Di has taken her trauma and life experience and turned it into a story of strength, resilience, compassion and determination.
"Aunty Di is a well-respected leader not only within the aboriginal community, but beyond. She has been selfless in her advocacy for First Nations health and wellness for over 50 years.
"Aunty Di has worked for Central Coast Primary Care for over 12 years and was a key influencer in establishing the Mingaletta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation at Umina.
"She spent many years prior as an aboriginal health worker across various parts of regional NSW.
"She is tireless in her work for the community, both indigenous and non-indigenous, and has been instrumental in shaping Aunty Jean's Program and reconciliation actions within Central Coast Primary Care.
"Aunty Di has been recognised by various government departments for her tireless service and is the celebrated author of the book Daughter of the River Country, a memoir recounting her story of her life in three parts - Lost, Searching and Found."
Network chief executive Mr Richard Nankervis that, as a peer-nominated award, the inductees were well respected by peers and patients and actively participated in the community and professional bodies.
"They have displayed outstanding dedication to providing quality primary care over the course of their career," he said.
The Dedication to Service Awards were presented at the 2023 Quality Care and Innovation Awards held Friday, June 23, at Newcastle City Hall.
SOURCE:
Media release, 26 Jun 2023
Richard Nankervis, HNECCPHN