Legends of indigenous health feted

THE Territory’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners were in the spotlight Friday night at a special ceremony at Parliament House.

The annual Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioner Excellence Awards attracted a field of 33 nominations from across the Top End.

Joyce Bohme, of the Maningrida Health Centre, took out the top honour, the ‘Legend’ Award, for being a role model within her community during her 25 years in the position.

She also won the Remote Health Award.

Health Minister Robyn Lambley said Ms Bohme was ‘‘highly respected for her dependability and resourcefulness and is treasured for the work she does in the community’’.

Winners were nominated by their colleagues, communities or patients.