Local Bourke women Sally Davis has been successful in her application to join the board of the Western NSW Local Health District and plans to bring a problem-solving focus to the role. 

Ms Davis will be the board's most western member with Chairperson Matthew Irvine of Bathurst, Fiona Bennett and Jason Cooke from Orange, Penny Gibbs, Louise Johnson and Dr Colin McClintock from Dubbo and Amanda O’Brien from Gingkin, south east of Bathurst and Annette Crothers from Bathurst. 

The Western NSW Local Health District takes in a huge area of NSW, from as far away as Bathurst and Sally Davis said it is important for Bourke and other small and isolated communities to have a voice on the board.  

Board members work closely with the Chief Executive to ensure the delivery of high quality healthcare to the people of Western NSW.​ 

Sally Davis was born and raised in Far West NSW, completing her primary education through Broken Hill School of the Air and secondary education in Sydney.  

For over 30 years she has worked in Credit Management and Administration for various companies. Ms Davis, along with her husband, owns and runs a mechanical business in Bourke. 

Ms. Davis has been a Councillor on the Bourke Shire Council since 2004, when she was first elected, including Deputy Mayor 2005/2006.  

She is also a committee member of the Western Lands Advisory Committee and has been an active member (both Executive & committee member roles) of various community organisations. 

In between all this and running their local business, Ms. Davis and her husband have also managed to raise three children. 

“Health is an extremely important issue throughout the district. I was motivated to join the board to represent Bourke and the many other small communities in the district,” Ms Davis said. 

“It has always been my view that you don’t come to the table to complain, you come to the table with a solution. I believe you have to put yourself out there if you have the opportunity.” 

“Our health system is worn out, tired and needs rejuvenating after Covid 19. I have so much admiration for all the staff across our country that gave everything during the crisis.” 

“Bourke has only one permanent doctor at the moment. I would really like to see initiatives put in place to train home grow nurses in our district and attract more doctors to our regions.” 

“Housing is a major concern for new nurses. We can provide some accommodation for our wonderful agency nurses, but cannot provide permanent housing that would attract them to stay.” 

 “I have lived and worked in Bourke for 23 years and intend to stay and work for a lot longer yet. Bourke is a great community and I am proud to be a member. 

“My family has just about grown up and I now have a bit more time. I look forward to continuing my role as a local councillor and contributing to our health system,” Ms Davis said. 

Mr Matthew Irvine said he is delighted that Ms. Davis has joined the Western NSW Local Health District Board. 

"l have no doubt Ms. Davis’s unique skillsets will add tremendous value to the Board and the entire District.” 

“As an incoming Board member already entrenched in her communities, Ms. Davis has the passion and experience to successfully support the Board's oversight of health services for our local communities now and into the future," Mr. Irvine said.