The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has congratulated Pilbara charity founder John van Bockxmeer on being named the overall State winner of the 2017 Regional Achievement and Community Awards.
The award, sponsored by the department, recognised Dr van Bockxmeer’s work tackling health issues in remote Indigenous and refugee communities through his Fair Game charity.
Dr van Bockxmeer, from South Hedland, was presented with his overall award by department director general Ralph Addis at the award’s dinner on Friday night. He also received the individual category Horizon Power Leadership and Innovation Award.
Mr Addis said the work done through the Fair Game charity was a wonderful example of regional leaders and innovators identifying and addressing issues in their regions.
“Our regions are a vital driver of the Western Australia economy. The achievement awards provide a great opportunity to highlight the contributions of individuals, communities and businesses throughout regional and rural WA,” Mr Addis said.
“I congratulate all finalists and winners on their achievements.”
Dr van Bockxmeer founded the Fair Game charity in 2010 which runs programs including Recycle and Donate, Game On! And Healthy Communities focusing on education about hygiene, nutrition and team work.
Since 2010, John and his 200 volunteers have distributed over 22,000 items of used sports equipment to remote communities through the Recycle and Donate program.
In 2017/18 the Fair Game program, with funding from the Pilbara Community Chest Fund, will continue to provide services to a number of communities including South Hedland, Marble Bar, Warralong, Nullagine, Yandeyarra, Jigalong, Youngaleena and Newman.
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