Frontier Services Primary Health Care Nurse Anna Burley is one of three finalists in an award for the unsung heroes of rural and regional Queensland.

Ms Burley, from the Savannah Regional Health Service, was nominated for the 2011 Queensland Regional Achievement and Community Awards for her dedication and passion to providing the best primary health care to her community.

She is a finalist in the Regional Service Award category which recognises achievement, demonstrated leadership and outstanding service to local communities.

“Anna is completely dedicated to her community,” said Frontier Services QLD Regional Manager Karen Harvey. “She does everything that is required for her job and more.”

Based in Georgetown, Ms Burley travels across the 77,000km Gulf Savannah region to provide primary health care services to about 2000 people.

She is one of two nurses at the Savannah Regional Health Service providing regular health clinics in the towns of Mt Surprise, Einasleigh and The Lynd, as well as health promotion and education programs to properties and townships across the Croydon and Etheridge Shires.

Ms Burley has coordinated health specialist visits in these remote areas that otherwise would not be accessible. She has also advocated on behalf of the community for more services in the area.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Yasi, which had a huge impact on many families in the region, Ms Burley has been involved in bringing the community together.

Working with other Frontier Services programs and local service providers, these events have assisted community members to access services, participate in mental health training and simply to support each other.

Ms Burley also regularly volunteers as a First Aid nurse for local community events and is active on committees and in council activities which aim to strengthen the region.

“It’s a privilege to be a part of people’s lives in remote areas,” said Ms Burley. “People come to us when they are facing an issue that is bigger than what they can cope with.”

“If there is anything I can do to reduce the impact and disadvantage of isolation and distance – that is a big thing.”

“I feel privileged to not only serve the community but to walk together with people and to share the ups and downs of their lives.”

Community members from the Etheridge Shire were responsible for nominating Ms Burley for the award.

The winners of the Regional Achievement and Community Awards will be announced at a special gala dinner on 12 November 2011 in Surfers Paradise.

Find out more about the Regional Achievement and Community Awards.