Yamatji elder Dr Mara West bestowed with Murdoch University’s highest honour for her contribution to community

Yamatji elder Dr Mara West’s contribution to shifting perceptions and closing the gap for First Nations people has seen her awarded Murdoch University’s highest honour.

Dr West last week received the honorary degree of Doctor of the University in recognition of her contribution to boost the welfare and development of Aboriginal people in WA.

In a career spanning more than 40 years, the Aboriginal leader is a key member of the Kulungu Aboriginal Research Development Unit at Telethon Kids Institute and chair of the HEAL (Healthy Environment and Lives) Network WA Aboriginal Reference Group.

“It’s a great honour for me to be standing here this evening and I stand here with mixed feelings as I remember what was, what is and what could be,” Dr West said of the unexpected honour in her address to graduates last week.

“I walk in two worlds and every day is a challenge as there are moments of uncertainty, but there are moments of pure joy.

“We live in interesting times where the world and our environment are rapidly changing. Have the courage and passion to be a great thinker and visionary change maker committed to developing creative solutions that will address the social, economic, and political issues facing us.

“We live in one of the best countries in the world but what sort of Australia do we want for our children and their children? Let’s walk together to create a better tomorrow for all Australians.”

Dr West was born on the banks of the Gascoyne River and she grew up experiencing poverty, racism, hardship and disadvantage. But she decided early on she wanted to be an agent for change.

Encouraged by her mother to pursue an education, Dr West was the fourth Aboriginal person to graduate from Murdoch University, completing a bachelor of arts in humanities in comparative literature and communication studies, followed by honours in sustainable development.

As well as her work to improve Aboriginal health, Dr West has worked closely with communities across the State to set up training centres to ensure Aboriginal people have access to a wide range of education and training. She is currently the only Aboriginal chair of a TAFE governing council in Australia.

Murdoch University vice-chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks said Dr West had shown what was possible when Aboriginal and university communities collaborated respectfully.

“We are proud to bestow this honorary degree on to someone so worthy, who has had such a positive impact on the lives of West Australians,” he said.