Sadie Baira proudly supports the wellbeing of the Badu Island community as a Queensland Health Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior Health Worker.
Summary
Today, on National Day of Recognition for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners, Queensland Health recognises the invaluable contribution of our Aboriginal and Torres strait Islander health workers and practitioners.
Senior Health Worker Sadie Baira from the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service shares her love for the work she does.
Growing up in the close-knit community of Badu Island in remote Far North Queensland taught Sadie Baira the importance of caring for others and respecting culture and Elders.
Those values inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare, and today she proudly supports the wellbeing of her community as a Queensland Health Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Senior Health Worker.
“I wanted to make a positive difference in my community by helping people access healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting families throughout their health journeys,” she said.
“Being able to work in my own community allows me to combine cultural knowledge with healthcare to provide culturally safe and meaningful support.
“What continues to inspire me is seeing the positive impact healthcare can have on people's lives and helping our community become healthier and stronger for future generations.”
As a Torres Strait Islander health worker, Sadie helps bridge the gap between the health system and her community to ensure care is culturally safe, respectful, and accessible.
For Sadie, it’s far more than just a job.
Being part of this workforce means caring for her people while strengthening culture, traditions and way of life.
“It’s an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals, families, and the wider community,” she said.
“Being part of this workforce also means honouring the knowledge and guidance of our Elders, supporting one another, and inspiring the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals.
“It is a role that carries responsibility, pride, and purpose, and I am honoured to serve my community through my work at Badu Island Primary Health Care Centre.”
Today, on National Day of Recognition for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners, Queensland Health recognises the invaluable contribution of this workforce.
Sadie's story is just one of many being celebrated. The 2026 theme, Many Paths, Many Ways, recognises the diverse journeys that lead people into the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce and the many ways they make a lasting difference.
It is a theme that mirrors Sadie’s own journey, which has allowed her to improve access to healthcare and health promotion programs for the people of Badu Island.
“Working alongside community members, Elders, and healthcare teams to support better health outcomes is incredibly rewarding.”
Today, Queensland Health proudly thanks Sadie and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners for their dedication.
While this national day of recognition shines a spotlight on their contributions, their commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Queenslanders deserves recognition every single day.
If you’re considering a career as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health worker or health practitioner visit Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health workers | Careers