This award recognises an allied health professional who has gone above and beyond in their commitment to the health and wellbeing of rural communities. They demonstrate excellence in service delivery and active contribution to rural health.
Mr Deepinder (Deep) Rosha – Finalist
Deepinder (Deep) Rosha has dedicated more than 15 years’ service to rural and remote communities and exemplifies excellence in chronic disease management and diabetes education. He holds a Bachelor and Master of Pharmacy, a Graduate Certificate in Diabetes, and Credentialled Diabetes Educator accreditation, and combines strong clinical expertise with innovation to improve access across the South West.
From his early work as a community pharmacist in Mount Barker to his current role with Oseca, Deep delivers face-to-face and virtual diabetes education to Collie, Bridgetown, Manjimup and Busselton. He has led programs including HEAL and Flexit with WACHS and championed access to Continuous Glucose Monitoring technology. Respected for his empathy and collaborative leadership, Deep mentors clinicians, supports GP teams and provides medication reviews, strengthening diabetes care and health literacy across regional WA.
Claire Thistleton – Winner
Claire Thistleton is an exceptional speech pathologist whose quiet determination and deep cultural respect have strengthened early childhood services across the remote Kimberley. Based with Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services in the Remote Early Childhood Supports (RECS) Program, she delivers therapy and family support to Broome, Bidyadanga, Beagle Bay and Fitzroy Crossing. Since graduating from Charles Sturt University in 2016, her work has focused on prevention, early intervention and Aboriginal child health.
Claire partners closely with Aboriginal Family Support Workers to provide culturally responsive care and build community capacity. She advocates strongly for children and families, tailoring plans to each context and celebrating every milestone. Her advocacy has informed state and national inquiries, and she has helped position RECS as a recognised model of best practice in First Nations early intervention.
Dr Kathryn Braysich – Winner
For nearly 40 years, Kathryn Braysich has improved oral health across rural WA. A University of WA graduate and recipient of the GD Henderson Prize in Oral Surgery, she began in Meekatharra before establishing a long-term practice in Geraldton. Her service has extended to Groote Island in the NT, Wongan Hills, Wiluna, Sandstone, Mt Magnet, Carnarvon, Three Springs, Broome, Derby and Kununurra, reflecting her commitment to equitable, accessible care.
Renowned for clinical excellence and compassion, Kathryn has mentored many students through the WA Centre for Rural Health and James Cook University, inspiring future rural practitioners. She works closely with GPs, nurses and Aboriginal health workers to deliver holistic, culturally safe care. Her dedication has expanded access, reduced preventable oral disease and strengthened wellbeing across rural communities.
Allied Health Professional of the Year is sponsored by Majarlin Kimberley Centre for Remote Health.