Doctor on top of his Game

Pilbara doctor John van Bockxmeer has taken out the Community Award at this year’s West Australian of the Year awards for his efforts in the community, including his work with Fair Game Australia.

The Hedland Health campus emergency doctor founded not-for-profit organisation Fair Game several years ago and since then has donated more than 15,000 items of recycled sporting equipment to clubs, remote communities and children who need it.

It was an unexpected win for Dr van Bockxmeer who said he was just honoured to be named as a finalist for the category.

“It did come a little bit out of the blue,” he said.

“I didn’t realise how big the event was ... It was pretty important and there were a lot of politicians and business leaders.

“I didn’t even write a speech so in my speech i was reflecting on what WA Day was for myself and i talked about the concept of joy.

“With the community award, i think something our group tries to do (is) enrich lives.”

Through the work with Fair Game, Dr van Bockxmeer said the organisation’s volunteers not only worked to provide and deliver sporting equipment, but that they also delivered healthy messages along the way.

“I think the reason why I see it as being important is because working in the emergency department we see the effects of inequitable access to healthy lifestyle choices,” he said.

“It’s about giving that access to healthy lifestyle choices from a young age.”

Not only has Dr van Bockxmeer taken out the community award, earlier this year he was also named one of the most inspiring 40 West Australians under 40 years of age.

The FuturePerth co-founder also keeps himself busy as a board member of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine, Volunteering Western Australia and as a committee committee member of the Global Shapers hub.

To donate money or equipment to Fair Game, visit: www.fairgame.org.au.