Hedland bids loyal doctor farewell

Long-serving doctor James Afolabi will bid farewell to South Hedland next week, after seven years of practice in the town.

Dr Afolabi arrived in Hedland after short stints in Kalgoorlie and Leinster before moving to Kinetic Health, and admits he has been extremely “fulfilled” by his time in the North West.

“I’ve enjoyed my time in Hedland tremendously.

''The people here have been very good to me, they are very generous, with gentle souls.

''I can’t thank everyone enough for how kind people have been,” Dr Afolabi said.

“I have made some very good friends who have invited me into their homes. This period of medical practice has been the most fulfilling in my life.”

Hailing from the Nigerian capital of Lagos, Dr Afolabi admits there was a slight culture shock when he first arrived in WA – but it didn’t take long for Hedland to capture his heart.

“After I finished medical school in South Africa, I had the choice to go to WA or Queensland. I have friends here and they said good things about the state.

''Some of the cities were far smaller than what I’d expected.

''When I arrived in the country, my perspective changed from the bustling cities I’m used to – and when I got to Hedland my restlessness had gone.

''The weather and the beach were a big pull,” added Dr Afolabi.

His wife, Dr Bose, also used to work at Kinetic Health, now lives in Perth with their three children, Ayo, Mayowa and Idefayo.

Dr Afolabi intends to return to Perth to his family on July 7.