“What’s next?”: Former Aboriginal Health Worker eyes Doctor program

After more than a decade working in Aboriginal health on the New South Wales Mid-North coast, he’s now preparing to take his next big step: a pathway into medicine.

“I spent 13 years in the hospital, with 10 or 11 of those as an Aboriginal Health Worker and Education Officer,” Mr Browne recalled. “I loved it, but after a while, you start asking yourself—what’s next?”

This question led the mature-age student to the University of Newcastle. It was a decision sparked by encouragement from colleagues and friends.

“I never really had the confidence to study,” he admitted. “But people kept telling me I could do it. A friend pointed me toward the pathway program Yapug, and I thought, if others believe in me, I should give it 110%.”

Yapug is the University’s bridging program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. It is jointly managed through Pathways and the Wollotuka Institute, the long-standing Indigenous support hub.

The transition into academic life wasn’t straightforward for Reuben Browne who hadn’t studied since his early twenties.

“It’s been difficult,” he said, “but the support at Wollutuka and the people in my class made it feel like home.”

With graduation from the course fast approaching, Mr Browne hopes to be accepted into a Bachelor of Medicine. His sights are set on entering the Miroma Bunbilla program, a dedicated medical entry pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

The ultimate goal is to become a General Practitioner (GP), specialising in primary health care and continuing his passion for preventative health, according to Mr Browne.

“Preventative health has always been my focus,” he explained. “Giving people the tools to make informed decisions about their own health—that’s the ultimate goal.”

After a lengthy career already in helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples navigate the health care system, Mr Browne knew exactly where he wants to end up.

“Coffs Harbour will always be home,” he said. “No matter how long it takes, I hope to return and serve my community.”

With his next move creeping up the horizon, the excitement is becoming more apparent.

“They say if you’re nervous, it’s the best time to jump,” Mr Browne laughed. “I’ve lost sight of the shore, but I’m trusting this dinghy won’t sink just yet.”