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This NAIDOC Week, CareFlight reflects on the importance of connection, respect, and shared knowledge when delivering care to First Nations communities across the Northern Territory.

For Dr Isabelle O’Conor, a CareFlight Registrar, working in retrieval medicine has been as much about cultural understanding and connection as it has been about emergency response.

Driven by a passion for trauma medicine and a commitment to delivering care in the most remote parts of the country, Dr O’Conor describes retrieval work as a privilege.

“Healthcare in the NT can be incredibly isolated,” she says. “It’s a privilege to bring critical care directly to people in their time of need, and to support remote area nurses who do such an incredible job with limited resources.”

Her work has taken her to some of the most geographically remote and culturally rich regions of Australia—where communication, trust, and cultural respect are as vital as clinical skill.

“One of the most important things I’ve learned is how to communicate clearly and respectfully with First Nations Peoples, particularly when explaining complex medical procedures. It’s challenged me to slow down, listen more deeply, and appreciate the diversity of languages and cultures across the Territory.”

Before joining CareFlight, Dr O’Conor spent 18 months at Royal Darwin Hospital, often receiving patients brought in by CareFlight crews. That exposure to retrieval medicine—and to the communities it served—was what drew her in.

From Hospital Halls to Red Dirt Roads

Aeromedical retrieval is a stark contrast to hospital work. Without the backup of onsite teams, retrieval crews must rely on their own critical decision-making and adaptability. For Dr O’Conor, this autonomy has been both humbling and empowering.

“It’s often just you and the flight nurse, with our Retrieval Consultant available by phone. You learn to trust your training, your instincts, and your team. And I’ve learned so much from our flight nurses—they carry a wealth of knowledge and community experience.”

But it’s not just the high-pressure cases that stay with her. Some of the most meaningful moments have been simple ones.

“We were at the Tindal hangar late one night with patients from Lajamanu. We sat on the floor, sharing Zooper Doopers and yarning. That moment—quiet, human, real—reminded me of how special this job is.”

Listening, Learning, and Respecting Culture

Retrieval medicine in the NT is not just about clinical intervention—it’s about understanding Country, listening with respect, and showing up with cultural humility.

“Every community has its own stories, Elders, and ways of doing things. As a doctor, being invited into that space—even briefly—is something I don’t take for granted.”

Investing in People, Communities and Future Leaders

CareFlight’s structured training program has played a key role in equipping Dr O’Conor for the realities of remote care. Regular simulations, cultural training and debriefs ensure that retrieval staff are not only clinically ready—but also culturally aware.

Looking ahead, Dr O’Conor hopes to continue working in retrieval medicine long term. She’s particularly passionate about trauma response and building partnerships with the communities she serves.

“The longer I stay in retrieval, the more I want to learn from those around me—our patients, the nurses, and the communities we fly into. Every day, I’m reminded of the strength and resilience of the people we serve.”

As we celebrate NAIDOC Week, CareFlight acknowledges the First Nations Peoples across the Northern Territory whose strength, culture and knowledge continue to guide and inspire the delivery of care on Country.