James was recognised for his significant service to diagnostic pathology and to medical administration, and was also included in the COVID-19 Honour roll for his contribution in supporting Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I am proud to have been able to use my skills to assist so many communities both here in Australia, and around the world,” says James.
“I’ve been privileged to be able to do this work and I hope I have made a difference.”
As a reservist with the Australian Defence Force, James has spent his entire career helping others. His decorated years of service has seen him provide aid and support to not only his local community but those overseas.
In 2001, James was deployed to East Timor to assist with public health and infectious diseases. In 2004, he was among the first teams to provide vital medical care to the survivors of Boxing Day tsunami in Aceh, Indonesia.
More recently, James played an integral role in helping manage the COVID-19 response. He travelled to Wuhan, China to escort more than 270 Australians home via Christmas Island where he supported the establishment of a quarantine centre and the setup of a temporary testing laboratory.
At home his expertise in infection control saw him steer Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District’s response to COVID-19. He also provided support to his local community following Hawkesbury River flooding in March 2021.
James has done all this as he fulfills two significant roles across NSW Health.
As Local Pathology Director for Nepean Blue Mountains, he manages the region's pathology services and ensures their integration with other clinical services across the District.
As Head of the Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at Nepean Hospital, James actively teaches and supports medical students, postgraduate specialist trainees, and infection control nurses.
James has held positions on the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District Board and Aboriginal Health committee.
Congratulations James on this important achievement and your commitment to our community.