FOR more than six decades, 84-year-old Dr David Cooke, of Port Macquarie, has dedicated his life to caring for patients in remote and regional Australia.
Last week, the man who describes himself as “a pilot who practices medicine” was recognised as 2027 NSW Senior Australian of the Year by the National Australia Day Council at a ceremony in Sydney.
Dr Cooke’s remarkable career is founded on his dual passions: medicine and aviation.
As part of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Dr Cooke provided care across vast and isolated parts of the Northern Territory and North Queensland.
Working with little access to diagnostic technology, he relied on clinical judgement and resourcefulness to diagnose and treat patients in some of Australia’s most challenging environments.
He even trained in parachute jumping to reach patients in inaccessible locations.
After settling in Port Macquarie in 1988, Dr Cooke became one of the region’s most respected doctors, known for his skill, humour and deep humanity.
Now well into his 80s, he continues to care for patients in Port Macquarie and South West Rocks, helping address the region’s critical shortage of GPs.
Congratulating the NSW award recipients, National Australia Day Council CEO Carrie Leeson made special mention of Dr Cooke, saying he had “devoted his life to providing medical care”.
“The recipients of the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards for NSW play pivotal roles across our communities,” Ms Leeson added.
“They are all committed to using their skills, experience and time to make a difference.”
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