A heart in the country: How Tamarra is bridging connections through care and community
For Tamarra, life seems to have come full circle. Her journey from a country upbringing to her role as Clinical Community Advisor is one of connection, resilience, and a deep commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. Tamarra's story not only highlights her dedication to hearing health but also her personal journey of connecting to her First Nations heritage.
Raised in Telegraph Point, a serene rural area near Port Macquarie, Tamarra’s upbringing shaped the compassionate person she is today. Although she initially embarked on a career in banking, Tamarra’s path took a somewhat unexpected but welcome turn when she joined Hearing Australia in 2016, working firstly in our call centre, then in a customer service officer position in our Port Macquarie Hearing Centre for a number of years. It was there that she was encouraged to apply for her current role.
“Hearing Australia has a very effective Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees. While chatting to a colleague about the RAP she asked me if I’d be interested in furthering my own career,” says Tamarra. “I said to her, I am a country girl, my husband's a country boy, so it would have to be something I can do that’s close to home. That chat led to me getting this role, and it turns out I absolutely love it. I feel so blessed.”
As a Clinical Community Advisor, supporting young First Nations children on their journey to better hearing is at the heart of Tamarra’s work. She helps to deliver the Hearing Assessment Program – Early Ears (HAPEE) which is focused on identifying hearing issues in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children before they start school. In her role, Tamarra conducts hearing screenings in medical centres and preschools across her dedicated region. The work is varied, involves some travel, and no two days are the same.
“I love that I’m helping children and their families,” Tamarra shares. “When parents come in worried about their child’s hearing, it’s incredibly rewarding to offer reassurance or provide the guidance they need for that all-important early intervention.”
Connecting to her First Nations heritage
While Tamarra has always identified as a First Nations woman, her journey of connecting to her heritage has been uniquely personal. Sadly, with her family having been separated from their cultural roots, growing up Tamarra wasn’t exposed to her true heritage or kinship. Now, though, her work as a Clinical Community Advisor has deepened her connection to her First Nations heritage, and Tamarra is so grateful.
“This role has been transformative in terms of strengthening my identity as a First Nations woman,” Tamarra reflects. “I feel so welcomed and valued within the Aboriginal community because of my work, and it’s really given me a sense of belonging that I hadn’t fully experienced before.”
A role rooted in connection and care
One of Tamarra’s favourite aspects of the role is the interaction with children. “Kids are incredible,” she says with a laugh. “Some are shy at first, while others are eager to play games during the screening. It’s always a joy to see their little personalities shine.”
Tamarra has a wonderful ability to build trust and rapport with the families she’s working with. She understands that hearing loss can be a sensitive issue, particularly for parents concerned about their children’s futures.
“Because we’re offering practical advice and genuine support, families feel empowered to get their children the help they need when they need it,” says Tamarra, “The flow-on effect for their children’s future is immense.”
A supportive team and a bright future
Tamarra attributes much of her success to the supportive environment at Hearing Australia. From her early days in the call centre to her current role, she’s been encouraged by managers and colleagues from across the organisation who genuinely want her to succeed.
“The people here make all the difference,” says Tamarra. “It feels like a family,”
Looking ahead, Tamarra is focused on growing in her role and continuing to make a meaningful impact. Her commitment to the hearing health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children drives her every day, and she’s proud to be part of a program that changes lives.
“This is more than a job. It’s a chance to help people, build connections, and make a real difference. For someone who’s passionate about serving others, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
