Recognising NAIDOC Week 2025

For pharmacists Tasma Wagner and Denise Williamson-Knoef, delivering high-quality care to First Nations communities begins with a simple principle – listen and learn.

Based at Slade Pharmacy in Port Augusta, on the traditional lands of the Barngarla, Nukunu, and Adnyamathanha peoples, Tasma and Denise travel regularly across some of South Australia’s most remote regions, delivering care that is culturally safe, respectful, and led by community voices. 

In their own words, Tasma and Denise share the importance of listening, learning, and championing Indigenous voices in healthcare. 

Working across diverse First Nations lands, Tasma and Denise know every patient has a unique culture, values, and connection to Country. True culturally safe care, means recognising this and ensuring First Nations knowledge and leadership at every level of care. 

For Denise, being guided by local Indigenous voices has been essential in providing the best care possible. 

She highlights the impact of an Aboriginal Health Practitioner based in Oodnadatta, one of their regular outreach locations. 

“She’s a role model, both within the community and to our healthcare team,” Denise said. 

“She helps us understand what’s needed and how best to deliver care in a way that respects culture and builds trust. We couldn’t do what we do without her. She’s also inspiring the next generation of Indigenous healthcare workers. That kind of leadership matters, it carries forward the strength and knowledge of those who came before.” 

Bringing care closer to home  

Working closely with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the Port Augusta team provide tailored pharmaceutical care to six remote communities each month as part of the S100 Remote Area Aboriginal Health Services (RAAHS) Program. The program ensures First Nations people in these areas have access to essential medicines, often at no cost. 

They also support dialysis transport services to complex hospital discharge planning, with an aim to keep people on Country and connected to their communities.  

Tasma says this model of care is vital to closing the healthcare gap. 

“Tailored medication management that respects cultural values helps build long-term wellbeing. It’s local, it’s respectful, and most importantly, it’s built in partnership with community,” Tasma shared 

Denise adds that being physically present in the community is key. 

“When you’re there, you start to understand people’s stories, their connection to Country, and what good care looks like for them. That’s when you can truly provide great care.”