THE Tomaree Peninsula Branch of the Country Labor Party recently hosted a function that included special guest speaker Dr Kelvin Kong, Australia’s first indigenous surgeon.
Dr Kong, who was born and raised in Port Stephens, is an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist with a particular interest in indigenous health and the educational impact of ear infections among aboriginal children.
Dr Kong is also an Associate Professor and mentor at the University of Newcastle.
Dr Kong presented a fascinating address to the guests outlining the medical and surgical advancements in the treatment of ear, nose and throat issues.
Guests at the well-attended function, held at the Soldiers Point Yacht Club, included representatives of the Hunter Valley and Port Stephens communities, industry and employee organisations as well as many past and present Labor politicians.
Kate Washington was acknowledged as an example of an active Member of Parliament, as well as a voice in Labor’s Shadow Cabinet as Shadow Minister for the Hunter and Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education.