Scott Willis and the journey of truth-telling
In this episode, Cameron Edwards yarns with APA President Scott Willis about truth-telling. Scott, the first Aboriginal to be elected to this role, reveals his personal journey of identity and the importance of moving towards Reconciliation together.
Warning
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners are warned that the following episode may contain the names and voices of people who are deceased.
A bit about Scott
Who would have dreamt an Indigenous man originating from Durag land in the western suburbs of Sydney would be the next national president of the APA. I am humbled, excited, grateful and ready to represent and lead this amazing profession from where I live and connect with – Lutruwita (Tasmania) – and I proudly identify as a Palawa man.
It has been an amazing journey of growth, reflection, discovery, self-assessment, and connection over the past 30 odd years that has brought me to this point in life. The Deadly Physios podcast has assisted me in my own Reconciliation, my own vision, my own beliefs, and my own personal and professional goals. I tell my story of my childhood, struggles, achievements, memories, and the journey from high school to a leader of a peak health body.
Country (from): Palawa man from Darug (or Dharug) land in the western suburbs of Sydney
Country (currently living): Lutruwita (Tasmania)
Favourite Indigenous word: Nurragingy (the park)
Song of choice: Mitch Tambo – You’re the Voice (indigenous version)
Listen to The Deadly Physios playlist on Spotify.
Watch the ABC's You Can't Ask That (Series 1, Indigenous episode) as mentioned in the podcast.
Credits
Creators: Marko Stechiwskyj and Clare Pickering
Producer: Clare Pickering
Editors: Clare Pickering and Ali Aitken
Post-production: Ali Aitken
Artwork: Emma Bamblett
Theme music: Rudi Louis Taylor-Bragge
APA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy Officer: Lowana Williams
APA marketing team: Nichola Stamatakos and Barbara Karametos
APA graphic designer: Mick Hibbert
APA communications: Claire Macuz
Website design: Eddy Kim
Thank you to The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies for helping us locate our Country.
We would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the many lands across Australia and pay our respects to elders past, present and emerging. We recognise their enduring connection to the lands and waterways of this country and thank them for protecting and maintaining this country for us and future generations.