Meeting up in Sydney last Thursday for dinner and a chat with Grenfell’s prospective new GP - Dr Akhiwu - were (l/r) Nevin Hughes (Weddin Shire councillor), Doctor Akhiwu, Trevor Lobb (council GM), Doctor Olatunji Ayodele (Australian resident and a close friend of Doctor Akhiwu’s) and Maurice Simpson (Weddin Shire Mayor).
Weddin Shire Council took a significant step forward last Thursday when Mayor Maurice Simpson, Deputy Mayor Nevin Hughes, General; Manager Trevor Lobb and Director Environmental Services Shane Wilson met with our new doctor in Campbelltown. Dr Akhiwu was accompanied by his close friend Olatunji Ayodele who works as a psychiatrist with the Sydney West Area Health Service.
The meeting gave Dr Akhiwu the opportunity to examine council’s plans for the surgery and to discuss the sort of equipment which may be needed. He commented, “I am very impressed with the plans, especially the reception area which should be very good for patients and staff.” Mr Wilson will continue to liaise with him to ensure that everything is in place for his arrival.
Dr Akhiwu also viewed photographs of his new house and said his wife was very excited about the move. She was particularly pleased that the main bedroom would have an ensuite.
The family has three young children and they are expecting their fourth child “very soon.” Dr Akhiwu has been accessing the Grenfell school websites during his time in Sydney and has already had preliminary talks with one of the Principals.
Dr Akhiwu told the group he had been in touch with the medical authorities about his final interview and expected to be told very shortly when this would take place. Unfortunately it is now unlikely he will be able to come to Grenfell during his remaining time, but he was assured that council would pick him up for a quick visit if he can fit it in. “I would really like to see the country and inspect the premises and the hospital if I can. Let me assure the people of Grenfell that I will be there as soon as I can,” he said.
Mayor Maurice Simpson was buoyed by the meeting. “It is obvious to me that Dr Akhiwu is a dedicated doctor who will be well received by our community. I am satisfied he will be a great asset for our town. It was certainly worth the effort to meet with him and discuss some of the important issues in preparation for his arrival.”
Council will keep the lines of communication open now and will liaise with the doctor on a constant basis.