Yarrabah Community Partner, National Centre for Indigenous Genomics
Katrina Connolly is a proud Gimuy Walubara Yidinji and Kuku Yalanji woman living and working in Yarrabah, Far North Queensland, where she was born and raised. She is deeply committed to the health and wellbeing of her community and works with the Adult Health Program at Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service Aboriginal Corporation (GYHSAC), a community-controlled organisation providing comprehensive primary healthcare to the people of Yarrabah.
Katrina’s work focuses on health promotion and chronic disease care. She supports community members to attend regular health checks and provides ongoing education to help people manage their chronic conditions. While much of this support is delivered through the clinic, Katrina and her team are increasingly working out in the community, recognising that true health is shaped not just by medicine, but by the social determinants—safe housing, strong families, and a connected, supported community.
Katrina has also contributed to youth-focused programs, local leadership initiatives, and advocacy for better health services in the region. Her role reflects her passion for empowering others, creating lasting change, and ensuring that healthcare in Yarrabah is both accessible and culturally safe.