Administrator Dr Hugh Heggie planning first Central Australia residence

More than six months after moving into Government House, Hugh Heggie is headed south. Find out what he has planned for his first Central Australia residence.

Six months after being appointed Administrator of the Northern Territory, Hugh Heggie is preparing for his first residence in Central Australia.

Joined by his wife Ruth Jones, Dr Heggie will be headed to the Red Centre to visit a number of organisations and conduct two award ceremonies.

Dr Heggie, the former chief health officer for the NT, said he was looking forward to heading back down south, where he used to work in the health field.

“I spent a good deal of my career in Central Australia and always look forward to returning,” he said.

The 23rd Administrator of the Northern Territory Dr Hugh Heggie PSM, with his partner Ruth Jones. Picture: Annabel Bowles

He said he was looking forward to handing out recognitions from Australia Day ceremonies to seven Central Australian residents, including a special ceremony in Ampilatwatja.

Among those receiving awards will be former government minister Bess Nungarrayi Price, remote area nurse Beverley Jean McCormack and artist Keturah Zimran.

Dr Heggie said he was also looking forward to meeting with 2023 Text Publishing Bookseller of the Year Bronwyn Druce from Red Kangaroo Books.

Red Kangaroo Books manager Bronwyn Druce was named 2023 Text Publishing Bookseller of the Year. Picture: Emma Murray

“I am especially pleased to present our 2023 Australia Day honorees in Central Australia,” he said.

“These awards are community-driven and a reflection of the high regard the community holds for the recipients.

“There are many more individuals and organisations whose work is changing lives – in fields such as health and wellbeing, the arts and administration.

“They are unsung heroes of the community.”