Having relocated from south-western Sydney with his wife – who is also a doctor – and their young daughter, Dr Basnayake brings with him his unique skillset in adult and child health, as well as his experience in critical care to local patients.

Dr Basnayake will also be joined at Ochre Health by his wife who is currently on maternity leave.

He has spent the last three years working in emergency at Sydney’s Camden and Campbelltown Hospitals and has undertaken additional post graduate studies in critical care medicine.

Dr Basnayake worked in paediatrics and neo natal care at Campbelltown Hospital, and has completed further post-graduate studies in child health at the University of Sydney. Arriving in Parkes four weeks ago, Dr Basnayake said he and his wife have always wanted to live in a rural community, with both the central location of Parkes as well as the town’s strong tradition are what won he and his wife over.

“Our life goal was to always settle down in a country town, and look after our own local community and see the positive effects among people we know”, he said.

“We just love the geography of this area and love driving around country towns.

“We just took a short road trip to Forbes and we both love water sports so having the river so close is another added bonus.” 

A highlight of being in Parkes so far has been the Parkes Elvis Festival, with Dr Basnayake even having patients dressed as Elvis over the festival period.

“The best part of town we have come across so far is the people, everyone is really friendly, and look like they look after each other, and I think that is the best reward”, he said.

Dr Basnayake is also employed at the Parkes Hospital. With his experience in acute medicine, he believes he has the necessary resources to help the community. The new facilities at the Hospital another reason Parkes is the ideal fit for himself and his young family.