Lee Ross is the first to admit he loves his job. As a pharmacist, he always has time for a smile and a good chat, creating a positive environment for anyone who walks through the door.
It’s one of the reasons Lee loves living in Hedland—he knows that he’s never far from a familiar face.
“I really love my job. I love the face-to-face interaction,” Lee said.
“I like talking to people. You meet people from all different walks of life in this job, and it’s just an interesting place to meet people.”
Originally from Victoria, Lee had never heard of Port Hedland before he made the big move seven years ago.
Since then, he’s bought into the business and met his partner, so Hedland will definitely be home for some time.
“I love going to work every day, and if you can find a place where you can do that, I think that’s really important,” he said.
“Everyone in Hedland seems to know everyone and look out for each other.
“We’ve had staff get their car bogged in the middle of the mud flats, and the town will go out and help them.
“Everyone has each other’s back. That’s a rare thing to find in a big city, but you really feel part of something here.”
Lee is also an active member of the local LGBTQI+ community, doing his part to increase awareness and visibility in the local community.
Local photographer, AJ Downes, speaks highly of Lee as a friendly face who is always ready to pitch in and help.
“Lee is an extraordinary person who gives 110 per cent when it comes to customer service. He’s a friendly face who’s always happy to help.
“Lee will go above and beyond for as long as he can help – it’s people like him who make a local community, and I know tourists always get a positive experience from Port Hedland’s busiest chemist.”
Local communities rely on people who love their jobs and willingly go the extra mile. It’s key to the survival and longevity of small towns, which is why Lee Ross is a worthy Hedland Hero.
