The collection of population health data in Busselton was initiated by local GP Dr Kevin Cullen. His vision was to establish and conduct population health research in a community setting that would not only provide important information into the prevalence and causes of common diseases but also to empower participants to take an active role in their health and well-being. We believe the original aims of the Busselton Health Study as stated in 1966 in understanding disease and improving the health of the population continues today.

The ‘Busselton Population Studies Group’ lead by Dr Kevin Cullen, was responsible for the governance of the Busselton Health Study in the 1960’s to 1980’s. From July 2000, the Busselton Population Medical Research Foundation Inc. governed and managed the  Busselton Health Study. In October 2011, the foundation updated its name to the Busselton Population Medical Research Institute (Inc.).

The following excerpt is adapted from an oral history of the Busselton Health Study compiled by local historian and long-serving study volunteer Margaret Tickle and the Busselton Historical Society.  A full copy of this publication is available through the Library of Western Australia.

In 1966 the modest population of around 6000 residents in Busselton warranted the services of only four general practitioner doctors and perhaps less would have sufficed but for the four having chosen it for the attractions the town offered. [more]