Derek Hunt: Interpreting success

 Diploma of Interpreting graduate Derek Hunt, NT.

Derek Hunt, a Yolngu man from Elcho Island, made history recently when he became the first person to graduate with a Diploma of Interpreting from the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education.

A member of the Northern Territory Government’s Aboriginal Interpreter Service, Hunt specialises in interpreting Djambarrpuyngu, the most widespread dialect of the Yolngu Matha language of northeast Arnhem Land, to ensure Djambarrpuyngu speakers with poor English language skills have their voice heard.

“Most of my work is in the courts, working with lawyers and clients to ensure they understand each other. I also work at the hospital, mainly the Casualty Ward,” Hunt said.

With all the important work Hunt does for his community, he is keenly aware of the vital role he plays helping to improve the conditions of his people.

“Whenever I go back to Elcho, as soon as people see me land, they know there must be something big happening in town and that I’m there to help,” Hunt said.

“I like to think of interpreters being at the forefront of Closing the Gap. If you can’t communicate, you can’t Close the Gap.”

Hunt said his diploma, which took three years to complete, meant that people could be confident he was interpreting accurately. This is particularly important in court and in hospitals.

Hunt said working in hospitals could be very difficult due to the lack of Djambarrpuyngu words for some body parts or ailments.

“Some newer doctors worry that patients don’t understand the health issues they face, so we work closely with doctors to get their message across clearly. While our interpreters already have a reputation for confidentiality, impartiality and accuracy, having a diploma gives doctors more confidence in your ability.”