DECEMBER 2025
WELCOME TO OUR
RECOVERY ORIENTED PRACTICE FORUM
FEATURES
MH MONTH 2025
NEED A LIFT YOUTH MH PHOTO COMPETITION
GLOBAL PEER SUPPORT CELEBRATION DAY
Latest events, compliments, accomplishments, celebrations and education and training opportunities In this newsletter you will find:
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ANDREA TAYLOR, MHDA DIRECTOR
As we approach the close of 2025, I am proud to reflect on the remarkable achievements across MHDA this year. On 5 November we hosted our annual Recovery Oriented Practice Forum, continuing our co- design journey. With the theme “Whose Plan is it Anyway? Making Care Planning Relevant to You and Me”, the forum highlighted how care planning can be meaningful, collaborative and person-led. The Northern Beaches Care Planning Project team’s work stood out as an inspiring example of co-design in action. This year also marked the 6 Need a Lift? Youth Photography Competition which received nearly 200 uplifting entries from young people across our district. Their creativity and positivity remind us of the power of youth voices in shaping wellbeing. th At the NSW Health Awards, congratulations went to the Brolga Adolescent Inpatient Unit HKH, finalists for Excellence in the Provision of Mental Health Services. Their behaviour management framework for adolescents reflects innovation, dedication and collaboration across the state. October’s Mental Health Month encouraged us all to take steps on our wellbeing journey. Our champions worked tirelessly to deliver diverse events that fostered connection, recovery and resilience. We also proudly joined the international community in celebrating Day, recognising the extraordinary contributions of our peer workforce. Global Peer Support Celebration
Kindness was amplified during the Gathering of Kindness Week in November, reminding us that compassion is a daily practice. Kindness Boxes were distributed across MHDA services for staff to share kindness with each other. Allied Health Professions Day and OT week celebrated in October showcased the vital role of allied health in recovery with special recognition for Georgie Turnbull, Teahne Lyons and Jenna Frost who were receivers of Allied Health Awards. Highlights also included MHDA’s presence at the ACMHC Conference, the installation of NatureFix Wellness Zones at MQH and our participation in APSAD 2025. We launched the MHDA Physical Health Care Project, embedding physical health as a cornerstone of mental health service delivery. As we celebrated the International Day of People with Disability and prepared for the Exceptional People Awards, one theme has been constant: the dedication, creativity and compassion of our staff. To all MHDA staff - thank you. Your commitment had made 2025 a year of progress, innovation and hope. Together we continue to transform lives and strengthen our community. As we approach the festive season, I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and encourage you to stay safe and enjoy a well- deserved, restful break. This week has been marked by the tragic events at Bondi Beach, and our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to all those impacted. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to our staff who have been deployed to support the response during this difficult time. Your dedication and professionalism are deeply appreciated.
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COMPLIMENTS
Capturing consumer feedback, including compliments is a vital part of delivering high-quality mental health care. Compliments provide valuable insights into what is working well, highlighting strengths in service delivery and reinforcing practices that contribute to positive consumer experiences. They not only recognise staff efforts but also inform service change, helping MHDA refine approaches and achieve consumer outcomes. It is wonderful to see compliments reflected in the newsletter, celebrating the wins and the great service we provide. Compliments make a bigger impact when they are entered into IMS+ via Consumer Feedback. Services are able to systematically analyse, respond and initiate action based on feedback received. This ensures that positive experiences are acknowledged, trends are identified and opportunities for service enhancement are acted upon. To maintain consistency and accountability, all compliments must be recorded in IMS+ via Consumer Feedback. If you require support with entering compliments in IMS+, please contact Mel Stuart, Experience and Legal Manager, MHDA at Melanie.Stuart@health.nsw.gov.au. Mel will also be visiting sites in the new year to support the establishment of local processes and assist with capturing compliments.
You link: https://nswhealth.sharepoint.com/sites/EHNSW-IMSPLUS/SitePages/QRGs.aspx can view quick reference guides via this
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COMPLIMENTS
Joe Walkden has been a valuable help in my treatment and additional diagnosis. I have found Joe to be compassionate and caring and extremely professional. This treatment went above and beyond my expectations. From NB CP Client
Alana wanted to pass on how grateful the SUPPS team were towards Sue and Emily for the care they are giving the clients. Wanting to highlight the client centred care and collaboration with teams. Thankyou Sue and Emily. From Alana
Some lovely feedback in EMR written by a mental health team member from a client of Nicola Cleary’s – big praise from a young person who has been engaged with multiple services for many years!" "Said she has always had trouble with therapy but wants to continue to see Nicola from ACACIA". From Haley Bowen Dr Low shifted his attention and took the time to answer my questions. She stated that if he didn't know the answer, he looked up research so he could give accurate information". Client was appreciative of his efforts. Feedback from NB Client
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COMPLIMENTS
Highly commended, staff were beautiful people and had no judgement whatsoever, great sense of humour... I credit the respect I was given helped me feel I was enough and stay sober after discharge." Feedback from an outpatient to Dr Angelica Wong and her team
Grace’s client from this week said “Grace is brilliant and so lovely and kind. She has really helped me so much”. Another client from today said “I really enjoyed my session with Grace today and she is very good”. From client to Grace Bekkesletten Hornsby Counselling team
Dear Andrea I just want to say how wonderful your event (MHDA Rewards & Recognition) was yesterday despite all the issues with needing to move the location. It was an outstanding celebration of your service and the people who work in it. Thank you so much for the opportunity to attend. I'm sorry I couldn't stay until the end but I had to go somewhere else unfortunately. Kind regards Karen Filocamo, Board Member
To the Maya D&A From: Tony Piras
Having read your email I really think the outstanding person for recognition is Maya. She took the initiative and called OTP – prior to official starting time to give us the message that our doctor for that day’s clinics was sick and would not be in for work.
I would like to see her acknowledged for showing initiative (thinking outside the square) thoughtfulness and efficiency.
Thank you, Maya your effort was so much appreciated.
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Forum Facilitator Helen Glover
Many perspectives came together for a day of connection, thought provoking discussions, and shared learning. The facilitator, Helen Glover, challenged participants to think differently, and MHDA stepped up by engaging in honest conversations with each other to encourage deeper reflection. The conversations weren’t always comfortable—and that was the point. Strong opinions from all sides pushed boundaries and challenged assumptions, creating the kind of tension that drives innovation and meaningful change. Participants reported that the forum greatly supported their understanding of collaborative care planning and significantly increased their confidence in engaging in these practices. The feedback from the day captured the spirit of the forum: “Collaboration is the key” – True recovery-oriented planning happens when all voices—clinical, lived experience, and family—work together as equal partners “We can start – and it can be a small shift!” – Participants acknowledged that transformation doesn’t have to be overwhelming; even small steps toward shared decision-making make a big difference. We are keen to build on the learnings, conversations, and ideas shared during the forum. These will be taken forward by the MHDA Comprehensive Care Planning Implementation and Monitoring Working Group led by Alison Meynink, Clinical Redesign Project Officer. This group will reflect on the discussions and consider how these inform next steps for strengthening comprehensive care planning across MHDA As we look ahead, the challenge is clear: to keep the momentum going and ensure that care planning across MHDA reflects the voices of all stakeholders— clinicians, people with lived experience, families, and carers.
On 5th November, MHDA hosted its annual Recovery Oriented Practice Forum, continuing the journey of the past two years focused on codesign. This year’s theme—Whose Plan is It Anyway? Making Care Planning Relevant to You and Me- put the spotlight on care planning and how we can make it meaningful, collaborative, and truly person-led. The day began with a dynamic panel discussion, exploring the story so far with an honest and diverse range of experiences and reflections on care planning across MHDA. Voices included clinicians, people with lived experience, and family/carer representatives each sharing insights on the realities of current practice. A highlight was the Northern Beaches Care Planning Project team, whose work demonstrates how codesign can transform care planning into a dynamic, shared process. Throughout the day, participants explored practical strategies to make care planning relevant and meaningful—moving beyond paperwork to conversations that matter. The forum reinforced that recovery-oriented care planning is not just a task; it’s a partnership built on respect, choice, and shared decision-making. Shifting the focus from paperwork to collaborative dialogue is essential for creating plans that reflect the hopes, goals, and strengths of the person at the centre. With just over 100 participants—representing services across MHDA, consumers, people with lived and learned experience, and family/carer representatives—the forum created a rich co- learning environment.
Jennifer Neirinckx, A/Clinical Rehabilitation Manager
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Worlds Greatest Shave Beaming smiles illuminate the faces of our school leaders as they participate in the World's Greatest Shave, raising funds for the Leukaemia Foundation. A crowd of intrigued students watch from a distance, fostering a sense of community, courage and togetherness for such an important cause. CHRISTOPHER, 18, NORTH SYDNEY Overall Winner CHRISTOPHER, 18, NORTH SYDNEY
L-R: Christopher, Dan, Troy, Ayush, James, Josiah
2025 saw the Need a Lift? Youth Photography Competition being held for the 6 year. This competition is a partnership between CYMHS School-Link, NSLHD Population Health Promotion, headspace Chatswood and Brookvale, Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Community Drug Action Teams, and a number of local councils. th This year we received just under 200 ‘uplifting’ entries from young people across the area, capturing their uplifting, positive or joyful images and messages, with a range of ages and subject matter. All entries have been on display on our Pollunit page https://pollunit.com/en/polls/needalift2025 along with printed A3 posters on display in lifts and other locations around Northern Sydney. Prizes were awarded in each age category – 12-15 years, 16-18 years, 19-24 years - along with an overall winner, runner-up and a Peoples’ Choice Award. An Award Ceremony was held on 1 December. st As in previous years, a Photo book has been collated of the winning and short-listed entries, and this book will be presented to award winners as well as various services where young people and their families will be able to view these amazing entries.
Runner Up DAN, 15, KUR-RING-GAI
A Hobby That You’re Passionate About The image that you see is a visual representation of what the very thing that drives me to get through the 5-day school week has amounted to so far. This very thing I'm talking about is a passion of mine, a hobby: wildlife photography. And the reason I go every weekend? Because I enjoy it. I find it real fun. And that excitement knowing that I'll be back out in the bush again searching for my favourite Aussie birds.
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NEED A LIFT YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION
Age Category Winner 19-24 years
AYUSH, 24, RYDE
While walking through the bush, I spotted these kangaroos midplay. Their carefree energy and freedom lifted my spirits, reminding me that even in nature’s wildest places, there’s always time for joy, laughter, and connection. CHRISTOPHER, 18, NORTH SYDNEY
I took this photo during my holiday in Africa, while I was on a safari. It makes me feel happy because it reminds me of the calm and peace that nature gives. Watching the sunset over the wildflowers was one of the quietest, most special moments of the trip. Every time I look at this picture, it brings back a feeling of freedom and joy. TROY, 13, KUR-RING-GAI Age Category Winner 12-15 years CHRISTOPHER, 18, NORTH SYDNEY
Peoples Choice Winner JAMES, 14, NORTH SYDNEY
There is nothing quite as uplifting as watching the world rise above its own stillness. The lake mirrors the sky, reminding us that even in silence and stillness, there is depth and reflection. It is a scene of calm after chaos, clarity after fog. As light filters gently through the clouds, the serenity is simply breathtaking. This landscape holds space for hope, for breath, for beginning again.
JOSIAH, 17, NORTHERN BEACHES Age Category Winner 16-18 years
This photo captures a leaf insect in the sunlight, reminding me of resilience and hidden beauty in nature. Even something small and camouflaged has its own strength and uniqueness, which lifts my mood and reminds me to find joy in the little details of life.
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L-R Brenda Ha (Occupational Therapist), Shannon Webb (former Brolga Clinical Lead), Alana Giffin (former Brolga NUM), Allen Morfoot (Brolga NUM), Sophie O'Keefe (Registered Nurse), Matteo Zuccala (Clinical Psychologist), Anthony Schembri (NSLHD Chief Executive), Jeanine Smith (Acting CYMHS Service Director), Dr Yewande Oshodi (Child and Adolescent Consultant Psychiatrist)
The annual NSW Health Awards were held on 30 October 2025 to honour the outstanding contributions of health teams and individuals across the state. Congratulations to the staff at the Brolga Adolescent Inpatient Unit, who were finalists in the category for Excellence in the Provision of Mental Health Services Award. th The Brolga Unit were nominated for their outstanding work developing and implementing a behaviour management framework for adolescents in hospital. Following a lengthy research and review process, including consulting with most other adolescent mental health units across NSW, they developed their own clinical guidelines and framework for preventing, and responding to, challenging adolescent behaviours in hospital. An evaluation of the project 6 months later found that incidents of self-harm and aggression had decreased by 65% and restrictive nursing practices (such as physical restraint and seclusion) had reduced by 78%.
Commendations to the combined efforts of the Brolga Unit clinical staff, leadership team, and those team members that spearheaded the project – Roman Kielich (peer work), Sophie O’Keefe (nursing), and Matteo Zuccala (psychology). Members of the Brolga team attended the NSW Health Awards ceremony alongside the CE Anthony Schembri as well as the winner of the Volunteer of the Year Award, NSLHD’s own Diane McPhail from Ryde Hospital
L-R Dr Yewande Oshidi, Child and Adolescent Consultant Psychiatrist & Allen Morfoot, Brolga NUM
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CELEBRATING TOGETHER
Our Mental Health Month Champions worked tirelessly to organise a diverse range of events and activities across the district. Their energy, creativity, and commitment ensured that staff, consumers, and community members alike could engage meaningfully with the theme. sectors contributed to a wonderful array of celebrations—from workshops and Throughout October, all wellbeing activities to community events and awareness campaigns. These initiatives highlighted the importance of connection, recovery, and resilience, while also showcasing the dedication of our teams.
REFLECTING ON MENTAL HEALTH MONTH 2025
REFLECTING ON MENTAL HEALTH MONTH
ACKNOWLEDGING OUR CHAMPIONS
October marked Mental Health Month 2025 - a time for MHDA to pause, reflect and take meaningful steps towards wellbeing and recovery. This years theme “Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey” encouraged us to all consider what wellbeing means personally and to embrace small intentional actions that support people living with mental health and/or substance use challenges. Whether it was reaching out for support, practicing self-care or engaging in community, every step taken mattered. Mental Health month provided an important opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and celebrate the strength found in shared experiences across both mental health and drug and alcohol services
We extend our sincere thanks to the Mental Health Month Champions for their leadership and enthusiasm. Their efforts brought the theme to life and ensured that Mental Health Month was not only observed but truly experienced across our services.
MHDA Directorate Wellbeing Wall
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MACQUARIE HOSPITAL Mental Health Month
Magnet Making: the consumers chose inspiring quotes (some with humor) magnets that they could take home and can be reminded of their journey. It was alot of fun making this ourselves.
Each year the Rehabilitation Team comes together to put together activities for the hospital for Mental Health Month. The team wanted to create feel good activities for our consumers that may lead to ongoing interests for their journey.
Journey Wellness Tree: this had been done before but this time we livened up the tree and attached messages of strength, desire and hope for the consumers wellbeing.
Pamper day: this was a lot of fun, and we are thankful to who donated to us to make this day possible. The team had stalls where they were able to select items they may need to help with personal hygiene. There was a "Nail Nook" for nail filing and painting, there was a sea of different colours. Lastly there was a DIY deep cleanser and DIY face brightening masks which consisted of yoghurt, oatmeal and turmeric. Soap making: the consumers could make their own soap from scratch, where they could add Lavender, Oatmeal and essential oils to enhance smell, texture and not to mention look nice too. Plus there were different colours to liven up the soap. After the soap was made it was then left to form for up to 30mins.
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Mental Health Month
MACQUARIE HOSPITAL
To promote plant power, we ran two engaging activities: Guess the Veggies – How many vegetables can you name? 30+ Plants Challenge – Track your weekly plant count with our checklist and aim for 30 or more!
Our
dietitians,
supported
by
student
dietitians
and
Rehabilitation staff, hosted a Mood-Boost Munch Healthy Morning Tea to shine a light on the link between nutrition and mental wellbeing. Program Research shows the Mediterranean diet and gut-friendly eating patterns offer the strongest evidence for supporting mental health. The common thread? More plants on your plate.
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Mental Health Month
MACQUARIE HOSPITAL
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Mental Health Month Museum of Contemporary Art Bella Plus Program Mental Health Month Consumer Community Outing On the 15 October as part of Mental Health Month the Specialist Rehabilitation Service (SRS) in collaboration with the Rehabilitation Program Area from Macquarie Hospital supported consumers to engage with the Bella Plus Program at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA). This the opportunity for consumers from both the community and in-patient settings to connect and explore art in a safe and curious way. partnership provided Consumers and staff were guided in a 1.5 hour immersive art experience in a social way. The program provided the opportunity to enjoy an interactive art gallery and experimental art-making experience that was supported by the creative team and Art educators at the MCA. The experience was designed from feedback of previous consumer attendees tailored to lived/living experience, challenging stigma and encouraging expression and storytelling through creativity.
MACQUARIE HOSPITAL/SRS
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Mental Health Month
NORTH SHORE RYDE
Attached are photos from some of the D&A sites, showcasing designs co-created by our clinicians and admin staff.
A special thanks to Franca Italia, one of the administration officers, who took the blank footprint paper to the nursing home where she volunteers. Residents were invited to colour in or create their own designs on the footprints, helping to extend awareness of Mental Health Month to the wider community.
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Mental Health Month
OPHMHS
2025 OPMHS Mental Health Month Forum
The Older People’s Mental Health Service held their annual mental health month forum on Wednesday 21 October at the Northern Sydney Education Centre st There were over 70 invited guests comprising OPMHS staff, partner and stakeholder organisations and consumers and carers engaging in some education, fun and of course some good food Following the MHDA Rewards and Recognition event earlier in the month, we managed to secure Anthony Ackroyd as host and MC of the event. The raffle draw for a range of hampers once again was a big hit with Erick Trucilla from our LNS OPMHS Team one of the lucky participants.
Rachael Wolfe NSLHD PARVAN
Erick Trucilla, LNS OPMHS
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Mental Health Month
NORTHERN BEACHES CYMHS
NB CYMHS Team celebrated MH Month with a Wellbeing Wall.
We all shared the steps we are taking on our wellbeing journey and were rewarded with a coffee voucher.
This was a nice opportunity to get out of the office and chat with our colleagues, excellent for our wellbeing!
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Mental Health Month
TAKING STEPS. MENTAL HEALTH MONTH EXHIBITION OF LIVED EXPERIENCE BY INSIDEOUT GALLERY
Opening of Taking Steps - Mental Health Month Exhibition of Lived Experience. The exhibition brings together artists from across NSLHD and WSLHD, including Macquarie Hospital, Cornucopia Community Arts Group, RNS CYMHS and Peer Workers. This year 32 artists were showcased with 67 artworks across various mediums, each reflecting personal experience and creativity.
Jasmine Steven, Arts Worker
Paula Hanlon & Michelle Horsey, Consumer Peer Workers
Andrea Taylor, MHDA Director & Michelle Horsey, Consumer Peer Worker
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This special evening was dedicated to honouring those who care for loved ones living with mental health challenges. It was a heartfelt recognition of their strength, compassion, and the vital role they play in fostering wellbeing within the community.
On October 15th, NSLDH MHDA Family and Carer Mental Health Program (FACMH) in partnership with Uniting FACMH program proudly celebrated Carers Week. The event was held at the Uniting Church in Willoughby from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, bringing together families, carers and some consumers for an evening of connection and celebration. Attendees enjoyed a communal dinner, providing a warm space for conversation and reflection. The night featured a lively Trivia competition, accompanied by live music. Guests also participated in a shared canvas art activity, creating a collective piece that symbolized unity and resilience. NORTHERN SYDNEY FAMILY & CARER MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM CARERS WEEK CELEBRATION
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They were invited to share messages of gratitude on the Appreciation Wall, offering words of encouragement and thanks to peer workers who give so much of themselves to support others. a networking lunch and concluded with the virtual launch of the NSW Peer Workforce Framework Elevating Lived Experience Expertise: A Framework for the NSW Health Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Peer (Lived Experience) Workforce The celebration concluded with
MHDA services proudly joined the international community in marking Global Peer Support Celebration Day 16 October - a day dedicated to recognising the extraordinary contributions of our consumer and carer peer workforce. This event is a reminder of the value of lived experience and the transformative impact peer workers have in supporting recovery, fostering hope and walking alongside others with empathy, authenticity and resilience. The afternoon program featured inspiring presentations from carer and consumer peer workers, showcasing their incredible work, insights and contributions. The attendees participated in the Celebrate a Mate initiative which recognises and celebrates the wonderful work peer workers do every day.
L-R Mick Lear, Adam Hraiki, Simon Cleary, Chris Curry, Daniel Pope, Michelle Meadham
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As part of the celebration, staff participated in the Kindness Box activity. Boxes were placed in staff areas to collect written affirmations reflecting kindness in action. These messages were shared at the end of shifts and in meetings, reinforcing the importance of kindness and its impact on our work. MHDA distributed Kindness Boxes across sectors to support this initiative. Gathering of Kindness Week was a meaningful opportunity to honour the voices that make our care compassionate and our workplaces humane. Kindness lives here—and it begins with each of us.
NSW Health proudly celebrated Gathering of Kindness 2025 from 10– 16 November—a week dedicated to recognising and amplifying kindness in healthcare. This statewide initiative invited staff to pause, reconnect, and reflect on the power of compassion in their daily work. The theme for this year, “One care, many voices – because kindness lives here”, reminded us that kindness is more than a value—it is a practice. It was seen in conversations, courageous leadership, the quiet strength of teamwork, and the choices made each day. Gentle words, listening ears, and simple gestures of care transformed experiences for colleagues, patients, families, and carers.
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Teahne Lyons
Congratulations and recognition to MHDA employees Georgie Turnbull for NSLHD Early Career Allied Health Professional of the Year Award Teahne Lyons for NSLHD Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Allied Health Professional of the Year Award 2025. Jenna Frost, Occupational Therapist Allied Health Leader of the Year
14 OCTOBER 2025
Allied Health Professions Day 2025, was celebrated on 14 October with the theme “Stronger Together.” The event, which was first held in England in 2018, has grown into an international occasion that brings together the allied health professional community each year. In 2025, the theme highlighted the benefits of multidisciplinary, team-based care. Allied are acknowledged as key players in mental health and drug and alcohol services. Their work supports consumers throughout their recovery journey—helping them to stabilise, thrive, and reintegrate into the community. Health professionals By offering therapeutic interventions, rehabilitation, and practical support, allied health teams ensure that consumers were not only cared for but empowered to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Well-deserved award winners within MHDA
Georgie Turnbull
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L-R Roni Morton (NSLHD), Lesley McNab (UTS)
These resources have already been shared with new graduate nurses in NSLHD’s Mental Health and Alcohol and Drug (MHDA) services, as well as undergraduate nursing students at UTS. Early feedback has been very positive, with participants reporting greater confidence in navigating difficult conversations with empathy and compassion.
10-12 SEPTEMBER 2025
Roni Morton, Nurse Educator from NSLHD MHDA, and Lesley McNab, mental health nursing lecturer from UTS, were delighted to co-present at this year’s ACMHN Conference in Brisbane. Together with Associate Professor Natalie Cutler, they showcased the outcomes of the Compassionate Conversations pilot project to an audience of clinicians, educators, and researchers from across Australia. Following the success of the pilot, the project has secured two years of funding from NSW Health to develop digital resources that model compassionate approaches to challenging interactions in mental health care.
Associate Professor Natalie Cutler also presented a poster on an international community mental health nursing study conducted in Indonesia in 2024. To her surprise and delight, Natalie received the ACMHN Conference’s Best Poster Award.
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MICHELLE MEADHAM
Population Health Promotion have partnered with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Service MHDA to install a NatureFix Wellness Zones at the Macquarie MHDA Healing Garden. These immersive zones offer short, self-guided mindfulness experiences designed to connect the healing power of nature. The NatureFix app now features Aboriginal cultural content, including a bespoke audio recording by local Elder Uncle Laurie Bimson. This addition invites users to connect with the stories and wisdom of the traditional custodians of NSLHD sites, deepening cultural appreciation and fostering respectful engagement with Country.
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Wednesday 3 December 2025 marks the International Day of People with Disability. Established by the United Nations in 1992, this day promotes awareness, inclusion, and equity while celebrating the significant contributions of people with disability. This year’s theme is ‘Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress’. All NSW Health staff are required to make reasonable adjustments for people with disability in line with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. Staff may need guidance on implementing adjustments and information to assist with that includes: Summaries and quick links to resources can be seen on the intranet page for Disability and for Cognitive Impairment. Responding to the health care needs of people with disability (NSW Health Policy Directive) provides clear advice on many reasonable adjustments and clear instructions about using disability support workers in hospitals. Anne Klemm, Manager Disability Strategy NSLHD, can assist individuals or teams with navigation of resources supporting disability adjustments. Changes have been implemented to eMR that aligns with the Single Digital Patient Record (coming soon). Procedures essential to providing equitable care include: Recording a Persons Disability in electronic Medical Record (eMR): treating staff with appropriate medical evidence can record a disability diagnosis on eMR, so all staff can make appropriate disability adjustments to meet the person’s specific needs. Disability Care Plans: improving continuity of care using disability care plans created by external clinicians (and instructions how to find uploaded documents on eMR). For people with intellectual Disability (ID) there are specialist NSLHD services that can assist with making appropriate adjustments. These include: Northern Sydney Intellectual Disability Health Service – for all ages, they provide information and education on management of care and the needs of people with ID. NSLHD MHDA Intellectual Disability Team – for adults with ID and MH diagnosis. For NSLHD staff with disability: confidential support and advice is available from the NSLHD Disability Employee Network (DEN). Contact Nicole Toohey, Acting Manager, Organisational Development and Leadership, People and Culture on nicole.toohey@health.nsw.gov.au for information on how to join the meetings and/or join the network. This network has many allies including people with neurodiversity who don’t have a disability. Line managers are encouraged to use the NSLHD Workplace Adjustment Procedure to support employees with eligible disabilities or health conditions. Please speak with your Human Resources Business Partner for more information.
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The nine award categories are
1.Partnering with Consumers and Carers 2.Safe and Connected Care 3.Healthy and Well Communities 4.Engaged and Supported People 5.Research, Innovation and Digital Health 6.Sustainability and Planetary Health 7.CORE Values and Behaviours 8.Youth Achievement 9.Leadership
The Exceptional People Awards are back! These awards are a fantastic chance to come together and celebrate the outstanding contributions of our staff and volunteers who embody the true spirit of our CORE Values and behaviours. To nominate a staff member or team, please complete the staff online nomination form. Nominations are open to patients and consumers as well. If you know a patient, carer, or family member who would like to put forward a nomination, please share this link with them.
Nominations will close at 7pm, 19 December 2025.
For more information about the awards and to see the previous Exceptional People Awards winners, visit Exceptional People Awards page on our intranet. If you have any questions regarding the awards, please reach out to nslhd-odteam@health.nsw.gov.au.
To date 9 of our exceptional staff have nominated people and teams. Please keep nominating!
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Dan Winter presenting at APSAD 2025
We also congratulate both Andressa Almeida and Maya Kusumoto who were fortunate to attend their very first APSAD Conference, with support from a DACRIN Professional Development Scholarship. We hope they both had a blast and am sure both will be keen to tell you about their experience attending. The team also celebrated the closing of the CBD-CUD (Cannabidiol-Cannabis Use Disorder) Study, with a celebration hosted by the Study Sponsor and attended by members from each site. The study also featured a poster at this year’s conference, titled Who’s seeking help? Participant profiles from the largest Randomised Control Trial of cannabidiol for cannabis use disorder. You can view a copy of the poster here. Next year’s APSAD will be held in Fremantle, Western Australia, from 8–11 November 2026. Start thinking about your next research project, and you could be presenting at next year’s conference! For DAS Staff, don’t forget to submit any requests for research projects or conference attendance to Research Quality Impact Committee via the Work Instruction Forms.
Last week, several staff from NSLHD DAS were delighted to attend the Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs (APSAD) 2025 conference at the International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney. This year’s conference theme focused on disrupting and deconstructing approaches to drug policy, research, and practice. This year’s conference theme focused on disrupting and deconstructing approaches to drug policy, research, and practice. Alongside attending talks and plenty of networking, our very own Dan Winter from DAS presented findings from a study on Substance Use, Crime Survivorship, and Justice System Experiences among members of the general public. Those who attended the MHDA Conference earlier this year may remember a similar presentation by Dan on this project.
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We are excited to announce the launch of the Physical Health Care Project, a key initiative that seeks to embed physical healthcare as a vital and empowering component of mental health service delivery, supporting improved health outcomes and addressing the inequities faced by people living with mental illness. To guide and drive the delivery of this project, an Expert Reference Group has been established. This group brings together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise, including medical staff, allied health professionals, nursing staff, Aboriginal care navigator, consumer peer workers, and carer peer workers. This collaborative approach ensures that the voices of consumers, carers, and clinicians are central to shaping practical and sustainable solutions. The project is led by Alison Meynink (alison.wright3@health.nsw.gov.au), with Elizabeth Penman serving as Executive Sponsor. Stay tuned for updates as the Expert Reference Group begins its work to create meaningful change in physical health care across MHDA services.
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The NSLHD Planetary Health Framework Workshop was held on Tuesday 2nd December 2025 and was a fantastic opportunity for the service to come together to shape how we deliver care that promotes the health of both people and the planet. Liz Penman and Nicola Groskops spoke about planetary health principles and their importance while Bronwyn Nolan ensured we gained a clear understanding of value based care. Catherine Rosario and Rebecca Fox spoke about sustainability as a domain of quality and measuring value using the triple bottom line approach (planet, people, profit). Existing district-wide initiatives were discussed and we learnt about current NSLHD legislation and the Net Zero Target where we aim to reach net zero by 2035 on emissions NSLHD directly controls, with a 70-80% reduction by 2030. Emma Holland led a brainstorming group activity where everyone shared their ideas on practical ways of reducing carbon emissions on their sites; which were then prioritised for ease of implementation and impact put into an action plan.
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Re-commencement Eating Disorder Steering Committee and Butterfly Foundation Initiatives. of NSLHD We were able to hear from the Butterfly Foundation’s Head of Clinical and Support Services Natalie Spicer who provided an update on the exciting initiatives being rolled out to support people living with an eating disorder. These include: The Butterfly National Helpline: A helpline staffed by qualified mental health professionals providing support for anyone concerned about eating disorders or body image issues. The helpline is staffed from 8am-midnight 7 days a week. 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673). Butterfly Foundation Support Groups: for people who have a lived/living experience of an eating disorder, and for those who care for them. The Next Steps Outpatient Program: designed to provide support to people following hospital or residential treatment for an eating disorder. This is a free program that runs for 3 hours per day, 3 days a week for 8 weeks. The Program offers sessions with a psychologist, dietitian and peer worker each week, meal support, group sessions with other people recovering from an eating disorder, education and support groups for carers and regular liaison with the treating GP or psychiatrist to ensure consistent treatment.
It has been a busy year for the Eating Disorder Service as we continue to provide trauma-informed, consumer- centred treatment to people in the community and support to clinicians across the district. We continue to be actively involved in improving overall care for people with eating disorders by contributing to the soon to be released NSW Eating Disorders Toolkit for Adults and support the development of new eating disorder treatment guidelines. Clinicians continue to support care navigation pathways as the new eating disorder rehabilitation centre in Newcastle, Baiyangbaiyaang (an Aboriginal word meaning butterfly), officially opened in May this year. The service is currently forward planning for 2026 with the aim of focussing on partnering with services to improve and enhance eating disorder care across the NSLHD. Special attention will be given to supporting previously underserved populations, including Aboriginal Health Services, LGBTQIA+ communities and people experiencing a Longstanding Eating Disorder.
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LATEST EVENTS
Jessika Hill (Adult CNS2) & India Wallace (Paediatric CNS2)
Presentation at Australia & New Zealand Academy of Eating Disorders (ANZAED) 2025 Conference In August, Simone Jaques, Clinical Psychologist, attended the ANZAED annual conference in Melbourne. She presented a poster on her research project, “Transitioning from Paediatric Inpatient to Outpatient Care for Anorexia Nervosa: A Brief Intervention.” The conference provided valuable insights into enhancing care for people living with eating disorders in Northern Sydney. The project was well received, with several NSW Local Health Districts requesting the treatment manual for use in their own services.
NSW Eating Disorder Forum 2025 In July, the NSLHD Eating Disorder Service attended the NSW Eating Disorders Forum where clinicians, researchers, and lived experience experts from across NSW came together to improve care for people with eating disorders. This year’s forum highlighted the issues faced by clinicians and services treating people with severe and enduring/longstanding Anorexia Nervosa. Local and international experts shared best- practice trauma-informed treatment approaches, alongside valuable insights from lived experience experts representing both consumer and carer perspectives. Sessions also highlighted innovative care models across NSW Health, including alternative care pathways outside of the Emergency Department, home-based support, and workforce development. Clinical Nurse Specialists India Wallace and Jessika Hill presented on their roles within providing comprehensive discharge planning and community care navigation to consumers after they are discharged from an inpatient setting.
Simone Jacques, Clinical Psychologist
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LATEST EVENTS
The REACH system is a consumer and carer escalation of care system and a key component of the NSW Health/Clinical Excellence Commission (CEC), Deteriorating Patient Safety Net. REACH - an acronym for Recognise, Engage, Act, Call, Help- is implemented across Mental Health Drug and Alcohol (MHDA) Inpatient Units and in a number of Community Mental Health Teams in Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD). Following a tragic incident in September 2024, NSW Health and CEC convened a REACH Roundtable meeting of key stakeholders across NSW. From this meeting NSW Health, CEC and Local Health Districts (LHDs) were tasked with recommendations to review and revise the REACH system. These revisions included: 1.Implementation of a single access 1300 REACH system across NSW Health in order to simplify and standardise the REACH system 2.Development of a public awareness campaign to raise awareness and amplify the system. How is this progressing? NSW Health and CEC now have nominated LHDs to pilot the new 1300 REACH system, and this will also include the review of all safety nets put in place and the collection of data.
This pilot will run from December 2025 to end of February 2026. Following this all data will be reviewed, adjustments made, if required, and the launch date of the new 1300 REACH system is proposed for March 23 , 2026. rd What does this mean for MHDA? Currently all MHDA REACH system contact numbers, including community mental health services, with details of MHDA REACH Receivers role position, in hours and out of hours, has been requested by NSW Health and CEC and provided by MHDA. A NSLHD Working Group has been convened led by the NSLHD Patient Experience Team on which MHDA is represented. Following the implementation of the 1300 REACH system, changes will need to occur to our REACH system resources, and this will be conducted in a systematic coordinated manner led by MHDA St 8 Lead in conjunction with the MHDA St 8 Committee. All updates on the changes will be posted on MHDA Standard 8 Recognising and Responding to Acute Deterioration and tabled at MHDA Standard 8 Committee. Any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch Suzanne.Glover1@health.nsw.gov.au thanks everyone for all your hard work and support of the REACH system
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LATEST EVENTS
For more information on the Greater Sydney Branch, please contact either: Matt Ireland chair @ matt.ireland@nexusmhrecovery.com Euan MacLeay Deputy Chair @ Euan.Macleay@health.nsw.gov.au Suzy Glover Secretariat @ Suzanne.Glover1@health.nsw.gov.au Greater Sydney Branch meets monthly on the third Wednesday of the month via google meet
For more info on ACMHN scan the QR code
The Australian College of Mental Health Nurses is excited to announce the re-establishment of the Greater Sydney Branch.
The Greater Sydney Branch will provide:
•A local forum for mental health nurses to share evidenced based practice and discuss new contemporary practice changes •Strong local professional recognition •Advocacy across all levels of health and government
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LATEST EVENTS
L-R Tia King, Alice Lance, Shilpa Panyam, Mervat Assad, Andrea Taylor, Mark Joyce, Jennifer Neirinckx
Bottom row L-R Simone Hvlaka, Chris Curry Top Row L-R Alicia Duffy, Keelan Mogan
The MHDA Directorate wrapped up the year with a festive lunch filled with laughter and fun! Highlights included a lively chocolate hunt and the always- entertaining “Evil Secret Santa,” making it a memorable celebration for all.
L-R Simone Hvlaka, Chris Curry, Glen Randall, Katrina Baker, Anthony Marsh, Runa Arun Antony, Alison Meynink
L-R Alicia Duffy, Teahne Lyons
L-R Shilpa Panyam, Andrea Taylor
L-R Grace Maroon, Roni Morton, Janet Edmond, Marnie Starr, Anusha Ghimire
Bottom L-R Andrea Taylor, Mark Joyce Top L-R Andrea Taylor, Marc Evans, Elizabeth Penman
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EDUCATION
We’re excited to share two newly developed intranet pages designed to better support your work in patient safety and quality improvement. MHDA Incident Management and Consumer Safety - Click here to access
Tip: You can find both pages under MHDA Intranet → MHDA Safety and Quality, or simply use the links above and add them to your Favourites for quick access. Your feedback helps us keep improving. If you have ideas to enhance the usability of these pages or need support with patient safety, incident management, or quality improvement - please reach out to the MHDA Quality Manager Ling Wei, Ling.Wei@health.nsw.gov.au.
Your
central
resource
for
incident
reporting,
open
disclosure,
staff
support,
incident manager guidance, M&M meetings, and lessons learned. Includes key policies, procedures, templates, and links to district and CEC resources. review,
Together, let’s keep strengthening the safety and quality of care across MHDA.
MHDA Quality Improvement Hub - Click here to access
Your one-stop site for starting a QI project in MHDA, tools and templates, education and training, the Safety and Quality Essentials Pathway, Quality Improvement Data System (QIDs), improvement science resources, and awards. Includes links to district and CEC resources.
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EDUCATION
Mental Health Month: Know your Rights and Responsibilities As part of Mental Health Month, MHDA is proud to highlight the Rights and Responsibilities video. This resource supports consumers/clients, carers, and families in understanding their rights when accessing mental health drug & Alcohol services, and the responsibilities that contribute to safe, respectful, and effective care. Promoting awareness of rights empowers individuals to be active participants in their recovery journey, strengthens trust between staff and consumers/clients, and builds a culture of respect and collaboration.
Staff and consumers/clients are encouraged to revisit the video and use it as a foundation for open, supportive conversations about care.
The video can be found on the MHDA intranet on the main page under “Video Resources” https://nswhealth.sharepoint.com/sites/NSLHD-MHDA
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EDUCATION
Enrolments via My Health Learning Cost: Nil for NSLHD Employees
Jan 2026
Mar 2026
Monday, 19 January 2026 · NSLHD District Orientation
Tuesday, 3 March 2026 · Coral Tree Training: Working with Families T S iti F il P ti Tuesday, 10 March 2026 · Sensory Modulation
Tuesday, 20 January 2026 · MHDA Orientation Day 2 · Respecting the Difference: Be the Difference
Wednesday, 21 January 2026 · MHDA Orientation Day 3
Wednesday, 11 March 2026 · Introduction to Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Care
Feb 2026
Wednesday, 4 February 2026 · Domestic Violence Routine Screening Training DVRS (MHDA)
Thursday, 12 March 2026 · Teaching & Learning Series-Supporting Learners
Thursday, 5 February 2026 · Teaching & Learning Series-Supporting Learners
Monday, 16 March 2026 · NSLHD District Orientation
Tuesday, 10 February 2026 · MHDA Suicide Risk Assessment & Management · Leading Team in the Clinical Workplace- Nursing & Midwifery
Tuesday, 17 March 2026 · MHDA Orientation Day 2
Wednesday, 18 March 2026 · MHDA Orientation Day 3 · Trauma Informed Care: Three Phased Approach- S f t &St bili ti Thursday, 19 March 2026 · Teaching & Learning Series-Assessment · Comprehensive Mental State Examination, Narrative Ri kA t d ISBARH d Tuesday, 24 March 2026 · MHDA Assistant in Nursing (AIN) Buddy Day
Thursday, 12 February 2026 · Teaching & Learning Series-Assessment Series
Thursday, 19 February 2026 · Sexual Safety in MHDA
Monday, 23 February 2026 · NSLHD District Orientation
Wednesday, 25 March 2026 · Domestic Violence Routine Screening Training (MHDA GradStarts only)
Tuesday, 24 February 2026 · MHDA Orientation Day 2
Thursday, 26 March 2026 · MHDA Suicide Risk Assessment & Management
Wednesday, 25 February 2026 · MHDA Orientation Day 3 · Respecting the Difference: Be the Difference
Monday, 30 March 2026 · Coaching in the Workplace-Day 1 · Respecting the Difference: Be the Difference
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