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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