PAVING OUR WAY TO 2026
Paving Our Way to 2026 (POW26) is a roadmap to improve health equity, access and outcomes in the bush to ensure that health reforms reach everyone, everywhere
We’re paving our way towards improved health outcomes for all Western Queenslanders through a comprehensive, integrated primary health care system in collaboration with our stakeholders, partners and communities
IN THIS EDITION
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
As we reflect on the last few months, we celebrate a season of progress, collaboration, and meaningful achievements A standout moment was the establishment of our Consumer Advisory Committee, a dedicated group committed to ensuring the voices of our communities help shape services that truly meet the needs of those living in our region
Another key milestone was the release of our 2023-2024 Annual Report, which highlights the dedication and impact of our network. This report not only acknowledges the progress we’ve made but reaffirms our ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes for the people we serve
Thank you for your continued support and please enjoy this edition of the Bush Telegraph.
SandyGillies
Chief Executive Officer Western Queensland PHN
2023-2024 ANNUAL REPORT
The WQPHN 2023-24 Annual Report reflects a year of transformation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to strengthening healthcare across rural and remote communities. This year, we have continued to work alongside our partners to drive meaningful change, ensuring that our region’s health services are responsive, sustainable, and culturally safe.
A key focus has been advancing First Nations health equity, with significant milestones achieved through genuine partnerships and codesigned solutions The launch of the Health Equity Statement and First Nations Workforce Development Plan, developed in collaboration with the Nukal Murra Alliance and regional Hospital and Health Services, marks a crucial step forward in addressing systemic barriers and improving access to culturally appropriate care
Our commitment to workforce development has strengthened service delivery, with targeted initiatives aimed at building capacity and supporting healthcare professionals across Western Queensland Community-led innovation has been at the heart of our approach, ensuring that local voices shape the services that directly impact them.
This report not only highlights our achievements but reaffirms our ongoing dedication to improving health outcomes for the communities we serve.
The WQPHN 2023-24 Annual Report – Driving Change for Healthier Outback Communities is now available! Scan the QR code to explore the highlights and insights.
BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
WQPHN is excited to welcome two new Board Directors, Catrina Felton-Busch and Rod Margetts, while extending heartfelt congratulations to Sheryl Lawton on her re-appointment.
Rod Margetts
A seasoned leader in financial management and strategic planning, Rod joins WQPHN as Principal Consultant and co-founder of Oxford Associates. With over 60 completed assignments across health sectors in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and New Zealand, Rod brings an impressive portfolio of expertise in economic modelling, risk management, and business improvement
Rod’s career has included key executive roles such as Chief Financial Officer at Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service and Chief Operating Officer at SkillsTech Australia As a Chartered Accountant, his innovative approaches to financial sustainability and operational excellence will be a valuable asset to WQPHN’s mission. Beyond WQPHN, Rod also serves as a director for three other companies, including an apprenticeship company and a registered training organisation
Catrina Felton-Busch
Joining WQPHN as an Aboriginal leader from Mornington Island, Catrina brings a profound commitment to advancing health outcomes for Indigenous communities. With family ties to the Yankaal and Gangalida peoples, Catrina’s cultural heritage and professional expertise enrich her contributions to WQPHN
As Director of the Murtupuni Centre for Rural & Remote Health, Catrina has made significant strides in Indigenous health education, cultural awareness training, and community engagement Her academic achievements, including a Master of Public Health and current PhD research, underscore her dedication to bridging gaps in health equity across Western Queensland.
Sheryl Lawton
Sheryl’s re-appointment to the WQPHN Board ensures the continuation of her leadership and unwavering support for primary health care initiatives. As a member of the Board since 2019, and member of the Nukal Murra Alliance, Sheryl’s guidance has been pivotal in driving WQPHN’s strategies to enhance the health and wellbeing of the region’s communities.
FarewellJasonWarnock
We also say farewell to Jason Warnock, whose dedication since WQPHN’s inception in 2018 has helped shape the organisation’s future.
As one of WQPHN’s inaugural Board members, Jason has been instrumental in guiding our direction and vision. His commitment to improving health outcomes across Western Queensland has left a lasting legacy, and his contributions will be deeply valued for years to come
With a renewed Board, WQPHN is well-positioned to continue Jason’s legacy, remaining steadfast in its mission to deliver equitable, high-quality health care to the communities of Western Queensland.
PAVING OUR WAY TOGETHER
In November, stakeholders and service providers joined our Chief Executive Officer, Sandy Gillies, and the WQPHN Brisbane-based team for the end-of-year Paving Our Way Together Luncheon.
This meaningful gathering celebrated the collective achievements of 2024 and provided an opportunity to reflect on the incredible work that had been done to support health and wellbeing across our Western Queensland communities.
The event also marked the official launch of WQPHN’s 2023-24 Annual Report, highlighting the dedication, collaboration, and lasting impact made by all those involved throughout the year
CELEBRATION LUNCHEON
Scan the QR code to explore the full event photo gallery
WELLCONNECTED IN LONGREACH
On Wednesday, 9 October 2024, WQPHN hosted a free community evening in celebration of World Mental Health Week at Qantas Park, Longreach
The wellCONNECTED event brought residents together for a night of food, live music, and outdoor fun, all aimed at raising awareness and breaking the stigma around mental health
The evening created a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for all. A special highlight was the appearance of Ollie the Brahman and his rider, John Hawkes, adding a unique touch to the event
wellCONNECTED showcased the power of community in supporting mental well-being, reminding everyone that connection is key to good mental health
FOR MENTAL HEALTH WEEK
VALUE BASED HEALTHCARE
Advancing Healthcare Outcomes in Western Queensland
In October 2024, Longreach hosted the final session of the “Value-Based Health Care –Outcomes for the Outback” series, facilitated by the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA)
WQPHN staff, Central West Queensland healthcare providers, and key local stakeholders participated in discussions focused on improving healthcare delivery and strengthening regional partnerships
The workshop marked the conclusion of a three-part series examining how value-based healthcare principles can be adapted to rural and remote settings Discussions centered on shifting the focus from service volume to patient outcomes, with an emphasis on measuring effectiveness and aligning healthcare services with community needs.
The event concluded with a networking function, where representatives from Central West Hospital and Health Service & WQPHN joined healthcare professionals and community leaders. The gathering provided an opportunity for informal discussions, reinforcing collaborative efforts to improve healthcare outcomes in the region
OUTCOMES FOR THE OUTBACK
HEALTHY OUTBACK COMMUNITIES
In October, members of the Healthy Outback Communities (HOC) Alliance gathered in Longreach to review the progress of recent initiatives and discuss future strategies to enhance community health and wellbeing across Western Queensland.
The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on achievements and strengthen collaborations for the months ahead.
The Alliance was honoured to welcome Michael Walsh, Director-General of Queensland Health, whose presence underscored the significance of regional health efforts within the broader state framework. His insights into Queensland’s health priorities reinforced the importance of integrating local, regional, and state health systems to drive meaningful outcomes for remote and rural communities His engagement highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting health initiatives that address the unique challenges faced by outback regions.
Following the discussions, Central West Hospital and Health Service staff based at Glasson House joined HOC Alliance members for a morning tea hosted by CheckUP in recognition of Mental Health Week. This gathering provided an opportunity to foster connections and emphasise the critical role of mental health awareness and support within regional healthcare initiatives.
The HOC Alliance remains dedicated to fostering partnerships and innovative solutions to improve health services and accessibility for Western Queensland communities. With ongoing collaboration between local stakeholders and state health leadership, the initiative continues to pave the way for sustainable and impactful healthcare improvements in the region
On Saturday, 16 November 2024, WQPHN proudly commemorated the growth of Healthy Outback Communities (HOC) into Boulia with a vibrant and informative Family Fun Day
Held in collaboration with Boulia Community Support Service and BUSHkids, the event celebrated the introduction of this important initiative, offering a day packed with:
Free health checks by HOC and Healthy Outback Kids providers Health and community service information stalls
Exciting kids’ activities
Rugby League legend and mental health ambassador, Darius Boyd, joined the festivities, connecting with the children through ball games and championing the HOC initiative, which shifts focus from illness to wellness
This event provided a wonderful opportunity for Boulia and surrounding community members to engage with health services, build connections, and enjoy a wellness-focused day in the heart of Boulia
CHANNEL COUNTRY LADIES DAY
From 18-20 October 2024, the stunning outback town of Noccundra, in the Bulloo Shire, became a hub of connection, celebration, and inspiration for women across the outback.
Since its inception in 2012, Channel Country Ladies Day has provided a much-needed retreat where women can step away from life’s demands, forge new friendships, and recharge both emotionally and creatively
This year, the event once again lived up to its incredible reputation, offering a vibrant mix of activities, workshops, and meaningful conversations.
WQPHN team members Sheena and Juanita were thrilled to attend, engaging with participants and supporting conversations around health, wellbeing, and community care Their presence reinforced the importance of supporting outback women’s mental and physical wellbeing, while also fostering connections that build healthier communities.
EMPOWERING CONSUMER VOICES
The Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC) are a passionate group of community champions who work with WQPHN to ensure health and wellbeing in Western Queensland is always improving.
The CAC supports WQPHN’s Paving Our Way to 2026 (POW26) Strategy by bringing together members of our local communities to actively inform and address local health and wellbeing needs
WQPHN’S NEW CONSUMER ADVISORY COMMITTEE WAS APPOINTED AT THE END OF 2024
Members represent each area of our vast and diverse region Due to the unique landscape of Western Queensland, where primary healthcare services are scarce, compounded by vast distances, the committee provides a vital consumer perspective on the challenges of accessing healthcare in our region.
Our committee members meet every three months to bring their voice to the planning table, working in partnership to provide invaluable community feedback and share lived experiences.
The CAC will support WQPHN to understand and address gaps in primary health services, ensuring that everyone ha equitable health care acce where they live.
LAST AID TRAINING
The Last Aid program was a 4-hour introductory-level education session designed for community members and healthcare workers. It aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to better support those facing serious illness, dying, death, and grief.
Hosted in Mount Isa, Cloncurry and Mornington Island, WQPHN partnered with Palliative Care
Queensland to bring this essential training to the region. The course was open to everyone, no prior training or experience was necessary.
The workshop covered four key modules: understanding dying as a normal part of life, planning ahead, relieving suffering, and saying final goodbyes.
Participants learned about palliative care, advance care planning, and compassionate communities They gained insight into the experiences of carers and family members supporting people with life-limiting illnesses.
Additionally, attendees developed the skills to initiate supportive community conversations and learned how to access quality local information, services, and support.
OUT AND ABOUT
The 2024 Rural Mental Health Conference brought together mental and behavioural health professionals, peer and support workers, lived and living experience, and government and policy professionals within the rural mental health sector
WQPHN team members Sigrid and Gavin joined Bronwyn, Kerry and Kathryn from RHealth, along with Kylie and Nicole from ConnectedLE, at the Pullman Cairns International Hotel from 6 to 8 November 2024 The event served as a vibrant hub of collaboration, where ideas were exchanged and conversations focused on breaking down barriers to build inclusive and thriving rural communities
WQPHN’s Winton-based Acting Executive Head of Strategy, Planning and Performance, Leisa Fraser, has been awarded Citizen of the Year.
WQPHN extends its warmest congratulations to Leisa Fraser on receiving a 2025 Australia Day Award This well-deserved recognition reflects Leisa’s unwavering dedication to supporting communities, particularly in regional and remote areas, through both her professional contributions and personal endeavours.
OUT AND ABOUT
In Mount Isa, meaningful conversations and collaborative efforts are paving the way for more connected, responsive, and community-driven healthcare across Western Queensland.
In February, WQPHN CEO Sandy Gillies and the Board of Directors hosted a Meet & Greet event in Mount Isa, bringing together local community members and representatives from health and wellbeing service providers.
This valuable gathering created space for open discussion around regional priorities and showcased the progress being made through collective healthcare initiatives.
Events like these are central to our continued commitment to strengthening partnerships, understanding the unique needs of our communities, and identifying opportunities to further healthcare across Western Queensland.
We extend our sincere thanks to Cr Travis Crowther from Mount Isa City Council for officially opening the event. We also thank Cheryl Vardon AO and Sean Birgan from the North West Hospital and Health Service for their insightful contributions, which helped shape meaningful conversations throughout the day.
Most importantly, thank you to all who attended and actively contributed. Together, we are building stronger partnerships and working towards a future of healthier, more connected communities across our region
WESTERN QUEENSLAND MENTAL HEALTH, SUICIDE
PREVENTION, ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS PLAN
2021-2026
On the road with the Primary Mental Health and Wellbeing Team.
The WQPHN Primary Mental Health and Wellbeing Team recently travelled across Western Queensland to connect with local communities and providers, reviewing progress on the Western Queensland Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, Alcohol and Other Drugs Plan 2021–2026.
The road trip included key stops in Mount Isa, Roma, St George, Cunnamulla, Charleville, Blackall, Barcaldine, Winton, and Longreach. At each location, stakeholders came together to reflect on achievements, share local insights, and help identify priorities for the next 18 months and beyond
WQPHN extends sincere thanks to everyone who participated in these vital discussions. Your input continues to play a critical role in shaping the future of mental health and wellbeing across the region
While the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care has contributed to the funding of the PHN, the information in this document does not necessarily reflect the views of the Australian Government, and is not advice that is provided or information that is endorsed, by the Australian Government The Australian Government is not responsible in negligence or otherwise for any injury, loss or damage however arising from the use of or the reliance on the information provided in this document. Copyright protects this material.