BUSH TELEGRAPH
November 2025
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 2025 comes to a close, it’s been encouraging to see the progress of our programs across Western Queensland Recent initiatives have strengthened local health services, supported workforce development, and improved access to care for communities across the region
Community engagement has continued to be a key focus, with workshops and projects fostering collaboration, inclusion, and practical strategies to address local needs Feedback from participants has highlighted the value of these programs in building stronger connections and more resilient communities
Looking ahead, new services and initiatives are helping ensure that health support is accessible, coordinated, and responsive to the needs of people across Western Queensland Our work continues to be guided by the goal of healthier, connected, and thriving communities.
Chief Executive Officer
Western Queensland PHN
CENTRAL WEST FLOOD RESPONSE
In late March 2025, Western Queensland experienced unprecedented flooding, driven by record-breaking rainfall that nearly doubled the region’s annual average The Bureau of Meteorology reported that rivers in towns such as Stonehenge, Jundah, and Windorah rose to levels exceeding those of the 1974 floods.
During this period, WQPHN was actively on the ground supporting communities impacted by the disaster. Working in partnership with the Longreach Community Recovery Hub and the Central West Hospital and Health Service (CWHHS), WQPHN staff played a key role in coordinating relief efforts and ensuring residents had access to essential mental health and wellbeing support.
The joint response focused on connecting community members with counselling, recovery services, and guidance for navigating postdisaster programs. WQPHN’s presence reinforced the value of integrated, locally-led support during natural disasters, helping maintain both physical and mental wellbeing across affected towns
The efforts of the recovery hub were formally recognised during a visit from Minister Amanda Camm MP, Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services, and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, who, alongside Sean Dillon MP, met with staff and local residents.
Longreach Community Recovery Hub. WQPHN staff member Deb Spanner with CWHHS staff.
WQPHN CEO Sandy Gillies speaking with ABC Radio Longreach, highlighting assistance available.
STAFF WORKSHOP TOWNSVILLE
Held in May 2025 in Townsville, the WQPHN Staff Workshop was a resounding success, uniting team members from across the region for two days of professional development and collaborative learning.
Aligned with the POW26 theme, the workshop emphasised strengthening collective capability and fostering a shared purpose to deliver integrated primary health care and advance WQPHN’s vision of Healthier Western Queensland Communities.
A highlight of this year’s program was practical vehicle safety training, equipping staff with critical knowledge and skills to support safe travel across the region’s vast and remote areas.
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in constructive discussions, team-building exercises, and forward-planning sessions, enhancing cohesion and providing clear direction on organisational priorities for 2026.
WESTERN QUEENSLAND NURSING FUTURES PROGRAM
The Western Queensland Nursing Futures Program was officially launched in Mount Isa on 21 May 2025 and Charleville on 10 June 2025, marking a major milestone in supporting the region’s nursing workforce. The events brought together healthcare professionals, community leaders, and aspiring nurses to celebrate the program and learn about its opportunities
The initiative was designed to address the unique challenges faced by rural and remote health services, including workforce shortages, access to professional development, and retention of skilled staff.
Attendees at both launches heard from nursing leaders and local healthcare representatives, who highlighted the program’s potential to enhance professional development and improve community health outcomes.
Participants praised the initiative for its practical approach and for recognising the vital role nurses play in delivering care across vast and diverse Western Queensland communities. With the program now underway, it is expected to strengthen local healthcare services, nurture future nursing leaders, and ensure that Western Queensland communities continue to benefit from skilled, dedicated nurses.
Mount Isa Launch
Charleville Launch
WELLCONNECT
On Friday 13 June 2025, WQPHN Consortia members came together at the Sebel Hotel in Brisbane for the wellCONNECT Workshop, a key milestone in strengthening collaboration across regional health networks.
Facilitated by Alistair MacDonald and led by senior convenors Deb Spanner, Acting Head of Primary Health and Commissioning, and Brendan Jones, Team Leader, AOD, the workshop focused on sharing progress, planning next steps, and clarifying the Consortia’s pivotal role in driving success.
The day began with a Welcome to Country by Shannon Ruska, followed by a welcome video from WQPHN CEO Sandy Gillies and a scenesetting presentation from Commissioner Frkovic of QMHC.
Participants then reviewed the Joint Regional Plan (JRP) to date, reflecting on progress, key milestones, and insights gained from consultations during 2024/25. This provided an opportunity to celebrate achievements while identifying areas for continued growth
A strong focus of the workshop was partnership improvement, with conversations centred on building healthy relationships and enhancing collaboration across organisations.
The workshop concluded with a clear outline of outcomes, actions, and timelines, ensuring that all participants left with a shared understanding of the Consortia’s role in driving regional health initiatives forward.
WELLCONNECT WORKSHOP BRINGS REGIONAL HEALTH PARTNERS TOGETHER IN BRISBANE
Mia Ristovska (DVConnect), Roonie Blue (WQPHN), Deb Spanner (WQPHN) and Dr. Kelly Dingli (DVConnect)
DR PETER WESTOBY
In June 2025, communities across Western Queensland came together for a series of workshops on compassionate end-of-life care, led by Dr Peter Westoby, a seasoned community development professional with over 30 years’ experience in Australia, the Pacific, Nepal, and Africa.
Across the month of June, workshops were held in Charleville, Roma, Cloncurry, and Mount Isa, focused on translating community development principles into practical action Participants engaged in co-designing a ‘Compassionate City Charter,’ explored stories of change, and mapped their communities to identify opportunities for collaboration in end-of-life support.
Attendees, including community leaders, service providers, health professionals, and volunteers, left equipped with practical strategies and renewed motivation to strengthen local networks, ensuring compassionate, coordinated care is at the heart of their communities.
Sheena Larter (WQPHN) Dr Peter Westoby
Dr Peter Westoby and Mount Isa Attendees Cloncurry
CONSUMER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC) held its first face-to-face workshop for 2025 on Wednesday, 30 July 2025, at the Novotel Brisbane South Bank. The workshop brought together community representatives from across Western Queensland to provide consumer perspectives to inform WQPHN’s planning, evaluation, and service delivery
During the session, participants attended presentations and took part in discussions on a range of initiatives, including Value-Based Healthcare, Healthy Outback Communities, Healthy Outback Kids, Ageing in the Outback, the Joint Regional Health Needs Assessment, cancer screening programs, and strategies addressing mental health, suicide prevention, and alcohol and other drugs
Members also reviewed the draft Consumer Participation Framework and the CAC Workplan 2025 to ensure that services reflect consumer priorities and needs.
The workshop provided opportunities for members to give feedback, contribute to co-design processes, and engage in structured discussions on current and upcoming programs By incorporating consumer input, WQPHN aims to support healthcare planning and service delivery that is informed by the communities it serves.
Back left to right: Dale Bignell Paul Bawden, Ethan Capewell (Chair), Vanessa Ballard, John Palmer, Kylie Camp Front left to right: Anne Pleash, Justine Clarke and Liz Fraser (WQPHN Board Chair)
CELEBRATING AGEING IN WINTON
The “Old is Beautiful Winton” project celebrates ageing, challenges ageism, and strengthens community connections in Winton, Queensland.
Lead by Dr Catherine Barret, Celebrate Ageing Ltd , sponsored by Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia (ADAA) and supported by the WQPHN, the project workshops on ageism and elder abuse, intergenerational dial photography that highlights inner beauty and personal stories
This project aligns with one of action items of the WQPHN Ag actions and language that address ageism against older peo
The project demonstrates how communities can celebrate old and foster social inclusion showing that in Winton, age truly is
Images by John Elliott
NEW MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT CENTRE OPENS IN MOUNT ISA
On Tuesday, 14 October 2025, the Mount Isa Medicare Mental Health Centre at 74 Camooweal Street was officially opened by the Hon. Emma McBride MP, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health, providing a crucial new resource for the North West community.
The launch was met with strong community interest, highlighting the local need for timely and professional mental health services The centre offers a range of supports, including counselling, mental health assessments, and pathways to ongoing care, all designed to make mental health care more approachable and locally available.
This opening represents a significant step forward for Mount Isa, ensuring that mental health support is no longer out of reach for residents. By providing a dedicated space for care and connection, the centre strengthens the community’s capacity to support its members during challenging times, while promoting mental wellbeing across the region.
Ribbon cutting with the Hon Emma McBride MP
WQPHN Staff Brendan Jones, Jacquie Duffus and Bella Burns
NEW MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT CENTRE OPENS IN MOUNT ISA
Left to right: Liz Fraser (WQPHN Board Chair), Dr Ross Hetherington (RHealth Board Chair), Hon Emma McBride MP, John Cain (RHealth CEO) and Sandy Gillies (WQPHN CEO)
Hon. Emma McBride MP, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health
Councillor John Tully and Mayor Peta MacRae (Mount Isa City Council)
Guests during the opening speeches
HEALTHY OUTBACK COMMUNITIES
The Healthy Outback Communities Workshop was held in Longreach on 7–8 October 2025, bringing together partners from across the region to strengthen collaboration and shape future commissioning approaches
Across two days, participants explored the integration of services under the Healthy Outback Communities (HOC) Framework, focusing on practical strategies to improve outcomes in mental health and diabetes The workshop began with the official standing up of the Mates of HOC, a network of committed partners united by shared purpose and collective responsibility.
A key milestone achieved during the workshop was the finalisation of the Statement of Commitment, which formalised the principles of trust, respect, and shared accountability across the network. Guided by the newly endorsed Shared Vision, participants reaffirmed their dedication to place-based, outcome-driven care that reflects the strengths and priorities of Western Queensland communities
WINDORAH
EVENTS
Windorah residents recently came together for two community events promoting connection and wellbeing.
R U OK? Day saw Windorah State School students enjoy morning tea and thoughtful conversations about checking in with others, with cupcakes also shared around local businesses to encourage open discussions about mental health.
Just a few weeks later, the Family Movie Night on 18 October brought 28 locals together for a relaxed evening of good food and fun Guests enjoyed a BBQ-style dinner and dessert, thanks to Norelle Boland from Merv’s Servo, and a movie screening set up by Rob Edwards using the Blue Light equipment Both events were a great success, strengthening community spirit and connection in Windorah
Windorah State School Students
CENTRAL WINNER
SACHA MITCHELL WITH ‘BORN ON COUNTRY’
SOUTH WINNER
JESSICA HANSEN WITH ‘WINTER SUNSET’
OUT AND ABOUT
WQPHN STAFF VALUE TRAVELLING TO REGIONAL COMMUNITIES TO ENGAGE WITH RESIDENTS AND LOCAL SERVICE PROVIDERS, FOSTERING STRONG CONNECTIONS AND SUPPORTING LOCAL HEALTH INITIATIVES.
WQPHN Executive Manager Leisa Fraser met with BUSHkids CEO Carlton Meyn and Director of Clinical Services Susan Harrison, alongside Assistant Minister for Western Queensland Sean Dillon MP, to discuss innovative ways to better support children and families in rural and remote communities.
The conversation focused on connected care models under the Healthy Outback Kids initiative, aimed at improving access and outcomes for young people and their families.
NAIDOC Week 2025 was celebrated far and wide by the WQPHN team, with staff attending
Nahomie Lawton (WQPHN) Rockhampton
Susan Harrison (BUSHKids), Sean Dillon MP, Leisa Fraser (WQPHN) and Carlton Meyn CEO (BUSHKids)
Maleeta Richards (WQPHN) at Musgrave Park celebration
OUT AND ABOUT
Dying to Know Day in Longreach was a truly inspiring and heartfelt event, bringing the community together to share stories, creativity, and reflections through “The Secret I’m Glad I Shared.”
The day was filled with meaningful conversations, art, and storytelling, allowing participants to express wisdom, wishes, and personal experiences in a supportive and open environment. With laughter, connection, and shared insights, the event highlighted the power of c v WQPHN’s Sheena Larter and Amber Scott joined a packed crowd at APNA’s 2025 Festival of Nursing in Brisbane, connecting with nurses from across Australia and showcasing our work in rural and remote health.
WQPHN, in partnership with DVConnect, recently hosted a two-hour workshop in Mount Isa on 28 August to introduce the FDSV Health Pilot and support the co-design of a bespoke FDSV training package for the health sector.
Sheena Larter (WQPHN) and Amber Scott (WQPHN)
Roonie Blue (WQPHN) with Mount Isa attendees
Longreach attendees
Rachel Bock (WQPHN) and Sheena Larter (WQPHN)
OUT AND ABOUT
WQPHN staff recently joined the Are You Remotely Interested? conference in Mount Isa, hosted by JCU’s Murtupuni Centre for Rural & Remote Health
Sammy-Jo Kupfer joined a nursing panel discussing rural health equity, nurse retention, mob-led training, and WQPHN’s Nursing Future program
Casey McDermott also presented the new Chro Conditions Clinic in Dajarra, a collaboration wit North West Hospital and Health Service and th R l Fl i D t S i
The Winton Outback Festival, held in September, saw WQPHN staff Kate Angel and Juanita O’Rourke in attendance.
They were joined at the Health Hub by Kerry from h, Diabetes Educator Madi from NWRH, providing support to festival
Kate Angel (WQPHN) and Juanita O’Rourke (WQPHN)
Juanita O’Rourke (WQPHN)
Sammy Jo Kupfer (WQPHN) presenting
Casey McDermott (WQPHN) presenting
While the Australian Government Department of Health, Aged Care and Disability 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.