MHPN Co-ordinator Chantal Masters, said organisers identified a need for a service that provides a range of opportunities around professional development, networking and self-care for people working in the mental health field in Goondiwindi.

“We hope to take advantage of locally presented professional development opportunities as well as take part in activities that achieve self-care.

“We also want members to be able to take advantage of general networking opportunities to further understand one another’s strengths and interests in the field, and to learn from each other.

“Also we want to utilise our collective knowledge and skill to brainstorm the issues surrounding mental health in a small rural community and develop solutions to the established problems.”

A range of professionals have joined the network, including General Practitioners, Social Workers, Psychologists, Nurses, Learning Support Teachers and Guidance Officers and others who work hard within the community and surrounding region to alleviate the suffering of those with mental health disorders and social issues.

In the first significant MHPN event of the year, eminent psychiatrist, Dr Mark Truver addressed a dinner meeting of the group outlining issues surrounding the mental illness schizophrenia, as well as answering the groups’ questions on a range of other mental illnesses, and means of access to psychiatric care.

“Dr Truver provided an inspirational talk that centred on the possibilities for strong positive outcomes for people with mental illnesses. He was a great motivator to us all in ensuring we as professionals provide the best possible care for our patients,” Chantal said.

Chantal said the group is well supported by the Federally funded Mental Health Professionals Network (MHPN) organisation based in Melbourne.

“We are now part of around 500 interdisciplinary Mental Health Professional Networks Australia-wide,” she said.

If there are any people working in the mental health field who would like to join the network, or others in the community who would like put forward issues for discussion, please contact Chantal at cmasters@centrecare.org.au.