2023 Primary Healthcare Award Winners

Congratulations to our 2023 MPHN Primary Healthcare Award winners!

Outstanding Contribution to Leadership in Primary Healthcare

Dr Rachel Christmas

Dr Rachel Christmas has shown remarkable leadership in rural healthcare. She has played a pivotal part in strengthening of primary care provision in Temora and the surrounding region. Dr Christmas actively advocates for rural health, works on recruiting and growing the local healthcare workforce, and supports registrar training.

Promoting Healthy Living

Making Friends With Food by The Root Cause (formerly known as The Children's Health Program)

A total of 1,668 children, in addition to teachers and parents, participated in the interactive 12-month program aimed at fostering positive and lifelong relationships with food among children. This comprehensive nutrition education program was delivered to 11 primary schools in the Murrumbidgee region including St Michael’s Parish School, Rand Public School, Finley Public School, Holy Trinity Primary School, Sturt Primary School, Ashmont Primary School, St Patrick’s Primary School, Wallendbeen Primary School, Stockingbingal Primary School, Corowa South Public School, and Cootamundra Public School.

Innovation

Intergenerational Activity: Integrating generations of the Deniliquin Community

This program brings together high school students, preschoolers, and older adults, fostering empathy and leadership skills among the students while promoting understanding between the generations. This program has enhanced social skill development, improved social connections, and boosted the wellbeing of all participants. It has also inspired some high school students to pursue careers in childcare and aged care. The program has minimal costs but significant benefits, reducing loneliness, improving happiness, and providing exposure to future career opportunities.

Community Grant of the Year

Fireshed Fridays and High Teas

In response to the 2019/2020 bushfires, the Community Foundation for Tumut Region organised 'Fireshed Fridays' and 'Ladies High Teas.' These events fostered community connections and resilience across the Snowy Valleys area, providing mental health support and educational sessions.