ANNUAL REPORT 2016-2017
AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH Districts of Australia
Research
Scholarships
Education
OUR VISION It is our vision to be a catalyst for projects that improve the quality of life for people who are least able to assist themselves.
Awareness
OUR MISSION Our mission is to create better health for all Australians through improved education and advancements in knowledge through medical research. We support excellence in research in an effort to provide both preventative and curative solutions for a broad range of health conditions.
WHO WE ARE Australian Rotary Health is one of the largest independent funders of mental health research within Australia. In addition to mental health research, we also provide funding into a broad range of general health areas, provide scholarships for rural medical and nursing students, as well as Indigenous health students. Australian Rotary Health has a broad vision to improve the health and wellbeing of all Australians.
WHAT WE DO MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH
GENERAL HEALTH RESEARCH
Since the year 2000, Australian Rotary Health has focussed its funding on mental health research. In 2012 this focus narrowed to the Mental Health of Young Australians, and in 2013 research projects focussing on the Prevention of Mental Health Disorders were included. In 2016, we introduced our Lift the Lid on Mental Illness initiative.
Australian Rotary Health engages with a variety of funding partners to provide Research Grants and PhD Scholarships. These projects encompass a broad range of general health areas including cancer, heart disease, children’s health, motor neurone disease, diabetes and more.
DISSEMINATING RESEARCH INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC Through Mental Health Prevention Forums, the Knowledge Dissemination Award, and by funding research which is community-focussed, Australian Rotary Health aims to promote research findings to the public.
RURAL MEDICAL & NURSING SCHOLARSHIPS
INDIGENOUS HEALTH SCHOLARSHIPS
Australian Rotary Health provides scholarships for medical and nursing students to undertake placements at a rural and remote health care service. Students experience what these facilities have to offer and provide an incentive for recipients to pursue a career in rural Australia upon graduation.
These scholarships support Indigenous students to undertake tertiary training in nursing, physiotherapy, psychology, dentistry and other health related degrees at university. These scholarships help Indigenous students to overcome barriers to tertiary study and qualification.
CONTENTS CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
2
CEO’S REPORT
4
FINANCIAL REPORT
6
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
8
OUR RESEARCH COMMITTEE
10
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
11
2016-2017 FUNDING
14
RESEARCH FUNDING
16
PROGRAM FUNDING
24
OTHER HAPPENINGS
29
OUR SUPPORTERS
32
AWARDS
33
FUNDRAISING & EVENTS
35
SIGNIFICANT SUPPORTERS
39
COMPANIONS & AMBASSADORS
41
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
It is with some personal sadness but also a great sense of confidence for the future that I present my third and final report as Chairman of Australian Rotary Health. In the past three years, Australian Rotary Health has progressed through a period of uncertainty before confirmation once again as a project of the Rotary Districts of Australia, and has since consolidated its position as arguably the largest Rotary community service project within Australia. Through Australian Rotary Health, Rotary has become established as the largest non-government provider of mental health research within Australia with a principal focus on the treatment and prevention of mental illness in young Australians, as well as undertaking medical research into a vast array of medical conditions through our Funding Partner Scholarships. In addition, Rotary, through Australian Rotary Health, has become one of the principal providers of rural medical and nursing and Indigenous health scholarships, with more than 300 Indigenous health practitioners throughout the country having been supported by Rotary. We are continuing to receive the support of Rotarians and Rotary Clubs throughout Australia, and as an organisation we are continuing to work hard to consolidate and build on our major support base. In this regard, I would like to recognise the efforts of Australian Rotary Health Ambassador Bob Aitken AM during the past year, in undertaking very successful awareness and promotional visits to Rotary Clubs and Districts across the country. However, the Board has for some time recognised that for Australian Rotary Health and its programs to grow and develop, broader support from across the general Australian community is essential. Through our Vision 2020 strategic planning process, we have obtained a much better appreciation of 2
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Australian Rotary Health’s standing within the broader business and community environment, and of the challenges ahead in developing an effective marketing and promotional campaign for the future. This has resulted in the development of a number of awareness, promotional, and fundraising initiatives, including the Lift the Lid on Mental Illness campaign initiated in Victoria last year by ViceChairman Greg Ross, and our more-intensive social media campaign developed during the past year.
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initiative has to date not yet achieved a lot of community support, although registrations continue to be accepted for 2018. Nonetheless, Australian Rotary Health is committed to a program of 54 community forum-style Rotary Club meetings around regional Australia over the next 12 months, with a focus on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, to build awareness for these vital issues throughout regional Australia. As always, governance continues to be a major focus for the Board and staff of Australian Rotary Health throughout all
Through Australian Rotary Health, Rotary has become established as the largest non-government provider of mental health research within Australia
Most significantly, however, and again through the initiative of Vice-Chairman Greg Ross, Australian Rotary Health has achieved the backing of major media and digital marketing communications specialists, Dentsu Mitchell, to develop and promote the Lift the Lid on Mental Illness campaign Australia-wide as the major promotional and awareness initiative of Australian Rotary Health. This campaign will include the Adopt a Scientist fundraising initiative, and will have a major focus on World Mental Health Day on 10 October each year. Once again, we are seeking the support of Rotarians and Rotary Clubs throughout the country to get behind Lift the Lid on that day. I have no doubt that with the support of Dentsu Mitchell and the backing of Rotarians across the country, the Lift the Lid branding initiative will develop into a major marketing, promotional, and fundraising support for the future for Australian Rotary Health. Considerable effort has also been made to launch the Muster for Mental Illness, a tag-a-long style Hop-on, Hop-off tour around the country. Regrettably, this
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its operations, and we have been fortunate to be able to build on the foresight and commitment in this area by previous Boards. Our Board has therefore been pleased to support the initiative of RI Director Noel Trevaskis, in establishing national governance training for the Directors of all Australian Rotary projects. Several of our Directors including myself, Vice-Chairman Greg Ross, and our CEO Joy Gillett OAM, attended training in Melbourne in April this year, and all Australian Rotary Health Directors attended similar training in association with the Darwin Institute immediately prior to the AGM. It is understood that this national training will continue on an annual basis. At the 2017 AGM in September, the ARH Board for the coming year was confirmed as continuing Directors Brian Beesley, Jane Cox, Graeme Davies, Des Lawson, Greg Ross (Chairman), Kevin Shadbolt, and Barbara Wheatcroft, plus incoming directors Mark Lean and Jerry Pilcher. Retiring directors Phil Armstrong, Colin Thorniley and myself were recognised by the presentation of a small gift.
Right: Jeff, Joy, and ARH Directors congratulate Charity Golf Day winners from Sekisui House in February 2017. L-R: Craig Barnes, ARH CEO Joy Gillett OAM, Craig Di Costa, Jeff Crofts, Oliver Roborgh, ARH Director Jane Cox, Brent Thompson, ARH Director Barbara Wheatcroft.
Above: Jeff with Rotary Club of Mornington President John Parkinson at the Club’s 70th birthday in May 2017. Jeff with 3 Past Chairmen at an Australian Rotary Health cocktail party in South Australia. L-R: Terry Edwards, Bruce Edwards, Ian Oliver, and Jeff Crofts.
Also at the AGM, I was pleased to be able to recognise Past President Mel Gray as the recipient of the ARH Medal, and District 9830 as the recipient of the Dick White District Achievement Award, for 2017. I must acknowledge that the research programs of Australian Rotary Health cannot exist without the dedicated support and guidance of our volunteer Research Committee, made up of eminent medical practitioners and researchers from around the country, all of whom give up their time freely to support the programs of Australian Rotary Health. For the past few years, the committee has operated under the leadership of Professor Ron Rapee AM, however Professor Jane Pirkis has now taken over as Committee Chair. I sincerely thank them both for their ongoing commitment and leadership. Our Board is similarly dependent upon the ongoing specialist advice of our Honorary Medical Adviser, Professor Michael Sawyer OAM, and Honorary
Treasurer, Ron Beslich OAM. We are indebted to them for their ongoing time and effort on our behalf, and to their invaluable guidance and mentoring. And of course, I must acknowledge the continued effort and commitment of our dedicated staff, led by our CEO Joy Gillett. Their contribution to the success of Australian Rotary Health over many years goes far beyond that of mere employees, they are an essential part of the Australian Rotary Health “family”, and I have greatly appreciated their professionalism and friendship. Sadly, Australian Rotary Health has again lost a number of its stalwart supporters during the past year, with the passing of Past Director Les Whitcroft AM, who was instrumental in the foundation and establishment of our organisation during its early days, and Past Chairman Bruce McKenzie OAM, who was the first to set a target to raise $1 million in much needed funds in just one year, and achieved it!
This year also saw the passing of PP Rob Henry, who in 2012 was awarded the Australian Rotary Health Medal for his efforts in raising over $1 million through the annual ‘Ride for Research Dollars’, a 5day charity bike ride to the 9810 District Conference in Canberra, and for his support of the Great Australian Bike Ride event around Australia in 2009. Finally, I wish to express my personal appreciation to CEO Joy Gillett OAM, our dedicated staff, and to all our Directors and advisers for their friendship and assistance to me during my term as Chairman of this magnificent organisation. Incoming Chairman Greg Ross, I wish you and your Board every success as you lead Australian Rotary Health into the next stage of its existence, facing the challenges of addressing the mental health of young Australians – our future! Jeff Crofts Chairman www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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CEO’S REPORT
Australian Rotary Health, in 2016-2017, continues to support research in mental health. The Board has confirmed the importance of this area and the need for the ongoing commitment of Rotary to provide important funds. During the year, we supported 18 mental health research project grants in areas such as suicide and self-injury, depression and anxiety, alcohol and substance abuse and parenting – all with a focus on young Australians. As well as research project grants, we also supported 8 PhD research scholars in mental health and 4 postdoctoral
fellows in mental health of young Australians, with an emphasis on prevention of mental health disorders. These fellowships are named after the first four chairmen. Added to this, we have supported 40 PhD research scholars in general health areas including cancer, cerebral palsy, skin diseases and melanoma, dementia, kidney disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease and many others. We are in the third year of funding the Australian Rotary Health Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) PhD scholarship in war veterans. The
scholarship was awarded to Kristen Graham at the Centre for Traumatic Stress Studies at the University of Adelaide. Since the introduction of this scholarship, a second one was awarded in 2016, and we are currently advertising for a third scholarship in conjunction with the RSL in Victoria. These scholarships have led to several more for research, with people involved in Emergency Services, and these are also being currently advertised. As well, Australian Rotary Health supports 90 Indigenous scholars in 2017, 3 rural medical scholars and 9 rural nursing scholarships. SUPPORTERS OF AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH We continue to enjoy the support of many Rotarians and non-Rotarians who make regular donations – both in money and in kind. Your support is
Left: Joy, Jeff Crofts, Noel Trevaskis, Marga Hewko and John Hewko.
Above: Joy with Chairman Jeff Crofts (left) and Vice Chairman Greg Ross (right).
Left: Joy Gillett, Jeff Crofts, Past ARH Board Member PP Don Gordon.
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Left: L-R: Ainslie Rockall-Mills, Cheryl Deguara, Jenny Towe, Maddison Hancock, Jessica Cooper, Terry Davies, Joy Gillett.
Below: Joy with Rotary International’s Ian Riseley and Noel Trevaskis.
truly appreciated and we will continue in our endeavours to be a wonderful example of community service and keep Australian Rotary Health in the forefront as a provider of research funds and health awareness in Australia. Our donor recognition program continues to gain numbers and to the very special people who are our Friends and Companions, we thank you. DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES AND COMMITTEES The District Representatives and their committees continue in their work promoting Australian Rotary Health, our programs and projects - we acknowledge their efforts and congratulate them. Volunteers are vital to our success. ROTARY AMBASSADORS Our strong band of Ambassadors continues to promote Australian Rotary Health at every opportunity and we are grateful for their commitment and dedication to our programs. RESEARCH COMMITTEE Professor Jane Pirkis, a leading suicide researcher in Melbourne is in her first year as Chairman of the Research Committee. The members of the Research Committee are always willing to assist and we are very grateful for their commitment. All mental health research grants and fellowships awarded by Australian
Rotary Health are reviewed and recommended by the Research Committee. PROMOTION We continue to see increases in our followers on social media. Our Lift the Lid on Mental Illness campaign which commenced in 2016, is receiving great support. STAFF Australian Rotary Health employs staff to manage all programs and the general administration and promotion of the organisation. Their dedication and commitment is very much appreciated. We have maintained our number of staff for the past three years although our programs have increased substantially. CURRENT STAFF Terry Davies – Corporate Manager Jenny Towe – Office Manager Cheryl Deguara – Programs Coordinator Ainslie Rockall-Mills – Research Administration Manager Jessica Cooper - Media and Communications Manager Maddison Hancock – Office Assistant BOARD OF DIRECTORS, HONORARY TREASURER, AND HONORARY RESEARCH ADVISER I would like to acknowledge all current and past Directors for their
dedication to the role and congratulate them on their achievements. It has been a pleasure working with each one. Chairman PDG Jeff Crofts has served his third and final year in the role, and we acknowledge his meritorious service over those three years. His dedication to our programs is outstanding and he has promoted all we do with enthusiasm and dedication. I sincerely thank him for his support and guidance. Professor Michael Sawyer OAM remains as Honorary Medical Adviser to the Board. Michael commenced involvement with Australian Rotary Health as a member of the Research Committee, then Chairman for six years, and now in an honorary role, assisting the Board in their discussions about research and mental health. Michael set the structure for the current grant and scholarship process and his input into Australian Rotary Health has been vital to our growth and ultimate success. Ron Beslich OAM remains Treasurer of Australian Rotary Health, a role he has held for many years. Ron’s guidance to all members of the Board, not just on financial matters but on governance, is greatly appreciated and welcomed. Joy Gillett OAM Chief Executive Officer www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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FINANCIAL REPORT
PDG Ron Beslich OAM, Honorary Treasurer CURRENT ASSETS
2017
2016
$
$
Cash assets
551,815
644,676
Receivables
106,521
63,438
14,190,131
13,937,915
30,844
30,833
14,879,311
14,676,862
Property, Plant & Equipment
39,755
50,029
Total Non-Current Assets
39,755
50,029
14,919,066
14,726,891
1,532,644
1,316,115
177,766
174,745
1,710,410
1,490,860
Other financial assets Other Total Current Assets NON-CURRENT ASSETS Other financial assets
TOTAL ASSETS CURRENT LIABILITIES Payables Provisions Annual Leave & Long Service Leave Total Current Liabilities TOTAL LIABILITIES
1,710,410
1,490,860
13,208,656
13,236,031
Retained Surplus
13,208,656
13,236,031
TOTAL ACCUMULATED FUNDS
13,208,656
13,236,031
NET ASSETS ACCUMULATED FUNDS
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INCOME
2017
2016
Donations
2,003,635
1,851,542
Other Income - grants, investment income
1,354,893
1,015,219
TOTAL INCOME
3,358,528
2,866,76
-1,815,387
-1,634,614
Indigenous Scholarships
-572,500
-401,542
Projects and Programs
-251,928
-196,967
Less Outgoings Research Grants & Programs
Marketing
-86,982
-82,411
Fundraising
-185,354
-308,215
Other expenses - includes administration,
-473,752
-535,595
3,385,903
3,159,344
-27,375
-292,583
2017
2016
District 9455
306,561
42,324
District 9465
36,200
57,990
District 9500
43,848
43,820
District 9520
57,626
60,502
District 9550
74,742
90,651
District 9570
21,531
26,892
District 9600
46,665
48,165
District 9630
49,217
40,948
District 9640
50,778
36,896
District 9650
89,805
114,781
District 9670
101,739
55,304
District 9675
204,409
222,454
District 9685
148,816
164,429
District 9700
27,956
20,255
District 9710
54,203
42,134
District 9780
36,093
26,201
District 9790
49,841
56,570
District 9800
104,940
69,617
District 9810
106,135
111,528
District 9820
78,276
67,363
meetings and board expenses Total Outgoings SURPLUS/LOSS FROM ORDINARY ACTIVITIES OPERATING REVENUE Revenue from Donations:
District 9830
81,885
57,254
Individual Donations
56,877
206,139
1,828,143
1,662,517
175,492
189,025
2,003,635
1,851,542
1,911
6,633
400,000
251,000
410
1,402
Realised & unrealised losss on market value of investments
-32,360
-165,363
Trust distributions reinvested
926,321
847,051
58,611
74,496
TOTAL OTHER INCOME
1,354,893
1,015,219
TOTAL INCOME
3,358,528
2,866,761
Club Donations - Indigenous Scholarships Total Donation income Interest/dividend - non-related party Revenue from government grants - Indigenous Membership Fees
Imputation Credits
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OUR BOARD
CHAIRMAN PDG JEFF CROFTS Jeff Crofts was appointed Chairman of Australian Rotary Health in October 2014. He has been a Director since November 2012. Jeff joined the Rotary Club of Cairns Mulgrave, Queensland, in 1988 and recently served a second time as President of the Club. He is a Past Governor of District 9550, and past District Youth Exchange Chair, Foundation Chair, District Trainer, PR Chair and Council on Legislation Representative. Jeff is a past Secretary of Rotary Youth Exchange Australia, past member of the Australian New Generations Committee and past Director and Chairman of Australian Rotarians Corporate Alliance Program (ARCAP). He has served as the District 9550 Timor-Leste Project Coordinator, District Vision Facilitation Chair, and Master PRLS Trainer. Jeff is a Rotary Foundation Major Donor and Bequest Society member, as well as a Ruby Companion supporter of Australian Rotary Health. Jeff was recognised with a Rotary International “Service Above Self” award in 2015. Jeff is a Civil Engineer, working previously in the fields of Water Supply and Sewerage. VICE CHAIRMAN PDG GREGORY ROSS Greg Ross was appointed Vice Chairman of Australia Rotary Health in November 2015. He has been a Director since November 2013. Greg joined Rotary in 1976 in Berwick, then moved districts and became a member of the Rotary Club of North Balwyn in 1986. He is a Past District Governor of District 9800, has worked as a literacy volunteer in Thailand, as a RAWCS volunteer in Vanuatu, and led a GSE Team to California. Greg has also served as MC at Rotary International Conventions in Taipei and Melbourne, and Song Leader/MC at the International Assembly in Anaheim. Greg is a professional actor (TV, stage, and
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music theatre) and, in recent years, has worked mainly as a funeral and marriage celebrant, including over 1000 funerals. PDG PHIL ARMSTRONG Phil Armstrong joined Australian Rotary Health as a Director in October 2014. Phil joined the Rotary Club of Moruya, NSW, in 2000 and is a current a member. He is a past “Peace” Governor of District 9710 serving on “Team Tanaka”. Phil’s ties to Rotary go back to his Father’s membership of both the Temora and Goulburn Mulwaree Clubs of NSW in the 1960s, as well as his own membership of Rotaract in the 1970s. Phil is a Companion supporter of Australian Rotary Health. Phil has worked as the CEO of Banksia Villages Ltd – a community based, not for profit organisation that runs a residential aged care facility and retirement village on the far south coast of NSW. He currently serves on the Boards of Campbell Page Group Ltd and Campbell Page Ltd – not for profit, community based organisations assisting people into the workforce.
PDG DES LAWSON Des Lawson has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since October 2015. Des was raised in Geelong but calls Brisbane very much his home. Since studying Mechanical Engineering Des has worked in Machine Design for several years but his true passion was in flying and yachting. It was in yachting that led him to design and build his own yacht and later establish a multi capacity yacht and powerboat manufacturing operation. Des first joined Rotary in 1982 and has twice been President of different Rotary Clubs. Des played the major role in establishing the Club to which he now belongs (Port of Brisbane). Des played roles in the Mental Health Safari and the Great Australian Bike Ride. In 2007, Des joined the Board of Rotary Down Under and became Chairman in July 2010 and was re-elected in 2011 and 2012. In 2015 Des received the ‘Service Above Self’ award for his work with Rotary and the community. PDG KEVIN SHADBOLT
PDG GRAEME DAVIES Graeme Davies has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since October 2014. Graeme joined the Rotary Club of Griffith, NSW, in 1991 and is Past President of the Club. He is a current member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Kincumber, NSW. Graeme and his wife Lyn were long term members of District 9670's Rotary Youth Exchange Committee. He is a past member of the District 9685 Australian Rotary Health Committee and is Past District Governor for District 9685. He has served as District 9685 Club Extension officer, and is a Paul Harris Society member. Graeme was Principal of Griffith High School (1990 – 1998) and Kincumber High School (1999 – 2008). He is a Life Member of the NSW Secondary Principal Council.
Kevin Shadbolt has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since October 2014. Kevin joined the Rotary Club of Latrobe, Tasmania, in 1985, he is a Past President of that Club. He was Past District Governor of District 9830 in both 2003-04 and 200708. Kevin has served as Foundation Chairman, District Trainer and Group Study Chairman. He initiated District involvement in Fiji low-cost Shelters, was the Chairman of International Project Development as well as serving on a wide variety of Club and District committees. In 2013 Kevin received the “Service Above Self” Award. Kevin has been involved in agriculture all his working life and a director of R & K Shadbolt Pty Ltd, a family business specialising in horticultural crops and seed production.
PDG COLIN THORNILEY Colin Thorniley has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since October 2014. He joined Rotary in 1977 after being a Group Study Exchange team member in 1975, and is a current member of the Rotary Club of Heirisson, WA. He is a Benefactor of the Rotary Foundation. Colin is a Past District 9455 Governor and a past Group Study Exchange Team Leader to San Francisco in 1992. He has been the District Chair of many Committees. Colin was State President of the YMCA and served on the National Board during the 1970s. Colin owned several Perth businesses, namely, Quick Cup Australia Pty Ltd, Perth Stationary Supplies Pty Ltd and Hotel and Café Supplies Pty Ltd. Prior to retirement he was an FCIM, CPA, AFAIM. Currently he is a Justice of the Peace for Western Australia.
PDG BARBARA WHEATCROFT Barbara Wheatcroft has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since October 2014. Barbara joined the Rotary Club of Hindmarsh, SA, in 2004 and held the positions of President and Treasurer. She joined the Rotary Club of Adelaide Parks, SA, in 2010 when the Rotary Club of Hindmarsh returned its Charter. Barbara is now a member of the Rotary Club of Maitland. Barbara was Secretary of the District GSE Committee from 2007 to 2009 and Chair from 2009 to 2010. Barbara is Past District Secretary and Past District Governor of D9500. Barbara joined the Apple & Pear Growers Association of SA Inc. in 1988 and worked with the Association for almost 20 years in the roles of Finance Manager, Personal Assistant to the General Manager and Promotions Manager. Barbara worked in Administration at Flinders University in the Medical Biochemistry Department and retired in 2015.
PDG BRIAN BEESLEY Brian Beesley has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since September 2016. Brian is married with 3 daughters and lives in Gloucester, NSW. He is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors; a Furniture Co-operative Director for 7 years, and after a career in Retail, now trains front line staff in Service Excellence. He holds an education degree from UNE specialising in psychology. Brian, who was District 9650 Governor in 2012/13, has held most Club positions; led a GSE team to Germany in 2010, and was a member of a Club FAIM trip to the Solomon Islands. The family has hosted 8 Exchange students and is proud to call them family. An avid motorcyclist, Brian is a member of the Fellowship of Motorcycling Rotarians and has ridden extensively with other Rotarians in Europe and India. Through many “Postie” rides he has supported isolated Rotary Clubs throughout Australia and spent time learning the needs of their communities. The family has adopted ARH as “their charity” and are keen to encourage others to do the same. Fitness with aging and supporting the mental health of our community are Brian’s two current emphases. Brian is happy travelling Australia to speak on Australian Rotary Health.
PDG JANE COX Jane Cox has been a Director of Australian Rotary Health since September 2016. Jane joined the Geelong Central Rotary Club, Vic, in 2001 and has held many positions including President in the 20052006 year. Jane served on the District ARH and RAWCS Committees for several years and was District Governor in 2015-2016. She is also a member of the District RLI Faculty, a member of the District Visioning Team and currently District Trainer for both the 2016-2016 and 2017-2018 years. Career wise, Jane commenced with a path in banking, following which Jane travelled to London and took up a position for five years working with the Australian Department of Immigration. Returning to Australia, Jane was the Business Manager for a busy medical practice for a number of years, before taking a position as Executive Assistant with a large national food services provider and retiring in 2014. Jane holds a Diploma of Business (Human resources). Jane has been recognized with a Paul Harris Fellow and an ‘Avenues of Service’ Citation. She is also a Paul Harris Society member and the Rotary Foundation Bequest Society member. Recently Jane was presented with a Royce Abbey Award by her Club and had the honour of it being presented by Royce’s son David Abbey. A lover of spectator sports, Jane is a long standing and passionate member of the Geelong Football Club team “The Cats”. Jane is also a member of the Geelong Art Gallery.
NEW DIRECTORS At the Annual General Meeting held on September 1, 2017, Directors PDGs Colin Thorniley and Phil Armstrong retired and we welcomed two new Directors – PDGs Mark Lean and Jerry Pilcher. We look forward to working with them in the future.
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OUR RESEARCH COMMITTEE PROFESSOR JANE PIRKIS BA (Hons), MPsych, MAppEpid, PhD Psychology, VIC
DR PHILIP BATTERHAM BSc (Psych) hons, MPH, PhD Psychology, ACT
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PROFESSOR VERA MORGAN BA Adel., DipEd Melb., MSocSc S. Aust., PhD W. Aust Neuropsychiatric Epidemiology, WA
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DAVID PIERCE MBBS, MGPP, MMed, MD, FRACGP, FAAPM General Practice, VIC
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR MELISSA GREEN
PROFESSOR RONALD M. RAPEE AM
BA (Psychology), Mlitt (Psych), PhD (Psych) Psychology, NSW
BSc (Psych), MSc (Psych), PhD, AM and FASSA Psychology, NSW
PROFESSOR TONY JORM
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR MEG SMITH OAM FAPSS
BA, M.Psychol, GDipComp, PhD, DSc, FASSA Psychology, VIC
BA (Hons), M.Psychol, PhD, MAPS Psychology, NSW
PROFESSOR BRETT MCDERMOTT
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ALLISON WATERS
B.MedSci, MBBS, FRANZCP, CertChildPsych, MD Psychiatry, QLD
BSS (Psychology), BA (Honours), PhD Clinical Psychology Psychology, QLD
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RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
L-R: Natalie Dodd (Funding Partner PhD Scholarship), Breanne Hobden (Ian Scott PhD Scholarship), and Ryan Duchatel (Ian Scott PhD Scholarship).
Photo by: Mark Rothfield
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS Funding Partner PhD Scholarship recipient Michelle Benstead shared her research at the 2nd International Conference on Adolescent Medicine & Child Psychology in the UK in October 2016.
MICHELLE BENSTEAD Deakin University Funding Partner PhD Scholarship Co-funded by: Motto Fashions & Rotary Club of Richmond, VIC Michelle Benstead was awarded a Funding Partner PhD Scholarship in 2015 to develop and trial ‘BEST-Foundations’, an intervention that is designed to treat depressive and anxiety-related symptoms in children between the ages of 3-11 years. BEST-Foundations includes the whole family, as research shows that if one person in a family is not functioning well, it impacts everyone. It is also known that parents are still highly influential over children at this age. The sessions are designed to do the following: • Improve the parent’s understanding and capacity for assisting their child, which in turn builds confidence. • Help children understand and deal with emotions more effectively. • Promote effective communication between all family members. RYAN DUCHATEL University of Newcastle Ian Scott PhD Scholarship Ryan Duchatel is undertaking his PhD studies at the University of Newcastle. He was awarded an Ian Scott PhD Scholarship by Australian Rotary Health in 2014 to investigate how maternal immune activation may contribute to the development of Schizophrenia in offspring later in life. Ryan has so far had one of his experiments published in the International peer-reviewed journal Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry. In this study, Ryan tested interstitial white matter neuron (IWMN) pathology in a model of maternal immune activation (MIA), which evidence 12
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Photo by: conferenceseries.com
• Address factors that are known to contribute to depressive and anxiety-related symptoms in children, such as improving attachment and interactions between the caregiver and child, parents responding in a mindful and sensitive manner, addressing family conflict, fostering improved emotional regulation in all family members, and family connectedness. The BEST-Foundations intervention is currently being run as part of the services offered at Drummond Street Services, a not for profit community support service. While formal analysis of results still needs to be conducted when the trial is suggests is a risk factor of Schizophrenia. To conduct the experiment, pregnant rats were separated into one of four groups – one group was injected with polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Polyl:C), to represent MIA during mid pregnancy (day 10), another group was injected with the same chemical during late pregnancy (day 19), while two control groups received saline injections for either day 10 or day 19. Results of the experiment revealed that the density of neuronal nuclear antigen and the hormone somatostatin IWMNs increased in 12-week-old offspring of rats exposed to Polyl:C on both day 10 and day 19, compared to control groups. However, greater effects were particularly noticeable for the day 19 group. This is the first study to show that maternal immune activation (MIA) increases interstitial white matter neuron
completed, preliminary results reveal that the intervention assists in reducing depressive and anxiety-related symptoms in children over time. It also reveals that the intervention has assisted with reducing feelings of helplessness in mothers, and by the completion of the intervention, parents view their child more positively. Michelle’s systematic review is currently under review for publication in the British Journal of Clinical Psychology. In addition to this, Michelle has presented her research at the 2nd International Adolescent Medicine and Child Psychology conference in London during October 2016.
Ryan conducting research in the Molecular Oncology lab at the University of Newcastle.
density in adult offspring in a similar manner to that seen in the brain in Schizophrenia, suggesting the MIA model will be useful in future studies.
MELANIE ASHTON Deakin University Funding Partner PhD Scholarship Co-funded by: Ian Parker Bipolar Research Fund Funding Partner PhD Scholarship recipient Melanie Ashton started her PhD research project at Deakin University in 2016. Her project focusses on trialling a new fruit supplement (an extract of mangosteen), that may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with bipolar depression. Recently Melanie had the opportunity to present a poster of her protocol for the mangosteen pericarp bipolar depression project at the 13th World Congress of Biological Psychiatry. At the conference, Melanie received the Young Investigator Award, which was aimed at early career researchers and clinicians under 40. The award included
free registration for the conference, 400 Euro to assist with travel costs, and entry to compulsory Educational Sessions. This year the Rotary Club of Colac organised a Mental Illness Prevention Research evening. On the night, two of our researchers were presented certificates Emma Gliddon (third from left) for completion of her PhD and Melanie Ashton (far right) was awarded her 2016 PhD scholarship. Emma and Melanie were both supported by Australian Rotary Health and the Ian Parker Bipolar Research Fund. Well done to both of them!
Melanie Ashton with her Young Investigators Award.
Left: L-R: Jane Cox, Olivia Dean, Emma Gliddon, Serge Beani, Michael Berk, Geoff Iles, Carol Smit and Melanie Ashton.
LAURA HART
BEYOND BUSHFIRE STUDY
La Trobe University Colin Dodds Postdoctoral Fellowship teen Mental Health First Aid is a classroom training program for highschool students in Years 10-12 to learn how to support a friend who has mental health problems. teen Mental Health First Aid involves learning to use an action plan over 3 class sessions. The program is the brainchild of two young researchers: current ARH Colin Dodds Postdoctoral Fellow Dr Laura Hart of LaTrobe University and University of Melbourne, and former ARH Postdoctoral Fellow Dr Claire Kelly of Mental Health First Aid Australia. Results of a trial funded by ARH showed that students trained in teen Mental Health First Aid developed better helping skills and had lower stigma towards peers with mental health problems compared to a control group of students trained in physical first aid. Dr Claire Kelly is manager of youth programs with Mental Health First Aid Australia and is now training teen
Dr Laura Hart is one of the brains behind the teen Mental Health First Aid program.
Mental Health First Aid instructors to work in schools across Australia. She has also recently taken the program to the UK and Ireland, starting its international spread. The teen Mental Health First Aid program joins the widely-acclaimed Mental Health First Aid training course for adults, which has been under-pinned by a number of ARH grants and has now trained more than 500,000 people in Australia and more than 2 million globally.
Nearly six years after the Black Saturday bushfires, a study co-funded by Australian Rotary Health shows a quarter of survivors from the worst affected Victorian communities are still experiencing serious mental health problems. The Beyond Bushfires: Community Resilience and Recovery study, led by the University of Melbourne, surveyed more than 1,000 people who were affected by the fires in 2009 and found 26% of high impact communities, 17% of medium impact communities, and 12% of low impact communities were reporting symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or severe psychological distress. The aim of the study was to examine the impacts the bushfires had on community members physical and mental health and well-being. The research also aimed to build understanding of the interplay between individual, social and communitylevel recovery. The Beyond Bushfire study has made a list of recommendations for individuals, families, government, and service providers to continue supporting those affected. www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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2016 - 2017 FUNDING
L-R: Kong Yang, Thanuja Dharmadasa, Associate Professor Helen O’Connor, Rachel Brownlow and Susannah Hallal.
Photo by: Michael Hoar
2016-17 FUNDING MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH Majority of donations to Australian Rotary Health go towards funding preventions, treatments and cures for mental illnesses through four of our mental health research scholarships. This year ARH contributed funding towards: • • • •
18 Mental Health Research Grants 8 Ian Scott PhD Scholarships 4 Postdoctoral Fellowships 2 Australian Rotary Health PTSD PhD Scholarship
GENERAL HEALTH RESEARCH Partnering with Rotary Clubs and Districts, individual sponsors, governments, businesses and community organisations, allows Australian Rotary Health to fund research in more general health areas such as cancer, diabetes, autism and children’s health. This year ARH co-funded: • • •
2 Australian Rotary Health PTSD PhD Scholarships 4 Research Companion PhD Scholarships 34 Funding Partner PhD Scholarships
PROGRAMS Australian Rotary Health also passionately contributes to three programs which focus on opening opportunities for trainee scholars. This year funds went towards: • • •
3 Rural Medical Scholarships 7 Rural and Remote Nursing Scholarships 81 Indigenous Health Scholarships
www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH GRANTS Each year Australian Rotary Health provides mental health research grants to experienced researchers with an interest in improving mental health outcomes for young Australians under 25. These grants are awarded for a one, two, or three year period. In 2016-2017, Australian Rotary Health funded 18 Mental Health Research Grants, totalling $1,126,317.
“
To further the societal
goal of lifelong labour force participation,
my goal is to understand and advocate for the critical importance
1 in 5 Australians suffer a mental illness every year
of jobs that support mental well-being, and at a minimum do no harm to
2016 - 2017 GRANT RECIPIENTS ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ALLISON WATERS Children’s Wellbeing Research ‘Helping young Australians “Look for Good”: A school-based trial of positive attention training to increase children’s emotional wellbeing and prevent anxiety and depression’ Griffith University, QLD $11,897 DR ALISON CALEAR Mental Health in Men Research ‘Silence is Deadly: a clusterrandomised controlled trial of a mental health help-seeking intervention for young men’ Australian National University, ACT $69,159 PROFESSOR ANTHONY LAMONTAGNE Adolescent Mental Health Research ‘Employment outcomes following adolescent-onset mental illness in a longitudinal cohort of young Victorians’ Deakin University, VIC $66,546 16
www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
mental health.
”
Professor Anthony LaMontagne from Deakin University received a Mental Health Grant this year to investigate employment outcomes following adolescent-onset mental illness in a longitudinal cohort of young Victorians.
DR GIN MALHI Suicide Research ‘Preventing suicide in young Australians with mood disorders: Adjunctive Lithium for Acute Suicidality (AliAS) study’ University of Sydney, NSW $54,000 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR HELEN O’CONNOR Body Image Research ‘Reducing body dissatisfaction and internalised weight stigma in young women with obesity. The everyBODY study’ University of Sydney, NSW $67,337
DR JENEVA OHAN Child Behaviour Research ‘Using Social Norms to Engage Parents in Interventions for their Child's Behaviour problems’ University of Western Australia, WA $66,982 DR LAUREN MCLELLAN Childhood Anxiety Research 'Improving access to mental health services for children with anxiety' Macquarie University, NSW $68,479 DR LEXINE STAPINSKI
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ILONA JURASKOVA Bipolar Research ‘Enhancing treatment decision making in bipolar II disorder: Evaluation of an online decision-aid for young adults.’ University of Sydney, NSW $69,844
Anxiety and Alcohol Use Research ‘Making InRoADs: Trial of an innovative early intervention to interrupt the cycle of anxiety and drinking in young Australians’ University of New South Wales, NSW $69,773
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR MARIA KANGAS Somatic Syndrome Research 'The CoolKids Health Program: An investigation of a psychotherapy program for distressed youth with functional (medically benign) somatic syndromes' Macquarie University, NSW $58,883 DR MARIE YAP Depression & Anxiety Prevention Research 'Evaluating a tailored web-based parenting intervention to prevent adolescent depression and anxiety problems: A pilot randomized controlled trial' Monash University, VIC $70,000 DR MATTHEW SPITTAL Adolescent Suicide Research 'Detecting fatal and non-fatal suicide attempt clusters in young people' University of Melbourne, VIC $62,535 DR MATTHEW FULLER-TYSZKIEWICZ Depression Symptom Research 'Timely intervention: Efficacy of a depression symptom monitoring smartphone app to deliver psychological intervention at time of greatest need' Deakin University, VIC $57,887 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR MELISSA GREEN Child Mental Health Research ‘Determinants of risk and resilience in maltreated children using multi-agency administrative records: A population record-linkage study.’ University of New South Wales, NSW $67,927
Photo by: Ryan Wilcockson
Associate Professor Melissa Green was awarded a Mental Health Research Grant in 2017 at the University of New South Wales. Project name: ‘Determinants of risk and resilience in maltreated children using multi-agency administrative records: A population record-linkage study.’
PROFESSOR RICHARD MATTICK Adolescent Alcohol Use Research 'Impacts of parental supply of alcohol on late-adolescent alcohol outcomes: Phase II of a longitudinal cohort' University of New South Wales, NSW $66,122 DR SOPHIE HAVIGHURST Toddler Emotions Research 'Tuning into Toddlers (TOTS): A randomised controlled trial of a program for parents of toddlers' $63,909 University of Melbourne, VIC $69,122
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR SUSAN BYRNE Eating Disorder Research ‘A randomised controlled trial of an efficacious school-based eating disorder risk reduction program: A comparison of 2, 4 and 8 lessons.’ University of Western Australia, WA $59,834 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR VIVIANA WUTHRICH Adolescent Anxiety Research ‘Psychological Stepped Care for Anxious Adolescents in Community Mental Health Services: An Effectiveness Trial.’ Macquarie University, NSW $69,990 www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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IAN SCOTT PHD SCHOLARSHIPS
Ian Scott PhD Scholarship recipient, Marlee Bower (middle) with her team of researchers at Western Sydney University.
Australian Rotary Health has awarded Ian Scott PhD Scholarships annually to PhD scholars since 2000, to continue research into a variety of areas associated with
2016 - 2017 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS BREANNE HOBDEN Depression in Alcohol Dependence Research ‘Depression management for individuals with comorbid alcohol dependence’ University of Newcastle, NSW KATRINA PRIOR Substance Use & Mental Health Research 'The relationship between social phobia, depression, and substance use disorders: The impact on treatment outcomes' University of New South Wales, NSW
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www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
mental health. The grant was created and named in honour of the late Ian Scott (1933-2001), the founder of Australian Rotary Health.
LISA GIBSON Cannabis Use in Adolescents Research ‘Development and evaluation of a novel communitybased intervention to reduce cannabis use and associated harms among high risk adolescents’ University of New South Wales, NSW MARIA DI-BIASE Schizophrenia Research 'Mapping Whole-Brain Connectivity and Neuroinflammation in Early Psychosis' University of Melbourne, VIC
Photo by: Mark Rothfield
Each scholarship is valued at $29,000 per year, for a period of up to 3.5 years. A total of $74,848 was awarded to 8 Ian Scott PhD Scholarship recipients this year.
RENETA SLIKBOER Compulsive Hair Pulling Research ‘Reward Sensitivity Theory in Trichotillomania’ Swinburne University of Technology, VIC RYAN DUCHATEL Schizophrenia Research 'Neurobiological Investigation of Interstitial White Matter Neurons in a Maternal Immune Activation Model of Schizophrenia' University of Newcastle, NSW TARA HUNT
MARLEE BOWER Homelessness Research 'The experience of loneliness in the Australian homeless population' University of Western Sydney, NSW
Suicide in Men Research 'The development and trial of a training program to optimise telephone crisisline outcomes with suicidal men' University of Wollongong, NSW
POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS
Photo by: Morgaine Wallace-Steele
Postdoctoral Fellowship Recipient, Dr Janette Smith works at the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre at the University of New South Wales. L-R: Dr Janette Smith (Postdoctoral Fellowship), Louise Birrell (Funding Partner PhD Scholarship), Katrina Prior (Ian Scott PhD Scholarship), Dr Lexine Stapinski (Mental Health Grant) and Ivana Kihas (Funding Partner PhD Scholarship)).
Australian Rotary Health offers Postdoctoral Fellowships every year to assist early career researchers with their research projects. They are named after the first four Chairman of ARH – Royce Abbey, Geoffrey Betts, Colin Dodds, and Bruce Edwards. In 2016-2017, Australian Rotary Health funded 4 Postdoctoral Fellowships.
“
2016 - 2017 GRANT RECIPIENTS DR JANETTE SMITH Royce Abbey Fellowship Alcohol Effects in Adolescents Research ‘Neurocognitive deficits in young heavy drinkers’ University of New South Wales, NSW
I do mental health
research because alcohol abuse
adolescents and young adults, and because nearly half of young Australians aged 18-24 exceed the recommended limits of consumption at least once a month. - Dr Janette Smith
”
Bruce Edwards Postdoctoral Fellowship Adolescent Mental Illnesses Research ‘Preventing adolescent mental illness through brain training’ University of New South Wales, NSW
DR LAURA HART
is a major component of preventable illness among
DR LOUISE MEWTON
DR TONELLE HANDLEY Colin Dodds Postdoctoral Fellowship Eating Disorders in Children Research ‘Confident Body, Confident Child: Effectiveness trial of community-based dissemination of a resource to support parents of preschoolers in preventing body dissatisfaction, eating disorders and obesity in their children’ La Trobe University, VIC
Geoff Betts Postdoctoral Fellowship Suicide Prevention Research ‘Multi-tiered approach to suicide prevention in young Australians’ University of New South Wales, NSW
www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH PTSD PHD SCHOLARSHIP Australian Rotary Health currently funds 2 Post Traumatic Stress Disorder PhD Scholarships to allow further research on
the effects of war-related stress on veterans and their families. Scholarships are valued up to $35,000.
2016 - 2017 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS KRISTIN GRAHAM
REBECCA SHERIFF
‘The relationship between combat exposure, the effects of post-traumatic stress and non-specific somatic symptoms.’ University of Adelaide, SA
“
‘An investigation of the relationship between serving in the Australian Defence Force and common mental disorders.’ University of Adelaide, SA
Rebecca Sheriff
The information derived from this project is essential to maximise the effectiveness of screening, monitoring, treatment and support for those in the ADF ...
”
- Rebecca Sheriff
RESEARCH COMPANION PHD SCHOLARSHIPS Research Companion PhD Scholarships are funded by Australian Rotary Health and sponsors outside of Rotary. They are
awarded for a period of three years in a health area chosen by the sponsor. This year, four Research Companion PhD
Scholarships were funded Australian Rotary Health.
through
2016 - 2017 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS LEONARD KANOWSKI The Kaiyu Enterprises Scholarship, NSW Mental Health Research 'Developing a Mental Health Resilience Program with Australian Aboriginal Communities' University of Newcastle, NSW
Madeleine Tancock
“
Bartolina Peluso Research Scholarship, VIC Dementia Research 'Cognitive Rehabilitation in Early Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment: Is it helpful?' La Trobe University, VIC
I hope my research will
extend our understanding of the complex changes occurring in
tumour treatments and possibly identify key targeting molecules for eliminating resistance, as well as enhancing current therapies
”
- Madeleine Tancock 20
DR BRIDGET REGAN
www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
MADELEINE TANCOCK Judith Annette Thompson Scholarship/ Rotary Club of Keilor, VIC Bowel Cancer Research ‘Local and circulating chemokines/growth factors following tumour therapy impact on the composition of tumour infiltrating host cells and treatment outcome.’ University of Melbourne, VIC
ALI KODSI Lorraine & Bruce McKenzie PhD Scholarship, VIC Mental Health of Young Australians Research ‘Sleep Problems in Young People: Assessing Impact on Mental Health, Behaviour and Educational Outcomes.’ Swinburne University of Technology, VIC
FUNDING PARTNER PHD SCHOLARSHIPS Australian Rotary Health Funding Partner PhD Scholarships have been awarded to scholars since 2002, to research a wide variety of general health areas. The Funding Partner PhD Scholarship is funded by three parties: A Rotary Club or District, a University and Australian Rotary Health. Scholars have received up to $29,000 annually to investigate areas such as cancer, heart disease, neurological disorders and children’s health. In 2016-2017 Australian Rotary Health has contributed funding to 34 Funding Partner PhD Scholarships.
We have a broad vision to improve the health and wellbeing of all Australians
2016 - 2017 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Photo by: Jerry Zhou
AMELIA MCGUINNESS Co-funded by the Ten Islands Tassie Tag Along Tour 2016 Mental Health Research ‘MICRO'SCOPE: a study of diet, gut microbiota and mental health in community-dwelling adults.’ Deakin University, VIC BLAKE SMITH Co-funded by Kerry Anderson & Rotary District 9650, NSW Epidermolysis Bullosa Research ‘Development of RNAi therapeutics for Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex.’ Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, VIC
Harsha Suresh in the lab at Western Sydney University. Harsha is conducting a study to alleviate the symptoms of gastroparesis using dietary modification. Co-funded by: Rotary Club of Devonport, TAS
ELIZABETH SENN Co-funded by the Terrence Orr Memorial Scholarship, WA Child Neurodevelopment Research ‘Genomics and Nutrigenomics and its Effect on Neonatal Methylation and Subsequent Child Neurodevelopment.’ Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, VIC
EMMA LAIRD Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Terrigal, NSW Hearing Loss Research ‘Development of an audiologist administered psychologicallyinformed intervention to improve mental health and wellbeing in adults with hearing loss.’ University of Melbourne, VIC
www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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ERIN LAWRENCE Co-funded by Rotary District 9650, NSW Cancer Research ‘Investigating novel genes and mutations in haematological malignancies.’ University of Melbourne, VIC FIONA HENRICH Co-funded by Rotary District 9790, NSW and RSL Clubs of Victoria PTSD in Service Personnel and their families Research ‘An Investigation of the psychological, neuropsychological and phenomenological distinguishing characteristics between adaptive dreams and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder nightmares; An empirical study to inform evidence based treatment models of PTSD.’ Swinburne University of Technology, VIC
JARRED GILLETT Co-funded by the Rotary Club of St Ives, NSW Cerebral Palsy Research ‘A randomised controlled trial of progressive resistance training and functional training on muscle properties and mechanical gait deficiencies in youth with spastic type cerebral palsy’ University of Queensland, QLD JASMINA MARKULIC Co-funded by Rotary District 9650, NSW Parkinson's Disease Research ‘Recruiting the Immune System to fight Parkinson’s Disease’ St Vincent's Medical Research Institute, VIC JAY NAKAMURA
HARSHA SURESH Co-funded by The Rotary Club of Devonport, TAS Gastroparesis Research ‘A study to alleviate the symptoms of gastroparesis using dietary modification’ Western Sydney University, NSW
Co-funded by Terrence Orr Memorial Fund, WA Epigenetic Research ‘Epigenetic Mechanisms of Maternal Immune Activation’ Monash University, VIC JOSEPH PO
LAUREN WHYTE Co-funded by Rotary Club of Adelaide, SA Alzheimer's Disease Research 'Risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease – does lysosomal dysfunction play a role?' University of Adelaide, SA LOUISE BIRRELL Co-funded by The David Henning Memorial Foundation, NSW Mental Health Research 'Untangling co-morbidity: substance use and mental health in young Australians' University of New South Wales, NSW MELANIE ASHTON Co-funded by the Ian Parker Bipolar Research Fund PhD Scholarship, VIC Bipolar Research ‘The efficacy of adjunctive Garcinia mangostana linn (mangosteen) pericarp for bipolar depression: a 24-week doubleblind, randomized, placebo controlled trial.’ Deakin University, VIC
IVANA KIHAS Co-funded by Rotary District 9685, NSW Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Australia Research ‘The relationship between traumatic stress, problematic substance use and disordered eating behaviours among Australian adolescents.’ University of New South Wales, NSW
Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Liverpool West, NSW Gynecological Oncology Research ‘Biology of circulating tumour cells in patients with advanced ovarian cancer: Does epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) contribute to chemoresistance?’ University of Western Sydney, NSW
MICHELLE BENSTEAD Co-funded by Motto Fashions & Rotary Club of Richmond, NSW Youth Mental Health Research 'Development and Evaluation of BEST Foundations: A Preventative Family-based Intervention for Children at Risk of Developing Depression in Adolescence' Deakin University, VIC
JANE PHILLIPS
KELSIE BOULTON Co-funded by The Rotary Club of Dural, NSW Primary Lymphoedema Research ‘The use of High Frequency Ultrasound to describe dermal depth and composition and its correlation with other physical measures in people with and without primary lymphedema and to describe the impact of physical interventions.’ Flinders University, SA
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www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Illawarra Sunrise, NSW Autism Research 'The underpinnings of social dysfunction in autism and Williams Syndrome: from genes to brain to hormones' Macquarie University, NSW
NATALIE DODD Co-funded by Rotary District 9650 Bowelscan, NSW Bowel Cancer Research 'Improving uptake of colorectal screening among primary care attendees' University of Newcastle, NSW
NORBAINI ABDOL RAZAK Co-funded by The Ian Loxton Pancreatic Cancer Research PhD Scholarship, QLD Pancreatic Cancer Research 'Investigation of novel biomakers for pancreatic cancer’ Curtin University, WA
SHEENA DAIGNAULT Co-funded by the Rotary Clubs of Kiama & Gerringong, NSW Melanoma Research 'Deciphering the role of Microphthalmia-associated Transcription Factor (MITF) in cell cycle phase-specific drug resistance of melanoma' University of Queensland, QLD
DR THANUJA DHARAMADASA Co-funded by The Rotary Club of Cronulla, NSW Motor Neurone Disease Research ‘Motor Neurone Disease: site of origin and patterns of disease spread’ University of Sydney, NSW THOMAS WARE
RACHEL BROWNLOW SIMONE THOMAS Co-funded by Rotary District 9690, NSW Adolescent Health Research ‘A randomised controlled trial to examine the effectiveness of oxytocin to improve treatment for Anorexia Nervosa.’ University of Sydney, NSW SAMANTHA COSH Co-funded by The Gudran Delarue Ovarian Cancer Fund and Rotary Club of Dural, NSW Ovarian Cancer Research 'Investigations into genetic aberrations underlying recurrent ovarian cancer' University of Queensland, QLD SARAH FURLONG Co-funded by the Rotary Club of West Wollongong, NSW Youth Suicide Research ‘Using a multi-level nation-wide approach to improve the identification of young people at risk for suicide and motivate them to access and engage with appropriate treatment’ University of Wollongong, NSW SEBASTIAN POHL Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Belmont, NSW Cancer Research 'The role of secreted frizzled-related protein 4 and DEAD-Box Helicase DP103 on breast and brain cancer stem cells' Curtin University, WA
Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Illawarra Sunrise, NSW Autism Research ‘Active Kids: A comprehensive biopsychosocial understanding of factors that enhance and hinder physical activity, social engagement and motor development in children with ASD’ Deakin University, VIC SIOBHAN LOUGHNAN Co-funded by David Henning Memorial Foundation, NSW Depression Research ‘An online cognitive behavioural therapy program for women with depression in the perinatal period: A randomised controlled trial’ University of New South Wales, NSW STEVEN NGO Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Richmond, VIC Cancer Research 'Engaging differentiation of immature leukemic cells in acute myeloid leukaemia' Monash University, VIC SUSANNAH HALLAL Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Caringbah, NSW Brain Tumour Research 'Novel insights into microglia signalling in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM)' University of Sydney, NSW
Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Templestowe & Dine for a Cure, VIC Brain Cancer Research 'Targeting pro-invasive signalling network to overcome resistance to standard therapy in Glioblastoma' University of Melbourne, VIC TOM STEEPLES Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Adelaide, SA Youth Homelessness Research 'Homeless, young and accompanied: identifying the diverse issues young people with families face when homeless in Adelaide' University of Adelaide, SA YANG KONG Co-funded by the Rotary Club of Blacktown City, NSW Children's Heart Disease Research 'Detection and prevention of early atherosclerosis in children with fetal growth restriction' University of Sydney, NSW CATHERINE KUBEL Co-funded by the Rotary Club of West Wollongong, NSW Quality of Life in Dementia Patient Research 'Towards a decision-making framework for behavioural problems in residential dementia-care facilities' University of Wollongong, NSW
www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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RURAL MEDICAL SCHOLARSHIPS Australian Rotary Health provides Rural Medical Scholarships to encourage future doctors to offer their services in rural Australian communities. Successful candidates receive $5,000 to undertake work placements at a rural and remote health care service, with the aim that the student will pursue a career in a rural area once fully qualified.
2016 - 2017 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS KELVIN TRAN Western Sydney University, NSW Bathurst Rural Clinical School Sponsored by S’Team Foundation MELISSA POPE James Cook University, QLD Cairns Clinical School Sponsored by Rotary Club of Townsville Daybreak, QLD REECE PHILLIPS James Cook University, QLD Cairns Clinical School Sponsored by Rotary Club of Cairns, QLD
L-R: ARH Chairman Jeff Crofts, DG Robert Tardiani, Nathaniel Motlap, ARH Programs Co-ordinator Cheryl Deguara, Melissa Pope, Reece Phillips, Layne Gardiner (District Rep).
SCHOLARSHIP SPOTLIGHT Reece Phillips James Cook University Sponsored by Rotary Club of Cairns, QLD Reece Phillips was hit with the reality of how different life is for Indigenous people living in remote communities, when he left the Indigenous community of Giangurrato (where he grew up), to go off to boarding school. It soon became clear to Reece that he wanted to affect change and improve the health needs of these people by becoming a doctor. Reece is now studying a Bachelor of Medicine/Surgery at James Cook University after receiving a Rural Medical Scholarship from Australian Rotary Health. “What seemed to me at the time to be the norm, I soon discovered after leaving for schooling that many of the socioeconomic factors and chronic diseases experienced by these people, were an extreme deviation from the norm: alcohol fuelled violence, lack of access to medical services, lack of education, lack of adequate housing, little to no transport, poor diet, diabetes, and the list goes on,” Reece said. As a medical practitioner, Reece hopes to become a doctor who can make significant contributions to the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in many other communities just like the one he grew up in.
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www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
RURAL NURSING SCHOLARSHIPS In response to the need for more nurses in rural and remote areas, Australian Rotary Health launched a Rural Nursing Scholarship program in 2007. Australian Rotary Health offered two Rural Nursing Scholarships in 2016-2017 – the Rotary Club of Sale Rural Nursing Scholarship and the Rotary Club of Mornington Rural Nursing Scholarship. These scholarships provide opportunities for nursing students to complete a rural placement in their final year of study in a rural or remote area. They also encourage graduates to ultimately pursue a nursing career in rural Australia. This year the scholarships were awarded to 5 nursing students. Each scholarship is worth $12,500.
2016 - 2017 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Rotary Club of Sale Rural Nursing Scholarship Supported by the Rotary Club of Sales, nursing or midwifery students who are awarded this scholarship undertake their final placement at a healthcare service in the East Gippsland area, Victoria.
NICOLE WALLIS Federation University, VIC Bairnsdale Regional Health Service
SCHOLARSHIP SPOTLIGHT Jane Anderson Federation University Sponsored by Rotary Club of Mornington, VIC Growing up in Sale, Victoria, Jane Anderson knows first-hand what it’s like to live in a rural community. But unlike some who dream of the big city life, Jane prefers a quiet rural environment where there is opportunity to build strong relationships with her patients. After being granted a Rotary Club of Sales Rural Nursing Scholarship, Jane has completed placements at Sale Hospital and Central Gippsland Health Service, and in her postgrad year, has focussed primarily on rehabilitation, mental health, and acute care. “I have appreciated all the time and effort the nurses at the rural hospitals have put in and given to me to become the best student nurse I could be and they have given me a great start and strong foundation.” Jane is excited about her next learning experience in the Emergency Department, where she will work for four months.
NICOLE CONNALLY Federation University, VIC Bairnsdale Regional Health Service Rotary Club of Mornington Rural Nursing Scholarship
BRIDGET MCNICOL JANE ANDERSON Federation University, VIC Bairnsdale Regional Health Service
Federation University, VIC Central Gippsland Health Service, Sale
ANNIE BANKS Federation University, VIC Bairnsdale Regional Health Service www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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INDIGENOUS HEALTH SCHOLARSHIPS Indigenous Health Scholarships have been encouraging Indigenous students to undertake a health related degree since 2002. $5,000 is awarded to each student per year to study in areas that include nursing, medicine, social work, and dentistry. In 2016-2017, 81 Indigenous health students were awarded $400,000 in scholarships.
The Rotary Club of Matilda Bay President John Lindsay, Bob Aitken AM, and Indigenous Scholar Naomi Lloyd.
2016 - 2017 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS New South Wales ELVERA BROWN Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by PDG Joe Scorer and Rotary Club of Batemans Bay DENIKA THOMAS Flinders University, NT – Graduate Certificate in Loss, Grief and Trauma Counselling Sponsored by Rotary Club of e-Club One ALLIRA CUTMORE University of New England, NSW – Bachelor of Social Work Sponsored by Rotary Club of Orange Calare DESTINY POWELL University of New England, NSW – Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Kerang SAVANNAH ABBOTT University of Sydney, NSW – Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Sponsored by Rotary Club of Sutherland GARY WALLACE University of New England, NSW – Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Ian & Claire Graham ROBYN WATTAM University of Sydney, NSW – Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Marrickville
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www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
RORY VOCALE Australian Catholic University, NSW – Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Turramurra ANDREA TORRESAN University of Sydney, NSW – Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) Sponsored by David Henning Memorial Foundation TAYLOR-JAI MCALISTER Macquarie University, NSW Bachelor of Psychology Sponsored by Rotary Club of Parramatta City HARLEY DONOGHUE University of Sydney, NSW Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Parramatta LUCAS BOOTH University of Newcastle, NSWBachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary District 9650 STEPHEN BELL University of Wollongong, NSW Master of Indigenous Health Sponsored by Rotary Club of Sydney Inner West SHANICE GRIFFEN University of Newcastle, NSW Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary District 9650
KYM BOWMAN Western Sydney University, NSW Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Quality Occupational Health, Merrylands NATHAN TAYLOR Macquarie University, NSW Bachelor of Human Science (Public Health) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Maroubra CAMERON EDWARDS University of Sydney, NSW Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Parramatta Daybreak THOMAS HATCH Western Sydney University, NSW - Bachelor of Medicine/Surgery Sponsored by Learnmed Group BLAKE BADMAN University of Sydney, NSW Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Randwick RUSSELL THOMPSON University of New South Wales, NSW - Bachelor of Medicine Scholarship Sponsored by Rotary Club of Junee
SCHOLARSHIP SPOTLIGHT Corey Dalton University of Notre Dame, Western Australia Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Lindsay Cozens Education Trust Corey Dalton has always dreamed of being a doctor, specialising in Indigenous Health. However, that dream always seemed a little too far out of reach until Corey was granted an Indigenous Health Scholarship from Australian Rotary Health. Now Corey is in his second semester at the University of Notre Dame in Western Australia, studying a Bachelor of Medicine. With a working background in Indigenous Development, Corey already has gained experience helping local Indigenous communities find employment opportunities in rural areas. After completing his medical degree, Corey hopes to offer his new skills in rural communities as a General Practitioner. “Having experienced first-hand, the health gaps in the community, I am passionate about making a difference,” Corey said. “The Rotary Indigenous Health Scholarship has made such a difference to us and we are extremely grateful. This has enabled me to focus on my studies with less stress on sourcing income to help us cover our financial commitments.”
SARAH LARGE University of Sydney, NSW Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Holroyd & Dr King Gan JULIEANN HALL University of Wollongong, NSW – Masters of Indigenous Health Sponsored by Rotary Club Wetherill Park KRISTY-LEE WICKEY Charles Sturt University, NSW Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Orange MADELINE PARSONS Charles Sturt University, NSW Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging) Sponsored by Rotary District 9650 KASARINA MANN University of Sydney, NSW Bachelor of Health Science (Psychology) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Parramatta Victoria JESSICA PING Charles Darwin University, NT – Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Dr King Gan SHANNON DRAKE University of Melbourne, VIC – Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Poche Foundation
KATHRYN SULLIVAN University of Melbourne, VIC Masters of Social Work Sponsored by Poche Foundation CHANA ORLOFF University of Melbourne, VIC Master of Public Health Sponsored by Poche Foundation SHAHNAZ RIND Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Ivanhoe SALLY HOOD Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Ivanhoe LAURA ALSOP Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Glen Waverley MICHAEL LAWLER LaTrobe University, VIC Bachelor of Dentistry Sponsored by Rotary Club of Bright NICOLE BINGHAM Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Clubs of Swan Hill and Swan Hill Sunrise NATASHA BAHRS Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Geelong East
Queensland NATHANIAL MOTLAP University of New England, NSW - Bachelor of Psychological Science Sponsored by Rotary Club of Cairns SHERICE ANSELL University of Queensland, QLD Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Gympie Cooloola MEGAN KADEN Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Sandgate RAYLENE HODGES Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Social Work Wollongong University, NSW Master of Indigenous Health Sponsored by Rotary Club of Cairns Mulgrave TAYLA EMMERSON Griffith University, QLD - Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Technology Sponsored by Rotary Club of Murwillumbah Central TANYA MUNRO Australian Catholic University, QLD - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Port of Brisbane
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MONIQUE SAUNDERS Griffith University, QLD - Bachelor of Biomedical Science Sponsored by Rotary District 9640 SHANI LAVENDER James Cook University, QLD Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Townsville Daybreak HANNAH TILLING University of Queensland, QLD Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of South Brisbane NICKALUS SAVEKA James Cook University, QLD Bachelor of Dental Surgery Sponsored by Rotary Club of Mareeba SAMANTHA O’CONNOR University of Queensland - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary District 9600 and Dr King Gan
NAOMI LLOYD University of Western Australia, WA - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Matilda Bay VERONICA DOLMAN University of Western Australia, WA - Bachelor of Medicine/Surgery Sponsored by Rotary Club of Mundaring SHAUNA HILL University of Western Australia, WA - Bachelor of Medicine/Surgery Sponsored by Rotary Club of Ascot PHOEBE STRICKLAND University Western Australia, WA Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Melville & Lindsay Cozens Aboriginal Education Trust MONIQUE LUCAS University of Western Australia, WA - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Applecross and Dr King Gan
Northern Territory BELINDA WASHINGTON Flinders University, NT - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Darwin South and Dr King Gan KATE POSTANS Flinders University, NT - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary District 9790
South Australia EMILY SPARROW University of South Australia, SA – Bachelor of Midwifery Sponsored by Rotary Club of Morialta KERRI COULTHARD Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Clubs in Group 7 (SA) REHANNA COULTHARD Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Social Work Sponsored by Rotary Club of Salisbury RHIANON LOCK University of South Australia, SA Bachelor of Midwifery Sponsored by Rotary Club of Norwood GEORGIA TURNER University of Adelaide, SA Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Adelaide CASEY CAMERON University of Adelaide, SA Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Campbelltown (SA) EBONY WARREN University of South Australia, SA Bachelor of Medical Radiation Sponsored by Rotary Club of Stirling DARRYLE BARNES Flinders University, SA – Postgraduate Mental Health Nursing Sponsored by Rotary Club of Walkerville
Western Australia MARIKA HAYDEN University of Western Australia, WA - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Booragoon EMMA-JANE HUNT University of Western Australia, WA - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Rotary Club of Balcutta PATRICIA JOHNSTONE University of Western Australia, WA - Bachelor of Dental Medicine Sponsored by Lindsay Cozens Aboriginal Education Trust COREY DALTON University of Notre Dame, WA Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Lindsay Cozens Aboriginal Education Trust KERRY FRANKLIN Deakin University, VIC - Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) Sponsored by Rotary Club Port Hedland 28
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DANIELLE LOVEGROVE University of South Australia, SA Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Ralf Goll Indigenous Health Scholarship ANGELA CAMPBELL Flinders University, SA - Bachelor of Medicine Sponsored by Dr Helen Sage ROSEMARY MACLAINE Flinders University, SA - Bachelor of Midwifery Sponsored by Rotary Club of Elizabeth SHARMAINE WILLIAMS University of Adelaide, SA - Bachelor of Psychological Science Sponsored by Rotary Club of Hyde Park TALISHA KING University of Adelaide, SA – Master of Public Health Sponsored by Rotary Club of Mitcham PATRICIA LAWSON Deakin University, Vic - Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Coopers Foundation GEMMA WARNER University of Adelaide, SA - Bachelor of Psychological Science Sponsored by Rotary Club of Playford SANDRA LAWRIE Deakin University, Vic - Bachelor of Social Work Sponsored by Rotary Club of Blackwood SHANAMEAE DAVIS Flinders University, SA - Bachelor of Health Science Sponsored by Rotary Club of Yankalilla DANIEL ZWECK University of Adelaide, SA - Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery Sponsored by Professor M Sage LAUREN MODYSTACH Flinders University, SA - Bachelor of Health Science (Occupational Therapy) Sponsored by Rotary Club of Port Augusta NICOLAS REID University of Adelaide, SA - Bachelor of Dental Surgery Sponsored by Rotary Club of Coromandel Valley KALI GRAHAM Flinders University, SA - Bachelor of Paramedic Science Sponsored by Margaret Mayo DAMIAN RIGNEY University of South Australia, SA – Bachelor of Nursing Sponsored by Marge Gibson
OTHER HAPPENINGS
ARH Researchers Kelsie Boulton, Breanne Hobden and Kristin Graham attending Media Training 2016.
MEDIA TRAINING & PRESENTATION TRAINING WORKSHOP In November 2016, we invited some of our PhD scholars to attend a Media Training and Presentation Training Workshop at the University of Sydney. We were very lucky to spend the day with Kelsie Boulton, Breanne Hobden and Kristin Graham, who shared their research at the workshop and picked up some tips for pitching their research to the media.
Kelsie Boulton presenting her research at Media Training 2016
ROTARY NSW EMERGENCY SERVICES COMMUNITY AWARDS L-R: Mark Murphy, Rotary Assistant Governor Peter Ford (representing David Cotsios), Danielle Osborne, The Hon David Elliot MP, District Governor District 9675 Stephen Humphreys, Grant Prendergast, Peter Taylor, and Graham Parks
Emergency Services Minister announcing finalists for 2017 Rotary NSW Emergency Services Community Awards
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Each year, the Rotary NSW Emergency Services Community Awards are held to recognise the hard work of emergency service personnel, and raise money for research into Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Emergency Services workers. In 2016, the following were named Officer of the Year for their category: Mark Murphy (NSW Rural Fire Service), David Cotsios (NSW Volunteer Rescue Association), Danielle Osborne (NSW State Emergency Service), Grant Prendergast (NSW Ambulance), Peter Taylor (Marine Rescue NSW) and Graham Parks (Fire & Rescue NSW). In May 2017, the Hon Troy Grant MP Minister for Emergency Services announced 24 of the finalists of the NSW Emergency Services Community Awards. Final winners for 2017 were announced in the new financial year.
INDIGENOUS HEALTH MENTOR CELEBRATION On December 1, 2016, ARH Programs Coordinator Cheryl Deguara attended an Indigenous Health Mentor Celebration in Perth. It was also a chance to acknowledge the hard work of Dr Vinka Cummins Barunga and Dr Daniel Hunt, who have now both graduated from the program.
CELEBRATIONS AT THE ROTARY CLUB OF MORNINGTON In May 2017, we were pleased to join the Rotary Club of Mornington in their 70th birthday celebration. It was also an opportunity to launch our brand new mental health fundraising initiative, the Muster for Mental Health, and encourage Rotarians to support the $2 million Ian Scott challenge.
Rotary Club of Mornington President John Parkinson (left) and PP Don Gordon cutting the cake.
ARH Corporate Manager Terry Davies, ARH Director Jane Cox and ARH Vice Chairman Greg Ross.
WELCOMING NEW ARH AMBASSADOR SIMON GILLARD
DISTRICT 9650 CONFERENCE Former ARH Director Laurie Barber and Garry Johnson from the Rotary Club of Nambucca Heads having lots of fun in the photo booth at the District 9650 Conference in Laurieton in March 2017.
In June 2017, we met with ex-police officer Simon Gillard at the ARH office and heard of his battles with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and depression. We welcomed him as our new Ambassador to help us in our mission to Lift the Lid on Mental Illness. www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
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OUR SUPPORTERS Vice Chairman Greg Ross presenting Chairman Jeff Crofts as a Life Member at the AGM in September 2017.
AWARDS THE AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH KNOWLEDGE DISSEMINATION AWARD Each year Australian Rotary Health sponsors the Award for Knowledge Dissemination through the Society for Mental Health Research (SMHR), and in December 2016 Dr Christina Marel was chosen as the recipient for her hard work and dedication in the research field. Dr Marel was a stand-out candidate for this award for her work on the Australian National Comorbidity Guidelines, an evidence-based resource that aims to provide knowledge to mental health workers dealing with patients with cooccurring mental health conditions.
ARH CEO Joy Gillett OAM presenting Dr Christina Marel with her award.
AWARD FOR RESEARCH EXCELLENCE IN PREVENTION The Australian Rotary Health-Alliance for the Prevention of Mental Disorders (ARHAPMD) awards recognise excellence in research in the area of prevention of mental disorders, for researchers whose work is beginning to make a significant impact, reflecting either scientific excellence or public impact (or both). There are three categories:
PHD CANDIDATE AWARD The PhD Candidate Award winner for 2016 was Pamela Pilkington.
EARLY CAREER RESEARCHER AWARD Dr Amy Morgan is the 2016 winner of the Early Career Researcher Award.
MID-CAREER RESEARCHER AWARD Dr Amy Morgan was selected for the Early Career Researcher Award.
Dr Alison Calear was selected as the 2016 winner for the Mid-Career Researcher Award.
Dr Alison Calear after being presented her Mid-Career Researcher Award.
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AWARDS At the September 2017 AGM, we were pleased to acknowledge the tremendous work of some of our supporters. We announced the recipients for the Life Membership,
Dick White District Achievement Award, and Australian Rotary Health “Medal”. Thank you and congratulations to all of you.
DICK WHITE DISTRICT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD District 9830 received the Dick White District Achievement Award for 2017. The District has done a lot to increase awareness of Australian Rotary Health by introducing several PhD Funding Partner Scholarships, as well as highlighting the work of ARH at their annual Health expos. District Governor Tony Coleman accepted the award at the Darwin Institute on the District’s behalf.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP
ARH Chairman Jeff Crofts and 9830 District Governor Tony Coleman.
PDG Jeff Crofts has served as Australian Rotary Health Chairman for the past three years. For his dedication and commitment to Australian Rotary Health, it was only fitting to present him as a Life Member, our most prestigious ARH award.
AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH “MEDAL” PP Mel Gray has been announced as the Australian Rotary Health “Medal” recipient for 2017. Mel has provided significant
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support to ARH over the years through his charity bike rides. The award was presented in October 2017.
Mel is pictured with ARH researcher Dr Miriam Jackson (left) and Rotary Club of Parramatta City President Natalie Cowell.
FUNDRAISING AND EVENTS
The City2Surf Legends supporting Australian Rotary Health at City2Surf 2016.
CITY2SURF - SUNDAY AUGUST 14, 2016 Australian Rotary Health Ambassador Chris Edwards participated in his 46th City2Surf run on August 14, 2016. Behind
him were 22 other City2Surf ‘Legends’ who set out with the objective to raise money for an Australian Rotary Health
research scholarship, which they plan to name ‘City2Surf Legends Medical Research Scholarship.’
ULVERSTONE HEALTH AND WELLBEING EXPO AND GALA DINNER - FRIDAY OCTOBER 7, 2016 Ulverstone West Rotary Club (Tasmania) held their annual Wellbeing Expo and Gala Dinner to raise awareness and promote ways of building personal health. Australian Rotary Health gratefully received $4,000 in donations.
Ray White North Ryde/Macquarie Park have won the corporate challenge trophy for the last 3 years.
NORTH RYDE FUN RUN - SUNDAY AUGUST 28, 2016 Rotarians from North Ryde and Macquarie Park (NSW) had a goal to raise $10,000 for their second annual North Ryde Fun Run, but the event was such a tremendous success, they ended up exceeding the mark and raising $16,695! There were 361 entrants, 50 sponsors and volunteers and a portion of the proceeds went to youth mental health and treatment programs through ARH. Ray White North Ryde/Macquarie Park were the winners for this year’s event.
Above: Rotary Club of Ulverstone West member Lindsay Morgan at the ARH stand with the Mayor of Central Coast, North West Tasmania, Jan Bonde.
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FUNDRAISING AND EVENTS L-R: Rotary Tasmania district governor Gerard Blizzard and West Tamar Rotarians David Annear and Kerry Scurrah celebrating Hat Day.
Photo by Hamish Geale
HAT DAY - FRIDAY OCTOBER 7, 2016
Rotarian collecting for Hat Day at Gosford Train Station.
On October 7, 2016, Rotary Clubs and organisations across Australia put on a hat, gathered their friends, and raised money for mental health research. Some even took their enthusiasm out
to the community, setting up awareness tables, mental health and wellbeing fairs, and collecting donations at their local train station.
AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH WINE, FOOD, AND MUSIC RACE DAY - SUNDAY OCTOBER 9, 2016 The day out at Hawkesbury Race Course NSW is always a fun one and this time 270 people showed up in their Sunday best for a bit of food, wine, and
horse racing. Australian Rotary Health received $16,000 in donations to fund research scholarships and programs.
Greg Ross (middle) with 3AW host Neil Mitchell (left) and comedian and entertainer Brian Nankervis (right).
LIFT THE LID ON MENTAL ILLNESS - FRIDAY OCTOBER 7, 2016 2016 marks the first year of Lift the Lid on Mental Illness. ARH Vice Chairman Greg Ross initially introduced the new campaign in Victoria, but now it is being rolled out Australia-wide. Local celebrities were happy to get involved and Rotary Clubs raised a lot of money for mental health research on the day. 36
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L-R: Laurie Shaw, Lynne Shaw, Strapper, Marie Davies, John Gollan (Hawkesbury Race Club Director), ARH Corporate Manager Terry Davies.
GOLF FOR RESEARCH - NOVEMBER 16, 2016 Teams of four made their way to Camden Lakeside Golf Course in November 2016 for our annual Golf for Research event. Players were very generous on the day, giving their spare change to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder research. The HomeWorld team were our winners for this event.
Friend of Mooloolaba Rotary Club Peter Ryan with fellow Walk for Mental Health participants.
WALK FOR MENTAL HEALTH - OCTOBER 16, 2016
Golf Day winners: HomeWorld team, L-R- Jason Rothall, Darren Touma (CEO Merit Homes), David Streichler (Alzheimer’s Association) & Terry Davies (Australian Rotary Health).
During Mental Health Month in October 2016, 155 people put on their walking shoes to take a stroll from Mooloolaba Surf Club to Maroochydore Surf Club for charity. They ended up raising $4,000 for Australian Rotary Health.
11TH CHARITY GOLF DAY - FEBRUARY 22, 2017 Early in 2017, another golf day was held at Riverside Oaks. It was a fantastic day for a game of golf. Our corporate team winners this time were from Sekisui House. Funds raised on the day were directed into research. The Stathbogie Saunter’s 'Team Corowa' - Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Corowa with their mobile catering trailer for the rides. L-R Neil Davis (road support), Ray Terrill, Graham Brown (ride coordinator), Margaret Brown (road support and ride coordinator).
THE “STRATHBOGIE SAUNTER” RIDE TO CONFERENCE 9790 - MARCH 11-16, 2017 25 cyclists and 5 on-road supporters from 14 Rotary Clubs in District 9790 put in 6 days solid riding for their 9th Annual Ride to Conference event. Cyclists rode 580 kilometres this year, travelling from Shepparton,
Victoria back to Shepparton via Wangaratta, Benalla, Euroa, Seymour and Heathcote. More than $13,600 has been raised for Australian Rotary Health from this event.
Golf Day winners: Sekisui House team, L-R - Oliver Roborgh, Craig Barnes, Craig Di Costa and Brent Thompson.
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FUNDRAISING AND EVENTS ROTARY RIDE FOR RESEARCH $$$$ ‘PUB TO PIER TOUR’ - 26-31 MARCH, 2017
RIDE THE RANGE 2017 - MARCH 26, 2017 Over 450 riders took part in the 7th annual Rotary Ride the Range event this year, with some even taking on the 100 mile challenge. Ride the Range is Toowoomba’s most popular community cycling event,
initiated by the Rotary Club of Toowoomba. The event has raised a significant amount of money for Australian Rotary Health research over the years.
After riding for more than 30 years, District 9810 are showing no signs of slowing down. In 2017, 23 riders embarked on the 700 kilometre ‘Pub to Pier Tour’ from Lancefield to Geelong, to raise money for research through Australian Rotary Health. Last year the District hit their $1 million milestone in total fundraising efforts. We also thank the late PP Rob Henry for his organisation of the rides over the years.
AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH WELLNESS EXPO IN HOBART - APRIL 1-2, 2017 The Australian Rotary Health Wellness Expo was held in Hobart in April 2017 and it was a tremendous success! Overall, we had a turnout of 1,500 people coming to visit the 98 health and wellbeing stalls. Our Corporate Manager Terry Davies also had some air time with Mick and Maria on Hobart FM! 38
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BANISH THE BLACK DOG CHARITY BIKE RIDE - MAY 27-28, 2017 Every year the Rotary Club of Townsville Central puts on the Banish the Black Dog Charity Bike Ride to raise awareness of mental health issues in the community and raise money for research. In 2017 140 riders got behind the event, raising over $64,000 for charities including Australian Rotary Health.
SIGNIFICANT SUPPORTERS Our supporters mean a lot to us and we would not be able to support anywhere near as much research without them. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to include
every single one of our supporters, but that does not mean you have gone unnoticed. We thank all Rotary Clubs, Districts and members of the public who
have contributed to our cause. Here is a snapshot of some of our significant supporters from 2016-2017.
ARH Chairman Jeff Crofts with ARH CEO Joy Gillett. Emil Weber with ARH CEO Joy Gillett.
Deidre Stack and PDG Laurie Barber.
Joy Cady, PDG George Cady, and daughter Amanda with ARH CEO Joy Gillett. L-R: Blagojce Jovcevski, Taylor-Jai McAlister, Louise Birrell, Tonelle Handley and PP Keith Henning of the Rotary Club of Parramatta City.
JEFF CROFTS ARH Chairman Jeff Crofts was named a Ruby Companion for his generous support of Australian Rotary Health over the years. We thank Jeff for his continuous dedication. THE LATE JOAN ELIZABETH SWANSON In December 2016, PDG George Cady, his wife Joy and daughter Amanda presented ARH CEO Joy Gillett OAM with a very generous cheque on behalf of the Late Joan Elizabeth Swanson, who passed away earlier that year. Joan suffered migraines for much of her 81 years of life, and had requested in her will that we put this donation towards migraine research. We are very thankful to Joan and hope we will be able to make a real difference.
EMIL WEBER ARH CEO Joy Gillett OAM visited the Rotary Club of Caringbah in April, 2017 to present Club member Emil Weber with a Diamond Companion certificate. We are extremely appreciative of Emil's generous contributions to Australian Rotary Health. DEIDRE STACK Deidre Stack was presented a Companion Award by former ARH board member PDG Laurie Barber in March 2017. She has raised more than $59,000 for a PhD scholarship into kidney research. This is a fantastic effort.
ROTARY CLUB OF PARRAMATTA CITY Each year the Rotary Club of Parramatta City invites PhD Scholars to present their research findings. In March 2017, we were inspired by special guests Louise Birrell (Funding Partner PhD Scholarship), Blagojce Jovcevski (Funding Partner PhD Scholarship), Tonelle Handley (Postdoctoral Fellowship), Siobhan Loughnan (Funding Partner PhD Scholarship) and Taylor-Jai McAlister (Indigenous Health Scholarship), who shared their research and future ambitions with us.
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ROTARY CLUB OF WOY WOY
ROTARY CLUB OF EAST PERTH
The Rotary Club of Woy Woy donated $40,000 to charity organisations, including Australian Rotary Health, following their Opera in the Arboretum event in April 2017. CHERYL DEGUARA
IAN AND HEATHER YARKER
The former Rotary Club of East Perth made the decision to donate over $220,000 left over from their Club fund to Australian Rotary Health. The money has now been deposited into interest accounts and will be used towards Indigenous health projects.
We have received strong support from Ian and Heather Yarker this year in organising the Muster for Mental Health event. They were recently presented a certificate for their efforts and contribution to the Ian Scott Challenge.
At the Change-Over meeting of the Rotary Club of Parramatta City in June 2017, Cheryl Deguara from Australian Rotary Health was presented as a Companion of ARH to acknowledge the work Cheryl has done not only for Australian Rotary Health, but for the Rotary Club of Parramatta City and Rotary District 9675.
Above: ARH CEO Joy Gillett with Cheryl Deguara.
Back L-R: Rotary Club of Woy Woy President Vic Deeble, PDG Graeme Davies (ARH), John Mazaroli (RYSS), John Greenway (Event organiser) Front: PDG David Rands (Rotary Foundation) and DG 9685 Bruce Lakin.
L-R: Ian Yarker, Heather Yarker and ARH CEO Joy Gillett at Darwin Institute 2017.
Former Rotary Club of East Perth L-R: Robin Arndt, Mike Penny, Robyn Penny, Brian Bonser, Charlie Russo, Merilyn Adamson, Colin Thorniley, Jude Crawford, Kerry Derksen, Fred Joslin.
BECOME A ‘FRIEND’ OR ‘COMPANION’ OF AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH Individual donations you make are accumulative You become a
‘FRIEND’ when your total donations reach $100
You become a
‘COMPANION’ when your donations reach $5,000
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You become a
You become a
You become a
You become a
‘BRONZE FRIEND’
‘SILVER FRIEND’
‘PLATINUM FRIEND’
‘DIAMOND FRIEND’
when your donations reach $500
when your donations reach $1,000
when your donations reach $2,000
for total donations of $2,500 or more
You become a
You become a
You become an
You become a
‘DIAMOND ‘GOLD ‘RUBY ‘EMERALD COMPANION’ COMPANION’ COMPANION’ COMPANION’ when your donations reach $10,000
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when your donations reach $20,000
when your donations reach $50,000
when your donations reach $100,000
COMPANIONS & AMBASSADORS Australian Rotary Health would like to thank our generous Companions and also our Life Members, Ambassadors and Patrons for their role in sustaining our organisation. DIAMOND CAMPANIONS The Beslich Family The Late Les Whitcroft AM The Late Lorraine & Bruce McKenzie The Late Fred Barbagallo The Henning Family The Koo Family Mavis & Bill Jennings OAM Emil Weber Terence Orr Memorial Fund Daniel Holzapfel CORPORATE DIAMOND COMPANIONS The Baker Foundation EMERALD COMPANIONS Don Stein AM Sally Fletcher Cliff Hoare Ken Schilling Geoff Kellerman AO Garry Browne AM Robyn Browne Dorothea Gordon Craig Alford The Late Joan Elizabeth Swanson CORPORATE EMERALD COMPANIONS Pratt Foundation The Pantry Brighton, Vic. Winnebago Industries
RUBY COMPANIONS Phil Asker Margaret & Peter Waite Athalie Lucas The Late Geoffrey Betts AM The Late Valda Mary Kynnersley The Late Arthur R Hawke Brian Lanyon Ted Atkinson The Late Fred Hay George Dee Jennifer Thomas AM Brian Goldstraw John Ellis Margaret Dean The Late Doug & Alys Beasy Sharon Green Dr David Squirrell Joe Scorer
Heather, Brian & Graham Beesley Mark Hancock Ron G Geary Ian Graham John Keating Elgin Brown Ernst Hug Bev & Bill Richardson Garry Fenner Alan & Maisie Grady Peter Lewis Brian Condon Jeff Crofts CORPORATE RUBY COMPANIONS Akubra Marsdens Law Group Woolworths, Safeway Caltex Toyota Motor Sales Shimano Australia McDonald’s Australia Trek Bicycles Australia Hansen Yuncken Harvey Norman Beyondblue Genesys Wealth Advisors Co-ordinated Landscapes Masterton Homes Camden Hire The Denlo Group Angostura Microsoft Woodside Don Stein Group Parramatta City Council Stuart Alexander & Co Pace Farm HomeWorld Pepe’s Ducks PATRONS His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) GovernorGeneral of the Commonwealth of Australia Glen Kinross AO RI President 1997 to 1998 Sir Clem Renouf AM RI President 1978 to 1979 LIFE MEMBERS PDG Ted Atkinson PDG Ron Beslich OAM PDG Jeff Crofts PDG Bruce Edwards AM
PDG Terry Edwards AM PP David Finn PP Joy Gillett OAM PP Don Gordon PDG Alan Grady PDG Terry Grant PDG Denis Green PDG Des Jones PDG Don Keighran PDG Terry Lees PDG Fred Marsh PDG Ian Oliver OAM PDG John Ranieri Professor Michael Sawyer OAM RID Noel Trevaskis OAM PDG Don Whatham PDG Dick White OAM We respectfully acknowledge the service of Life Members PRIP Royce Abbey AO, DCM PP Loch Adams OAM PDG Leon Becker AM PDG Geoffrey Betts AM PDG Colin Dodds PP John Harley PDG Fred Hay PDG Bruce McKenzie OAM PDG Clair Rogers PP Ian Scott PDG John Feros OAM PDG Geoffrey Stevens OAM PDG Les Whitcroft AM who are sadly no longer with us. MEDAL RECIPIENTS Melvin Gray – 2017 Keith Henning – 2016 David & Karen Brown – 2015 Dean Brown – 2014 Robert Aitken OAM – 2014 Geoff Bailey OAM (deceased) – 2013 Joy Gillett OAM – 2013 Rob Henry (deceased) – 2012 Peter Lean – 2011 Ron Beslich OAM – 2010 Geoff Kennedy (deceased) – 2009 Dick White OAM – 2008 Professor Tony Jorm – 2007 Paul Henningham OAM – 2006 Phil Francis – 2005 Noel Trevaskis OAM – 2004 Michael Sawyer OAM – 2003 Fay Jackson – 2003 Fred Hay (deceased) – 2003 Loch Adams OAM (deceased) – 2003
ROTARY AMBASSADORS Central Region Terry Edwards AM Ian Oliver OAM Allan Wilson Dick Wilson Northern Region Jeff Crofts John Gough Peter Kaye Mel Langley Terry Lees Russ O’Malley Rob Wylie Southern Region Terry Grant Patrick Hartley Des Jones Judy Nettleton Ron Pickford Graeme Woolacott OAM Eastern Region Phil Armstrong Bob Aitken AM Laurie Barber John Egan Alan Grady Denis Green Melvin Gray Tony Hennessy Paul Henningham OAM Nevin Hughes OAM Don Keighran Barney Koo Phil Lacey Harold Sharp Noel Trevaskis OAM Don Whatham Dick White OAM Peter Williams Western Region Graham Brown Phil Cordery Fred Marsh John Ranieri Colin Thorniley ARH AMBASSADORS Michael Klim OAM Lisa Sthalekar Craig Hamilton David “Big Dave” Foster John Konrads Mike Bailey Miss Helena John Brogden AM Simon Gillard
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Research
Scholarships
Education
AUSTRALIAN ROTARY HEALTH PO Box 3455 Parramatta NSW 2124
Phone 02 8837 1900
admin@arh.org.au
www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au
ABN: 52 006 119 964
Awareness