The 2025 RWAV Conference is brought to you by the Rural Workforce Agency Victoria.
Join us as we bring together health professionals, service leaders, and policymakers to tackle the most pressing challenges in rural and regional healthcare. This year promises to inspire and drive impactful discussions and solutions.
Wednesday, 19 February to Friday, 21 February 2025
All Seasons Bendigo
Highlights from the 2025 RWAV Conference
Thank you to our Premium Sponsor: Family Doctorâ
And to all of our other proud sponsors of the 2025 RWAV Conference
And our 2025 RWAV Conference Partners
RWAV Conference Main theme
Dreaming Big and Driving Change in Rural Healthcare
RWAV Conference Sub themes
Policy Perspectives and Opportunities
Embracing Data and Technology
Working Together, Designing and Innovating for Workforce Sustainability
Networking Opportunities
The RWAV Conference offers a unique opportunity to come together with your colleagues for two engaging days filled with inspiring presentations, thought-provoking discussions, and valuable networking experiences.
On the evening of Thursday, February 20th, 2025, the RWAV Conference Networking and Celebration Dinner will further enhance these connections. It will provide an inviting social atmosphere where you can deepen conversations with peers while enjoying a meal of locally sourced produce.
Â
For those arriving on Wednesday, 19th February 2025, a networking drinks event offers the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded attendees and kick off the conference
Join us in Bendigo and be a part of the future of rural healthcare!
WHY ATTEND?
Engage with Experts: Learn from leading voices in healthcare policy, technology, and workforce sustainability.
Network: Connect with peers, industry leaders, and policymakers to expand your professional network.
Innovate: Discover cutting-edge solutions and strategies to address rural healthcare challenges.
Collaborate: Participate in workshops and discussions designed to foster collaboration and innovation.
Key Highlights
Inspiring Keynotes:Â Hear from renowned speakers who are shaping the future of rural healthcare.
Â
Interactive Workshops:Â Engage in hands-on sessions that provide practical insights and skills.
Â
Networking Opportunities:Â Enjoy dedicated networking sessions, including a cocktail event and a networking dinner.
Â
Exhibition Space: Explore the latest from leading healthcare organisations.
Secure Your Spot Today!
RWAV Conference Program
Program Participants
Ainsleigh Whelan - [Abstract]
Ainsleigh Whelan
Executive Manager of the Support, Therapy, Education and Prevention
Gippsland Lakes Complete Health (GLCH)
As a registered Occupational Therapist, Ainsleigh has worked rurally in both the hospital and community health sectors. More recently in a senior leadership role, Ainsleigh is leading workforce and service models that overcome challenges faced by rural and regional allied health teams.
Ainsleigh has held project lead roles, including the âPaediatric Projectâ which enhanced access to paediatric services across the Wellington and East Gippsland LGAâs and âAllied Health Assistant implementation projectâ, which included participation from health services across East Gippsland LGA.
Ainsleigh has been closely working in partnership with Federation University in the development of the GLCH Allied Health Cadetship program which aims to establish an Allied Health workforce pipeline into East Gippsland. Ainsleigh, like many rural school leavers, relocated to Melbourne approximately four hours from her home town, to access and study Occupational Therapy and sees great value in the benefits of investing in strategies that aim to keep local students in the area.
Ainsleigh has a passion for developing and implementing innovative service models which support timely access to services. These include the use of interdisciplinary workforce, support workforce and clinic focused models of care at GLCH.
Anna Love - [Panel]
Anna Love
Executive Director, Clinical and Professional Leadership Unit (CPLU) and Chief Mental Health Nurse
Safer Care Victoria
Anna was appointed Victoriaâs Chief Mental Health Nurse in 2015 and comes with experience across mental health and addictions medicine, having trained and worked in the UK before moving to Australia. Annaâs vision is to ensure we have a skilled, valued, and nurtured mental health nursing workforce. In 2022, Anna was additionally appointed as Executive Director of the Clinical and Professional Leadership Unit within Safer Care Victoria.
Anna is the executive sponsor of the Mental Health Improvement Program, leading significant reform and improvement projects in response to the Royal Commission into Victoriaâs Mental Health System. Anna provides expert advice on quality and safety matters to the CEO of Safer Care Victoria and the Department of Health. As Executive Director, Anna oversees and supports the work of Victoriaâs Chief Clinical Officers.
Cr Andrea Metcalf - [Opening Address]
Cr Andrea Metcalf
Mayor
City of Greater Bendigo
Andrea is returning for her third term on Council. She is focused on good governance and looks forward to providing some continuity to the Council team, as the only returning Councillor for the 2024-2028 term.
Her interests include flood and waste management and policy development that supports Councilâs good decision-making on behalf of the community.
She is excited to participate in community engagement to develop the new Council Plan. Prior to joining Council, Andrea enjoyed a long career with Centrelink.
Adj A/Prof. Belinda O'Sullivan â[Keynote]
Adj A/Prof Belinda O'Sullivan
Rural health strategy, research, evaluation and co-design
Adj A/Prof Belinda O’Sullivan is a rural workforce researcher with a focus on rural systems policy and strategy. Her PhD involved undertaking Australiaâs first systematic study of outreach models by specialist doctors. She went on to explore sustainable regional specialist hubs and primary healthcare models. She has learnt a great deal about data and technology and its use for rural health system decision-making from her experience in the MABEL research team, at GPSA, the Office of the National Rural Health Commissioner, the Monash and UQ medical programs and Murray PHN. She recently completed independent evaluations of the Victorian Rural Generalist Program and the RVTS and is currently collaborating around effective professional support models for rural and remote doctors, specifically International Medical Graduates.
Dr. Brad Hodge - [Abstract]
Dr. Brad Hodge
Project Coordinator Rural Health Innovation Lab
La Trobe University
Dr. Brad Hodge is an academic and expert in designing transformative learning experiences that equip students to tackle real-world challenges with confidence and skill. With a background in psychology, behaviour change, and community engagement, he leverages research-driven insights to create highly interactive, collaborative environments that inspire deep learning and engagement. Dr. Hodge specialises in group facilitation, leadership, and project-based learning, incorporating innovative approaches that empower students to apply their knowledge to practical situations. Known for his creative and impactful teaching methods, he has developed and led programs that foster teamwork, communication, and design thinking, preparing students to make meaningful contributions in community health, innovation, and beyond. His work often bridges the academic and community sectors, with a focus on health and rural development. Dr. Hodgeâs commitment to impactful learning has positioned him as a sought-after leader in educational design and facilitation.
Bree Jeffery - [Co-presenter]
Bree Jeffery
Occupational Therapist Coordinator - Complex and Integrated Care
Murray PHN
Mrs Bree Jeffery is the Coordinator â Integration and Complex Care with Murray Primary Health Network, supporting vulnerable cohorts to access the right care, in the right place, at the right time. An occupational therapist living and working in the Yorta Yorta and Taungurung Country of regional Victoria for the past 18 years, she has a strong commitment to inclusive practice, person centred care and evidence base practice.
Dr. Bianca Forrester - [Co-presenter]
Dr. Bianca Forrester
(She/her), MBBS (Hons), FRACGP, Grad Dip Adolescent Health & Wellbeing (UoM)
PhD candidate Centre for Healthcare Resilience and Implementation Science Australian Institute of Health Innovation (AIHI) Senior Lecturer/GP Academic Department of General Practice and Primary care University of Melbourne, Melbourne Australia Industry PhD Candidate/Clinical Lead of Innovation and Learning, Western Victoria Primary Health Network, Victoria, Australia
Dr Bianca Forrester is a regional GP specialising in Youth Health, Systems Change Facilitation and Design. As an Industry-based PhD candidate, she is developing an evaluation framework for a Learning Health System model co-designed with the Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN). Her thesis will explore the use of routinely collected clinical data for learning and improvement. Dr Forrester is a Senior lecturer at the Department of General Practice and Primary care at the University of Melbourne, leading clinical training program for GPs and nurses, and serves as the Clinical Lead of Innovation and Learning at WVPHN. She also contributes to mental health reform through the Barwon Southwest Interim Regional Body and advisory roles in womenâs and youth health.
Â
Dallas Widdicombe â[Keynote]
Dallas Widdicombe
Chief Executive Officer
Bendigo & District Aboriginal Co-operative (BDAC)
Dallas Widdicombe, a proud Dharug man, is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative (BDAC). He holds a Bachelor of Social Work and an Advanced Diploma of Business (Governance). Throughout his career, Dallas has held senior leadership roles within Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCO) across Victoria and Western Australia.
Notably, Dallas spent seven years in the remote Western Australian community of Balgo, where he held various leadership positions, including CEO of the Wirrimanu Aboriginal Corporation. Since joining BDAC nine years ago, he has held senior leadership positions, initially as the Executive Director of the Medical Clinic and Family & Community Services teams, before his appointment as CEO in 2022. In this role, Dallas continues to champion initiatives that strengthen the health, wellbeing, and self-determination of our Community.
Dallasâs leadership and influence extends across regional, state and national levels through his membership on key representative and advisory bodies. He is a Board member of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and is the Deputy Chairperson of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO). Additionally, he is the Chairperson of the Loddon Mallee Aboriginal Reference Group (LMARG), a collaboration of ACCOs in northwestern Victoria.
Prof. Grant Phelps
Prof. Grant Phelps
Board Chair
RWAV
Grant is a retired physician and gastroenterologist whose specialist clinical practice was in regional and rural Victoria. In the latter part of his career, Grant moved into management and leadership roles at organisational and system level, with a focus on clinical quality and clinical engagement. Having worked for government in several jurisdictions, through this, Grant has held leadership roles in the national safety and quality agenda, and has also held major professional level roles including a 2-year period as President of the Adult Division of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians from 2016â18. Grant teaches clinical governance with a focus on helping healthcare boards and executive teams understand this critical aspect of their work, and consults to organisations on their clinical governance and clinical leadership. Grant is an experienced and qualified board director, having attained Fellowship of the Australian Institute of Company Directors in 2018, and currently chairs a major sporting organisation.
Prof. Jane Mills â [Keynote]
Prof. Jane Mills
Pro Vice Chancellor Health Innovation (Regional) and Dean
La Trobe Rural Health School
Professor Jane Mills is the Pro Vice Chancellor Health Innovation (Regional) and Dean, La Trobe Rural Health School. She is one of Australiaâs most experienced primary healthcare academics having led and managed teams in both government and tertiary sectors. With a research portfolio focused on rural health, health workforce, health system strengthening and nursing education, Professor Mills is considered one of Australiaâs top researchers in nursing.
A recipient of an Australian Government Office of Learning and Teaching National Citation for Outstanding Contribution to Learning and Teaching for teaching research; Professor Mills has a reputation as an excellent higher degree research supervisor across several disciplines including public health, dentistry, nursing, midwifery, pharmacy, allied health, and social work. Leading the LRHS as Dean allows Professor Mills to fulfill her career vision to contribute to a just society by fostering research and graduates that make a positive difference.
Professor Mills believes education and research are powerful vehicles for positive change in rural Australia and is stated that she privileged to lead an outstanding team of academics and professional staff who are passionately committed to the regions. Professor Mills is a dynamic and collaborative leader and continues to develop relationships to deliver innovation in Health teaching, research, and community impact.
Dr. Jason Nebbs - [Rural Insights]
Dr. Jason Nebbs
Emergency Physician, Deputy Director Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), Director of Workforce Operations VVED
Jason undertook his ED training predominantly in regional centers around Queensland then worked as an Emergency & Retrieval Physician for >5 years in Townsville before relocating to Melbourne in 2010.
Since 2010 he has worked clinically in both Public and Private Emergency Departments in Melbourne, including 4 years as the Regional EMET Clinical Lead for Monash Health.
Since becoming a state-wide service in 2022, Jason has overseen the VVED workforce growth to meet the demands of seeing almost 200,000 patients/year.
Prof. Jenny May AM - [Interview]
Prof. Jenny May AM
National Rural Health Commissioner
Australian Government
Professor Jenny May AM has been passionate about rural health since her first rural medical student placement in 1980 and then as a trainee rural doctor at Tamworth Hospital in 1985.
Professor Mayâs vast and extensive knowledge working across Australia and internationally has provided multiple opportunities to contribute through research on health workforce matters. She now calls Tamworth home and has had the incredible privilege to live and work with her doctor husband and family in a number of remote and regional locations.
Professor May holds fellowships with RACGP and ACRRM and has extensive experience in clinical practice, research, education and rural health advocacy. In 2016 she was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to community health in rural and regional areas, as a general practitioner, member of professional medical groups, and as an educator.
With over 35 years of working and supporting rural, regional and remote healthcare, her appointment as the third National Rural Health Commissioner has been widely welcomed.
Julie Cairns - [Co-presenter]
Julie Cairns
Operations Manager Family Services
Ballarat Community Health Services
Julieâs commitment to social justice, and to contributing to communities that support the health and wellbeing of everyone, has taken her on an interesting and rewarding journey across about 25 years. She has worked in a range of health and community service roles in central Melbourne and regional Victoria. Moving from direct service delivery work as a Social Worker at the start of her career into community development, program and project management and executive roles has cultivated a broad range of skills and experiences. Julie is passionate about supporting health and community service organisations to be responsive to the communityâs needs, and to think creatively and intentionally about how person-centred services are provided. Julie has an interest in building partnership approaches between services providers, and with community members, recognising that collaboration enhances outcomes.
Dr. Ka Chun Tse - [Co-presenter]
Dr. Ka Chun Tse
Director of Medical Services
Kyabram District Health Service, Dhelkaya Health, NCN Health and Rochester & Elmore District Health Service.
Dr. Ka Chun Tse is a medical graduate of Melbourne University (2002), and holds postgraduate qualifications in Master of Public Health (UNSW 2010), Master of Health Management (UNSW 2010), Fellowship of the Australian College of Health Service Management (2014) and Graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors (2018).
He has worked in clinical, medical workforce, health education and quality & risk management roles, prior to working as a medical executive since 2010 in the Gippsland, Hume, Loddon Mallee and Grampians regions. He is currently Director of Medical Services at Kyabram District Health Service, Dhelkaya Health, NCN Health and Rochester & Elmore District Health Service.
Kara Di Dio - [Panel]
Kara Di Dio
Director and Speech Pathologist
Kara Di Dio Speech Pathology
Kara Di Dio is a dedicated speech pathologist and the owner of a pediatric speech pathology clinic. With a lifelong commitment to rural health, she has worked extensively in regional areas to improve access to quality services.
Kara holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Speech Pathology) from Charles Sturt University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Autism Studies from Griffith University. Passionate about early intervention, Kara founded The Dazzle, a neurodivergent preschool group program supporting young children’s communication and social development.
Beyond clinical work, Kara actively supports student placements, helping to shape the next generation of speech pathologists and encourage employment within the local area. Kara’s focus remains on delivering innovative, evidence-based therapy to children and families in her local community.
Kate Temby
Kate Temby
General Manager, Strategy and Partnerships
Rural Workforce Agency Victoria (RWAV)
Kate is a Registered Nurse highly experienced in health promotion and project management. Her people and program management skills enable her to be agile and adaptable while maintaining an outcomes focus on improving quality access to primary healthcare. Kateâs extensive experience working with all levels of government, the community and stakeholders across the sector have provided her with insights into the challenges rural communities and health professionals face. With her strengths in strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement and collaborative partnerships, Kate has led the design and delivery of many innovative and strategic health promotion and grants programs, supporting better access to health services, health information and activities across communities. Whilst at RWAV, Kate has led the transformation of the RWAV grants program, enhanced the administration of a number of programs and developed the RWAV allied health portfolio. She has also led the development of the RWAV research program of activities. Having worked at RWAV since 2020, Kate will continue positively influencing the rural healthcare workforce and access to services.
Kate Thwaites - [Panel]
Kate Thwaites
Deputy Chief Mental Health Nurse and Director of the Mental Health Improvement Program
Safer Care Victoria
Kellie OâCallaghan - [Panel]
Kellie OâCallaghan
Chair of Mental Health and Wellbeing Interim Regional Body - Gippsland
Victorian Department of Health
Kellie is a respected leader in health, community services, and governance, with a strong commitment to lived experience and community-informed engagement. She has served as Chair of a Regional Health Service Board, is the Chair of Gippslandâs Mental Health and Wellbeing Interim Regional Body and she has been a director on state and federal boards and committees.
Driven by her own health consumer experience, Kellie is a champion for patients, carers, and communities. In her private practice, she provides board, strategy, and governance advice, helping organisations build trusted, engaged networks. She contributes as an Advisory to the Australian Medical Council, Monash School of Medicine, and Alfred Health TrialHub.Â
Kellie recently concluded 16 years of service in Local Government and was recognised as Mayor Emeritus in 2024 and is the Chair of Regional Development Australia Gippsland. Kellie was the inaugural recipient of the RWAV Outstanding Contribution by A Rural Health Consumer award.
Â
Lauren Cordwell
Lauren Cordwell
CEO
Rural Workforce Agency Victoria (RWAV)
Lauren Cordwell is the Chief Executive Officer at RWAV. Lauren has been an integral part of the RWAV team since 2018, demonstrating a remarkable strategic vision to improve access to health care in rural Victoria. As an experienced senior executive and health policy analyst, she is committed to finding practical solutions to address the challenges preventing communities in rural Australia from accessing affordable and safe healthcare. For over 20 years, Lauren has designed and implemented innovative programs with communities, health professionals and government agencies that continue to have a lasting benefit. Many of these programs relate to primary healthcare, general practice, workforce, First Peopleâs health and community engagement.
Prof. Lena Sanci â [Keynote]
Prof. Lena Sanci
Head of Department of General Practice and Primary Care
University of Melbourne
Professor Lena Sanci (MBBS, PhD, FRACGP, Dip. RANZCOG) is an academic GP and Head of the Department of General Practice and Primary Care at The University of Melbourne. Her specific research interests are in improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people through primary care and educational or workplace settings. She chairs the Victorian Research and Education Network (VicREN) of over 600 general practices with a commitment to advance primary care through research and teaching the next generation of health professionals. Professor Sanci is the co-lead of the APPRISE network Long Covid Initiative and the first Chief GP Advisor to the Victorian Department of Health. She is also medical advisor and clinical training lead for the Victorian Doctors in Secondary Schools Program. She has experience in technological innovations for decision support and to improve adolescent health care. She works clinically at Sexual Health Victoria in Melbourne.
Â
Linda Govan - [Abstract]
Linda Govan
Health Care Solutions Program Manager
Building Nurse Capacity, Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA)
Linda Govan is a Registered Nurse with further qualifications in Public Health and Health Administration. Linda has a broad range of experience across the health sector, with a focus on primary healthcare settings. As Program Manager of APNAâs Building Nurse Capacity program, Lindaâs focus is on implementing a program that seeks to support the development nurse clinic models of care. This includes undertaking a comprehensive evaluation to understand the factors that support the delivery of efficient and effective nurse-led models. Linda is co-author on 2 papers focused on nurse clinics in primary care, published in 2024.
Dr. Louise Manning - [Interview]
Dr. Louise Manning
RWAV Board Member, President of RDAV
Louise is a rural GP obstetrician practising in a number of locations across Central Victoria where she delivers general practice, obstetric and sexual health services. After growing up in a small town, she has lived experience of the difficulties of accessing healthcare in rural and regional areas, and is dedicated to advocating for equitable health outcomes, regardless of geography. In addition to her clinical duties, she undertakes consulting, medical education and advocacy work. She is also a non-executive director and the current President of the RDAV. Louise recently returned to study in 2024 and is undertaking a Masters of Public Health through The University of Melbourne.
Dr. Louise Reynolds - [Panel]
Dr. Louise Reynolds
Chief Paramedic Officer
Safer Care Victoria
Dr Louise Reynolds comes to SCV with national and international experience as a Registered Paramedic, researcher, and academic educator. Currently she is Associate Professor in Paramedicine and Course Chair at Victoria University, which she continues to collaborate in prehospital systems research and education.
Louise is a keen advocate for increased visibility and acceptance of paramedics and paramedicine as a safe, viable and available workforce, seamlessly integrated into the wider healthcare system. She is passionate about targeted health care reform to ensure that we get the right care to the right person at the right time. She believes that realisation of this model of care means supporting the available workforce to expand their scope of practice while delivering safe, quality, equitable healthcare.
Mandy Hutchinsonâ[Keynote]
Mandy Hutchinson
CEO
Bendigo Community Health Services
Currently CEO at Bendigo Community Health Services, reporting to a Board of Directors, Mandy has oversight of a budget of $25 million with ultimate responsibility for over 280 staff. BCHS services include child and family services, settlement and multicultural services, allied health, nursing, counselling and mental health, youth services, health promotion, primary care, alcohol and other drugs support, menâs and womenâs health (sexual and reproductive health) across multiple local government areas.
Mandy is an experienced community health executive, having been CEO at Northern District Community Health for 6 years. Along with community health experience, Mandy was Director Community Wellbeing at Gannawarra Shire Council overseeing complex funding and stakeholder relationships during significant periods of growth and change.
Mandy is an advocate for improving health and wellbeing outcomes for regional and rural communities utilising a place-based service development approach coupled with research designed to influence much needed community sector change.
Marianne Shearer - [Abstract]
Marianne Shearer
Senior Associate Consultant
Larter Consulting
Marianne is an experienced healthcare leader with over 30 years’ in governance, primary health and aged care reforms, and health administration. As an accomplished board director (Omeo District Health, Royal Flying Doctor Service Victoria), she excels in:
- Clinical Leadership: 20+ years developing general practice training programs, and implementing quality and clinical governance standards for integrated, sustainable health services.
- Healthcare Innovation: Focus on cultural leadership, change management, and integrated care models. Passionate about digital health and community-centered solutions.
- Research & Collaboration: Extensive experience in translational research, data-driven approaches, and working with diverse communities and services using feedback to build trust and partnership.
- Consulting & Advisory: Supports non-profits, health services, and general practices through strategic planning, economical modelling, workforce reviews, clinical governance development and program evaluations.
Previously CEO of Gippsland Primary Health Network and Chair of Community College Gippsland, Marianne is a recognised leader in improving healthcare access and outcomes.
Matt Jones - [Rural Insights]
Matt Jones
Chief Executive Officer
Murray Primary Health Network Chair, National PHN Executive Committee
Matthew Graceâ - [Panel]
Matthew Grace
Director of Nursing, Mental Health and Wellbeing
Albury Wodonga Health
Dr. Mehdi Sanatipour OAM - [Abstract]
Dr. Medhi Sanatipour OAM
Medical Director, GP supervisor
Sunraysia Medical Centre
After working in Melbourne hospitals for 2 years, Dr Mehdi Sanatipour completed his GP training in Mildura in 2011. Following further training, he received FARGP in mental health and more recently Rural Generalist award. Dr Mehdi has been involved in local, and ethnic, communities though community-based health assessments, blood donation campaign, refugee health clinics, menâs health week programs and vaccination clinics for CALD communities. He supervises GP registrars and junior doctors and has published practice based clinical studies. Dr Mehdi was awarded RACGP, GP registrar of the year in 2011, GP of the year in 2016 and AMA excellence in health care award in 2014. He is the recipient of Medal of Order of Australia (OAM) for services to medicine and community in 2017. Dr Mehdi continues to work at Red Cliffs, near Mildura. He is married with 2 children.
Dr. Michael M Veal - [Panel]
Dr. Michael M Veal
Dr. Michael Veal is a fellow of ACRRMÂ and has been in the goldfields area for the last 21 years. Over the last five years Michael has experienced selling a practice, opening a new practice and also working in the UCC environment. This recent experience across a range of practice models leaves him more puzzled than ever.
Dr. Nerida Hyett - [Abstract]
Dr. Nerida Hyett
Acting Director of Integrated Projects and Partnerships
Murray PHN
Dr. Nerida Hyett is the Acting Director of Integrated Projects and Partnerships at Murray PHN and is a lead researcher on the Innovative Model of Care trial called the Buloke Loddon Gannawarra Sustainable Rural Healthcare Hubs. Nerida is committed to rural health equity and building sustainable rural health systems. Her research is focused on improving rural health through consumer and community participation and systems change. She is an occupational therapist with clinical experience in community alcohol and other drug and mental health services and has adjunct positions with La Trobe Rural Health School and Monash Rural Health.
Nikhil Patinge - [Rural Insights]
Nikhil Patinge
Director
Whole of Victorian Government (WoVG) Digital Integration Services
Nola Andrews - [Panel]
Nola Andrews
Volunteer Consumer Advocate
Mansfield District Health
Nola Andrews has been a pivotal member of Mansfield District Hospitalâs consumer representative group for over 7 years. She brings her lived experience as a consumer, and carer to her roles on the Safety & Quality Committee and Community Advisory Committee, where she actively contributes to various initiatives.
Nolaâs passion for quality resident-centred aged care extends to her involvement at the Bindaree Nursing Home and Buckland House. She also represents consumers at regional forums and serves on the Hume Health Partnership Steering Committee.
Patrick Quinlan - [Abstract]
Patrick Quinlan
Data Analyst
Monash University
Patrick Quinlan is a dedicated data analyst specialising in data management, presentation, and analysis for rural health at Monash University. With a strong focus on leveraging relational databases, Patrick consolidates information from various stages of the university student cycle, providing valuable insights to enhance outcomes in rural communities. His work supports the development of a sustainable and skilled rural health workforce, ensuring that vital resources and healthcare services reach underserved areas.
Patrickâs expertise includes synthesizing complex datasets, identifying key trends, and delivering actionable recommendations. His technical acumen spans database systems, analytics tools, and advanced reporting techniques, enabling him to communicate impactful stories through data. Passionate about rural health, Patrick collaborates with diverse stakeholders to inform strategy and policy, driving positive change across regional Australia. His work reflects a commitment to improving health equity and creating long-lasting solutions for the future of rural healthcare.
Penelope Smith - [Abstract]
Penny Smith
Volunteer research advisor â
Wingaru Education
Penelope (Penny) is a Filipino Australian able bodied cis woman, born on Biripai land (Taree, NSW) now resident in Beechworth. Penelope is a qualified educator (Secondary and Higher Education) who completed her Masters of Public Health (MPH) in social health at the University of Melbourne. She has extensive experience in Public Health research and education in Australian universities and is a long-term member of the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA). With her commitment and passion for First Nations health, Penelope is a volunteer research advisor for the Aboriginal owned and led company Wingaru Education and was recently the Project Manager for the PHAA First Nations Collective Co-Design Project. Her presentation is on the project which is being conducted as part of her PhD candidature at the University of Tasmania.
Penny Wilkinson - [Co-presenter]
Penny Wilkinson
CEO
Northern District Community Health
NDCH welcomed Penny as its Chief Executive Officer in May 2024. Prior to that time, Penny held executive roles in the health sector for more than 10 years, where she was Executive Director for the COVID-19 Positive Pathways Program at the Victorian Department of Health and Director of Commissioning for Murray Primary Health Network. In both roles, what mattered most was timely access to quality health services close to home. She brings the lessons and insights from these roles to Northern District Community Health and is committed to improving access for traditionally underserviced areas and communities across rural Victoria.
Ravinder Kandra
Ravinder Kandra
Team Leader, Data and Analytics
Rural Workforce Agency Victoria (RWAV)
Rav Kandra is an Analytics and Reporting Manager at RWAV, where he oversees data analysis and reporting processes to ensure data-driven insights guide key business decisions. With over 19 years of experience in a variety of corporate environments, Rav has streamlined various data processes, built and designed models, and developed data robots using AI technology. He has also designed data governance frameworks and adapted to changes in government regulations, helping organisations streamline their data and reporting processes. Rav’s passion for creating automated data designs has been a key factor in his success. He has a strong analytical mindset and ability to assess situations from multiple perspectives.
Dr. Raymond Wen - [Abstract]
Dr. Raymond Wen
Chief Growth Officer and Medical Director of Primary Care Services
Telecare
Raymond graduated with honours from the University of Melbourne and subsequently worked at the Royal Melbourne Hospital (and associated rural hospitals) and the Royal Womenâs Hospital before embarking on a career in General Practice. He has held multiple advisory and committee roles involving primary care and Digital Health, including at North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network, Safer Care Victoria, Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in the past. He is a current practice owner. Outside of General Practice he is deeply involved in digital health and innovation. He is the Chief Growth Officer and Medical Director of Primary Care Services at Telecare. He is an Associate Fellow of the College of Health Service Management and a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Digital Health (FAIDH)
Dr. Ruth Hardman - [Abstract]
Dr. Ruth Hardman
Clinician-Researcher
Mildura
Dr Ruth Hardman BA BAppSc MSc MPH PhD is a clinician-researcher based in Mildura for the past 9 years. She is an Adjunct Associate Professor at La Trobe School of Rural Health with research interests in chronic disease and health equity. In her research role, she is implementing and evaluating the role of community paramedics in primary care as part of a federal govt Innovative Models of Care (IMOC) grant, in partnership with La Trobe University and McMaster University, Canada. She is also a titled pain physiotherapist with 25+ years of experience in interdisciplinary pain management, and works 2 days a week as the clinical lead of the pain rehabilitation service at Sunraysia Community Health Services.
Rebecca Meynell â [Keynote]
Rebecca Meynell
Director, Workforce Strategy
Victorian Department of Health
A/Prof. Shabna Rajapaksa - [Panel]
A/Prof. Shabna Rajapaksa
Deputy Director of Medical Student Education (co-subdean),
Rural Clinical School, University of Melbourne
Stacy Doan - [Panel]
Stacy Doan
Occupational Therapy Student Researcher
Deakin University
Stacy Doan is a high-achieving occupational therapy student researcher in her Honours research year, with diverse clinical experience as an allied health assistant in residential geriatrics, community-based and clinic-based paediatrics programs. Through her caseload, Stacy has supported aging adults with complex acute and chronic needs, and paediatrics with autism and intellectual disabilities. Stacy has also presented in various health conferences, including the 15th National Allied Health Conference 2024 in Mildura, Youth Health Conference 2024 in Brisbane, and RWAV Rural Health Conference 2024 in Ballarat. For her Honours year as a student researcher, Stacy explores the association between sensory processing and executive functions of the brain in neurotypical adults. She aspires to be an occupational therapist in neurorehabilitation, supporting patients in post-stroke and post-SCI stages. Besides her clinical work, Stacy is also one of the RWAV rural health ambassadors.
Vitor Rocha - [Abstract]
Vitor Rocha
Palliative Care Lead
Murray PHN
Dr. Rocha is the Lead – Palliative Care with Murray Primary Health Network, Board Director of Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services and member of the Thorne Harbour Health Multicultural Advisory Committee. He is a proud Latino, overseas medical trained GP and Palliative Care public health advocate living and working in Dja Dja Wurrung Country (Bendigo) in regional Victoria. His endeavours include among many to support priority populations with their end-of-life journey and promote holistic quality of life surrounded by their families of choice and communities.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
All Health Professionals attending this event can self-log the activities undertaken of the RWAV Conference. Please contact your college or CPD provider to find out more.
Pre-Conference Workshops
Hands-On Learning Experience for Rural Health Professionals
Expand your expertise with interactive workshops led by industry professionals.
Choose from a range of topics designed to empower and inspire your professional growth.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
This workshop has been cancelled!
Â
Delivered by CPR First Aid
Â
The HLTAID009 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) course is a nationally recognised program designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to perform CPR in a range of emergency situations.
Â
Successful completion of the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Workshop will meet the Specialist high-level CPD requirement for general practice [complete a CPR course every three years] and is classified as CPD Type – Education Activity (EA).Â
Â
Cover your workshop costs with available grants.
Â
You may be eligible for funding from the Health Workforce Scholarship Program, Medical Professional Development Program, or Allied Health and Nursing Upskilling Grant to attend this workshop.
Click here for funding opportunities.
Cultural Safety Training (CST)
Wednesday 19th February, 2025
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Â
Delivered by Bonnie Chew, RWAV Cultural Consultant, Director Mirriyu Cultural Consulting & Balim Balim Dreaming
Â
As a doctor practising in Australia, you are required to allocate CPD time each year to consider and develop your culturally safe practice according to your scope of practice and role(s).
Â
Â
Ahpraâs The National Schemeâs Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Cultural Safety Strategy 2020-25 provides the following definition:
Cultural safety is determined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families and communities. Culturally safe practice is the ongoing critical reflection of health practitioner knowledge, skills, attitudes, practising behaviours and power differentials in delivering safe, accessible and responsive healthcare free of racism.
Â
The three-hour Cultural Safety Training Workshop and reflection on your experiences could meet your program-level requirements through education activity (EA) and professional development plan (PDP) when recorded with your CPD Home.
Â
Cover your workshop costs with available grants.Â
You may be eligible for funding to attend this workshop.
Â
Click here to lodge an eligibility expression of interest.
Business Workshop: Building a Thriving Business
Wednesday 19th February, 2025
12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Delivered by Martin, from The Sales Strategist
Discover a proven process that has helped scale over 10,000 businesses across the world in over 138+ industries, including medical and allied health, helping generate over $2B in business growth for businesses just like yours.
This hands-on workshop empowers practice owners, managers, and administrators to create an actionable annual plan tailored to their unique business needs.
During the workshop, you’ll tackle common challenges faced by businesses and begin mapping out a clear path to success. You’ll identify the biggest obstacles holding your practice back and identify strategic priorities to address in the coming weeks and months to help your business on a course to thrive.
Key Outcomes:
- Identify growth opportunities across the six pillars of fast growth: Strategic Planning, Finance, Marketing, Sales, Mindset and Scale / Leadership.
- Build clarity around purpose, mission, values, and organisational structure.
- Develop solutions to challenges like time management, staffing, lead generation, sales, and leadership.
- Walk away with a customised business growth plan to implement with your team.
Take the first step toward a thriving, sustainable, and scalable business.
Cover your workshop costs with available grants.
You may be eligible for funding from the Business Training Grant or Medical Professional Development Program to attend this workshop.
Click here for funding opportunities.
Attendance at the Business Workshop: Building a Thriving Business by general practitioners could contribute to 2025 annual CPD requirements. Please consult your CPD Home for more information regarding self-log options and activity types.
Cultural Safety Training (CST)
Wednesday 19th February, 2025
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Â
Delivered by Bonnie Chew, RWAV Cultural Consultant, Director Mirriyu Cultural Consulting & Balim Balim Dreaming
Â
As a doctor practising in Australia, you are required to allocate CPD time each year to consider and develop your culturally safe practice according to your scope of practice and role(s). This workshop is open to all health professionals.
Â
Ahpraâs The National Schemeâs Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Cultural Safety Strategy 2020-25 provides the following definition:
Cultural safety is determined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families and communities. Culturally safe practice is the ongoing critical reflection of health practitioner knowledge, skills, attitudes, practising behaviours and power differentials in delivering safe, accessible and responsive healthcare free of racism.
Â
The three-hour Cultural Safety Training Workshop and reflection on your experiences could meet your program-level requirements through education activity (EA) and professional development plan (PDP) when recorded with your CPD Home.
Â
Cover your workshop costs with available grants.Â
You may be eligible for funding to attend this workshop.
Click here to lodge an eligibility expression of interest.
For Students: Future Health Career Meet-Up
Wednesday 19th February, 2025
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Â
Located at the All Seasons, Bendigo – BBQ Area near the pool
Hosted by Lauren Day, RWAV Future Workforce Officer
Â
Are you interested in a health career but unsure which tertiary course to choose?
Not sure if university is the right path for you?
Curious to hear from rural and regional students like you who are now studying health?
Â
This session will connect high schoolers with University students. RWAVâs Rural Ambassadors, university students from regional Victoria will share their personal stories â both the challenges and successesâand tell you about the support available as you begin your own journey!
Free food and drinks are provided. Parents and guardians are welcome!
Registration and Ticket Information
Standard ticket – $990
Student ticket – $180
Networking dinner – $180
Pre-Conference Workshop: Cultural Safety Training (CST) – $77
Pre-Conference Workshop: Building a Thriving Business – $165
All tickets include meals during the event and prices include GST.
Special dietary requirements submitted on or after 13 February cannot be accommodated.Â
Tickets purchased on or after 13 February will not include special dietary accommodations.
Credit card payments only.
Register now to secure your place at the 2025 RWAV Conference
When & Where?
Address:
All Seasons Resort Hotel
171/183 McIvor Hwy
Strathdale
VIC 3550
Â
Date:
19th – 21st February, 2025
9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Â
Registration:
19th February, 2025
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Â
Networking Dinner:
20th February, 2025
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Venue Map Now Available!
Introducing our MC Kimberley Furness
Introducing our MC Kimberley Furness
Kimberley is a local champion of regional and rural voices, with a passion for celebrating community resilience and innovation. Her energy, insight, and deep connection to Bendigo make her the perfect host for the RWAV Conference.Â
Â
Kimberley Furness, is a Bendigo-based entrepreneur, award-winning magazine publisher, and chart-topping podcast host. Passionate about amplifying the voices of regional and rural women, Kimberley created OAK Magazine in 2017 â a platform celebrating female changemakers through courageous conversations and in-depth stories.
Want to sponsor the RWAV Conference?
Only 1 opportunity left!
We are pleased to invite interested institutions to partner with us and showcase their services and impact on our attendees.
To learn more about these opportunities click here.
RWAV Conference Grantsâ
Whether you’re a healthcare professional, student, or dedicated advocate for rural health, we’ve designed grants to make it easier for you to attend.
Explore our tailored grants, apply today, and join us at the RWAV Conference to connect, learn, and shape the future of rural healthcare together.
We've Got You Covered for the RWAV 2025 Conference!
Frequently Asked Questions
This event will be held at the All Seasons Bendigo.
Address: 171/183 McIvor Hwy, Strathdale, VIC 3550
All Seasons Bendigo is conveniently located just on a 2 hour drive from Melbourne CBD, and 3kms from Bendigo train station.
The City of Bendigo with its vibrant and cultural scene make it an ideal location for this year’s RWAV Conference.
Parking: Ample FREE parking is available at the venue, and off-street parking is also free.
Public Transport: The Bendigo train station is only a few minutes away and the #60 bus stops in front of the venue.
To secure your lodging, we kindly recommend that you reach out to the venue directly. We’re delighted to inform you that the All Seasons Bendigo has reserved a select number of rooms exclusively for RWAV delegates.
When making inquiries or reservations, please be sure to reference the code ‘RWAV‘ to avail of our special arrangements. However, we must stress the importance of acting swiftly, as the availability of these rooms is quite limited.
Furthermore, should our allocated rooms fill up or you prefer to explore alternative accommodations, there are plenty of excellent lodging options in the surrounding venues and throughout the picturesque Bendigo area.
Yes. RWAV encourages All Health Professionals attending this event to self-log the CPD activity undertaken throughout the conference.
For all enquiries related to the RWAV Conference, please contact us conference@rwav.com.au or call us at (03) 9349 7800
Access our seamless and secure Payment Gateway by simply clicking on the registration button located on this page. When using your credit card for payment, you’ll experience safe, and protected transactions.
Alternatively, you can opt for the “pay later” option, which allows for invoice-based payments via direct bank transactions.
The RWAV Conference provides clinical content over two days. You may be eligible to claim expenses for ticket, travel, and accommodation.
- The Health Workforce Scholarship Program (HWSP) grant: Eligible General Practitioners, GP Registrars, Nurses, Allied Health Professionals and Permanent or locum GPs should apply prior to the conference. All HWSP eligibility criteria will continue to apply.
- The Medical Professional Development Program (MPD)Â grant: Eligible General Practitioners, GP Registrars and Medical Interns should apply after the conference. All MPD eligibility criteria will continue to apply.
Please check your eligibility on the RWAV website.
Where permitted, you may cancel all or part of your registration. Notification of cancellation must be made in writing and emailed to RWAV at conference@rwav.com.au.
If your cancellation notification is received by RWAV at least ten business days or more before the start date of an Event, RWAV will provide you with a refund of the Fees minus the administration cost of $50 per ticket (or as reasonably determined by RWAV). No entitlement to repayment arises for cancellations with less than ten business days of notice (on or after 1 February 2024).
Refunds will not be granted if you fail to attend or where a substitute is refused entry under the Terms and Conditions.
To learn more about the sponsorship opportunities and process click here.
For all enquiries related to the RWAV Conference, please get in touch with us at conference@rwav.com.au or call us at (03) 9349 7800
We will endeavor to respond to your enquiry within one business day where possible.
Yes you can. Learn more about how to submit an Abstract here.Â
Abstract Submission Deadline: 1 September 2024
Notification of Acceptance: 27 September 2024
For all enquiries related to the RWAV Conference, please contact us conference@rwav.com.au or call us on (03) 9349 7800.
We will endeavour to respond to your enquiry within one business day where possible.
Please make sure to read our Terms & Conditions here.
Bendigo has many exciting things to offer. Click here to find out.
