Northern Queensland PHN in Cairns, Queensland, Australia | Community organisation

Northern Queensland PHN

Locality: Cairns, Queensland, Australia

Phone: +61 7 4034 0300

Address: Head Office - Levels 2-3, 36 Shields Street 4870 Cairns, QLD, Australia

Website: http://www.nqphn.com.au

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• Medical and health
• Community organisation
• Home healthcare service
• Healthcare administrator

24.01.2022 BUILDING HEALTHY ROUTINES | Have you picked up any new habits or hobbies since the pandemic started? Cooking perhaps? Keep it up! Discover more ‘new normal’ habits by visiting https://www.healthier.qld.gov.au//six-healthy-habits-weve/

24.01.2022 MAGNETIC ISLAND HEALTH SERVICES RESIDENT SURVEYWE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! | Northern Queensland Primary Health Network and Townsville Hospital and Health Service are undertaking a project to develop a sustainable Health Services Plan for Magnetic Island. An aspect of the project is to gather information from residents about the perceived health needs and service preferences. This survey is anonymous and seeks to explore residents' experiences and perceptions of the current health services available. To participate, scan the QR code, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/Magnetic_Island_Community_Health_Sur or pick up a paper copy on the island from your local medical practice, health service, or pharmacy.

23.01.2022 Hey Townsville, our Reid Park COVID-19 drive-through testing clinic has closed its gates for the day to ensure everyone currently in line will receive their te...st prior to the closing time of 4:00pm. We would appreciate if community members looking to be tested for COVID-19 attend our 1300 Smiles drive-through clinic instead. This clinic is open from 8am - 6pm, seven days a week. It is free to attend, no referral is necessary and you will receive a text with results within 48hrs of being tested. We will endeavour to keep our community updated with all the latest information as it comes to hand. #GetTestedTownsville Townsville Disaster Information Support Local Townsville Townsville City Council 7NEWS Townsville 9 News North Queensland WIN News Townsville

23.01.2022 MAGNETIC ISLAND HEALTH SERVICES HEALTH PROFESSIONALS SURVEYWE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! | Northern Queensland Primary Health Network and Townsville Hospital and Health Service are undertaking a project to develop a sustainable Health Services Plan for Magnetic Island. An aspect of the project is to gather information from health practitioners and managers about the perceived health needs and service preferences. This survey is anonymous and seeks to explore health practitioners and managers' experiences and perceptions of the current health services available. To participate, scan the QR code, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/Magnetic_Island_Practitioners or pick up a paper copy on the island from your local medical practice, health service, or pharmacy.

22.01.2022 Public Health Alert Queenslanders who visited regional NSW Queenslanders who visited the regional New South Wales towns of Orange, Nyngan and Broken Hi...ll between 2-3 January are being asked to get tested for COVID-19. The alert comes after a positive COVID-19 case from NSW transited through the towns while infectious. To access a full list of COVID-19 testing locations, with interactive map and postcode search, visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/covid19testing You can also visit our bot to find your closest testing location https://qld.health/TestLocator Remember, if your local testing clinic is crowded, consider attending another one.

22.01.2022 A cuppa can’t fix everything. If you’re not doing so great but not sure whether to reach out, you can find out more by visiting https://www.qld.gov.au//ment/get-started/when-to-seek-help

22.01.2022 It’s been a rough year. If your mental health is challenged, it’s a good idea to see your doctor. To learn more about how to seek mental health support visit: https://www.qld.gov.au//mental-health/get-started/mental-h

22.01.2022 Our health service is eager to see more of us rolling up our sleeve for the flu vaccine this year, easing the pressure on medicos across Cairns. Demand for COV...ID jab is soaring, and while more cases are still possible, it's important people aren't falling seriously ill from influenza. To understand the issues and find out how you can help the future of your local media, visit www.saveourvoices.com.au #WINNews6pm #SaveOurVoices

21.01.2022 COVID-19 VACCINE | If you’re aged 50 years or over, you’re now eligible to receive a free, Australian Government-funded COVID-19 vaccine at selected sites across North Queensland. To find out where to book an appointment, visit: https://covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility

21.01.2022 NAIDOC WEEK 2020 | Join Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) in celebrating the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across our region and our nation this #NAIDOCWeek from 815 November. This year’s theme ‘Always Was, Always will be’ recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years. Find out how you can get involved in celebrating NAIDOC Week by visiting www.naid...oc.org.au #NAIDOC2020 #NAIDOCWeek #NAIDOC See more

19.01.2022 CONGRATULATIONS TO SELECTABILITY | Congratulations to our friends at selectability for your recent Queensland Training Awards win. selectability was announced as Queensland's Medium Employer of the Year! https://www.selectability.com.au//training-innovation-ear/

19.01.2022 POP-UP CLINIC RELOCATED TO RIVERWAY DRIVE | From today (22 September), the COVID-19 pop-up clinic in Townsville will be located along Riverway Drive, between the Woolworths and laundromat carpark.

18.01.2022 Dear Townsville We know you have been keeping our two drive-through testing facilities busy following the Chief Health Officer’s announcement that all people in... Queensland who have returned from Victoria on or since 21 December need to be tested for COVID-19. We know there is a wait and our staff are doing the best they can so please be kind, patient and courteous while you are waiting for your test. Remember to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and tune into a podcast while you wait. Wondering what it takes to create city-first testing for a worldwide pandemic? You can see just how much goes on behind the scenes to start and run a COVID-19 testing clinic here: https://www.facebook.com/townsvillehhs/posts/3160528583967383

18.01.2022 JAMIE’S MINISTRY OF FOOD AUSTRALIA | Jamie's Ministry of Food Australia cooking classes are coming back to Mackay and Sarina in 2021. Join the five week cooking course to learn delicious Jamie Oliver recipes, handy kitchen tips, and professional skills! Classes will occur at the same time each week, with each class running for 90 minutes. Sarina cooking classes Dates: Monday 1 February 2021 to Friday 5 March 2021 Times: 10am, 1pm, 4pm, and 6.30pm... Where: Bob Wood Cultural Hall, 65 Broad Street, Sarina (for face-to-face classes) Register > > bit.ly/JMOFSarina Download flyer > > https://bit.ly/349HnSm Mackay cooking classes Dates: Friday 12 March 2021 to Monday 19 April 2021 Times: 10am, 1pm, 4pm, and 6.30pm Where: 90-92 Sydney Street, Mackay (for face-to-face classes) Register > > bit.ly/JMOFMackay Download flyer > > https://bit.ly/3gJfWDE Proudly brought to you by: Northern Queensland PHN | The Good Foundation | Mackay Regional Council | Health and Wellbeing Queensland | Jamie's Ministry of Food Australia

17.01.2022 HOW’S YOUR HEAD TODAY? | With the world turned on its head, many of us aren’t feeling like ourselves. But there are things you can do to feel better, like staying connected, being active, and keeping busy. For info, advice, and professional support, visit headtohealth.gov.au

17.01.2022 ISAAC SUICIDE PREVENTION FOCUS GROUP | General practitioners (GPs) and primary care mental health nurses are invited to express their interest in participating in the Isaac Suicide Prevention Focus Group. The Mayor’s Suicide Prevention Taskforce is exploring community-based solutions in response to industry and community concerns for residents who are experiencing mental health distress, may be at risk of suicide, and have difficulties navigating and accessing appropriate... services and health care. Northern Queensland PHN have partnered with the Isaac Regional Council, and the Mackay Hospital and Health Service to provide GPs and primary care mental health nurses an opportunity to participate in this very important conversation. Date: Tuesday 15 June 2021 Registration: 5.30pm Program: 6pm-8.30pm Where: Moranbah Community Centre, 89 Mills Avenue, Moranbah For more information and to submit an EOI, visit: https://nqphn.com.au/e/isaac-suicide-prevention-focus-group

17.01.2022 BREAST CANCER SCREENING EDUCATION | Breastscreen Mackay, in partnership with Northern Queensland PHN, invites GPs and their practices to attend a targeted educational evening focusing on cancer prevention, screening, early intervention, and management. Strong evidence supports that a recommendation from a GP can lead to a sustainable increase in participation in the BreastScreen Queensland program. DATE: Thursday 22 October 2020... TIME: 6pm-9pm (5.30pm registration) WHERE: Rydges Mackay Suites For more information and to register, visit https://www.nqphn.com.au/ev/cancer-screening-breast-mackay/

16.01.2022 HOW'S YOUR HEAD TODAY? | With the world turned on its head, many of us aren’t feeling like ourselves. But there are things you can do to feel better, like staying connected, being active and keeping busy. For info, advice, and professional support, visit http://headtohealth.gov.au

16.01.2022 JAMIE'S MINISTRY OF FOOD INFO SESSIONS | Jamie’s Ministry of Food Australia’s cooking classes are coming to Mackay and Sarina in 2021. Informal community information sessions are being held next week, so come along to find out more about how your organisation can be involved with our amazing program! DETAILS... Mackay info session Date: 18 November 2020 Time: 10am Register >> https://events.humanitix.com/cismackay Sarina info session Date: 19 November 2020 Time: 9.30am Register >> https://events.humanitix.com/cissarina Northern Queensland PHN | Mackay Regional Council | Health and Wellbeing Queensland | Jamie's Ministry of Food Australia

16.01.2022 POP-UP CLINIC: our health partners at QML Pathology have established a new pop-up COVID-19 testing clinic at Port Douglas Community Hall. The clinic, located at... 13-29 Mowbray St, Port Douglas is open today (Wednesday) from 12pm-4pm and tomorrow (Thursday) from 9am to 3pm. This is a walk-up service, so no bookings are required. Testing is also available at the Mossman Hospital drive-through COVID-19 Testing Clinic. This is an appointment-only service, which is open from 8.30am-4pm, Monday to Friday. Bookings can be made by calling 0459 803 382. Anyone with any symptoms of COVID-19, no matter how mild, should get tested immediately. For the latest information about COVID-19 go to www.covid19.qld.gov.au, or follow the link in our bio. If you have any concerns for your health, phone your GP, phone 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or present to your closest emergency department. #MakeFNQCOVID19Free @DouglasShireCouncil

15.01.2022 NQPHN NEWSLETTER - OUT NOW! | Check out the latest edition of @Northern Queensland PHN's NQ Primary Health Update newsletter. Issue 113 is packed with all the latest news, events, funding opportunities, jobs, and key health information. Read issue 113 here >> https://mailchi.mp/nqphn/newsletter113

15.01.2022 SEXUAL HEALTH EDUCATION UPDATE (Mackay) | Northern Queensland PHN, together with Mackay Hospital and Health Service, invites healthcare professionals to attend a comprehensive Sexual Health Education Update. Presented by Donna Pini, Nurse Practitioner Mackay Sexual Health and Sexual Assault Service, this update will provide the latest information on STI testing and treatment, and HIV prevention strategies. Date: Thursday 27 May 2021... Registrations: 5.30pm Program: 6pm-8pm Where: Reef Gateway Hotel, 38 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale For more information and to register, visit: https://www.nqphn.com.au/eve/sexual-health-education-update

15.01.2022 BREASTSCREEN EVENT IN MACKAY | Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) is currently working with local general practices to help increase cancer screening rates through the delivery of a Continuous Quality Improvement Program. As part of this program, BreastScreen Mackay partnered with NQPHN to provide an evening educational session for general practitioners and practice staff, focusing on cancer prevention and the importance of screening, intervention, and management. Read more at https://www.nqphn.com.au/newslett/breastscreen-event-mackay

15.01.2022 HIGH PERFORMING PRIMARY CARE SERIES TWO - RACGP STANDARDS 5TH EDITION AND ACCREDITATION | This three-part webinar series is designed to support practices to build a personalised team-based approach to identifying, addressing, and improving quality. The webinar series will support you to interpret the Standards and accreditation requirements and select appropriate evidence relevant to your healthcare setting. This webinar series comes at a good time, following an announcement ...from the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care that the resumption of onsite assessments under the National General Practice Accreditation (NGPA) Scheme will commence from 26 October 2020. Read more at https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au//national-general-prac WEBINAR ONE DATE: Wednesday 28 October TIME: 9am Register at >> https://zoom.us//regi/tJcocOCqpj8vEtwoVt_NvjW_Vkt44TU70vdc WEBINAR TWO DATE: Wednesday 4 November TIME: 9am Register at >> https://zoom.us//regi/tJAode-prD8rE9Z0-OlLZCQv9xzW3t9EZrUq WEBINAR THREE DATE: Wednesday 11 November TIME: 9am Register at >> https://zoom.us//regi/tJcqcO2upz8pEtffYsC33GVWwFmpZW7n4as9 Find out more at https://www.nqphn.com.au/events/hppc-webinar-series-2-part-1

15.01.2022 If alcohol features a lot in your social life, try organsing alcohol-free activities for your catch up with friends and family. For more tips on keeping well visit: https://www.healthier.qld.gov.au//drinking-and-your-health/

14.01.2022 BREAK IT DOWN VIDEOS NOW AVAILABLE ON HITNET | The Break it Down project content is now more accessible to North Queenslanders thanks to a collaboration with Hitnet. The suite of Break it Down short films and music videos, developed by Desert Pea Media and funded by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), are now available on 15 Hitnet Hubs in the Cairns, Cape York, and Torres Strait regions, enabling easy access to the interactive channel for people who don’t have a mobile phone or who have limited data access. Read more at https://www.nqphn.com.au//break-it-down-videos-now-availab

14.01.2022 VETERAN HEALTH AND DVA LITERACY EDUCATIONAL DINNER (CAIRNS) | This face-to-face educational event facilitated by a general practitioner currently transitioning out of the Defence Force and a practice nurse, provides GPs, practice managers, and practice nurses with the opportunity to reinforce and improve the management of healthcare for Defence Veterans. DATE: Wednesday 4 November TIME: 5.15pm-9pm WHERE: Riley Crystalbrook Hotel... Find out more at https://www.nqphn.com.au//veteran-health-and-dva-literacy-

13.01.2022 CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (CQI) AND PRACTICE INCENTIVE PROGRAM QUALITY IMPROVEMENT (PIP QI) WEBINAR SERIES 3 | Northern Queensland PHN and AGPAL have teamed up to provide a free targeted education program via a three-part webinar series for healthcare providers in our region. This series will be delivered weekly on Thursday’s. WEBINAR THREE DATE: Thursday 8 October TIME: 9am11am... Register at >> http://bit.ly/agpal-s1-3 *Webinar one was held on Thursday 24 September, and webinar 2 was held on Thursday 2 October. Find out more at https://www.nqphn.com.au//hppc-webinar-series-/2020-09-24/

12.01.2022 COVID-19 detected at Townsville wastewater plant Townsville Public Health Unit has detected traces of COVID-19 in the Condon wastewater treatment plant. It ...is the second time Townsville has returned had a positive result from sewage testing, with the last on 9 October 2020. The result comes amid a new COVID-19 hotspot in the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Townsville Public Health Unit and infection control teams are screening all incoming passengers flying from Sydney to Townsville for COVID-19 upon arrival. Townsville Public Health Unit physician Dr Julie Mudd said the benefits of sewage testing is that it could indicate the possibility of undetected cases of COVID-19 in the region. People shouldn’t be alarmed but they shouldn’t be complacent either, if you are sick go and get tested and then stay home until you get your results, she said. This surveillance testing is extremely sensitive. It picks up tiny pieces of genetic material (RNA) of COVID-19. This is dead virus material so there is no risk to the community. Dr Mudd said drive-through testing remained available to the community but at reduced hours and locations over the Christmas and New Year period. The 1300Smiles Clinic will continue to operate right through the Christmas and New Year period while the Reid Park drive-through will close from 25 December to 3 January. Dr Mudd said it was imperative the community understood that the positive result does not necessary mean there are active cases in Townsville. There are no known outbreaks or active cases in Townsville and hasn’t been for some time, she said. However, this positive sample means that we cannot rule out the possibility that there was or is an infected person in the area who has not been tested. It could also be an indication that someone who has previously had COVID-19 has visited our area and is still shedding the dead virus. This detection should serve as an alert and warning to the community to be vigilant for Covid-19 symptoms, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, or loss of smell or taste. Dr Mudd said anyone with any symptoms of COVID-19, no matter how mild, should get tested immediately.

12.01.2022 Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Program Officer Bevan Little is out and about this week speaking to secondary school students about a caree...r in healthcare. We've teamed up with CQUniversity Australia, Northern Queensland PHN and Australian Training Works to offer the first school-based traineeship in 2021 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Year 11. It's all about our determination to have 5% of our workforce identify to ensure we are properly representative of our community. To learn more the full story is in our newsroom at https://www.mackay.health.qld.gov.au/health-services-plan-/ See more

12.01.2022 HEALTH WORKFORCE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM | While COVID-19 has thrown us a curve ball in 2020, now is the perfect time to enrol yourself in that online course you have been thinking about that will help take your career to the next level. If you are a rural health professional or qualified health professional working for an AMS or ACCHO working in primary care, make sure you apply now for a $10,000 bursary payment and you could use it towards your online education. Apply before Tuesday 29 September 2020 to go into the draw to win a Samsung Galaxy 8.0 Tablet! For more information, visit https://bit.ly/3kiMpl1

12.01.2022 CLOSURE OF MACKAY GP-LED RESPIRATORY CLINIC | The North Mackay GP-led Respiratory Clinic will be closing on Friday 25 September. The Australian Government-funded GP-led respiratory clinic opened in Mackay in May to support local GPs with patients who required further assessment and testing for coronavirus (COVID-19). Over the last six months, the clinic assessed and tested community members experiencing possible COVID-19 symptoms and communicated back to their regular GP to s...upport high quality ongoing care. The clinic, supported by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), has increased the capacity of the local health system, and reduced pressure on hospitals and frontline workers while there were active cases in the region. Read more below.

12.01.2022 REGISTER NOW FOR THE CAIRNS AND HINTERLAND SUICIDE PREVENTION COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN FOCUS GROUP WORKSHOPS | Are you part of a community organisation providing suicide prevention services? Are you a mental health professional or support worker? Or are you a first responder to suicidal crises? Northern Queensland PHN, in partnership with Beacon Strategies, is inviting professionals across the suicide prevention sector in the Cairns and Hinterland region to participate in focus... group sessions. Within these facilitated workshops, we will explore your priorities, ideas, and existing activities for suicide prevention within local communities. Your contributions will directly inform the development of the new Cairns and Hinterland Suicide Prevention Community Action Plan (SPCAP). Read more >> https://www.nqphn.com.au//registrations-now-open-cairns-an

10.01.2022 NQPHN NEWSLETTER - OUT NOW! | Check out the latest edition of Northern Queensland PHN's NQ Primary Health Update newsletter. Issue 111 is packed with all the latest news, events, funding opportunities, jobs, and key health information. Read issue 111 here >> https://mailchi.mp/nqphn/newsletter111

09.01.2022 WHITSUNDAYS SUICIDE PREVENTION FOCUS GROUP | General practitioners (GPs) and primary care mental health nurses are invited to express their interest in participating in the Whitsundays Suicide Prevention Focus Group. The Mayor’s Suicide Prevention Taskforce is exploring community-based solutions in response to industry and community concerns for residents who are experiencing mental health distress, may be at risk of suicide, and have difficulties navigating and accessing... appropriate services and health care. Northern Queensland PHN have partnered with Whitsunday Regional Council, and Mackay Hospital and Health Service to provide GPs and primary care mental health nurses an opportunity to participate in this very important conversation. Date: Tuesday 8 June 2021 Registration: 5.30pm Program: 6pm-8.30pm Where: Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach, 240 Shute Harbour Road, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach For more information and to submit an EOI, visit: https://nqphn.com.au//whitsundays-suicide-prevention-focus

09.01.2022 Mackay GPs are advising locals to get a flu shot now, saying it's the best bet to avoid influenza. They're worried people are becoming complacent after a dramat...ic drop in cases last year; but that was mainly due to social distancing. 7NEWS at 6pm. www.7NEWS.com.au #7NEWS

09.01.2022 RECALLS, REMINDERS, AND CANCER SCREENING TRAINING FOR GENERAL PRACTICES USING MEDICALDIRECTOR AND BP PREMIER | Northern Queensland PHN is pleased to present two live one-hour webinars with Katrina Otto, Principal and owner of TRAIN-IT-MEDICAL. One webinar will focus on using Bp Premier, with the second focusing on using MedicalDirector. Katrina is one of Australia’s leading Practice Management Consultants and a highly respected, approved medical software trainer. Using Bp... Premier: Tuesday 8 December from 6.30pm-7.30pm. Find out more > > https://www.nqphn.com.au//recalls-reminders-and-cancer-scr Using MedicalDirector: Thursday 10 December from 6.30pm-7.30pm. Find out more > > https://www.nqphn.com.au//recalls-reminders-and-cancer-scr

08.01.2022 IMPROVE CANCER SCREENING DATA AND CARE PLANNING USING BP PREMIER AND MEDICAL DIRECTOR | Northern Queensland PHN is pleased to invite general practices to live one-hour webinars with Katrina Otto, Principal and Owner of Train IT Medical. Two 'Improving cancer screening data and care planning' webinars are on offer - the first for Bp Premier clinical software users and the second for users of Medical Director. DETAILS ... Bp Premier webinar DATE: Monday 12 October 2020 TIME: 6.30pm-7.30pm MORE INFORMATION: https://www.nqphn.com.au//improve-cancer-screening-data-a/ Medical Director webinar DATE: Thursday 15 October 2020 TIME: 6.30pm-7.30pm MORE INFORMATION: https://www.nqphn.com.au//improve-cancer-screening-data-a/

08.01.2022 JAMIE'S MINISTRY OF FOOD NOW RECRUITING FOOD TRAINERS IN MACKAY | The Good Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that delivers Jamie’s Ministry of Food Australia, an engaging, community-focused program that teaches basic cooking skills and good nutrition. They are currently seeking passionate and enthusiastic Food Trainers to join the team on Jamie’s Ministry of Food Truck a purpose built, kitchen classroom on wheels. The 10 week contract will be run in Mackay and Sar...ina, commencing in February 2021, and will provide the successful applicants an opportunity to gain real working experience training people in an existing cooking program. This initiative is funded by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network. Find out more and how to apply at https://bit.ly/32RWJKu

08.01.2022 CURRENT VACANCY | Are you looking for the next step in your career in the health industry? Northern Queensland PHN is currently recruiting for the role of: Senior Program Officer Cairns. Visit community.nqphn.com.au/current-vacancies/ to download the role description and to apply.

08.01.2022 NAIDOC WEEK | Virtual flag raising event in Mackay

08.01.2022 PRIVACY AND SECURITY IN HEALTHCARE PRACTICE | Want to better understand privacy and security? Want to learn how this applies to your practice, but don’t know where to start? This education event for healthcare providers and practice staff will provide education on: establishing and maintaining a privacy framework... medico-legal obligations digital health policy obligations secure messaging key updates from the Australian Digital Health Agency Queensland Health GP smart referral project (GPSR). DATE: Thursday 15 October 2020 TIME: 6pm-9pm WHERE: Hilton Cairns Find out more and register at https://www.nqphn.com.au//privacy-and-security-in-healthc/

07.01.2022 CHRISTMAS CLOSURES | Our offices will be closed from 3pm Thursday 24 December 2020 and reopen 8.30am Monday 4 January 2021. Northern Queensland PHN would like to wish you a merry Christmas and a safe, healthy, and happy new year! And remember... #BeKindToYourMind this Christmas time

07.01.2022 WINNERS ANNOUNCED INDIGENOUS YOUTH ART COMPETITION 2020 | Northern Queensland PHN is proud to announce this year's Indigenous Youth Art Competition winners! The competition based on the theme of Regeneration saw a record number of inspirational artworks submitted by young and upcoming local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists. There were a range of incredible submissions received from young artists as far north as Bamaga through to the south in Mackay, ...resulting in two gifted young artists from Cairns and one from Ravenshoe delivering the winning artworks. Among the many entrants, the well-deserving 2020 winners were: First place: Varni Nona Second place: Alkira Geia Third place: Stacey Edwards Congratulations!! Varni Nona from Cairns took out first place in this year’s competition for her beautifully and thoughtfully illustrated artwork piece, titled Generations. Varni, 16, said that her diptych painting, featuring the half of two faces to form one on two separate canvases, conveyed the stories of two Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women from different generation’s stories, whilst tying to this year’s NAIDOC theme of Always was, Always will be. The left canvas is half of an elderly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander woman’s face, whose wrinkles and saddened expression illustrate her strength and determination as she continues to smile, despite the struggles of her past, said Varni. The right canvas features a young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander woman’s face from the present generation, who too continues to smile, despite the challenges she faces. Together both canvases illustrate the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. Despite the struggles, pain, and hardships they have experienced, they continue to remain happy and strong for themselves and for their people. Generations represents the on-going resilience, happiness, and strength of my People’s families and communities across the generations, and their continuing connection to country, culture, and identity, despite the challenges they have faced. View the winning artwork pieces at www.nqphn.com.au/indigenous-youth-art-competition/

07.01.2022 HOW’S YOUR HEAD TODAY? | If you’re not feeling like yourself, there are things you can do to feel better, like being active. For information, advice, and professional support, visit www.headtohealth.gov.au View the video at https://youtu.be/rDs2WQPl7Ag

06.01.2022 EXERCISE RIGHT FOR DOCTORS WEEK (23-29 NOVEMBER) | This week, Exercise Right is campaigning for more doctors and nurses to understand the benefits of prescribing exercise and the importance of referring to an Accredited Exercise Physiologist. Learn more at https://exerciseright.com.au/exercise-right-doctors/

06.01.2022 MY HEALTH FOR LIFE WELLBEING SERIES AND BOOST YOUR HEALTHY | What sparked Champion Ironman #TrevorHendy to reset his mindset and discover what it really means to be a well being? Watch now! https://hw.qld.gov.au/bigboost/the-wellbeing-series/ #BoostyourHealthy #Myhealthforlife #WellnessSeries

06.01.2022 When it comes to drinking, it can be hard to know when you’re overdoing it. Find out if you are and how to drink less, visit https://mentalwellbeing.initiatives.qld.gov.au//drinking-l

06.01.2022 Ray hits beautiful Far North Queensland for The Resilience Project! Along the way he finds out how Hambledon State School, Balaclava State School, Tully State S...chool and Lower Tully State School are improving mental health and wellbeing using GEM (Gratitude, Empathy, Mindfulness). Thanks to Northern Queensland PHN and the Queensland Government for supporting the Cowboys in delivering this inspiring program.

06.01.2022 ROI: CULTURAL AWARENESS TRAINING (Mackay) | Are you a mainstream primary care or allied health service provider working in the Mackay region? If yes, then you are eligible to register your interest to attend Cultural Awareness Training organised by NQPHN and led by Local Indigenous Facilitator, Mr Philip Kemp. If you're interested in attending, submit your Registration of Interest (ROI) as soon as possible as there are a limited number of spaces available - first in, best... dressed. Workshop details When: Wednesday 16 June 2021 Time: 8.30am - 12.30pm Where: Rydges Mackay Suites 9 Gregory St, Mackay Qld 4740 Cost: FREE ROI closes Thursday 3 June 2021 @ 5pm Find out more here: https://mailchi.mp/nqphn/roi-cultural-awareness-training-mky

05.01.2022 NQPHN ANNUAL REPORT 2019-20 | We are proud to introduce to you Northern Queensland PHN's Annual Report 2019-20, which summarises our key priority areas and initiatives designed to meet our strategic objectives. Our latest Annual Report snapshots a year of working towards a comprehensive and integrated primary health care system that helps northern Queenslanders live happier, healthier, longer lives. NQPHN accomplished several significant achievements during the year through c...ollaboration with our partners. We have captured some of these milestones and collaborative partnerships through engaging good news stories we’ve called ‘Our region, our people’. Read the report >> https://www.nqphn.com.au/a/reports-and-plans/annual-reports

05.01.2022 HOW'S YOUR HEAD TODAY? | If you're feeling flat, moody or not like yourself, there are things you can do to feel better. Call your GP or visit http://headtohealth.gov.au

04.01.2022 PRIVACY AND SECURITY IN HEALTHCARE | The Northern Queensland PHN Digital Health Team recently hosted an event in Cairns around privacy and security in a healthcare practice. Angela Mason-Lynch from Avant gave some excellent medico-legal advice around conducting telehealth appointments and considering patient privacy in the current COVID-19 environment. Andrew Hynd from Holding Redlich gave an overview of the Australian Privacy Policies and provided some key recommendations re...garding General Practice privacy policy requirements. Lawrence Peterson from HealthLink provided a regional update around the usage of secure messaging in our region and some key reasons for practices to ‘axe the fax’ and embed secure messaging in their workflow to ensure patient and practitioner privacy. Updates were also provided by Nicola Graham from the Australian Digital Health Agency and Felicity and Katherine from the Smart Referrals Team (Clinical Excellence).

04.01.2022 HAVE YOU HAD YOUR FLU SHOT YET? | This morning we visited Wuchopperen Health Service Ltd where Endorsed Enrolled Nurse Stephanie Saunders received her flu vaccination from Registered Nurse Fiona Filewood. Wuchopperen Health Service Deputy Chief Executive Officer Rachael Ham said that it’s important for people to get their flu jab each year, but this year the timing of their vaccination needs to be managed alongside the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines. Influenza viruses can evo...lve and mutate, allowing new strains to emerge each year, against which people may not have immunity, said Rachael. This is why it is so important that people get their flu shot every year, especially Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people with a chronic illness." The 2021 flu vaccine is available from GPs, community health clinics, Aboriginal Medical Services like Wuchopperen Health Service, pharmacies, and other immunisation providers in Cairns. This year, both the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccines are available and it is important that people speak to their vaccination provider to manage the timing of both vaccines. It is recommended that the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine should be administered at least 14 days apart. To locate a vaccination provider in your area you can search the National Health Services Directory at https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services

02.01.2022 Our thoughts are with those of you impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Imogen we know that for many of you the rain is much needed given poor conditions over the ...past year. We also know the inevitable flooding that comes with these big rains can be cause for anxiety, especially for those recovering from the 2019 North Queensland flood event. Please remember you’re not alone and support is available. If you’re finding it tough ask for help: talk to your GP or call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Check out your local government disaster dashboard for up-to-date weather info, road closures and other available assistance. You can connect with your local Regional Recovery Officer find out more on our website: www.droughtandflood.gov.au/our-c/regional-recovery-officers Most importantly, stay safe and follow the instructions of your local emergency services and council. Cloncurry Shire Council Richmond Shire Council Winton Connect - Winton Shire McKinlay Shire Council Hughenden Connect (Flinders Shire Council) Burdekin Shire Council Burke Shire Council Carpentaria Shire Council Charters Towers Regional Council Douglas Shire Council Hinchinbrook Shire Council Etheridge Shire Council Townsville City Council Whitsunday Regional Council Western Queensland Alliance of Councils North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils Queensland Reconstruction Authority Northern Queensland PHN Western Queensland Primary Health Network Rapad Bureau of Meteorology Townsville Disaster Information Hinchinbrook Disaster Information Burdekin Disaster & Emergency Information Whitsunday Disaster & Emergency Information Get Ready Queensland Croydon Queensland Mornington Shire Council

01.01.2022 NATIONAL CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS WEEK 2020 | 16-22 November 2020 marks National Cervical Cancer Awareness Week. In December 2017, the Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap test in Australia. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Routine cervical screening is your best protection against cervical cancer. The Cervical Screening Test is expected to protect up to 30% more women and is more effective than the Pap test at preventing cervical cancers, becaus...e it detects the human papillomavirus (known as HPV), whereas the Pap test looked for cell changes in the cervix. HPV is a common infection that can cause cervical cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer. The Cervical Screening Test is more effective than the Pap test at preventing cervical cancers, and is just as safe to be done every five years instead of every two. It feels the same as the Pap test, but tests for the human papillomavirus (known as HPV). For most women aged 25 to 74, your first Cervical Screening Test is due two years after your last Pap test. After that, you will only need to have the test every five years if your result is normal. Find out more >> https://accf.org.au/

01.01.2022 If you’ve been finding time for more ‘me time’ lately, keep it up! Make it your new normal. To find other hints that can help visit: https://www.healthier.qld.gov.au//six-healthy-habits-weve/