It has been another busy year as we continued to learn what it means to return to 'a new normal' after the pandemic. In our region, many of our residents continue to feel the effects of the pandemic, and the multiple natural disasters we have experienced,on both their physical and mental health.

We are passionate about improving the health of our local community and helping our residents access quality health services. Our recently released 2023 Annual Report highlights some of the many projects and initiatives our team has undertaken during the 2022-23 financial year to help achieve this vision.

Just one example of a project that the team has worked tirelessly on this year, is the establishment of headspace in the Hawkesbury. After many years of advocacy, we are thrilled to announce that the service is complete and is due to open next week on Wednesday 27 December. headspace services play a vital role in supporting our young people and their mental health, as well as their family and friends. With the opening of this service, we now have four headspace services in our region, one in each local government area. We are proud of the role we have played in helping to advocate for and establish each of these services.

For many of us, this time of year brings joy and hope. Taking a break from work and catching up with friends and family can make this a special time of year. But for others, it can be a difficult time. Family tensions and unrealistic expectations can take their toll. This time of year can also bring back painful memories of previous bushfires. If you or someone you know needs extra support, we fund a range of community-based mental health services that are free to access for people of all ages. We have also listed in our Christmas newsletter some services that will be open over this festive season.

I wish to thank our staff, commissioned providers and many other stakeholders for their contributions this year and for helping us further our vision to improve the health and wellbeing of the people in our community.

From all of us at Wentworth Healthcare, we wish you a safe and happy festive season and we look forward to working with you all again in 2024.