Extend your knowledge and explore the following curated collections of webinars, podcasts and networks, highlighting selected topics of interest.
Extend your knowledge and explore the following curated collections of webinars, podcasts and networks, highlighting selected topics of interest.
In a regional workplace, you are often the only one in your role, says Yarrawonga Mulwala Network co-coordinator Therese Rodway.
“You’re advocating for yourself and the profession,” Therese says.
Add to that the distance between specialist services like paediatricians and psychiatrists – and the fact Yarrawonga Mulwala is located along the border of two different state jurisdictions – and there’s a real need to find ways to connect with colleagues.
“When you get together and talk, you just speak the same language”
The Yarrawonga Mulwala Network was started in November 2022 to bring local practitioners together. Jacqui Anderson, an accredited mental health social worker, joined as co-coordinator in October 2025.
“I saw it as an opportunity to bring local mental health professionals together, strengthen connections and create space to learn from one another,” Jacqui says.
Meetings make room for conversations that matter to local practice.
“We talk about clinical approaches, challenges in our work, available services and how we can collaborate more effectively,” Jacqui says.
“I’m also interested in creating space for reflection: how the work affects us, what sustains us and what we can learn from colleagues with different experiences.”
Network meetings usually feature a guest speaker, followed by a chance to connect with other network members. Recent meetings have covered topics like perinatal and postnatal mental health and neurodiversity. Members work in different settings, including schools and private practice.
Connection that makes a difference
For Therese, who works outside Yarrawonga, the Network has also been a way to connect with the town.
Jacqui says working together makes it easier to communicate, connect people with appropriate support and provide more coordinated care. The feedback she hears reflects that.
“The space has connected people from many streams to share and connect in meaningful ways. We have gathered, shared and supported. It’s an essential time out and time with others who share values and hope together for our collective wellbeing”
Join the next meeting
The next in person meeting, “Intergenerational Patterns of Emotional Expression: Healing Forward”, is on Friday 16 October 2026 at 12:00 PM AEDT
