Tackling climate-related PTSD in the Northern Rivers: Seeking participants
The Australian Government has funded Southern Cross University (SCU) to undertake a world-first stepped care model trial. The Healing Climate Related Trauma (HEART) trial will test whether innovative programs can reduce the severity of climate-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Findings from this trial will help inform the development of larger-scale, sustainable mental health programs for
Strengthening early responses to problematic harmful sexual behaviours
Children under 10 who display problematic or harmful sexual behaviours (PHSB) require timely, compassionate and developmentally informed support. In response to national recommendations and emerging evidence, the Safe Wayz program is now operating across the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD), helping families and services navigate concerns with accuracy, cultural safety, and hope. Safe
Are you supporting someone? You might be a carer without realising it
Many people in our community provide support to a family member, friend, or neighbour, often without ever calling themselves a carer. You might help someone get to appointments, manage medications, organise daily tasks, offer emotional support, or simply check in regularly to make sure they’re okay. If others depend on you in these ways, you’re
The Primary Care Impact Grants are back!
Primary Care Impact Grant Round 3 recipient: Mullumbimby Comprehensive Health Centre In 2025, 48 Primary Care Impact Grants were awarded to North Coast primary care providers, totalling nearly $2.35 million. From nurse-led drop-in clinics for those experiencing homelessness, to 48-week Aboriginal healthy lifestyle programs, these grants were awarded to innovative, locally designed projects that
Measles is about!
From 1 Dec 2025 to 22 February 2026, there have been 27 cases of measles in NSW. 15 acquired measles during their travel to South-East Asia and 12 acquired measles in NSW. The majority of the cases were adults who were under-vaccinated for measles. Byron Bay, Lismore and Coffs Harbour are all currently listed (25
Addressing loneliness through community pharmacies
Research has shown that loneliness has a significant impact on a person’s physical, cognitive, and mental health, including a 26% increased risk of premature death (similar to smoking 15 cigarettes a day). Loneliness has also been linked to a 32% increased risk of stroke, a 29% increased risk of coronary heart disease, high cholesterol and
Healthy North Coast’s Jo Winwood joins Medicubes podcast for two-part conversation
Healthy North Coast’s very own Jo Winwood, Associate Director Aged Care & Living Well, recently appeared in two episodes of the Medicubes industry podcast. In the first, titled ‘From Invisibility to Empowerment: Healthy Ageing’, she discusses aged care in Australia, recent reforms driven by the Royal Commission, and the practical implications for general practice teams
Care finders help older adults navigate the aged care system
Care finders is a free service that helps older adults connect with the aged care supports they need. It’s designed for people who face significant barriers to accessing services. Care finders walk alongside each person at their own pace, taking the time to understand their unique circumstances and guiding them through every step to get
Knee osteoarthritis clinical trial: Now recruiting
The COASTAL Study – Improving Knee Osteoarthritis Care The University of Sydney is leading the COASTAL study to test new, accessible models of care for adults aged 45+ with knee osteoarthritis. Participants join a 6-month program delivered face-to-face, via telehealth, or through a mobile app. Findings will help shape future osteoarthritis management across Australia. Find
Holiday fun in Coffs Harbour!
Join headspace Coffs Harbour for some great FREE activities these school holidays! Gaming night Thursday 22 January 2026 5pm-7:30pm Level 1, Harry Bailey Memorial Library, Yarrila Place, 27 Gordon St Coffs Harbour There will be 2 Switch consoles set up with teams of up to 4 (games TBC by our young leaders council). Other games
Happy holidays!
We’re taking a break… Our offices will be closed for the Christmas/New Year period from 5pm Friday 19 December, re-opening at 9am on Monday 29 December. For urgent queries, please email us at contact@hnc.org.au. This inbox will be monitored throughout the office closure period by an on-call staff member. Merry Christmas and a happy new
Outreach ADHD Clinic launches in Yamba to tackle long waitlists across the Clarence Valley
L-R: Dr Vysalan Srianandaraja – GP Yamba Doctors, Bel Davis – ADHD CNC Co-Management Coordinator, Paediatrician Dr Andrew Kennedy. A new Outreach ADHD Clinic has commenced in Yamba, marking a critical step toward addressing the significant backlog of children awaiting ADHD assessment through Grafton Paediatric Outpatients. With over 500 children on the waitlist –
