Director’s Update
Professor Myf Maple.
Thanks to all those who tuned in to my update on 21 February. For those who missed it, here’s a recap.
2023 was a productive year of growth and achievement (see the incredible timeline) for all of us. To have 75 researchers now actively contributing to Manna’s work is a great feat and I am really excited about the collaborations that will undoubtedly propel us even further in 2024. This is no small achievement and we should all be very proud of what we have collectively achieved so far.
I look forward to seeing everyone at the Manna Retreat later this month, and make sure you set aside time for our annual conference in early December.
We have some exciting initiatives in store now that we have bedded down many of our processes, so let’s work together to maintain the momentum and enthusiasm for improving the mental health of rural and regional Australians. Manna is a unique collaborative effort and I am confident we will begin to see the fruits of our labours this year as we continue our important work.
Get involved
Above all else, I encourage Manna members and affiliates to consider how they can get more involved in our valuable work. Please reach out if you’re not sure about where best you fit in our ever-expanding ecosystem.
With opportunities to attend our face-to-face events, mentor, tune in to our webinars and contribute to our HDR Community of Practice (CoP), there are many ways to engage and make a difference.
Joining our research streams or bringing your expertise to our emerging tributary areas is a powerful way for you to contribute to Manna’s research priorities and growth, so please consider becoming part of our dedicated community.
Webinar series
This year’s webinar series is already off to a flying start. Stay tuned for further sessions on topics including:
• The impact of the changing environment
• The launch of our international statement on mental health research in regional communities; and
• An exploration of regional mental health Workforce issues, plus much more .
A big thanks to Associate Professor Sarah Wayland for leading the development of our webinar series over the past year. We are now pleased to introduce new moderator Dr Jasleen Chhabra, who will continue to guide our expert panelists through some thought-provoking presentations and discussions. To register for upcoming webinars and view recordings go here https://mannainstitute.au/webinars
Professional development opportunities
In 2024, we will launch our mentoring program and commence our short course program with a workshop on program evaluation. I urge you to take this opportunity to further the evidence base and build relationships with industry.
As new expertise begins to emerge within Manna, our research streams are branching into new tributaries. We look forward to actively pursuing research on the mental health workforce, addictions, diversity and inclusion, and the changing environment.
If you are interested in or have expertise in these subjects within a RRR context, please email mannainstitute@une.edu.au to help us chart a new course with these tributaries.
New mentoring scheme – EOI now open!
Manna’s focus on career development also continues to gather pace as we invest in the trajectories of our researchers. We are committed to doing what we can to support your interest in mental health research and welcome newcomers to our HDR Community of Practice (CoP), as well as senior researchers prepared to provide seminars and workshops for the CoP.
The launch of Manna’s mentoring scheme this year will provide vital encouragement, confidence and networks, especially for ECRs and MCRs, so consider how you might become involved as a mentor or mentee. To lodge an EOI, go to here