Western NSW PHN

20/10/2026

Better health starts with knowing where to turn. Our community newsletter helps connect people with trusted local services, health programs, wellbeing events and useful information across Western and Far West NSW.

Stay informed, stay connected and access support when you need it.

Subscribe now at https://bit.ly/4vxrv6L

16/10/2026

Meet the Emerging Leader finalists 📣

Three inspiring healthcare professionals have been recognised as finalists in the Emerging Leader category of the 2026 Western NSW Primary Health Excellence Awards.

⭐️Dr Rebecca Gough, Dubbo
As a proud Wiradjuri woman from Dubbo, Dr Rebecca Gough has built a reputation as a compassionate clinician, advocate, and emerging leader in rural healthcare.

⭐️Dr George Zhang, Brewarrina
Dr George Zhang is an emerging rural health leader whose work across Aboriginal health, general practice, emergency medicine, teaching, and research is improving healthcare access in rural NSW.

⭐️Dr Pavan Tumkur Phanindra, Bathurst
Dr Pavan Tumkur Phanindra has established himself as an emerging leader in primary healthcare through his commitment to improving access to care and strengthening local health services.

Read more about the finalists > https://wnswphn.org.au/news/emerging-leader-finalists-shaping-the-future-of-primary-healthcare-in-western-and-far-west-nsw/

We will be celebrating our finalists across all six categories at the Western NSW Primary Health Excellence Awards gala event in Dubbo on 12 November.

Be part of the celebration and secure your tickets now > https://bit.ly/4xZLbk1

15/10/2026

This Sunday, 18 October, is World Menopause Day! 💜

This World Menopause Day, we recognise people with ovaries across Western and Far West NSW navigating menopause and midlife health, often while balancing work, family, caring responsibilities and the challenges of accessing care close to home.

The 2026 theme, Chronic Pain at Midlife, highlights a health issue that affects many women during and after the menopause transition but can be underestimated.

If ongoing pain is affecting your daily life, speak with a trusted GP or health worker.

Learn more and access resources from the International Menopause Society > https://www.imsociety.org/education/world-menopause-day-2026/

15/10/2026

As part of the Healthy Warrumbungles Project, WNSW PHN hosted its inaugural GP and interprofessional education and networking evening in Coonabarabran: When the basics aren’t enough: Navigating complex palliative care.

Presented by palliative care specialist Dr Jacqui Duc and the Western NSW Local Health District Specialist Palliative Care Team (Dubbo hub), the event brought together local GPs, registrars, nurses, allied health professionals and pharmacists.

Participants shared practical knowledge, strengthened professional connections and explored approaches to complex palliative care in a collaborative setting.

Thank you to our presenters, teams and participants for generously sharing your time, knowledge and insights to make the evening a success.

Western NSW Local Health District | NSW Ambulance | Warrumbungle Shire Council | Rural Doctors Network

15/10/2026

Don't miss the 2026 Dubbo Community NAIDOC Ball!

2026 Dubbo Community NAIDOC Ball
A time for recognition and celebration.

📅 Friday 23 Oct, 6PM
📍Convention Centre
🚨RSVP by Monday 19 Oct
🎟️ Tickets on sale now at drtcc.com.au

Featuring live music, delicious food, and exciting performances, the ball is a chance to experience the vibrancy and diversity of Indigenous culture. You'll be able to connect with like-minded individuals, learn more about the significance of NAIDOC week, and celebrate the contributions of Indigenous Australians to our society.

🎤Your MC for the night is Dane Simpson. Entertainment provided by Yellowbelly Band🎵

Tickets are general admission.
Tables of 10 with seating allocated in order of arrival.

15/10/2026

Get ready for NAIDOC week in Bathurst!

13/10/2026

13/10/2026

Today is Allied Health Professions Day!

Allied health professionals support Australians in more ways – and in more places – than many people realise.

This Allied Health Professions Day, we’re celebrating the diverse professions, people and services that make allied health such an essential part of Australia’s health system.

Allied health: For everyone, everywhere.

12/10/2026

One small swish every 5 years could save your life.

If you’re a woman, sistergirl or brotherboy with a cervix aged 25 to 74, yarn with your health worker about cervical screening and choose what feels right for you.

health.gov.au/cervical-screening