Parkinson's NSW

24/08/2026

🗣 Speech, communication and swallowing can all be affected by Parkinson's.

Changes may include a softer voice, reduced speech clarity, difficulty being heard in conversations, changes in facial expression, or swallowing difficulties that can affect eating, drinking and medications. Parkinson's can even affect how people perceive their own voice volume, meaning they may not realise how quietly they are speaking.

To mark Speech Pathology Week, we've brought together expert information, practical insights and a webinar exploring speech, communication and swallowing in Parkinson's.

Visit our website to:
💬 Find out more about speech and swallowing changes in Parkinson's
💬 Access practical information and support

https://www.parkinsonsnsw.org.au/speech-communication-and-swallowing-in-parkinsons/

Parkinson's NSW InfoLine 1800 727 567

15/08/2026

💜 $26,635 raised. One incredible community.

Thank you to everyone who ran, walked, fundraised, donated and supported Parkinson's NSW at City2Surf 2026.

We couldn't be prouder 💜

05/08/2026

Heartbreak Hill, we're coming for you 👀

This Sunday, Team Move & Shake will take on City2Surf to support people living with Parkinson's.

Some of us will be chasing a personal best. Some of us will be happy just to make it to Bondi. And all of us are looking forward to celebrating together at the finish line with a gelato!

Whatever happens, every step helps support people living with Parkinson's, their families and carers.

💜 Want to cheer us on? You can support Team Move & Shake by making a donation via this link city2surf26.grassrootz.com/parkinson-s-nsw

Wish us luck!

29/07/2026

Smiles. Conversations. Sunshine. A community coming together ... that's what the Walk for Parkinson's was all about 💜

A big thank you to The Dean Team and Advance Rehab Centre for another fantastic event and to everyone who walked, volunteered and donated.

Your support helps ensure people living with Parkinson's, their families and carers can continue to access expert information, support and connection.

Every donation makes a difference. If you'd like to contribute, you can do so here https://the-dean-team.grassrootz.com/walk-for-parkinson-s

Thank you for being part of a very special day 🙌

18/07/2026

John's story is a reminder that carers can be any age.

"Nonna's (grandmother) home was filled with memories and family traditions that made it feel like a second home" - John

When John's grandmother needed more support, he stepped into the role of carer, taking on responsibilities many people his age had never experienced. From helping coordinate appointments and care decisions to supporting her through significant life changes, his story highlights the important role carers play in the Parkinson's journey.

Now 25, John is not only a carer but also a Young Carer Advocate, helping raise awareness of the challenges young carers face and the importance of seeking support

💜 Their story is a powerful reminder that Parkinson's affects entire families, and that carers can be of any age.

Read their story www.parkinsonsnsw.org.au/my-parkinsons-carer-life-john

16/07/2026

Many people are surprised to learn that there is no single test that can definitively diagnose Parkinson's disease

Diagnosis is typically based on a combination of symptoms, medical history and neurological assessment. Key signs can include tremor, stiffness and slowness of movement, but every person's experience is different.

A Movement Disorder Specialist is best suited to assess these symptoms and determine whether further testing is required. These specialists have undertaken additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as Parkinson's and can help distinguish Parkinson's from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms.

If Parkinson's is suspected, a neurologist may carry out a range of assessments to better understand how symptoms are affecting movement, balance and daily activities. While imaging tests such as a DaTscan may sometimes be used when the diagnosis is uncertain, there is currently no single scan, blood test or investigation that can confirm Parkinson's disease on its own.

The path to diagnosis can feel overwhelming, particularly when symptoms first begin to emerge. Understanding what happens during the process and what specialists are looking for can help people feel more informed and confident to ask questions during the diagnostic progress.

Our latest article explores:
✅ The key signs and symptoms
✅ What happens during a neurological assessment
✅ The role of movement disorder specialists
✅ When additional tests may be recommended

Read the full article via the link in the comments

10/07/2026

We are saddened to share the passing of David Veness OAM, former Parkinson's NSW Board President, Community Ambassador, advocate and friend.

David dedicated many years to improving the lives of people living with Parkinson's across New South Wales. Following his diagnosis, he chose to use his experience to support others and became a respected voice for those affected by Parkinson's.

Throughout his time with Parkinson's NSW, David played a significant role in advancing access to care and support, particularly for people living in regional and rural communities. He was instrumental in promoting the value of Parkinson's Specialist Nurses, supporting research into their impact, and advocating for greater investment in specialist Parkinson's services across the state. He also supported innovative approaches, including telehealth, to help ensure people could access care regardless of where they lived.

David's leadership and commitment to improving access to care left a lasting mark on the Parkinson's community across New South Wales. He will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Our thoughts are with David's family, friends and all those whose lives he touched.

Vale David Veness OAM.

01/07/2026

🎸Looking for a great night out while supporting Parkinson’s research?

The Interceptors are taking to the stage at The Mosman Club on Saturday 22 August for a special fundraising concert in support of Parkinson’s research.

Come along and support this wonderful initiative 💜

Get your tickets ➡️ https://events.humanitix.com/the-interceptors-rock-countdown-2026

We've been quietly busy at the Parkinson's Disease Centre for Excellence. 🎶
Behind every quiet stretch of work is a team pushing hard to understand Parkinson's disease and move closer to better treatments. It's painstaking, unglamorous work — and it's exactly the kind of research your support makes possible.

So we're excited to step out from behind the microscope and invite you to celebrate with us.

We're proud to be partnering with The Interceptors — fronted by the legendary Les Gock of HUSH, who starred in the very first episode of Countdown — and The Mosman Club, for a night of raw, thumping OZ Rock in tribute to the greats: The Sweet, Queen, The Angels, AC/DC, Skyhooks and more.

🎸 The Interceptors Rock Countdown — 3rd Annual Jane Hanks Memorial Fundraiser

📅 Saturday 22 August 2026 · Doors open from 7PM

📍 The Mosman Club, 719 Military Rd, Mosman NSW

🎟 Tickets $39.95 + booking fee: https://events.humanitix.com/the-interceptors-rock-countdown-2026

Every dollar raised goes directly to our Parkinson's disease research. Grab your tickets, bring your friends, and help us keep the momentum going — this show will sell out.

Mosman Club Les Gock NeuRA - Neuroscience Research Australia Parkinson's NSW Shake It Up Australia Foundation for Parkinson's Research

29/06/2026

When David was diagnosed with Parkinson's, he wasn't the only one whose life changed. Jenny's changed too.

A Parkinson's diagnosis is never faced by just one person.

That's why Parkinson's NSW exists. To ensure people living with Parkinson's, their families and carers have access to trusted information and expert support and connection.

No one should have to navigate Parkinson's alone.

Your tax-deductible donation before June 30 will help make that possible.

💜 Donate today www.pitchinforparkinsons.org.au/F67D31

Because no one should have to navigate Parkinson's alone.