Public Health in Gippsland: Understanding Challenges, Exploring Solutions

Join us for the October Innovation Breakfast, presented in partnership with the Gippsland Region Public Health Unit (GRPHU), as we explore some key public health challenges facing our region.

We are delighted to welcome Professor Dr Aziz Rahman, Professor of Public Health and Associate Dean Research, Institute of Health and Wellbeing at Federation University, as our keynote speaker. Professor Rahman is an experienced Public Health Physician and a respected academic leader whose research spans from local community health initiatives to shaping national and international health policies. He is also the Vice President of the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA).

Drawing on his extensive work, Professor Rahman will provide an overview of both national and regional data, highlighting pressing issues such as tobacco and vaping use, Q fever, workforce development in public health, and the translation of evidence into effective policy change.

At the local level, GRPHU and a panel of regional representatives will share how public health initiatives are working to improve the wellbeing of our Gippsland communities. Together, we’ll discuss what’s being done, what more is needed, and how we can help shape healthier outcomes for our region.

Event Program

• 8.00am: Arrival - breakfast, tea and coffee on arrival

• 8.30am: Welcome by MC, including Acknowledgement of Country

• 8.35am: Keynote Speaker

• 9.05am: A panel including local representatives will speak about their experience of the health issues and provide context on public health in Gippsland. The conversation will include audience questions. 

• 9.45am: Formal close of event by MC

• 9.45am - 10am: Networking/Breakfast
  

Speakers

• MC: Lisa Maatsoo, Industry Engagement & Innovation Manager, Morwell Innovation Centre, Federation University

• Keynote and Panel Member: Professor Dr Aziz Rahman, Professor of Public Health and Associate Dean Research, Institute of Health and Wellbeing at Federation University

• Panel Moderator: Associate Professor Alyce Wilson, Director, Public Health Physician, Gippsland Region Public Health Unit

• Panel Member: Karen McLennan, Regional Manager and Executive Office, GippsDairy

• Panel Member: Alisha Brooks, Senior Prevention & Population Health Officer, Gippsland Region Public Health Unit
  

This event is being delivered in partnership with Federation University, Regional Development Australia Gippsland and Regional Development Victoria.