Louise is an occupational therapist who has worked with the Department of Health and Aged Care and non-government organisations in rural and remote locations in NSW for 36 years.

She has a particular interest and passion in paediatrics and disability, working within the early intervention sector for many years and most recently transferring the service to operate within the NDIS scheme.

As the manager of an early childhood intervention service, she was responsible for developing the Key Worker Best Practice intervention model in the Forbes/Parkes and Lachlan Local Government Areas. She has been instrumental in innovative onboarding approaches to service delivery.

Louise acknowledges that key elements of effective, sustainable intervention depend on building strong, trusting relationships with families and therapists. Building the capacity of others through empowerment, quality coaching and adapting evidence-based practices are vital.

Louise acknowledges the challenges faced in rural and remote NSW in securing quality allied health staff while advocating the rights of local communities for such access. She is keen to share her passion, knowledge and understanding of rural NSW with health students and connect them to the wonderfully diverse opportunities available.

From 1989 to 1991, Louise conducted occupational therapy specific workshops, and she presented at the 1989 NSW Occupational Therapy Conference.

Louise is interested in the effective management of allied health workforce retention in rural and remote NSW and the paediatrics and disability sectors.

Professional membership

Louise is a member of the Lachlan Health Board, NSW Department of Health and Aged Care.