Connect and Grow: Social Workers of the Future

La Trobe University and Mallee Family Violence Executive are partnering on this event, as an opportunity for students and local industry to network.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from La Trobe University's Dr Sarah MacLean - a Social Work researcher, recognised as an expert in people's experience of alcohol consumption, inhalant use and gambling. Councillor Jodi Reynolds will then facilitate a panel discussion with local practitioners, who will share their career journeys.

This will be a chance for local practitioners to learn, network and inspire the next generation workforce, whilst also gaining insight into how to enchance their careers and celebrate the diversity of their profession.

TAFE and University students will have the opportunity to network with future local employers, whilst learning from the panel about the range of careers in this sector.

This event is a not to be missed for anybody working or studying in the Social Work, Psychological Science, Mental Health, Counselling or Community and Human Services space!

Morning tea, coffee and lunch provided. REGISTRATIONS ESSENTIAL!

Format of the event:

• 9.30am - Arrival and coffee van open
• 10.00am - Keynote speech from Dr Sarah MacLean
• 10.45am - Break for morning tea
• 11.15am - Panel discussion
• 12.00pm - Lunch and networking
• 1.00pm - Event close

Keynote speaker:

Dr Sarah MacLean, Associate Professor Social Work and Social Policy, La Trobe UniversityDr MacLean is recognised for her expertise in researching people’s experiences of alcohol consumption, inhalant use and gambling. Each of these can be done legally and enjoyably, but also produces harms to health and wellbeing that are exacerbated by social inequalities. Dr MacLean works collaboratively to identify health and social policy responses for implementation at various scales, by individuals, local communities and governments.

Since completing her PhD in 2007, she has published 90 contributions in peer reviewed journals, alongside many reports.

MC for panel discussion:

Councillor Jodi Reynolds
Cr Jodi Reynolds has been a resident of Mildura since 2014. She has raised two daughters in the region and become an active member of the Mildura community. She has worked as a geologist specialising in Mineralogy for over 20 years after completing a BSc at the University of Newcastle.

Among many issues, Cr Reynolds is passionate about job creation focused on young people and women and coordinated mental health services.

Panel members:

Rhonda Gallienne, Clinical Operations Manager - Adults and Older Adults Service, Sunraysia Community Health Services
Rhonda is a La Trobe University alum, holding a Bachelor of Social Work. As well as a Bachelor of Applied Science (Medical Radiations), a Bachelor of Applied Management and Post Graduate Diploma Health Promotion.

Simon Murphy, Take Two Clinician, Berry Street 
Simon is a La Trobe University alum, having studied a Bachelor of Human Services/Master of Social Work.

More panellists announced soon!