News

Construction on Purpose-Built headspace Cowra Centre to Begin

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Marathon Health and the Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN) are excited to announce the imminent expansion of headspace services in Cowra with construction to commence soon on the new purpose-built headspace Cowra satellite centre at 118 Kendal St, underneath the library.

Over the next few months, through engagement with young people and community stakeholders, Marathon Health, headspace Cowra’s lead agency, will be designing a fit-for-purpose, youth-friendly space.

“This is a milestone to celebrate for Cowra and what the new headspace centre will mean for young people in the community. The Federal Government should be commended for its commitment to strengthening mental health services in regional areas,” said Andrew Coe, CEO of the WNSW PHN.

“We are pleased to be funding Marathon Health to operate this service and applaud their commitment to its development,” said Mr Coe.

Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said he was delighted Cowra would soon have improved mental health support for its younger residents.

“The Federal Government is investing a record $873.2 million in the headspace network over the next four years as part of the $2.3 billion invested in the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan,” Mr McCormack said.

“Regional and rural people need, want, expect and deserve the very best in health services and this satellite service will help to achieve that.”

headspace CEO Jason Trethowan said it was exciting to see work on a new-look headspace site for Cowra getting underway. “This purpose-built facility means more young people in and around Cowra will have access to headspace’s suite of confidential and youth-friendly mental health supports,” Mr Trethowan said.

“Never has it been more important for us to support our young people, especially those living in regional areas.”

While services have been operational from the existing site at 43 Kendal Street, the construction of the new centre is the missing puzzle piece for this much-needed service.

Megan Callinan, Marathon Health’s CEO, says an incredible team has been recruited and have been working closely with the community, council and local schools.

“The headspace Cowra team have been working hard with local organisations and schools, promoting mental health awareness and education, and connecting young people to care. We envisage this new site to be a hub of youth wellbeing, tailored to meet the specific needs of the Cowra community,” Ms Callinan said.

Cowra Mayor, Councillor Bill West, says Council is thrilled for Cowra’s young people.

“headspace has already been providing vital support in its limited local capacity, and this expansion is absolutely crucial for our 12- to 25-year-olds, their friends and family, to enable them to access services locally that support their wellbeing,’ said Cr West.

He added, “Council has not only approved but fully supports the development of the new purpose-built centre, and Council will continue to work with headspace through Marathon Health and WNSW PHN to ensure we assist the service in any way that Council is able.”

The satellite centre is expected to be completed within the next six months. Young people who need support are able to access headspace services from the existing site, online via eheadspace.org.au – or they can connect to other local free mental health services provided by Marathon Health, including NewAccess or Strong Minds Western.

(Pictured, L-R: Simone Sly, Intake and Administration Officer, Scott McLennan, Youth Access Worker, Jenny Duggan, Clinical Manager.)