Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Council CEO Jann Smith congratulated the three winners of the very first Tasmanian Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Awards.
The Awards, in their inaugural year, recognise, promote and reward outstanding practice in the alcohol, tobacco and other drug field in Tasmania.
Supported by the Tasmanian Government through the Department of Health and Human Services, the Awards were presented by Minister for Health, the Hon. Michelle O’Byrne MP.
“The Awards recognise individuals who have made outstanding contributions to improving the health and well-being of people affected by alcohol and other drugs, to reducing harm and developing the profession” Ms Smith said.
“They demonstrate the depth of talent, skill and knowledge within the Tasmanian workforce, and reflect the desire of the sector to recognise the exceptional practice of our colleagues”.
Winners receive $500 to be spent on professional development.
The three winners:
Excellence in ATOD Work Award – Sharmaine Hudson
Sharmaine is a long standing Anglicare employee, with particular expertise in ATOD specific programs. She works in the Glenorchy Illicit Drug Service (GIDS) and the Glenorchy Needle and Syringe Program.
She has forged excellent relationships within the community and is proactive in her commitment to service provision and harm minimisation. This is demonstrated by much of her work, including the creation of a new Family Support Group in response to a need identified by local consumers.
Early Career Award – Cate Sinclair
A registered nurse, Cate works as a clinician with the Young Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Service (YADAS) at Launceston’s Corenerstone Youth Services.
She has a unique blend of experience, business and management skills having also worked in media, advertising and marketing nationally and internationally.
Her clinical and business skills provide a perfect combination in her current work establishing and building the YADAS service.
Outstanding Contributions Award – Dr David Jackson
David works in private practice as a GP and Addiction Medicine Specialist. He works both in the private and community sectors, with young people, homeless people, and people who inject drugs.
He has been involved in the alcohol and other drug sector for more than two decades as a clinician and in teaching and policy. He pioneered the use of methadone and bupreonorphine in Tasmania and retains a strong interest in pharmacotherapy as a treatment method for drug dependence.
He is one of Tasmania’s strongest advocates for empathic and high quality evidence based treatment and support for consumers of alcohol and other drugs.
The Awards were presented by Minister Michelle O’Byrne at approximately 8:45pm at the Mill on Morrison (11 Morrison Street) this evening.
Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Council Tas Inc.
