SUE THOMSON

Throughout her career, Sue has worked in nursing clinical management roles at Mt Gambier Hospital as Nurse Manager, Director of Nursing and Acting CEO.

During her time as Director of Nursing and working closely with DASSA, Sue implemented an inpatient drug withdrawal program and also introduced mental health liaison nurse positions in the medical ward and emergency department - the first such roles outside metropolitan hospitals.

With a particular interest in indigenous health, Sue was part of the initial working party which led to the establishment of Pangula Mannamurna Aboriginal Health Service and has also supported and mentored Aboriginal health workers.

In 2004 Sue became the regional nurse manager for the South East Regional Community Health Service,  supporting and managing nursing teams across six regional sites and was instrumental in the successful funding application for a Breast Care Nurse.

Representing country nurses on a range of state-wide advisory bodies, Sue has also helped develop state-wide policies for regional nursing services, including the South Australian Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Clinical Guidelines for Nurses and Midwives and the Mental Health Emergency Demand Management Best Practice in SA policies and clinical guidelines.

With a dedication for public and Aboriginal health, Sue believes her nursing and management experience will help support the SLMC to achieve its goals and ensure services are inclusive of the whole of the Limestone Coast community.