MSWA Bulletin Magazine Makuru / Winter 2024

All smiles as MSWA breaks ground on new
specialised homes for West Aussies.
Inside
Bulletin
YOUR MSWA MAGAZINE
MAKURU | WINTER 2024
mswa.org.au

Client Artist Michelle Hall.
WILSON CENTRE
29 Parkhill Way
9365 4888
Contact Us
If you would like to comment on anything you read in
this Bulletin, please email bulletin@mswa.org.au
For general feedback or complaints, please contact
feedback@mswa.org.au
Editorial Working Group
Nicola Washington, Tony Millar, Emily Ace,
Tammie Chu and Nicolette Murphy.
Contributors
Thank you to all of our MSWA contributors from across
our orgnisation, who take to the time to share their
knowledge and expertise for the benefit of our readers.
If there is a topic you would like to see included in our
next edition, please email bulletin@mswa.org.au with
your suggestion.
Welcome to the Makuru 2024
edition of Bulletin
The Nooongar Season “Makuru” is represented by the dark
blue colour, symbolising the cold and wet weather typical of the
season. Makuru is the time for animals to pair up in preparation
for breeding in the upcoming months. It is also when blueberry lily,
purple flags, and weeping peppermint flowers begin to flourish. 1
Client Engagement Department
Our experienced teams will provide you with
personalised support throughout your service journey
with MSWA. From helping you to access funding, to
working with you to get the most from your selected
services, our trained staff are here to help.
For more information, please contact 9365 4888.
Our services include:
• Counselling, Peer Support and Health Education
• Community Support & In-home Care
• Dietetics
• Occupational Therapy
• Outreach
• Physiotherapy
• Social Welfare
• Speech Pathology
• Nursing
• Support Coordination
Nursing Support
Our Neurological Liaison Nurses are usually the first
point of contact after the neurologist’s diagnosis.
Community Nurse: 9365 4888
Monday to Friday (8.00am - 4.00pm)
Outreach at MSWA
If you live in Perth, Rockingham, Bunbury or Albany and
are interested in a trial to experience the Outreach
community, get in touch via outreach@mswa.org.au
Employment Support
The MSWA Employment Support Service is the only
specialist employment service for people living with
multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions in
Western Australia. Our team can help you to stay
in your current job or find employment in the open
labour market.
Please call: 1300 865 209
See all our supports and services at mswa.org.au
Switch to Bulletin online today!
Help us reduce our environmental impact by going
digital and connect with more engaging content.
Email us at marketing@mswa.org.au to sign up.
1
Reference: Edith Cowan University, Cultural Leadership:
Noongar Six Seasons.
PHOTO: Dylan Alcock.
Acknowledgement of Country
In the spirit of reconciliation, MSWA acknowledges the
Traditional Custodians of the many lands and language
groups of Western Australia, and their connections to
land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their
Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
2 3

From our CEO
Melanie Kiely
Client Services
Nicki Washington – Chief Client Operations Officer
Greetings to all of you in our MSWA
community. I cannot believe we are
almost halfway through the year
and yet the warm weather stayed
with us well into the month of May,
with so little rain. I hope as we
embark into the season of Makuru
we see our waterways refill after
such a dry season.
Looking back over the past three
months, we have had many
significant milestones.
Our Montario Quarter development
has finally commenced. We had a
wonderful Construction Launch
with the Minister of Health and the
new Director General of Health. This
jointly funded project will provide
new homes for the current residents
of the Quadriplegic Centre, three
of whom helped us break ground
– Enzo, Celia, and Angelo – as
well as other West Aussies with
neurological conditions requiring
high support care.
In our focus on expanding our
community to include corporates
and other partners who want to help
us make a positive impact, we’ve
signed our first landmark –
partnership with the State Buildings,
who will provide a range of support
to our fundraising efforts. I
personally attended the signing, and
I’m so encouraged by the goodwill
of organisations, such as the
State Buildings, to support and get
involved in what we do.
Our Client Co-Design and Advisory
Committee is a year down the
track and has agreed to meet more
frequently, we’re learning so much
from each other. It sounds obvious to
co-design with the community you are
trying to help, but sometimes we’re
too focused on getting things done
and we have fallen into this trap in
the past. I can’t thank the committee
and our Client base enough for being
open and honest in our discussions,
so we can support you better.
We’ve seen some big statements from
the Government following the NDIS
Review recommendations and more
recently the budget announcement.
MSWA agrees with most of the
observations and recommendations
of the review, but the devil is in the
timing and the detail. Both, sadly, are
still lacking and we look forward to
working with the Government through
our advocacy channels and peak
bodies to get this clarity for all of you.
Looking ahead, we have our MSWA
Step Up around the corner on
Sunday, June 23. These are tough
times for fundraising with the cost-ofliving
pressures, but please do what
you can and come along. It is a lot of
fun – even I enjoyed it and believe me,
stairs and cardio are not my thing!
The great atmosphere is what got
me to the top last year – twice!
Lastly, I want to pay tribute to
two wonderful members of our
community.
Firstly, to MSWA's longest-serving
volunteer, Marie Harris. Marie
passed away earlier this year, having
volunteered with MSWA for over 30
years. Marie lived a truly incredible
life, having founded the Masters
Swimming Club in Bunbury and
boasting a huge collection of medals
for her swimming achievements
particularly in backstroke. In 2016,
Marie received the WA Volunteer
Service Award for her years of
dedication to MSWA, in which
she connected newly diagnosed
Clients to services, volunteered her
time in Bunbury Outreach, raised
awareness for MS and actively
fundraised for our cause. You can
read more about Marie's story
here: https://bit.ly/3yMk96L.
Marie will be sorely missed, and
we can’t thank her enough for her
years of dedication.
Secondly, I would like to give our
thanks to Lynda Whitton who was
a National Advocate with Multiple
Sclerosis Australia since the
program's inception - an extensive
tenure of 13 years! In this role she
ensured our WA community had
a voice at the national table. After
resigning from the role in 2023, she
passed the baton onto Susan Hyde
who we profiled in our last edition
of Bulletin. Your years of service is
truly appreciated by our community.
Thank you.
Go well and enjoy the winter now
that it is finally arriving - I know my
plants most certainly are!
Welcome to the Makuru edition
of Bulletin. As featured on our front
page, we are very excited to see the
progression of our new residential
site at Montario Quarter. We have
been meeting with the current
residents of the Quadriplegic Centre
to provide key updates on the new
building and will be developing
plans for the smooth transition of
residents to their new homes.
Recognising our people
We are so proud of our MSWA
nurses and the incredible work
they do to support our Clients, so
it was fantastic to celebrate them
with a morning tea in honour of
International Nurses Day in May.
May also allowed us the opportunity
to recognise the amazing
contribution of our many MSWA
volunteers with a luncheon – you can
read all about it and see the pictures
on page 22.
To our amazing nurses and
volunteers, THANK YOU.
Massage Services
Knowing how important massage is
for our Clients, we recently sought
feedback and reviewed our service
delivery with the aim of increasing
our massage services.
Considering the information we
received, MSWA will now contribute
50 per cent off the current
fee-for-service rate for eligible
Clients. There will be no limit on the
frequency of appointments, though
this will be subject to availability.
As the service grows and evolves,
there may come a time when we
will need to make changes to
ensure continuity and accessibility
of the service. This includes, but
is not limited to, the price, offers
or promotions, appointment
bookings, and cancellations. Should
that be the case, we will ensure
that any changes will be clearly
communicated in a timely manner.
If you would like to know how to
access this service, please
contact our Physiotherapy team on
9365 4834 or physio@mswa.org.au.
Residential Accommodation
We will be holding open days across
our accommodation sites in June
and July, which is a great opportunity
to wander around our residential
homes and learn about the
accommodation services we offer.
Butler will be open on 25 June,
Treendale on 25 July and Fern River
also on 25 July, which will coincide with
their Christmas in July celebration!
We'd love you to visit us, so
please register your interest at
residential.managers@mswa.org.au.
New service
We are pleased to introduce a new
Wellbeing service at MSWA, which
aims to empower individuals using
evidence-based tools and resources
to overcome obstacles and foster
resiliency. The comprehensive
approach provides a holistic
platform for personal growth
and development. Find out more
on page 27.
Art Exhibition
The MSWA art exhibition award
ceremony took place at Wilson
Outreach in May, where we
celebrated all our talented artists.
Jodee Pereira was announced our
People’s Choice winner, as voted
by the visitors to our Mega Home
Lottery home, so well-done Jodee!
Read more on page 15.
Client Service
Delivery Model
We have started the next phase
of work across our Client service
delivery model. The project aims
to find ways to improve how you
receive support and services. Over
the coming months, we will engage
with a number of Client groups
to gain feedback on how we can
improve the holistic Client journey
and will seek to discover what
matters most to you.
As always, your feedback is
important to us so if you have
anything you would like to share,
please contact us on
feedback@mswa.org.au.
4 5

Client Engagement
MSWA news
Federal Budget provides
future insight
Breaking Ground
Montario Quarter Construction Launch
As I get older, certain things that
used to seem mundane or boring
to me have unexpectedly grown in
interest and importance. Sleep for
instance, is a far more important
discussion for me now than it ever
was during my younger, carefree
days. Perhaps stranger still, I have
become increasingly excited by the
annual Federal Budget release and
its impact on both NDIS and Aged
Care participants. (Yes, I used the
words exciting and Federal Budget
in the same sentence). So, what
was included in this year’s Budget
and what does it mean?
NDIS
For a long time, much of what you
have been hearing from the NDIA
and the Government has been
about reducing expenditure, so it
should be no surprise to anyone
that this Budget focused on the
same thing. During his post-budget
communications Minister Shorten
reported that the NDIS will only
increase by $1.5b over the next
four years. This is fine, except that
between the 2022/23 and 2023/24
financial years, NDIS expenditure
increased by $7.4b. According to
Minister Shorten, this drop will
be due to the NDIS review and
proposed legislation changes. This
makes sense; but it should be noted
that these changes haven't been
approved and the detail is uncertain.
In good news, the budget committed
$129.8m to consultation with the
disability community around the
recommendations of the review’s
report.
This shows that the Government is
committed to co-design principals
in improving the scheme. In
addition, $5.3m was allocated to
the Independent Health and Aged
Care Pricing Authority to reform
current NDIS pricing arrangements,
including a review of pricing
approaches and strategy. This is a
win as the current pricing strategy
is too rigid and impacts both
participants and providers alike.
There is also $20m over two years
to assist people with disability,
their families, and their carers to
overcome challenges they face
when accessing supports, and
$45.5m over four years to establish a
NDIS Evidence Advisory Committee
which will provide advice around
the appropriateness of disability
supports through the NDIS.
Aged Care – Home Care Packages
While the NDIS received the most
attention, the Government didn’t
forget about the Aged Care sector
which has also recently undergone
its own significant review. The
Government has committed $2.2b
to aged care which should help to
implement the recommendations and
reforms from the Royal Commission
into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
One good outcome of this allocation
is that the Government has allocated
$531.4m for an extra 24,100 Home
Care Packages in 2024-25. This
is expected to reduce wait-times
to six months and will mean that
approximately 300,000 Home Care
Packages will be accessible across
Australia; both great outcomes.
The Government also allocated
$111m towards strengthening the
Quality and Safety Commission and
$65.6m over four years, to attract
and retain aged care workers to
help ensure quality services across
the sector.
One not so good announcement
from this year’s budget was the
deferral once again of the New
Aged Care Act until 1 July 2025. This
follows deferral from the past two
budgets. Despite waiting for reform
for some time, deferring another
year is a prudent decision due to the
lack of confirmed detail.
Across both the NDIS and HCP
sectors this Federal Budget has
pointed to changes coming over
the horizon. While the devil is in the
detail and some things are slow in
appearing, the Government seems
focused on getting both schemes
right, and that’s something to get
excited about.
So, what does
this all mean?
Read Geoff’s
full article
online here:
Geoff Hutchinson
Manager Client Engagement
MSWA is proud to announce the launch of construction
for the Montario Quarter, a significant milestone in our
ongoing commitment to supporting individuals with
neuro conditions or spinal cord injuries in WA.
The construction launch event, held on 8 May, 2024 was
a resounding success, marking a pivotal moment in
this important community development. The ceremony
featured a Turning of the Sod, symbolising the start
of the construction phase, and was attended by key
stakeholders and supporters. The event underscored the
collaborative efforts that have brought this project
to fruition.
The new facility, which will be overseen by MSWA's team
of allied health and clinical professionals, will prioritise
the accommodation of Quadriplegic Centre Clients,
including Enzo, Celia, and Angelo who helped celebrate
the construction launch.
MSWA's $12.8m investment, supplemented by $14m
from the Department of Health, brings the total
investment in this long-awaited project to $26.8m.
"We recognise the urgent need for more comprehensive
independent living options for individuals with
disabilities," said Melanie Kiely, CEO of MSWA.
"This investment reaffirms our dedication to improving
the lives of those we support in the WA community.”
With 20 state-of-the-art apartments, the Montario
Quarter will offer long-term, high support living options
that promote independence in daily activities.
Steve Corbett, MSWA Manager Property Development
and Construction, highlighted the unique features
of the facility.
“This ultra-modern Shenton Park facility will present
a unique style of accommodation choice that would
otherwise not be available in the West Australian market.
“Over many years, MSWA has enhanced important
design features in each new development. We pride
ourselves on listening to residents, staff, and visitors,
making changes that work best for everyone’s needs.
Enzo, Quadriplegic Centre resident.
“This continuous cycle of improvement makes MSWA
accommodation better than the typical standards and
codes buildings must comply with. Passive building
elements and assistive technology will be a welcomed
convenience for Quad Centre residents, as will the
landscaped gardens within and surrounding their
new homes."
MSWA will provide 24-hour care, seven days a week
through its dedicated team to ensure top-tier support for
all residents.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the residents and
carers of the Quadriplegic Centre for their patience
and ongoing contributions to the development process,
as well as to the Department of Health, and the MSWA
community whose backing has made this impactful
investment possible.
We look forward to the completion of Montario Quarter
and the positive impact it will have on the lives of its
future residents.
Marianne Green
Senior Marketing Officer
Quadriplegic Centre Clients, Minister of Health
Amber-Jade Sanderson, and MSWA CEO Melanie Kiely.
6
7

Research
Multiple
Sclerosis
Australia
Potential stroke game-changer
New report calls for
faster MS diagnosis
A potential world-first drug to
protect the brain from injury after
stroke, currently in a national
clinical trial led by Perth-based
Argenica Therapeutics, was
developed by WA scientists
Professor Bruno Meloni and
Clinical Professor Neville Knuckey
and their team at the Perron
Institute and The University of
Western Australia.
Every 19 minutes, an Australian
experiences a stroke for the first
time in their life. When a stroke
strikes, it can attack up to 1.9 million
brain cells per minute. Stroke is one
of Australia’s biggest killers with
about half a million Australians living
with the effects of stroke. Globally,
one in four people over the age of 25
will have a stroke in their lifetime.
MSWA is proud to have contributed
early funding from 2018 to 2022 to
Professors Meloni, Knuckey and
their team’s research which enabled
part of the preclinical testing on the
effectiveness of the neuroprotective
peptide ARG-007 as the lead
therapeutic drug to potentially
reduce brain tissue death after an
ischaemic stroke, the most common
type of stroke. This occurs when
blood clots block arteries supplying
blood to the brain.
“The subsequent interruption of
blood supply and lack of oxygen
from a stroke leads to a massive
influx of calcium into brain cells
to cause brain tissue damage,”
Professor Meloni said. “During a
stroke, most of the brain damage
occurs within three to four hours.”
L-R Clinical Professor Neville Knuckey and
Professor Bruno Meloni in the Perron Institute lab.
“ARG-007 has unique properties
that inhibit the influx of calcium.
If administered soon after stroke
onset, it has the potential to protect
the brain from permanent strokerelated
conditions.”
Earlier this year, the clinical trials
for ARG-007 progressed to Phase 2
to dose stroke patients at up to 10
hospital sites across Australia.
The Phase 2 trial is designed to test
the safety and preliminary efficacy
of ARG-007 in acute ischaemic
stroke patients.
This step forward was made
possible after the Phase 1 trial was
completed last year and confirmed
the drug was safe and tolerable in
healthy volunteers who had never
experienced stroke.
The clinical trials for this highly
promising therapy are the
culmination of almost three decades
of research by Professor Meloni
to understand the mechanisms
involved in brain injury after stroke
and identifying potential –
neuroprotective targets to aid the
development of new therapies to
reduce injury.
“Due to its neuroprotective
mechanisms of action, ARG-007
shows promise as a neuroprotective
therapeutic for other acute
disorders such as neonatal
asphyxia and traumatic brain injury,
and chronic neurodegenerative
conditions such as Alzheimer’s
disease and Parkinson’s disease.”
“These trials can take many years
but could be a game changer. We’re
hoping it will reduce brain damage
after a stroke and improve patient
outcomes,” said Professor Meloni.
“It would be incredible if the
Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials were
successful and ARG-007 became
a standard model of care for stroke
patients worldwide.”
Julia Tran
MSWA Research Coordinator
New report calls for faster
MS diagnosis
A new report has revealed the prolonged time to
diagnose multiple sclerosis (MS) and highlighted the
urgent need for increased investment in MS research
and enhanced awareness of the disease.
The 'My Diagnosis' report produced by MS Australia and
released on World MS Day has revealed the average
time from onset of symptoms to an MS diagnosis
extends nearly four years.
The report draws on data from the Australian MS
Longitudinal Study (AMSLS), a survey-based research
study established in 2002 that collects patient-reported
outcomes from 2,500 people living with MS.
A review of that data by the Menzies Institute for Medical
Research at the University of Tasmania examines trends
in MS diagnosis over the past 25 years.
Since the introduction of the first disease-modifying
therapies for MS treatment in 1996, the average time
to diagnosis has reduced from five years and almost
four months in 1997-2000, to three years and almost
11 months in 2017-21.
My diagnosis experience
Laura Birchall
"Waiting for a diagnosis had an enormous impact on me
emotionally, my ability to focus and my ability to work,"
"I think if something feels a little bit off, even if it's not
stopping you from doing your day-to-day activities. If
there's been a change, if something doesn't feel right,
talk to people in your life about it, and listen to them
when they tell you to go to the doctor.”
While this reduction in diagnosis times is good news
at a population level, there are still many people who
experience a very long wait time to diagnosis.
To improve MS diagnosis time, the report details three
key areas that need to be addressed:
• Improved funding for research to help identify
methods for earlier detection and intervention of MS.
• Better education and awareness of MS among
healthcare professionals.
• Better community understanding of early
MS symptoms.
Dr Julia Morahan, Head of Research at MS Australia,
said delays in receiving an MS diagnosis is critical lost
time for people living with the condition, which can result
in irreversible damage and profound mental distress.
"We know that the longer it takes to get a diagnosis
of MS, the greater the risk of damage occurring and
disability accumulating, which can ultimately diminish a
person's quality of life," Dr Morahan said.
Read the
full report:
8
9

MSWA news
MSWA and State Buildings
team up to amplify impact
Community news
Katanning’s generosity
to aid MSWA
Thank
you!
MSWA is proud to announce
the signing of our first official
partnership with State Buildings in
May, a significant milestone for our
respective organisations, driven by
a shared goal to positively impact
the WA community.
The new partnership leverages
our mutual strengths to develop
positive initiatives that will benefit
MSWA Clients including, a platform
to share their stories through COMO
Conversations events, corporate
volunteering opportunities and
support for MSWA’s lottery, freeing
up additional funds to be directly
invested in research and support
for people living with neurological
conditions.
To celebrate this partnership, Clients
and supporters of MSWA can
access an exclusive code to receive
20 per cent off the best available
rate on all rooms and suites at
COMO The Treasury, located in the
State Buildings. Available for stays
from now until 31 May 2025 using
the QR link below! Simply quote the
code ‘MSWA’ when prompted.
As part of State Buildings’
commitment to foster an inclusive
community, the hotel offers fully
accessible heritage rooms, to ensure
guests with additional physical
needs can relax and unwind in style.
MSWA Head of Philanthropy and
Partnerships Angela Thisainayagan
said the partnership would bring
together expertise, networks and
resources to create initiatives that
foster change.
“We are proud to work in partnership
with the State Buildings team to
actively pursue our shared goals
and to make a positive social impact
for our community,” she said.
“This partnership will enable MSWA
to direct more resources towards
fulfilling our purpose of supporting
West Australians living with
neurological conditions, as we work
together to build more inclusive,
compassionate and accessible
communities.”
The agreement follows a
collaboration for the 2024 Mega
Home Lottery, in which COMO The
Treasury finished the Marmion Grand
Prize home with the luxury touches of
their renowned hotel rooms.
Located at Perth’s Point Zero –
the marker from which all distances
to Perth are measured – the State
Buildings has been the heartbeat
of the city since 1875 and –
continues to be a meeting place to
bring community together.
Over its 140-year history, the former
government building once housed
the State Treasury, Immigration
Officers, a Police Court and Perth’s
original general Post Office (just
to name a few) but has been reinvigorated
as a vibrant hub of
retail and dining options, including
restaurants Wildflower, POST, Cape
Arid Rooms, Petition and Long Chim.
State Buildings General Manager
Jesse Tibert was proud to partner
with a like-minded organisation
and was eager to see what could
be achieved over the two-year
partnership.
“Both MSWA and State Buildings
are aligned in our commitment to
supporting the West Australian
community and by working together
our impact can be amplified,” Mr
Tibert said.
“We look forward to delivering on a
number of exciting initiatives and
connecting with the neurological
community to gain understanding
and insight as we work to shape a
better community for all.”
MSWA CEO Melanie Kiely offered her heartfelt thanks
to Katanning Rotary Club’s Treasurer Cameron Taylor
and his wife Fiona Taylor for the club’s choice to name
MSWA as the 2023 major beneficiary of their annual
fundraiser for the second time, the first in 2018.
For a regional club with around 25 members, Katanning
Rotary Club has been going above and beyond for
many years to give back to those in need through their
impressive fundraising efforts.
While they conduct smaller fundraisers throughout
the year, their annual major fundraising event is an
international dinner which has become a highlight in
the town’s social calendar, with over 200 people
attending and digging deep to support their chosen
cause for the year.
“Each year we decide on a dedicated main recipient
of our fundraising efforts which is usually determined
by something that’s recently impacted people in our
community,” said Cameron.
“Our annual international dinner major fundraiser gets
the whole community together and we pick a different
country and cuisine to celebrate each year as we have
an extremely multicultural community.”
“In other years we’ve supported organisations like the
Royal Flying Doctor Service, Ronald McDonald House,
and Cancer Council, while also divvying up the monies to
community services like local schools, local aged care
facilities, local youth activities, food banks and more.”
In any given year the club can successfully raise around
$35,000, which is spread across a whole range of
different organisations. Of course, some of that goes
back into the club to enable them to continue and expand
their fundraising efforts.
The decision to choose MSWA as the 2023 major
beneficiary was close to Cameron’s heart as his wife
Fiona was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2022.
Katanning Rotary Club Treasurer Cameron Taylor,
his wife Fiona Taylor, MSWA CEO Melanie Kiely and
MSWA CMO Tony Millar.
“I personally have known a few people with MS over the
years, there were a couple of people in our community
back in 2017 and that’s when we first decided to donate
to MSWA,” he said.
“But it recently became very close to home with my
wife’s diagnosis, and it was a unanimous club decision to
choose MSWA again for 2023.”
“We know that a portion of the funds we donate goes
into ongoing groundbreaking research and that’s really
important to us; the medication my wife is on is fairly
new and has been determined by her neurologist as
the best treatment for her and we’re sure the funds
available to MSWA contributed towards that research,
knowledge, and ability to be able to target medication to
the particulars of Fiona’s case.”
We extend our sincerest gratitude to the Katanning
Rotary Club and the wider Katanning community for
their generosity in choosing to support MSWA and
the work we do to empower those living with a
neurological condition.
10 11

Community news
Emma and Amy’s thyme
to make a difference
For Perth business owners, Emma and Amy Southern, it
was an obvious choice to donate the proceeds of their
first cookbook to MSWA, having both battled with MS
for years. The pair were both diagnosed with MS over
a decade ago, a fact that often surprises those who
encounter them.
“It’s always a bit of a shock for people when they learn
about Amy and my MS diagnosis,” remarked Emma.
“Interestingly, our MS diagnosis didn’t lead us to meet
each other, it was actually through a friend.”
Their fateful encounter occurred six years ago at a
mutual friend’s farewell party. The conversation took an
unexpected turn when Amy made a light-hearted remark
about having MS, prompting Emma to respond.
“I remember telling Amy that she shouldn’t joke about
having MS because I have it,” Emma recalled. “To my
surprise, Amy revealed that she also had MS. That’s when
the connection clicked.”
As they exchanged details about their respective
neurologists and treatments, a sense of disbelief washed
over Emma.
The similarities were uncanny – Amy’s neurologist
practiced in the same facility where Emma sees her
neurologists, and they visit the same hospital to receive
the same treatment of Tysabri every month.
“It turns out, for years, we missed crossing paths with
each other within a week apart every month. How
strange is that!” Emma remarked.
“Back then, we would have to visit the hospital every
month and it would take up most of our day. Now, all we
do is a simple injection in the comfort of our home.”
This enabled them to lead more active lifestyles and
pursue their passions for travel and food without the
restrictions of regular hospital appointments.
Both avid travellers, Emma and Amy relish in exploring
local cuisines.
“We enjoy trying out various local restaurants and cafes
whenever we travel,” Emma mentioned.
“We’ve been making our own spice blends at home for
cooking, and during COVID, we thought why not make it a
business and share it with others!” Amy added.
The pair established Outer Spice, offering a unique line
of curated spice and seasoning blends. Since launching
in November 2020, the business has received numerous
accolades, including being named Producer of the
Year for the 2023 Swan Business Awards and winning
International Flavor Awards and Scovie Awards in
United States.
Amy is also a certified international barbecue judge with
the Kansas City Barbecue Society, and her tastebuds
and knowledge about flavour and food, proves to be
useful for the business as well!
“It’s wonderful how we’re able to connect with the
community through food. It’s a really good feeling seeing
returning customers. People bought our products. They
liked it and they came back for more!” Emma said.
The successes from their business have also given the
pair the confidence to release their first cookbook - Spice
Odyssey Recipes from Outer Spice – Cookbook Vol.1.
The cookbook contains finger-licking recipes using their
curated blend of spice and seasoning blends, with part of
the proceeds going towards MSWA.
“Our stories are unique in that we both have MS
and we’re in a fortunate position to give back to the
community,” Emma commented.
The pair has also contributed to fundraising for MSWA, with
Emma having taken part in the MSWA Ocean Ride twice.
Emma provided some words of encouragements for
those living with MS.
“When I first got diagnosed, I felt like it was the end of the
world. I went down the rabbit hole on the internet, I stayed
awake at night and panicked about my future. But with
the right resources and people around you, it’s going to
be manageable, and you can live with it!”
Amy added, “Research and advancements in medicine
have come a long way and has made a big difference
for the MS community. You don’t have to feel alone, there
is help.”
MSWA would like to thank Emma and Amy for sharing their story with MS,
and for their contribution to improving the lives of West Australians living
with neurological conditions.
Frocking up for a fabulous future
When you fill a garden with a gaggle of gorgeous ladies
(and one finely suited gentleman), you can be certain of
two things; there will be bubbles and there will be fun!
And this well-dressed flock sure knows how to create
a circle of support around the guest of honour, Noelle
Grausser, who was diagnosed with MS in 2006.
Event hostess with the mostest Marlisa, Noelle’s
daughter, spent weeks meticulously planning the charity
event, with the funds to be donated for purpose of MS
research in the hope for a brighter future.
Initially setting her sights on a $3,000 target, Marlisa
smashed it out of the park with a little help from her
friends to raise $4,200!
The stroke of genius was a live auction for a coveted
6-night stay at Marlisa’s boutique retreat hotel in Lombok,
called ‘Naia’, where Noelle often helps to perform
accessibility testing.
“That in itself raised over $1,500! I was so excited,”
Marlissa said.
With cost-of-living pressures mounting, Marlisa said
fundraising was becoming an increasingly hard task,
but believed it was Noelle’s inspirational attitude that
spurred her guests to dig deep.
Having been diagnosed the week of Christmas,
Marlisa recounted the difficulty of grappling with the
life-changing news, while her mum defiantly hid her
symptoms from the family so as not to take away from
the occasion.
Scan the QR code to get your
copy of the Spicy Odyssey
Recipes from Outer Spice.
“They know my mum’s story; they know how strong,
determined and resilient she is,” Marlisa said.
“They see how she continues to live life to her fullest
and not allow MS to control her, and I think that’s why we
get the support from the people around us, they are in
admiration of her strength and her capability.”
The success of the event left Marlisa with an
overwhelming sense of pride.
“The vibe of the day was electric, everyone was there
because they wanted to have a good time and to show
their support for mum,” she beamed.
“It just shows that when there are tough days, people are
always there in your corner backing you.
“And for the staff at MSWA to give up their time on the
weekend to come along, including therapists Akiko,
Yasuko, Oli and his wife Rosie, it shows the next level of
support that MSWA provides in looking after people with
neurological conditions – and that is a real credit.”
Our heartfelt thanks to Marlisa for her incredible fundraising
effort, your selfless contribution means so much.
Interested in hosting your own community
fundraising event?
Reach out to events@mswa.org.au for advice!
12 13

Community news
Community news
Life-changing
phone calls
Scan to watch the
Grand Prize winner call.
Introducing our
People's Choice winner!
MSWA recently made some lifechanging
phone calls to everyday
West Australians, informing them
of their lucky win in the Mega Home
Lottery. This included family man
David, who was pinching himself
when he received the news of
winning the $3.6m Grand Prize.
David, along with his wife Julie and
daughter Jo, were in awe of their
stunning new abode. The $3.1m
Marmion home was just mere
minutes from the beach and had
been newly renovated by awardwinning
renovators, Lux Interiors.
“I received the phone call and
thought somebody was pulling my
leg! It still hasn’t sunk in for me yet
that this is ours!” David exclaimed.
This is the tenth year in a row David
has supported the Mega Home
Lottery and when asked why he has
supported the cause year after
year, David said the biggest reason
why he continued to buy tickets was
MSWA's focus on research and to
ultimately find a cure.
“MSWA is also helping people
with neurological conditions in the
community. They’re approaching
it from both ends and that for me,
means a lot, and why I’ve supported
them for the past few years.”
Jo, David’s daughter also shared
their family’s story of moving to
Western Australia and starting life
from scratch.
“About 10 years ago, mum and dad
uprooted their whole life to look after
their son’s children. They have been
grandparents raising grandchildren,
and it hasn’t been easy,” she said.
“This couldn’t have happened to
two more deserving people. This is
going to make a world of difference
to them and their grandchildren, who
will now be looked after for the rest
of their lives.”
Earlier this year, Raelene became
the newest resident of North
Fremantle, having won the Early Bird
Prize of the $1.6m fully refurbished
apartment. It was the twelfth year in
a row that Raelene, and her partner,
Rick, had supported the cause.
“There’s nothing better than the
feeling that you’ve contributed… it’s
such a worthy cause. I’ll continue to
encourage others to buy a ticket,”
Raelene said.
“We’re evidence that ordinary
people can win!”
Early bird winners
Raelene and Rick.
Scan to watch the
winner call.
Grand prize winners David
and family with MSWA CEO
Melanie Kiely.
Alongside the Early Bird Prize and the
Grand Prize winners, there were also
15,000 other lucky winners who took
home a range of amazing prizes,
including electronics, holidays, cash
prizes and gift vouchers.
This is the first time we’ve extended
the invitation to staff members
from across our organisation to ring
some of our major prize winners and
inform them of the good news. It
was definitely a special moment for
our team!
Our People and Culture Officer, Madii,
made a call to one of our $10,000
cash prize winners, who was beyond
ecstatic to have won the prize, “oh
my gosh, you’re joking? I had told my
partner we would win something, and
it actually happened!”
Our Marketing Officer, Sam, also
spoke to the winner of our Antarctica
Trip for two, valued at $16,000,
who said "it's my first time winning
something this big. It’s beyond my
wildest dreams and I’m so excited for
my trip!”
The MSWA Mega Home Lottery
2024A campaign draws to a close
raising over $20m. A huge thank you
to everyone who has contributed
to the cause, to help us invest in
life-changing research and fund vital
services to help Western Australians
living with neurological conditions.
After the success of our inaugural art exhibition at the Mega Home
Lottery Grand Prize home, we relocated the collection our MSWA
Wilson Service Centre.
By showcasing the artworks here, MSWA Clients, staff and
members of the wider community had the chance to visit,
view and enjoy the exhibition.
On 21 May, we celebrated the end of the exhibition with a morning tea f
or Clients and staff, and presented the 'People's Choice Award'.
When viewing the exhibition, the public was encouraged to vote for
their favourite artwork. Over 600 votes were cast and Mother and
Son Take on MS was awarded ‘People’s Choice’! Artist Jodee Pereira
won herself a trophy and a $500 voucher. Congratulations Jodee!
Jodee and her son Josh were both diagnosed with MS at the same time
and the artwork was inspired by their shared journey.
“The concept was something Josh came up with and his idea was for us
to do it together," Jodee said..
“Life not Limits is MSWA’s tagline and ... [this] resonates so well with us,
and you can see this in our painting.”
Mother and Son Take on MS
By Jodee Pereira
Colour surrounds us as we challenge the daily
struggles of multiple sclerosis. Mother inspired
by son, son inspired by mother, everyday.
We created this together, with lesions in place,
drawn and painted expressing our life.
A special thanks to our teams
across Marketing, Outreach
and Facilities who brought this
exhibition to life!
Missed out on the MSWA Art
Exhibition? Scan the QR code to
view the gallery of artworks.
14 15

Our People
25 years of service celebrated:
Caroline Clarke Smith
A lot can change over three decades, just ask
Caroline who recently retired from MSWA after
25 years of service, both as a long-time volunteer
and staff member.
Many Albany locals are familiar with Caroline,
characterised by her big smile and her light-hearted
humour, she first connected with MSWA when she moved
to Albany 30 years ago.
Caroline vividly remembers her first visit to Albany,
awestruck by its lush greenery and the beautiful
coastline of the region – a far cry from the red dirt
desert landscape at Kalgoorlie, where she first stayed
upon moving to Western Australia from regional New
South Wales.
“Albany just looked like a dream vacation spot!” Caroline
beamed.
Persuaded by the stunning seascape, Caroline relocated
to Albany with her husband.
It was during this time that Caroline received her MS
diagnosis and got in touch with her local outreach group,
then known as the MS Society. It provided a valuable
opportunity for her to connect with peers who shared
similar neurological conditions.
“I got in touch with the local outreach, because I didn’t
know anyone down here, and it was a good opportunity
for me to meet people who experienced the same things
I do. I’m still in contact with these people today!”
In 2009, when the Albany Outreach Coordinator position
became available, Caroline thought she would fill it
temporarily.
“I was offered the position on a part-time basis until
they could find someone else to take on the role.
One thing led to another, and I was there for 15 years!”
Caroline chuckled.
“I should have told them I’m still waiting for you to find
someone else to fill my role.”
Reflecting on her journey, Caroline remembers her
time fondly as the MSWA Outreach Coordinator,
particularly interacting with Clients and seeing their
faces light up when they achieved a new milestone or
learned new skills.
But nothing quite compares to her memories of
organising and participating in the MSWA Albany Swim
every year. Besides reaching out to local businesses
for sponsorships and prize donations, she has also
participated in the eight-hour swimming relay every year
since its inception in 2012.
“One year I was in the pool, and I had to pull two kids,
one on a crocodile floatie and the other one using the
kickboard, and I was pulling them both, doing laps up and
down the pool. It was hilarious!”
Due to an MS flare-up, 2024 was the first time Caroline
did not participate in the swim.
“I’m still a bit disappointed that I can’t participate in the
swim anymore, but hey I did my time.”
Caroline witnessed firsthand the growth of MSWA from
an outreach group to an organisation offering services to
people living with neurological conditions and the direct
impact it has made on Albany's community of people
living with neurological conditions.
“Back then, I received a visit twice a year from the
nursing and physio team,” she remembers.
"As more people moved to Albany, demand for MSWA's
services grew, with people putting their hands up, saying,
'We really want this.'"
“Over time, the organisation became more streamlined
and employed staff members, which upgraded the
services from phone conversations to now being able to
get services from the new Albany Service Centre.”
“It’s great, because people can tangibly see where all the
funds raised have gone towards.”
Caroline highlights the importance of having services in
regional WA, and the difference it makes to members of
the tight knit community.
“It’s a long trip for us folks in Albany to go up to Perth and
see a neurologist or to access any allied health service.”
“It makes a world of a difference to meet someone
locally, who is in the know and can actually help you.”
Now in retirement, Caroline is focused on recovery after
undergoing spinal fusion surgery. She is also excited for
some much-needed rest and for the chance to take a
step back and unwind, including catching up with friends
for a cuppa.
Caroline has been a much-loved and key member of
our team in Albany for decades, and her friendly smile
will be missed now that she is hanging up her flippers
and retiring. MSWA would like to express our sincerest
appreciation to Caroline for her 25 years of dedicated
service and wish her a swift recovery!
Caroline at the new Albany Service Centre.
Caroline participating in the MSWA Albany Swim.
16 17

Client Special Contributions
feature
World MS Day
‘My MS Diagnosis’
World MS Day is celebrated on 30 May every year, and we’re proud to have
organised a number of initiatives to acknowledge and celebrate this day of
significance with our Clients, staff and the wider WA community.
This year’s theme, ‘My MS Diagnosis,’ provides a great opportunity to start a conversation
and raise awareness about MS. We can all bring attention to the barriers and challenges
faced by people living with this condition, while highlighting the importance of continued advocacy,
research and education to ensure a brighter future for the MS community.
Art Without Limits
In celebration of our incredibly talented MSWA Client
artist community, we unveiled the Art Without Limits
exhibition in the heart of Perth city at the iconic Central
Park Tower.
The exhibition featured a variety of stunning pieces, from
sensory art and intricate handiwork to fine art drawings.
It was truly a testament to the diversity of talent within
our community of artists at MSWA. The exhibition ran for
five days, and the public was welcomed to marvel at the
pieces and start a conversation in acknowledgement of
World MS Day.
Our Client artists were also invited to a morning tea to
celebrate the exhibition. They were beaming with joy and
pride as they wandered through the space, admired the
pieces and snapped some photos with their works.
“I could not have imagined my artwork would be
displayed here in the city! My artwork is inspired by an
old house in York I used to live in many years ago.”
Sheila Hayfield
Client artist
“I like to create junk journals using recycled paper to create
scrapbooks. This is the first time I’ve created a hanging piece,
but I still wanted to make it interactive, so you can pull out letters
and cards from the artwork. It’s also the first time I’ve included
photos of my family in my art – there are photos of great
grandmother, grandad and dad on there too!”
Susan Finlay
Client artist
18 19

Client Special Contributions
feature
World MS Day
‘My MS Diagnosis’
Quiz Night for MS
In an MSWA first, we hosted a Quiz Night at the Perth
Town Hall in celebration of World MS Day. Families,
carers, and MSWA team members came together for a
night of friendly competition, with a quiz night hosted by
Bamboozled Quizmasters.
Our participants were exceptionally skilled at the quizzes,
so much so that we had a three-way tie for first place!
Ironically, team ‘The Participation Award’ emerged
victorious, winning first place, beating team ‘Lord Ne-Yo’
and team ‘Brand-Aids’.
Wendy Lowe, Dion Russell and Angelica Franz were the
lucky winners of our raffle, with thanks to our sponsors
State Buildings, Retravision and Optus Stadium for
donating some incredible prizes. Over $800 was raised
to help set-up the new Butler Outreach pilot program.
Perth lights up red
Iconic landmarks and bridges across Perth were
lit up red in recognition of World MS Day!
This included:
• Fraser Avenue Tree Lights - Kings Park
• Council House
• Trafalgar Bridge
• Matagarup Bridge
• Mount Street Bridge
• Northbridge Tunnel, Sky Ribbon
• Joondalup Drive Bridge
The WA community was encouraged to
take photos and spread awareness of the day
with the hashtag #WorldMSDay.
Hunting for red hearts
MSWA team members also celebrated World MS Day with a fun Heart Challenge!
Chocolate hearts were hidden across our offices and service centres, with
staff encouraged to be on the look-out and share their exciting findings. Senior
Physiotherapy Assistant, Zoe Harrisson, found a chocolate heart near the coffee
corner at the Beechboro hub – her usual first stop when she arrives for work!
Thank you to
everyone who
contributed this
World MS Day by
sharing their stories,
raising awareness
and campaigning
for change for West
Australians living
with MS.
Senior Physiotherapy
Assistant Zoe Harrisson.
Document Control &
Policy Compliance Officer
Beata Potrawiak.
Scan the QR
code to view the
photo gallery.
20
21

Client Our People Contributions
Our People
National Volunteer Week
Growing together
Shining the spotlight
on event volunteers
National Volunteer Week is an important opportunity to
reflect on the significant impact our MSWA volunteers
have on our community. This year’s national theme,
‘Something for Everyone’, highlights the potential of each
of us to volunteer, whether in big or small ways, as a onetime
effort or constant commitment. There is something
each of us can do to make a difference.
At MSWA, we’re fortunate to have many amazing people volunteering their time for our events. Event volunteers
often arrive early and stay long after participants have gone home, yet they remain enthusiastic and dedicated to
help out until the end. They are the true unsung heroes behind our events at MSWA.
On behalf of the MSWA Events team, we wanted to express our gratitude and shine a spotlight on Graham Little and
Chris Genev, who have devoted countless hours to volunteering with MSWA over the years. We nominated these two
extraordinary individuals for the WA Volunteer of the Year Awards.
On 21 May, MSWA volunteers were invited to join us
for the Volunteer Appreciation Lunch at the RAAFA Club
in Bull Creek. Thirty-five volunteers attended,
and each volunteer was presented with a volunteer
appreciation certificate along with a ‘grow jar’
and the 2024 Volunteering Australia lapel pin.
Each grow jar contained different fruit or
vegetable seeds, from basil to strawberry, coriander
and sunflower. These jars each had a message
attached, ‘thank you for growing with us’, representing
the integral role volunteers play in helping MSWA
grow and our ability to provide services to the
neurological community of WA.
During the luncheon, we also celebrated the incredible
milestones achieved by our volunteers, including:
• Sister Marie Moriarty, volunteering for nearly 30 years
• Lesley Pitt, volunteering for 18 years
• Claire Kennelly, volunteering for 15 years
Whether it’s just for one day or decades
of service, MSWA extends our gratitude
and thanks to every single volunteers.
We couldn’t do what we do without you!
Jeni Donald
People & Culture Advisor
Graham Little
Graham Little is just a regular fella, who loves to
spend time looking after his grandchildren and
travelling with his wife, yet he always finds time to
give back to the community. We have been fortunate
to have him at MSWA events since 2014. You may
have spotted him volunteering at the MSWA Step
Up, Ocean Ride, Areana Ascent and the Central Park
Plunge. He can also be seen out and about at the
Perth CBD on 30 May every year, shaking collection
tins for donations on World MS Day.
Graham is always eager to help when possible,
fitting our events into his busy volunteering
schedule. He also volunteers his time with the
Telethon Community Cinemas, WA Cancer Council,
or attending other large sporting events around
Perth and regional areas.
Chris Genev
Chris Genev, another long-time MSWA volunteer,
has been volunteering with us since 2016, after a
friend suggested her to get involved. She’s become
a regular face at all our event including the MSWA
Ocean Ride, Areana Ascent, Step Up, Charity Dinner
Auctions, and the Central Park Plunge. She manages
all this while working full-time and volunteering at
numerous community events around Perth. Like
Graham, she plays a big role at of the Telethon
Community Cinemas, serving as the Night Manager.
In our eyes, these two are worth their weight in
gold and are our Event Volunteers of the Year!
Trish Watson
Events and Giving Officer
22 23

Client Contributions
Client poetry
What you don’t see
From the outside I look fine, I look as normal as can be,
but deep down inside, I’m scared of just what might be.
I look strong and normal with maybe a slight shake,
but while you are sleeping, I am still wide awake.
I carry on with my day as if nothing has changed,
but I am dealing with words that have been totally rearranged.
I walk every day and you think nothing is wrong,
but my stride has slowed down, and my will nearly gone.
I push myself physically, you see me at the gym,
but I hide the pain in my body when the rigidity sets in.
You say I look good, still look the same,
but when I look in the mirror, all I see is shame.
I try to stay social, be a part of many things,
but my thoughts have now changed as the anxiety creeps in.
I keep smiling and think, ‘hey, things could be worse’,
but the sadness inside me makes me feel like I’ve been cursed.
So if you don’t hear from me, please don’t feel ignored,
I am just trying to survive the tiredness and this life – my new norm!
I intend to stay positive, beat this damn thing,
and with your help and support, I can achieve anything.
Rebecca Baskerville
Accepting
Smallest tasks provoke exhaustion,
Prompting aggravated frustration,
Taking time out to recover essential,
Reflecting on restricted potential,
Mobility everyday challenging,
Constraints like vultures gathering,
Others’ attempts to intercede,
Only amplify the growing need,
Reacting with stubborn insistence,
Unrealistic fanciful resistance,
Overreacting willfully shocking,
Reality at the door a-knocking.
Several options to embrace,
Roll over without a trace,
Retreat within and isolate,
Resist and slowly percolate,
Become a white flag waver,
and from your life surrender.
Rather than surrendering,
or the past lamenting,
or proficiency pretending,
Why not simply try ACCEPTING?
Accept what is,
Let go of what was,
Have faith in what will be.
Peter Jones
February 2024
Wake up humanity!
My name is Nina, and this is my view from
where I sit every day.
I am aged 49 and I was diagnosed with MS at the age of
14. I have MS, but that is not my whole identity.
I am an amazing being, I exist on this amazing planet
earth, and I am so, so passionate about our earth. I would
like to wake humanity up to realise the gift it has been
given for free! I wanted to write a message to my fellow
human beings. We are the most capable species of this
planet, and we need to come together to protect and
save the one thing that is so precious, this earth.
The earth, the complexity of this planet just overwhelms
me. All of nature is so perfectly interconnected, we are
all such amazing beings, we are all put together so
intricately just like trees, just like all the other animals.
When I look at the trees and the importance of the root
system, that is what holds the earth together, that is
what knits the earth together. Without the root system, it
wouldn’t be able to be so strong. The importance of trees
cannot be understated. I feel like the trees are my family,
they are my brothers and sisters. The earth and I are one.
From where I sit and observe, humanity’s path has been
taken off compass, compared to the trajectory we were
on. Humanity has been infected with a seed of greed
and we are destroying our planet and ourselves. The
floods and fires are getting greater and stronger, and
every living creature is suffering. We are destroying our
environment and the habitats of animals everywhere. My
chest tears apart with pain to see this suffering.
All our human focus must be put on saving this ‘ball’. We
forget how important everything is to every life form who
relies on this ball for its own existence. We must care for
all these life forms, for without them there is no earth and
without the earth we are doomed.
There are so many of us humans and if we all decided to
work together on this most important thing, if we put all
our focus into this, we would save the earth.
Most of us humans are able bodied and can save this
planet, why aren’t we all out there saving the earth! It is so
important to get back to nature, out of the office and your
apartments and reconnect to our earth.
Unfortunately, it seems like humans only learn through
hardship and suffering. Please, let’s get onto it before it’s
catastrophic. I find it soul destroying to be a part of this
human race that is destroying this beautiful home
of mine.
How dare we take advantage of this sensational gift.
Our earth needs us to find the way before it’s too late.
I really hope that you can hear my message and continue
to spread my message for me.
Thank you,
Nina
MSWA Client
24 25

Counselling
Embracing
Makuru
Wellbeing
Cultivating mindfulness:
new Wellbeing service
New Service
Alert!
June and July are the coldest and
wettest months of the year. Often
associated to the winter season,
it is also the Noongar season of
Makuru, characterised by shorter
days and gloomy skies. Despite the
change in weather, winter brings
a unique set of psychological
benefits that can positively impact
our mental wellbeing, providing a
sense of comfort and joy during the
colder months.
Makuru provides us the opportunity
for introspection and reflection.
The quieter, more contemplative
atmosphere can encourage us
to slow down, take stock of our
lives, and reflect on our goals
and priorities. This period of
introspection can be valuable for
personal growth and self-discovery,
as we have the time and space to
delve deeper into our thoughts
and emotions.
During the winter season we
naturally seek for cosiness and
comfort, which can be incredibly
soothing for the mind and body.
Curling up by the fireplace with a
warm blanket, enjoying a hot cup of
tea, or taking a leisure stroll in nature
can evoke feelings of relaxation
and contentment. These simple
pleasures can help reduce
stress and anxiety, providing a
much-needed respite from the
hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Getting outdoors during the colder
months can boost our mood and
enhance our sense of wellbeing.
Gentle physical exercise helps
our body to release endorphins,
reducing stress and anxiety, and
elevating our mood.
The winter season fosters a sense
of community and togetherness,
as seen in gatherings around the
dinner table with family or friends.
These shared experiences can
deepen our sense of belonging and
strengthen our support networks.
The beautiful winter landscapes
can also have a profound impact
on our mental health. The sight of
rain, thunderstorms, dew on grass,
and amazing cloudscapes can
evoke feelings of awe and wonder,
fostering a sense of appreciation
for the natural world. Studies have
shown that exposure to nature can
reduce stress, improve mood, and
increase feelings of happiness
and wellbeing.
The season of Makuru also teaches
us a valuable lesson in resilience
and adaptability. Dealing with the
challenges of cold weather, slippery
roads, and seasonal illnesses can
help build our coping skills and
fortitude. By facing and overcoming
these obstacles, we develop a sense
of strength and perseverance that
can serve us well in other areas of
our lives.
While winter may have its
challenges, it also offers a wealth
of psychological benefits that can
enhance our overall wellbeing.
From fostering introspection and
reflection to providing comfort and
joy, winter has the power to nourish
our minds and souls.
By embracing the unique gifts of
Makuru, we can cultivate a sense of
gratitude, resilience, and happiness
that will carry us through the colder
months and beyond.
Jean Hudson
MSWA Senior Counsellor
Credit: Shawn Pang
Feeling stressed, busy,
overwhelmed or experiencing all
of these emotions at once? In the
hustle and bustle of life, it can be
difficult to prioritise and put your
wellbeing first.
If you’re feeling these emotions, you
may be interested in MSWA’s newly
introduced Wellbeing service.
The service is centred around
resiliency and health promotion,
utilising evidence-based tools and
resources to help Clients overcome
obstacles, foster resiliency and
feel empowered.
Through this service, individuals
can cultivate mental and physical
resilience through deliberate
practices like mindfulness,
which can help reduce stress and
anxiety levels, while enhancing
overall wellbeing.
We are introducing a range of
modules to teach easy-to-follow
mindfulness practices that can be
implemented into your daily routine
and significantly improve your
overall wellbeing. These techniques
can be practiced independently
or in combination with one
another to build up your wellness
toolbox, and help you manage
everyday challenges.
Module 1: Grounding
This practice involves using breath
and senses to conduct a gentle
guided body scan, bringing our
focus back to the present moment
and encouraging us to ‘drop the
struggle’. By repeatedly practicing
this technique, it can help us feel
renewed and recharged.
Module 2:
Quieting the overactive mind
Similar to strengthening physical
muscles, this practice strengthens
‘mental muscles’ by being mindful
of our thoughts and learning to take
control of them, directing them to
be more helpful to us. Part of this
practice is learning how to ‘unhook’
from ‘sticky thoughts’ to gain more
clarity and focus in your mind.
Module 3: Befriending our emotions
Often, our default way of dealing
with challenging feelings is to push
them down and distract ourselves.
This can cause more stress in our
system which is not beneficial for
our physical health.
Learning to be mindful of our
emotions begins with recognising
our feelings and understanding the
wise messages they can bring.
This practice is great to help
process and manage
difficult emotions and
can help increase our
emotional resilience.
Module 4: Self Compassion
When our reality does not match our
expectations or where we would like
to be, it can be difficult to accept.
Often, we are our biggest self-critics.
Part of the Self Compassion
practice is the concept of ‘radical
acceptance’. That is accepting
what is not under your control and
embracing what is happening now in
a non-judgmental way.
If you are interested in participating
in the above, or other wellbeing
modules on offer to help fill your
wellbeing toolbox, please contact
MSWA Wellbeing Manager
michaela.mundy@mswa.org.au
or enquire with your Client
Liaison Coordinator.
Janice Petrovic
MSWA Counsellor
26 27

Employment Support
Occupational Therapy
New Service
Alert!
Creating employment
connections
Rehabilitation of the mind
Calling all valued MSWA Clients who are employers,
who may own, or are connected to, a WA business.
Have you ever considered registering as a supportive
employer to help other Clients seeking employment?
This is your sign!
So how can we make the change that
needs to happen?
Answer: Clients supporting each other.
Do you find yourself forgetting names of people,
losing track of yourself in conversation or having
trouble paying attention? You’re not alone; in fact,
1 in 25 people living with a neurological condition
experience memory impairment.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Western
Australia (CCIWA) recently released their report Tapping
the Talent Pool of People with Disabilities 1 which makes
a strong case for why more WA businesses should be
building more diverse and inclusive workplaces.
Specifically, the report summarised hiring a person with
a disability is not just about being socially responsible,
but it is an important strategic direction for businesses
to build innovation, resilience, and give businesses a
competitive advantage.
Despite these benefits, CCIWA’s survey of WA
businesses found only 60 per cent employ people with
disability, and a similar percentage of respondents cited
making little progress in attracting and retaining people
with disabilities.
For many businesses, challenges cited include a lack
of applicants or an inability to coordinate workplace
adjustments. It found employers often lack confidence
in hiring people from this valuable group because of the
perceived costs associated to coordinate adjustments
and concerns about productivity.
Discussions with both employee and employer groups
found the barriers to employment were actually linked to
discrimination, poor understanding of rights, limited job
availability and marketing, insufficient support, limited
access to skills training and education, inadequate
workplace flexibility, disincentive for employment and
lack of knowledge and confidence.
Peta Flynn
Employment Support Consultant
1
CCIWA Report 2024 (Tapping the talent pool of people with
disabilities) A copy of the report can be emailed on request.
https://cciwa.com/policy-submission/tapping-the-talentpool-of-people-with-disabilities/.
Our MSWA Employment Support Service (ESS)
can help break down barriers to employing a person
with a disability.
Our team is made up of employment support consultants
who specialise in finding and maintaining employment
for people living with a neurological condition, as well
as supporting people who already have work to be
successful in the workplace.
Led by Leigh McCaffrey, the ESS team is made up of
allied health therapists who apply clinical knowledge to
help jobseekers find work that fits them best, for long
term success.
This involves advocacy with employers, regular contact
to proactively address challenges, coordinating
equipment through Job Access to assist in the
workplace, providing recommendations for clinical
interventions and listening to celebrate success or
provide support when needed. Best of all, this support is
free for both employers and employees.
If you, or someone you know, has a business and wants
to build a diverse and innovative workforce, we ask you to
consider contacting the ESS team at MSWA.
By taking this step, you can do your part to break down
barriers around neurological conditions, nurture an
inclusive organisation culture, support your recruitment
team, reduce stigma and help build a positive and highly
engaged workforce.
Register to be involved in employing a person
with a neurological condition via
employment.services@mswa.org.au.
Cognition is an umbrella term, used to describe how we
use our brain to think. The word comes from the Latin
meaning ‘to know’. Cognition refers to the complex, highlevel
functions of our brain, which includes processing
information, attention, memory, planning, problem
solving, visual perception and verbal fluency. Right now,
you’re using your cognition to read this article!
It is reported that cognitive impairment affects 65 per
cent of people with multiple sclerosis, 25 per cent of
people with Parkinson’s disease and 60 per cent of
people who have experienced a stroke. Some common
deficits observed in those living with neurological
conditions include a slower ability to process
information, difficulties with memory, attention
and learning.
Cognitive Services
Just as our physical bodies benefit from rehabilitation,
so can our minds.
The MSWA Occupational Therapy team provides a
cognition service to assist Clients to improve their ability
to conduct everyday tasks. Part of this service involves
a comprehensive assessment and goal setting to help
guide intervention measures, with the objective of
seeing some meaningful changes in your daily life. This
is often achieved through one-on-one sessions with your
occupational therapist.
MEMORehab
The newly introduced program by MSWA, MEMORehab, is
a six-week cognition program focused on improving our
attention and memory to carry out everyday tasks. The
program involves a weekly one-hour online session with
our Occupational Therapy team.
The evidence-based program has been proven to
improve everyday memory in people with neurological
disorders, even years after onset. As a result of the
program, Clients reported to have used more cognitive
strategies to support their memory, meet their memory
related goals, and demonstrate improved learning ability.
Clients have described the program as enjoyable,
relevant and helpful in understanding their condition.
Notably, Clients have commended the practicality
of the program for providing strategies that can be
implemented in their daily life.
Additionally, Clients felt less anxious and more confident,
with an increased reliance on their memory enabling
them to maintain their independence. Some Clients have
even achieved significant goals, such as staying at work.
If you are interested in our cognition service or
in the MEMORehab program, please contact our
Occupational Therapy team via ot.groups@mswa.org.au
Sarah Coutinho and Tamara McWhirter
MSWA Occupational Therapists
28 29

Nursing
Continence matters:
Part two
Continuing from part one of our Continence Series, let’s delve into the topic of an overactive
bladder discussing its symptoms, symptoms management and treatment options.
What is an overactive bladder?
Our bladder, also known as the detrusor muscle, is a
hollow muscular organ that acts as a reservoir for your
urine. When full, the muscle will contract to release urine.
An overactive bladder refers to when your bladder
contracts before it is full, sometimes contracting when
you are not ready.
What are the symptoms of an
overactive bladder?
Urinary urgency is the main symptom of an overactive
bladder, it is an immediate feeling to use the toilet. It can
be sudden, strong and hard to hold in.
You may go to the toilet often and find it hard to hold it in
before you get to the toilet. At times, you may leak urine
on the way to the toilet.
Factors that can affect urinary urgency includes:
• Irritated bladder
• Consumption of caffeine or alcohol
• Not drinking enough fluid, leading to having strong,
dark urine
• Bladder infections and constipations
• Having a neurological condition
How is urinary urgency measured?
Urinary urgency can be graded on a scale from 0-4.
0 No urgency
1 Mild urgency
2
3
4
Moderate
urgency
Severe
urgency
Urge
incontinence
I felt no need to empty.
I emptied for other reasons.
I could put it off as long as needed.
I had no fear of wetting myself.
I could put it off for a short time.
I had no fear of wetting myself.
I could not put it off.
I had to rush to the toilet.
I feared I would wet myself.
I leaked before I could get
to the toilet.
How to manage an overactive bladder
Drinking well
Drinking plenty of fluids can help alleviate an overactive
bladder. Fluids can include milk, juice and soup, however
water is the best!
Try to cut down on caffeine and alcohol consumption
as this may upset your bladder. Look out for consuming
coffee, tea, chocolate flavoured beverages and fizzy
drinks such as sparkling water, cola and energy sports
drinks, as these all contain caffeine.
Eating well
Eat plenty of vegetables, fruit, legumes (beans), grains,
nuts and seeds every day. This will increase your fibre
intake and help you go to the toilet regularly.
It is also important to drink plenty of water when
increasing fibre in your diet to prevent constipation,
which can cause urinary infections and urgency.
It’s a delicate balance and you can reach out to the
MSWA Dietetics team to assist you in making choices
regarding your diet.
Live a healthy lifestyle
Keep active! Exercising regularly will help to regulate your
bowels. It is recommended to do at least 30 minutes of
exercise, or what is recommended by your doctor or MSWA
Continence Physiotherapist. Simple physical activity such
as brisk walking can help keep your bowel regular.
Quitting smoking can lead to reduction in overactive
bladder symptoms. Eliminating alcohol intake can greatly
reduce the symptoms from urge incontinence.
Look after your pelvic floor muscles
The pelvic floor muscles give you the ability to control the
release of urine, faeces and to delay emptying until it is
convenient.
Like any muscle of the body, pelvic floor muscles can
be trained with regular, targeted exercise. Try to avoid
putting extra strain on the pelvic floor muscles when
using the toilet.
Consult a pelvic health physiotherapist or nurse
continence specialist on how you can exercise your
pelvic floor muscles the right way.
Practice good toilet habits
Practising good toilet habits helps improve bladder and
bowel health. It is normal to use the restroom four to six
times a day, and you shouldn’t have to wake up multiple
times in the night to empty your bladder.
Good toilet habits include:
• Try to go to the toilet only when your bladder is full.
• Do not go to the toilet ‘just in case’ – only go when you
need to.
• Take your time and relax when you are on the toilet.
If you rush this process, you may not empty
your bladder fully and over time you could get a
bladder infection.
• When emptying your bowels, do not strain your
bowels. This puts extra pressure onto your pelvic floor
muscles and may weaken the muscles.
• Use the correct sitting position on the toilet – sit on
the toilet, place your elbows on your knees and lean
forward. Do not hover over the toilet seat.
Seek help
If you experience any urinary incontinence, whether it
is an overactive bladder or any of the symptoms listed
above, it is important to seek help.
Reach out to a continence nurse specialist, pelvic health
physiotherapists, or your local GP.
Where to find more information:
Treatment for overactive bladder
Behavioural therapy is often the first method employed
to help manage an overactive bladder. It is highly
effective with minimal side effects.
This includes:
• Bladder training
• Healthy weight
• Intermittent catheterisation
• Pelvic floor muscles exercises
Medications can relax the bladder and relieve symptoms
of an overactive bladder, reducing episodes of urge
incontinence. Consult your doctor to prescribe the
right medication for you, it is available in various forms
including via a pill, skin patch or a gel.
Consider botox injections if necessary. Your doctor can
inject this neurotoxin into your bladder to temporarily
stop it from contracting too much, relaxing the muscle
and increasing the amount of urine the bladder can hold.
Nerve stimulation involves sending mild electrical
pulses to specific nerves to improve overactive bladder
symptoms. Similar to how a pacemaker functions
for your heart! The two methods that can help with
overactive bladders are sacral nerve stimulation and the
percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation.
For the next part of our Continence Series, we will
focus on the underactive bladder.
Neetu Kainth & Dee Lucey
Continence Nurse Specialists
Continence Foundation of Australia provides free, confidential information and advice regarding
incontinence issues and can also direct you to local services.
1800 33 00 66 (Monday-Friday, 8am-8pm AEST).
www.continence.org.au
30 31

Physiotherapy
Dietetics
Shape up
for Step Up
Winter warmer recipe:
Minestrone Soup
In the lead up to the 2024 MSWA Step Up, MSWA Accredited Exercise
Physiologists (AEP) have prepared an easy-to-follow video guide with
exercises and stretches to help you prepare for event day!
MSWA AEPs specialise in exercise and movement of the body for the
prevention and management of chronic diseases and injuries.
The handy guide includes warmups, cool downs and resistance training
exercises that will help you prepare for Step Up. This can also be
integrated into your daily exercise routines!
Training for Step Up
Ascending the 48 flights of stairs at Central Park Tower is no easy task, so
it’s vital to get moving and train your body for the big day.
Resistance training is important because it has many health benefits,
such as improving muscle strength to protect your joints from injury. In the
lead up to Step Up, we advise at least three days of resistance exercise.
Some simple resistance exercises we recommend:
• Step back lunges
• Glute bridge
• Step back to high knee drive
Complete three sets of eight reps.
As well, it’s important to get your steps in. Make sure to schedule in at
least two days of step exercises. You can head to Jacob’s Ladder at King’s
Park or the Manning Park stairs. Ascending these stairs would take you
around 20 minutes.
Warm up exercises
Before starting your workouts, it’s
important to warm up your body
to help loosen your joints, improve
blood flow to your muscles,
and prepare your mind to be
physically active.
Our favourites are:
• Star jumps
• Burpee
• Squats
Complete 10 reps of
each exercise.
Cool down stretches
A proper cool down is essential
after working out because it
promotes faster recovery
and decrease the severity of
delayed onset muscle soreness
or DOMS.
Our favourites are:
• Hamstrings
• Glutes
• Quads
Hold your stretch for at least
45 seconds each side.
Good luck to all our climbers and wish you all the best for Step Up!
Tips for event day
1. Pace yourself
Start easier than what you
think you need, as it gets
challenging pretty quickly!
2. Control your breathing
Take deep breaths while
going up the stairs.
Your body needs the oxygen
to power you up
the stairs.
3. Keep moving!
Most of all, it is important to
keep moving even if it is at
a slower pace. This will help
with maintaining blood flow
to your muscles and it’s a
good mental challenge!
Scan the QR
code to view
the video
demonstrations.
Is there anything more comforting than a steaming bowl of soup to chase away the winter chill?
If you’re craving a taste of warmth and nourishment this season, look no further. We’ve crafted a tasty minestrone
soup recipe – easy-to-follow, nutrient-packed, and bursting with flavour – to keep you cosy all winter long.
Minestrone Soup Recipe
Ingredients
• 1 tbs extra virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 tbs mixed Italian dried herbs
• 2 tbs tomato paste
• 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 large Carisma potato, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 800g can no-added-salt diced tomatoes
• 2 cups salt-reduced chicken or vegetable stock
• 400g can no-added-salt red kidney beans,
drained and rinsed
• 1 cup protein pasta
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• Mozzarella cheese, to serve, optional
• Grain and seed bread, to serve, optional
Misty Reinkowsky
MSWA Senior Dietitian
Share your culinary creations
by tagging us on social media
or sending your photos to
marketing@mswa.org.au.
Method
1. Place a large pot over medium heat. Heat olive oil and
add diced onion. Cook for 5 minutes or until brown.
2. Add garlic, Italian herbs and tomato paste. Stir the pot
and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Turn up the heat to high and add vegetables – celery,
carrot, Carisma potato and zucchini. Cook for
5 minutes, stirring the pot.
4. Add canned tomatoes, chicken/vegetable stock and
kidney beans. Pour in 3 cups of water and bring soup
to a simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add pasta of your choice and stir well. Cook with the
lid off for 15 minutes, or until pasta is cooked.
6. Turn off the heat and stir in the parmesan.
Serve with grated mozzarella cheese
and bread and enjoy!
32 33

Events
A splash with a difference
2024 MSWA Albany Swim
In April, the Great Southern community came together
once again for the 12th annual MSWA Albany Swim.
This year, the MSWA Albany Swim reached a
significant milestone, with our thousandth swimmer
making a splash!
Eight teams, totalling 81 swimmers, participated in
a colourful display of costumes for the eight-hour
marathon swim at the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre.
A remarkable 8,510 laps were completed, nearly double
last year's count, with the Albany Swimming Club
completing the most laps, swimming an impressive
1,634 laps.
Over the past 12 years, the swim has fundraised over
$300,000 for the MSWA cause, with this year’s event
raising an astounding $29,000. Congratulations to Team
Marines for being our Highest Team Fundraisers, with
over $12,000 raised. A special mention goes to Rechelle
Wright for being our Highest Individual Fundraiser, raising
well over $3,000!
This feel-good community event brings together Albany
locals, Great Southern residents, and MSWA Clients
and staff to raise funds and awareness for neurological
conditions. Participants enjoy the friendly challenge of
the event and value giving back to their local community
through fundraising.
Most swimmers return year-after-year because of their
connection to the cause and willingness to support
MSWA, including Albany local, Marina Pietropaolo
who has participated in the swim every year since its
inception.
Having lived with MS for over 20 years, this is a cause
that is close to Marina’s heart.
Diagnosed at 25 years old, Marina underwent a complex
treatment journey, where she frequently changed her
prescription medications and relied on painkillers to
manage severe side effects from her medication, on top
of her MS symptoms.
“The first 14 years after my diagnosis were the hardest,”
said Marina, “I experienced multiple MS attacks, and it
was debilitating.”
Team Marine swim participant, Angela Gorman.
With the advancement of treatment options, Marina is
now living life to her full potential. She has opened her
own architecture business and leads a more active
lifestyle. Experiencing this difference has brought
renewed hope for Marina.
“Research makes a big difference. I have seen it come a
long way. It gives me hope for people who are diagnosed
today that do not have to do the hard yards I did to get to
where I am now.”
Despite not being a strong swimmer, it has not
deterred Marina from participating, and she has since
trained herself to be more confident in the water. Her
determination, enthusiasm, and positive attitude have
inspired others in the community to take part.
Marina’s husband, Remo, and son, Santino, have
been active fundraisers for the cause for years. Both
musicians comfortable in the spotlight, the star duo has
emceed the event for the past few years.
“This is a fantastic event. The community comes
together, we bond for the cause, and it is really fun! We
come away from it exhausted, but we would do it again
and again. We love it that much!” Marina said.
Marina Pietropoalo,
left, with Team Marines.
Over the past 12 years, funds raised through the swim
have assisted in the development of Albany’s service
centre and accommodation facilities and continue to
support the centre’s operations. Our accommodation
offers Clients 24/7 care in a homely environment, while
the centre provides tailored services such as yoga,
hydrotherapy, massage, and physiotherapy.
It is thanks to dedicated fundraisers like Marina and
her family, that MSWA can positively impact the lives of
people living with neurological conditions in the Great
Southern and beyond.
We would also like to thank our sponsors who made this
event possible: City of Albany, Southern Ports Albany,
WizLoans Albany, CBD Architects, Moss Conveyancing,
Bathroom Decor & Tiles, Poolside Cafe and Storage
Solutions WA.
MSWA extends its congratulations and appreciation
to the Great Southern community for their unwavering
and continuous support for the MSWA Albany Swim.
Scan the QR to access
the gallery of photos
from the event!
MSWA Albany Swim Participants.
Emcees Santino and Remo Pietropaolo.
34 35

Social Connections
Everything Outreach
Accommodation Adventures
Trishaw adventures
In April, Clients from Rockingham
Outreach enjoyed a special fun
day on the foreshore, basking in
the sunshine!
Thanks to the volunteers from
Cycling Without Age Rockingham,
Clients were able to ride on
trishaws powered by the volunteers.
We are grateful to the team at
Cycling Without Age Rockingham
for creating such a memorable
experience for our Clients!
A splash of colour
Our Clients recently added their own splash of colour to
the wet area in the Butler Accommodation activity room.
The colourful floral artwork has been integrated into the
splashback panel, serving both functionally to protect
the walls from moisture and also adding a pop of colour!
Well done to our Clients and our Facilities Team for
blending this amazing artwork into the interior design.
St Patrick’s at Treendale
The residents at Treendale Gardens had a splendid
celebration for St Patrick’s Day. Recreation Officer,
Susie, assisted the residents to create their own St
Patrick’s Day headwear. Some Clients made the classic
leprechaun hat, while others opted for the lucky four-leaf
clover design. The Clients and our staff had a fun time
celebrating the occasion!
Harmony Week
On 21 March, residents, families and staff from Fern
River gathered to celebrate the cultural diversity within
our community and share what makes us all unique for
Harmony Week.
Mother’s Day raffle
MSWA team member Donna
and Client Essie were the lucky
winners of the Mother’s Day raffle
at Wilson Outreach. The hamper
prize included an exquisite selection
of tea, coffee and coffee mugs.
Remarkably, this was the second
year that Donna has won a prize
for the raffle. Both winners were
overwhelmed by the gift. Happy
Mother’s Day to all!
A sweet visit
Clients and staff from Beechboro
Outreach enjoyed a delightful visit to
the Whistlers Chocolate Company
in Swan Valley. They created many
sweet memories, indulging in a
delicious morning tea, marvelling at
the chocolate structures on display
and connecting with one another.
Clients were each gifted a goodie
bag of sweet treats to take home.
Easter celebrations
For Easter, Clients and staff at
Wilson Outreach channelled their
creativity to design some beautiful
Easter decorations. The Wilson
OpShop Café was also in full swing,
with some egg-cellent sweet treats
whipped up in celebration of the
festivity. The MSWA team also
sported some easter bunny ears for
the occasion.
Harmony Week recognises our diversity, bringing
together Australians from all different backgrounds. It’s
about inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging
for everyone.
Staff donned traditional attire and shared various aspects
of their culture. There were demonstrations of singing,
lessons on how to use chopsticks and a compilation of
music from around the world played on the cello.
Staff who were unable to attend shared photos of
themselves in traditional attire, which were displayed.
Residents enjoyed guessing who the staff members
were, as many looked quite different in their
traditional attire!
Jacqui Sheveleff
We also played a game of Guess Who, by matching facts
about Fern River residents to the respective person. This
activity was a wonderful way for staff and residents to
learn more about each other, encourage investigative
communication and highlight the rich stories behind our
residents’ lives.
Supported Accommodation Coordinator
36 37

News in brief
Save the date
Upcoming events
21 June
MND Global Awareness Day
5-11 August
National Stroke Week
Building our team
The Talent and Diversity team has been active in the community, raising
awareness about the incredible work MSWA is doing and recruiting great talent.
The team recently attended the Belmont Career Expo which welcomed over
900 participants. They also visited regional events, including the South West
Career Expo at the Bunbury Catholic College Gymnasium.
Connection opportunities
in the community *
All Neurological
Conditions
Community Perth
International Nurses Day
International Nurses Day is celebrated every year on
12 May, Florence Nightingale's Birthday, to commemorate
and celebrate the incredible work of nurses.
The MSWA nursing team came together to celebrate with
a morning tea at our Wilson Service Centre. We would like
to once again extend our appreciation to our MSWA
nurses for their effort, dedication, and resilience in
providing quality care to all our Clients.
Submit your article to us
If you or someone you know is interested in joining the MSWA team, please visit
our website for more information: www.mswa.org.au/work-with-us/apply-now.
WA National Disability Support Awards
The MSWA team celebrated in style at the gala dinner
for the WA National Disability Support Awards 2024.
Congratulations to Randall Rooney, Melissa Coombs
and our Employment Support Services Team for their
nominations.
We are beyond proud of our team for their tremendous
effort and the exceptional service they deliver to empower
our Clients to reach their goals and live their best lives!
Do you have a story about living with a neurological condition in WA that other MSWA Clients might like to read?
We invite you to share your experiences with us.
Email your submission to bulletin@mswa.org.au for consideration.
Suggestions, complaints and compliments
We want to hear from you. Your feedback helps us to understand what is working well and where we can improve.
You can raise a concern or acknowledge the support an MSWA staff member has provided by telephoning 6454 3146,
via feedback@mswa.org.au or writing to Quality and Compliance; Locked Bag 2, BENTLEY DC 6983.
For more information, visit mswa.org.au/about-mswa/contact-us.
2024 MSWA Step Up
Sunday, 23 June 2024
8am – 12pm
Central Park Tower
MSWA Step Up is back again this
year! Take part and join hundreds
of West Australians in this unique
stair-climbing event to climb
Perth’s tallest building – Central
Park Tower - this weekend!
Registrations for the one-up and
mini-climb are available on event
day, so come on down and get
involved - even if it's just to soak up
the atmosphere. best of all, Clients
and staff can climb for free.
Not a fan of stair climbing? Join the
volunteer team to cheer and support
our climbers on event day. There is
a range of volunteering positions
available, from the ground level and
all the way up the building - there is
something for everyone!
Register your interest to volunteer
by scanning the QR code below,
or contact events@mswa.org.au
to register.
Fatigue Management
Workshop
Tuesday, 13 August 2024
10am – 1pm
Online – registration essential
Are you struggling to regulate your
body temperature? Come along
to MSWA’s Fatigue Management
workshop to learn more about how
your body responds to temperature
and how you can manage it.
In this interactive workshop, our
OT Team will cover topics such as
thermoregulation, its effects and
impacts, strategies for coping
in both cool and warm climates,
assistive technologies that can
aid in temperature regulation, and
ways to acquire funding for these
technologies.
To reserve your spot email:
ot.groups@mswa.org.au
Readathon
Calling all adults, kids, and families:
are you ready to embark on a reading
adventure supporting an incredible
cause? The 2024 MS Readathon
has officially launched and we
invite you to take on the reading and
fundraising challenge!
Visit www.msreadathon.org.au
to register now.
Join the All Neurological Conditions
Community Perth peer support
group, to meet new friends and
make connections. This group
provides a safe space for sharing
experiences and challenges related
to your neurological condition.
The group hosts monthly coffee
catch-ups, social and art events,
offering plenty of opportunities to
connect with the community.
Family, friends, carers and support
workers are encouraged and
welcomed at all events.
You can join the Facebook group
by visiting: https://bit.ly/4dFSLr8
MS/Neurological
Social Group (Perth)
The MS/Neurological Social Group
is an inclusive peer support group
for those living with a neurological
condition in Perth. Carers, support
workers, family and friends of those
living with a neurological condition
are welcomed to join the group.
The group hosts monthly catch-ups,
and you’re encouraged to organise
your own, simply by posting in the
Facebook group.
To join the Facebook group visit:
https://bit.ly/3K6RXhr. If you would
like more information, email:
basil.merendino@gmail.com.
*These groups are led by members in
the community, outside of MSWA.
38 39

World MS Day gave the
community the opportunity to
reflect on Thursday, 30 May
as the city lit up red in honour
of the important occasion.
To find out more about our services,
create connections or show support
for our cause, visit mswa.org.au.