The Barkly Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Advisory Group (BRADAAG) is inviting the community to an information workshop about the development of an enhanced local service working to reduce the impacts of the harmful use of alcohol and other drugs (AOD).

BRADAAG has been on a journey to reform and refocus its services and operations, with the emphasis on providing a transparent, accountable and best practice model that provides a quality service to clients, their families and the wider community.

The Board of Directors have worked hard to put in place robust processes and systems that will take the organisation forward.

Speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors, Chairperson Elliot McAdam said their work over the past 18 months built on the strong networks BRADAAG had built up over its considerable history in the Barkly.

Mr McAdam said the Board of Directors were focused on putting in place a strong model of care and developing partnerships with agencies that will address the issues underlying the harmful use of alcohol and other drugs in the region.

The workshop will be an opportunity for the community to hear about the recent work of the Board of Directors to set a new direction for BRADAAG, the achievements and the way forward.

Adjunct Professor Dennis Gray (pictured) from the National Centre for Drug Research at Curtin University will present on BRADAAG’s response to his report into the organisation, his recommendations and the actions the organisation has taken to put these into place.

Prof Gray said the review, which was initiated by BRADAAG, highlighted the need for the development of a more comprehensive model of care.

“The workshop will provide an overview of recent and ongoing developments within BRADAAG,” he said.

“It is also an opportunity for BRADAAG and other agencies to explore how they can better work and support each other to address harmful AOD use, its causes and consequences in the Barkly.”

The workshop will also give the community and stakeholders the chance to meet the BRADAAG team, and hear from Wellbeing Treatment Manager Kevin Cummins about the comprehensive model of care and programs.

“I believe the vision that the new board has for BRADAAG and the Barkly region can create positive and long-lasting change for clients, families and communities,” Mr Cummins said.

The workshop is on Wednesday 15 November from 9.30am until 12.30pm at the Karguru Centre, 65 Staunton St, Tennant Creek. 

This article appeared in Tennant & District Times, 10 November 2023.