Gippsland Mental Health Vacation School
2014 Gippsland Mental Health Vacation School participants at the Lyrebird Forest Walk.
Twelve students from four universities in Melbourne were exposed to career opportunities in the mental health, and alcohol and drug service sectors in Gippsland recently.
The students spent a week of their mid-semester break at School of Rural Health MUDRIH in Moe taking part in the Gippsland Mental Health Vacation School program.
More than 50 staff from 15 organisations across Gippsland were involved this year, either hosting a visit or presenting to the students. The busy schedule was interspersed with a bushwalk through the Lyrebird Forest in South Gippsland, a visit to the Latrobe Regional Gallery, sampling some of the culinary delights in the area and the Vacation School dinner.
As a result of the experience, some of the participants are exploring future placement options and others have started applying for work with agencies in the region.
Coordinated by MUDRIH, the program is only possible due to the active engagement and support of the Gippsland mental health and alcohol and drug service providers. Since 2010, more than 90 students have participated in the annual program.
MUDRIH uses social media to maintain contact with participants and provide updates about placement and employment opportunities in the region.
For further information contact Keith Sutton.