April 2023 News

How did you get into Injury Prevention?

I have had a keen interest in injury prevention and its close partner, health promotion, for many decades now. Having come from a clinical background (working primarily in burn injury) it became clear very early on that focussing on injury prevention was going to contribute more significantly to people’s life and quality of living than did focussing on the consequences of injury. It can change the trajectory of people’s lives, in a positive way. This is particularly the case in child injury prevention which is a key area of interest for me. We know injury is a matter of inequity. People who are most at risk of injury are also those who are often most disadvantaged by social, financial and educational disadvantage. Experiences of racism and being disadvantaged by policies and practices further compounds injury risk. The need to address these issues is critical if we are to truly and significantly reduce injury. So, in essence, injury prevention for me is the essence to many things I hold close – ensuring we all have as good a chance as possible to have a full and positive life; focussing on equity and individual and community values; working with multiple sectors and across multiple knowledges; and of course being in awe of the people with whom I work.  

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What is your favourite part of being involved with the AIPN?

The balance between collaboration, advocacy and activist. AIPN brings a network of like-minded people working together towards a shared goal. We are a group of people all contributing significantly and meaningfully and of course enjoying our work.

A favourite TV Show or Book you’d recommend? Have to say that during COVID, I found Schitt’s Creek my go-to TV show – the basic humour and acceptance of people brought a smile to my face. 

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A fact about yourself most people wouldn't know?

My slightly wicked humour