Exploring the need for an Academic Regional and Rural Addictions Network (ARRAN)

The state of Victoria has a long history of excellence in clinical treatment and research on alcohol and other drugs (AOD). However, there is a growing demand for an understanding of how services and policies developed for urban populations affect regional and rural populations. Furthermore, there are pockets of excellent academic work within non-urban settings that struggle to get sufficient recognition and attention. This presentation explored the potential and role of an Academic Regional and Rural Addictions Network (ARRAN) based on collaborations between AOD services at Barwon Health and Mildura Base Public Hospital.

Robert Lundin | Psychiatrist, Windana, Mildura Base Public Hospital

Robert Lundin is a psychiatrist with AOD services at Mildura Base Public Hospital and Barwon Health. He also works with the addictive behaviours program at The Geelong Clinic and is an affiliate lecturer with Deakin University.

Craig Harvey | Harm Reduction Coordinator, Barwon Health Harm Reduction Services

Craig Harvey is the coordinator for harm reduction services at Barwon Health. He is passionate about delivering innovative harm reduction strategies to populations that can find it difficult to access services.

Credited Persons

Caity Morrison | Harm Reduction Worker, Barwon Health Drug and Alcohol Services

Leighlan Phillips | Nurse Practitioner, Mildura Base Public Hospital

The Rural and Regional Stream is Sponsored by