On Wednesday, 13 November, Roseberry‘s headspace Rockhampton program welcomed Jason Trethowan, the CEO of headspace, for an insightful and engaging visit. Jason, who has led headspace since January 2017, brought with him a wealth of experience in health leadership, having previously held CEO roles since 2007, including with the Western Victoria Primary Health Network. He also served as a Board Director at Barwon Health from 2017 to 2023 and is currently a Board Director for Gforce Employment Solutions. With qualifications in Health Information Management, Health Informatics, and a Master’s in Business Administration, Jason’s leadership is deeply rooted in his passion for improving health outcomes across Australia.
Jason joined the headspace Board as a Director in March 2024, bringing fresh insights into youth mental health services. During his visit to Rockhampton, Jason emphasised the importance of hearing the personal stories of young people over simply relying on statistics. This focus shaped the conversations throughout his day with our staff, consortium, and young people.
Connecting with Our Community
headspace Rockhampton hosted an afternoon tea, providing a relaxed setting for Jason to engage directly with staff, consortium members, and the Young Advocates Group who are vital to our local initiatives. The discussions explored what it’s like growing up in Rockhampton, the challenges of accessing services in regional areas compared to major cities, and the pressing trends and issues affecting local youth.
Jason’s warmth and genuine interest were evident as he listened to stories of resilience, triumph, and struggle. He explored how headspace National could better support community engagement and educational programs while improving access to mental health services for young people in Rockhampton. His curiosity extended beyond statistics, delving into lived experiences and the impact of grassroots efforts on our region.
Championing Inclusion and Diversity
One of the standout moments of the day was Jason’s participation in our Rainbow Space group, which celebrates and supports young people in the LGBTQIA+ community. His presence demonstrated Roseberry’s commitment to fostering inclusion and understanding. Jason listened attentively to the unique experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth, further reinforcing the importance of safe spaces and representation in mental health services.
Reflecting on a Meaningful Visit
Jason’s visit was filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and even moments of shared emotion. It was a day that underscored the critical work being done by headspace Rockhampton and the collective efforts of headspace centres nationwide. His message was clear: the voices of young people are central to shaping the future of mental health services in Australia.
As Jason departed, he left behind a renewed sense of purpose and encouragement for our team, reminding us all of the profound impact of our work. We’re grateful for his visit and look forward to continuing to collaborate with headspace National to strengthen our community and empower the young people of Rockhampton.
