About SBH Queensland

SBH Queensland is the main point of contact for the spina bifida and hydrocephalus communities in Queensland, Australia.

The association receives government subsidies which help to provide services to assist students improve the quality and outcomes of their time at school.

Another government grant subsidises a program which teaches adults with spina bifida and hydrocephalus some of the skills needed to live well.

The association has 350 children and 350 adults registered for services.

MISSION

SBH Queensland

  • Provides a contact point for information and services specific to spina bifida and hydrocephalus
  • Empowers people with spina bifida and hydrocephalus to achieve their full potential
  • Promotes the value of people with spina bifida and hydrocephalus
  • Strives for excellence in the development and provision of programs to people with spina bifida and associated hydrocephalus

VALUES STATEMENT

SBH Queensland believes in people's worth and ability and supports the empowerment of individuals in maintaining a proactive, visionary future for themselves with dignity and mutual respect.

This, we believe, can be achieved with flexibility, reliability, and empathy on the part of the association and its clients in a culture where people support and learn from each other.

With our non-discriminatory service, we believe in a lifetime partnership with our clients because their needs and desire for a fulfilling life do not end. All of our clients have needs to be met and life goals to be achieved and we are privileged to assist them in attaining these for a full and happy life.

BOARD

SBH Queensland's board of directors is elected by the members of SBH Queensland at its annual general meeting which is usually held in November each year.

The current board has six directors who have life experience of spina bifida and/or have skills particularly helpful to the association. The Board of directors usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month.

STAFF

SBH Queensland employs 14 staff to provide services to children and adults with spina bifida and hydrocephalus and 2 support staff. Most of the staff work in a part time capacity.

Education and Therapy Service for children and families

Social Workers Sandy Morrow for families in Brisbane North and country
Joan Abbott for families in Brisbane South to NSW border
Occupational Therapists Mary Rydstrom (on leave until Dec 08)
Therese O'Connor
Kate Carpenter (locum)
Physiotherapists Elizabeth Steele
Trish Sim
Education Advisers (Teachers) Berthe Berkovits for children in Grades 4 -12
Karen Skou for children from birth - Grade 3
Susanne Edmonds North Queensland
Speech Pathologist  Amber Wakeham
 

Adults Services Skills Information and Support Team (ASSIST)

Robyn Sims (Occupational therapist)
Jodie Kennedy (Social worker)
Sonya Dennis (Social worker)

Information Service

Bill Shead

Admin team

Administration: Officer Lesley Hughes
Fundraiser: Kylie Harrison
Manager: Bill Shead