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Women’s Health Week 2026 brought our community together to share practical wellbeing tools, strengthen connection and celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 40 years of the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre supporting women’s health across the region. Throughout the week, the Centre offered free classes and workshops, making it easier for women to take part, connect with others and prioritise their wellbeing.
Wellbeing workshops and community connection
The week began with a journal-making workshop delivered in partnership with Saltwater Freshwater, where participants created mini journals as a gentle way to support reflection, self-care and mental health awareness. A sleep workshop, delivered by yoga and meditation instructor Leslie Harris, explored sleep hygiene, quality rest and simple strategies to support overall wellbeing. Kay, our pelvic pain educator, also delivered a lunchtime gentle yoga session, offering a calming and restorative class that encouraged participants to reconnect with their bodies in a supportive environment.
Celebrating 40 years of impact
The highlight of the week was the Centre’s 40th Birthday Breakfast at Yarrila, recognising four decades of impact in women’s health in Coffs Harbour. The celebration brought together the mayor, local dignitaries, community partners, staff, supporters and friends of the Centre.
We were honoured to welcome Denele Crozier, CEO of Women’s Health NSW, who delivered a keynote speech on the importance of women’s health services and the strength of community-led care. Guests also heard from a panel of long-serving Centre contributors, including Nurse Berry, who has worked at the Centre for more than 35 years; Dr Helena Johnston, a doctor of 45 years and member of the clinical governance committee; Cherie, who has contributed more than 20 years of service; and Dr Kristen, who shared insights into the future of women’s health.
Yarrila Library provided a beautiful setting for the celebration, with live music from DJ Rex, live artwork by Karly Morris, a networking breakfast, an opportunity to tour the Archibald Prize exhibition and a celebration cake to mark the occasion. The morning was both a milestone celebration and a meaningful moment to reflect on the relationships, partnerships and community connections that have shaped the Centre over the past 40 years.
With thanks to our community and partners
We deeply value the community, partners and supporters who make this work possible. Their presence at the celebration reflected the importance placed on women’s health, connection and collaborative care across our region.
To our funders, the Mid North Coast Local Health District and Healthy North Coast Primary Health Network, thank you for your belief in this service and for supporting an integrated model of care that continues to make a meaningful difference.
We also acknowledge the many partners who have contributed to this work over time, including NSW Health Sexual Assault Services, Refugee Health, Clinic 33, Warrina, Galambila, Lifeline, Pete’s Place, UNSW, SSI, STARTTS, Happy Mess, headspace Coffs Harbour, Older Women’s Network and Saige Health.
To our Board, staff, volunteers, partners and community, thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us celebrate 40 years of impact, care and commitment to women’s health in Coffs Harbour. After 40 years of collaboration, connection and shared purpose, we look forward to continuing this work for women’s health and wellbeing for generations to come.
Thank you to WHC Reception Team
A very special thank you to our wonderful reception staff for the amazing work they do every day.
Reception is often one of the busiest and most demanding roles in the Centre, and so much of the work happens quietly behind the scenes. Every day, you greet and support patients, assist clinicians, manage calls, appointments and administration, and help keep the Centre running smoothly — all while continuing to smile, support one another and show incredible care.
Over the past couple of months, there have been some challenges, but you have continued to show up, give your best and go above and beyond. On many days, the Centre supports a large number of patients, and yet the work is completed with professionalism, kindness and dedication.
On behalf of Jen, Attie, Cherie and all the clinicians, please know how much you are valued and appreciated. A simple thank you does not feel like enough, but THANK YOU. You are an amazing team, and we are so grateful for everything you do.
Check out the celebration as featured on NBN News here!
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