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Community & Business

17 November, 2021

Mareeba doctor named QLD Young Australian of the Year

MAREEBA’S Tahnee Bridson has again been recognised for her substantial efforts in peer support and mental health wellbeing, being named the Queensland recipient of the Young Australian of the Year award for 2022.

By Rhys Thomas

Mareeba doctor named QLD Young Australian of the Year - feature photo

Dr Bridson founded Hand-n-Hand Peer Support after the death of doctor, friend and mentor Dr Mark Bestmann. 

The organisation’s mission is to help people in the healthcare system who were experiencing wellbeing or mental health difficulties. 

Now just weeks after receiving two awards in the QLD Mental Health Awards, Dr Bridson has taken it one step further and been announced as the Queensland Young Australian of the Year. 

“It’s quite overwhelming to be honest and very unexpected – it’s been a whirlwind,” Dr Bridson said. 

“It’s amazing and you don’t expect it. For someone who is quite obsessional and perfectionistic like myself it’s an honour but at the same time I doubt myself, do I actually deserve this?

“But that’s just a typical medical thing people say.” 

Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin was delighted with the news. 

“It is absolutely marvellous to see Tahnee recognised for her work in this very important field,” she said. 

As the former Principal of Mareeba State High School, Mayor Toppin remembers Tahnee as a student of the school. 

“Tahnee exemplified commitment and dedication to her studies and goals and I have watched her career unfold with great pride,” she said. 

“Tahnee’s work in founding Hand-n-Hand will ensure that medical professionals have a means of seeking support, without stigma, which will result in flow on benefits to the communities they serve.

“I encourage everyone in the Mareeba Shire to take pride in Tahnee’s achievements, and to remember that there are great accomplishments achieved both in our Shire and by those who have lived here.”

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