I am one of the INFANT State-wide Implementation Coordinators, job sharing with Kathy McConell and working closely with the INFANT researchers. I have a Master of Nutrition and Dietetics and a Master of Public Health and have worked in Clinical paediatric dietetics, community dietetics/nutrition and public health within Melbourne, the Northern Territory and Queensland. My focus has always been on child health and nutrition and how best to support parents to maximise excellent outcomes for their child.
I am assisting with the expansion of INFANT across Victoria so that all 79 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have the opportunity to implement INFANT. While supporting and advising LGAs interested in implementing INFANT sustainably, I learn from the LGAs and impart this broad knowledge to others that are considering implementing INFANT. As INFANT is part of a systems-based approach, which is complex, we continue to liaise with government departments, local government areas and the early years sector to ensure the ongoing sustainability of INFANT.
It’s great being part of a team where the focus is around a baby’s growth and development in the early years and preventive health. We are aware of how critical the first 1000 days of a child’s life is (conception to two years of age) and to be able to use the evidence gained to assist and support LGAs to implement INFANT, is very gratifying. It is a real pleasure and privilege to work with such a passionate and knowledgeable team.
For the future, I would love to see all families in Victoria and Australia have access to INFANT, including providing culturally appropriate resources, to assist families to make informed decisions about nutrition and active play for their babies. As the evidence continues to show how significant the first 1000 days of a child’s life is, I would be thrilled to see the system, including more policies and practices, respond to the evidence.
Learn more about the INFANT team here.