President's Invitation

On behalf of the Council of the Australian and New Zealand College of Mental Health Nurses, it gives me great pleasure to invite you to join us in Alice Springs for our 32^nd annual conference. Mental health nurses from across Australia and around the world will come together in Australia’s red centre to share information, reflect upon practice, confront contemporary issues and make new professional contacts and friends while enjoying this unique environment.

As joint hosts, the South Australian and Northern Territory Branches of the College have assembled an impressive scientific program along with an exciting array of social events. Our 32^nd conference promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of learning, networking and fun. I look forward to welcoming you all to Alice Springs in 2006.

Stephen Elsom
President ANZCMHN Inc.

Convenors' Invitation

It is with great pleasure on behalf of the Australian and New Zealand College of Mental Health Nurses that the Northern Territory and South Australian Branches invite you to join us in October 2006 in Alice Springs for the 32^nd Annual International Conference of the Australian and New Zealand College of Mental Health Nurses.

The theme for this conference, 'Mental Health at the Centre', illustrates the significant landmark location of the 2006 conference and is intended to reflect the current status of the mental health arena in the twenty-first century.

Mental health nursing and mental health services have often been perceived as marginal in health service delivery. Our theme challenges this perception and invites presenters to address related key topics. We know that mental health issues and the mental health arena will grow in importance to governments, communities and individuals in the years and decades to come. The mental health nursing profession will be a key player in this expanded sphere.

ANZCMHN, through its national Conferences, local seminars, educational functions, scholarships and awards, has enjoyed a long and productive relationship with key sponsors. We hope that existing sponsors will take this opportunity to continue a mutually rewarding relationship, and that new groups will be inspired to join us.

Make a date in your diary now, to renew old acquaintance, to make new friends, to access a powerful national and international target group and to experience the Australia, which many Australians never see.

We look forward to welcoming you to Alice Springs in October 2006.

Pat Bradley
Conference Convenor

Pat Barkway
Conference Co-convenor