Session title: Addressing Paediatric Health Needs in Western NSW: Flying Start Model of Care

With almost 20 years of experience as a Speech Pathologist, Kylie is a dedicated allied health professional currently in the role of Portfolio Manager within the Western NSW allied health team at Marathon Health. Kylie is committed to supporting the growth and career development of clinical staff, fostering strong, capable teams that deliver high-quality care.

Kylie is particularly passionate about improving access to services and outcomes for people living in regional, rural and remote communities. Her work is driven by a belief in equitable healthcare and the importance of empowering both clinicians and the communities we serve.

Dr Tim McCrossin MB.BS (USyd84), FRACP, MRCP(UK), Dip Paed (UNSW1990).

Associate Professor Tim McCrossin has been a consultant paediatrician in Bathurst for 30 years and Clinical Dean for Western Sydney University Bathurst Rural Clinical School from 2009 through to 2025. Whilst functioning primarily as a busy regional general paediatrician, his interests have of necessity diversified to include service development, education, research, and rural health issues. Dr McCrossin’s research pursuits continue to include the broad scope of regional general paediatrics and rural health. Recent involvement with the Marathon Health, Flying Start outreach clinics (across Western NSW) have provided the opportunity to be part of a refreshing new approach to much needed paediatric services in Western NSW.

Session title: Evaluation of CoreConnect: A collaborative training model strengthening the rural psychology workforce

Matt Thomas is a clinical psychologist working in the role of Principal Practice Lead with Marathon Health, based in Bathurst, NSW. His role includes leading research activities focussed on evaluation of innovative rural health services and rural health workforce development. He is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Psychology at Charles Sturt University and in the Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health at the University of NSW.

Session title: A referral pathway from NSW Ambulance to the Murrumbidgee Care Finder program

Ash Credlin is a Portfolio Manager at Marathon Health who has implemented and continues to oversee the care finder program in parts of the Murrumbidgee and Western NSW Primary Health Network (PHN) areas. With a Bachelor of Adventure Ecotourism and a Bachelor of Social Work completed in 2016, Ash brings a unique blend of practical and social insight to his work. Passionate about community development, engagement, and addressing systemic barriers, Ash focusses on improving access to essential services in rural and remote areas of New South Wales. His professional background spans mental health, disability, homelessness, and aged care. Ash is particularly committed to enhancing the lives of older Australians and advocating for more equitable systems. Guided by a strong belief in social justice and collaboration, Ash continues to work alongside communities to create lasting, positive change and ensure that even the most isolated voices are heard and valued.

Session title: Country roads, take me home: Regional speech pathology graduates’ workforce movement patterns.

Paige Knight is a Certified Practicing Speech Pathologist and is currently working for Marathon Health in the Central West. Paige is a rural generalist Speech Pathologist and enjoys supporting clients across the lifespan. Paige completed her Honours research in 2023 which focussed on the relationships of work, home and study locations for regional speech pathology graduates. Paige is passionate about rural health and access equity. This passion comes from growing up in a small town where rural health and access equity is a major barrier.