To psychologist Ed Mosby, rural Queensland is more than a place he visits – it’s a community he’s deeply connected to.
A Torres Strait Islander man, Ed was born on Waiben (Thursday Island) and has family ties to Masig (Yorke Island) and the Masigilgal people. His cultural heritage deeply informs his approach to mental health care, especially in communities with large Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations.
Through outreach health services funded by CheckUP Australia, Ed regularly travels to some of the most remote parts of the state, delivering mental health care where it’s often needed most.
“Out here, mental health support starts with connection. You need to be more than a visiting clinician. You need to be someone people know and trust.”
A key focus of Ed’s outreach work is caring for the carers; rural and remote health professionals who often face isolation, long hours, and limited resources.
“Many of the people I support are nurses, GPs, and allied health staff who are working tirelessly for their communities,” Ed explains. “They face unique pressures, and mental health support can make a big difference in helping them stay well and stay in the job.”
Ed facilitates regular peer support sessions and offers one-on-one check-ins, helping health professionals manage stress and avoid burnout. These opportunities for connection and professional reflection are vital in small communities, where formal mental health supports may be scarce.
In addition to direct care, Ed is passionate about strengthening local capacity through training and mentoring. He delivers workshops on topics like trauma-informed care and psychological first aid, tailored for both health workers and community leaders.
“By sharing knowledge and skills, we help communities take the lead in supporting mental wellbeing,” Ed says. “It’s about equipping people to respond to mental health needs in a way that’s sustainable and culturally safe.”
This is especially important in communities with large Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. Ed works in partnership with local Elders and Indigenous health workers to ensure services respect cultural protocols and community priorities.
While face-to-face visits remain at the heart of Ed’s work, he also uses telehealth to maintain contact between visits, particularly during floods, road closures, or other times when travel is not possible.
“Telehealth can’t replace in-person care, but it helps us stay connected and ensures people aren’t left without support,” he says.
Ed has also been involved in workplace wellbeing initiatives tailored to local businesses, farms, and community organisations.
“Mental health isn’t just something that happens in clinics,” he notes. “It’s part of everyday life, and everyone has a role to play.”
What began as a one-off outreach visit has become a long-term commitment for Ed, who now mentors early-career psychologists considering rural practice.
“Working in rural mental health is challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding,” he reflects. “You’re not just treating clients; you’re walking alongside a community.”
At a time when attracting and retaining rural health professionals remains a national challenge, Ed believes investment in outreach services, workforce support, and career development pathways is critical.
“If we want people to stay in the bush, we need to support them both professionally and personally,” he says.
Ann Maree Liddy, CEO of CheckUP Australia, agrees, “Health professionals like Ed Mosby play a vital role in strengthening the mental health and wellbeing of rural communities. Through our outreach programs, we are committed to ensuring that people living in remote areas receive the care and support they deserve, close to home, and delivered by trusted professionals.”
Ed adds, “These communities give so much. Being part of their story, helping people stay well, feel supported, and know they’re not alone – that’s what keeps me coming back.”
Learn more about Ed Mosby, CEO and Senior Psychologist – Wakai Waian Healing:
Our Story – Wakai Waian Healing
For media enquiries, contact [email protected]
Visit Outreach Programs – CheckUP
About CheckUP
CheckUP is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of people and communities in need, especially those in rural, regional, and remote areas. We are committed to advancing equity in healthcare by strategically collaborating at both regional and local levels, ensuring that health and community services are more accessible and responsive to people who need them most. https://checkup.org.au/who-we-are/about-us
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