Speak Out April 2019

Q&A with Marion Giddy

Queensland

We asked QLD speech pathologist, Sue Park, to write a piece that gives the SPA membership an idea of the amazing work that Marion Giddy has been doing as Branch Chair since stepping into the role at the start of 2018.

Q Why did you accept nomination for Branch President? You have been developing a busy private practice, Cooee in the northern suburbs of Brisbane and like many of us, probably don’t have much spare time to do this huge voluntary role? A Good question! I think I have been co-rep for the Private Practice Members Network (PPMN), and although the idea of being Branch Chair was quite intimidating, it’s an opportunity to develop skills in a different setting. Private practice, although diverse in its skillset, was more of a narrow focus. Any role on the branch executive allows you to develop new skills.

QLD 2083 members as at March 2019

Q Many therapists would not consider taking on such a role early on in their career. Can you tell us a little about your background and experience in speech pathology? A I’ve had 10 years’ experience in private practice and six years leading a team. I think it’s really important to be open to have new experiences and try to challenge yourself to try new things. I think that all exec positions offer opportunities to learn new skills, but the Branch Chair offered the opportunity to learn more about strategy and leadership in a different setting. Stepping into roles that make you feel uncomfortable allows you to build the skills you need in doing that role. Q In taking on this position, and as we have seen, you’ve hit the ground running, so to speak, so what inspires/ed you at the start? A One of the first things that I wanted to do was to connect with each of the representatives, in particular the regional reps. Hearing their stories and learning about their regions has been interesting. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead for how the branch can further support all Qld members. Q Who do you go to for support if you need help - you mentioned you were in a learning phase? A First off, I would go to National Office as they’ve been incredibly supportive and responsive over the last year and they have been a great back up. Its been fantastic learning from the other Branch Chairs and understanding how the branches work in other states. It does vary, but at the same time their objectives are like ours - the SP 2030 Vision. With any of the roles on the exec, its just jumping in and having a go, and there are processes to support that, as well as the executive and branch members who have all been welcoming. Q Where do you see our branch going into the future? A I think Qld has an impressive history in the CPD and advocacy spaces and has supported SLPs in Metro areas with opportunities for member engagement events through the public affairs team and the private practice member network. I’m excited to see more opportunities for the regions to be more involved with branch activities. The other focus for the branch is on developing some easy systems so that stepping in and out of roles is a smooth process for any members who want to connect in. Sue Park Private Practice Portfolio Lead

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April 2019 www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

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