STARTTS acknowledges the passing of the former Governor of NSW, Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO.

Prior to her appointment as Governor of New South Wales in 2001, Marie Bashir worked as the head of mental health services in the Central Sydney Area Health Service. She was closely involved in the early days of STARTTS and was a key supporter of the establishment of the service, including through membership of the first Management Committee of STARTTS.

As a psychiatrist, she provided clinical supervision to our Vietnamese Bi-Cultural counsellor. Her connection with STARTTS continued over many years, including while Governor of NSW, as the keynote speaker at our 20th Anniversary in 2008 and our 25th Anniversary celebration in 2013.

STARTTS extends its deepest condolences to Dame Marie’s family and loved ones. Her legacy of professional service remains an inspiration to our organisation.