Dr Florence Van Schie calls time on a career in country mental health care

Mental health staff in the Wheatbelt gathered recently to farewell Dr Florence Van Schie and thank her for more than a decade of outstanding service.

From 2013 to 2026, Dr Van Schie served communities across the region, making extraordinary contributions to the mental health and wellbeing of the people she supported.

Director of Mental Health and Aboriginal Health Strategy Paula Chatfield said Dr Van Schie had played an important role in developing mental health services in the Wheatbelt.

“Throughout her time as Clinical Director of the Wheatbelt Mental Health Service, she played a pivotal role in guiding and developing the service,” Paula said.

“Supporting clinical teams and advocating for individuals experiencing mental illness – her commitment to the community was evident.”

During her time, Dr Van Schie built strong, collaborative relationships with Wheatbelt hospitals, emergency responders and many regional community groups, all working together to improve mental health care and access to services across the region.

Wheatbelt Executive Director Danny Rogers praised the environment Dr Van Schie created through her leadership.

“She created a supportive and respectful clinical environment and was always generous with her knowledge, guidance, and steady leadership,” Danny said.

“Her presence brought reassurance and stability to the service, and her contribution has helped build a strong foundation for the continued delivery of high-quality mental health care across the Wheatbelt.”