Article
December 12, 2025
Message from the Executive Program Lead NBPU TIS, Eileen Van Iersel
As we reach the end of another full and energetic year across the Tackling Indigenous Smoking landscape, I want to extend my thanks to every team for your commitment. The impact you make in communities is significant, and it’s been a privilege to walk alongside you throughout 2025.
A quick reminder that Progress Reports are due on 31 January, so please keep this date in mind as you wrap up the year. Our team will be available in January should you need guidance or clarification, and we appreciate the work that goes into capturing your achievements and challenges.
Before you switch off for the break, don’t forget to download the 2026 NBPU TIS Calendar. The digital version is available to everyone, and hard copies are landing in letterboxes this week for our teams on the ground. We’ve continued using the artwork created for the 2025 calendar after the strong positive response, though you’ll notice a shift in tone and layout. The design now reflects the national move toward highlighting the positives of not smoking rather than focusing on the negatives.
I also want to acknowledge a change within the NBPU TIS team. Maxine Turner has now finished up with the NBPU TIS, and while we’ll miss her presence day to day, she remains an important part of the broader TIS community in her new role as TIS Senior Program Officer with the Aboriginal Health Council of SA. We thank Maxine for her incredible contribution, kindness and care, and look forward to continuing to work with her in this new capacity.
As we head into the break, please take the time to rest, recharge and be with the people who matter most. Be safe, look after yourselves, and have a wonderful and peaceful break.
We look forward to working with you again in 2026.
Eileen Van Iersel
Executive Program Lead NBPU TIS
From all of us at the National Best Practice Unit Tackling Indigenous Smoking, wishing you a safe and joyful Christmas and a bright start to the New Year