Reflecting on the Past Six Months | Progress, Partnership and Purpose
Over the past six months, the Tackling Indigenous Smoking (TIS) Program has grown in strength, visibility and impact, driven by the dedication and wisdom of the people in our national network.
We began the year with momentum. In February and March, our team reviewed performance reports, advanced recruitment, and led strategic planning. When unexpected reporting discrepancies arose, funded organisations responded quickly and professionally, ensuring a smooth transition into the next planning cycle.
During this time, we welcomed new members to the NBPU TIS team. Telita Goile joined as Executive Officer, with Ronald O’Brien and Astrid Innes stepping into newly appointed Program Officer and Marketing roles. They quickly became part of the team, bringing valuable perspectives and experience.
April became a period of preparation. While I travelled overseas for a short time, our Workforce Development Advisor, Kerindy Clarke, stepped into the Acting Program Manager role. She maintained momentum as we finalised plans for the National TIS Workers Workshop and supported teams with their Activity Work Plans.
The TIS Workers Workshop exceeded expectations. Numbers were strong, and the enthusiasm across the network showed the power of these gatherings. Held on Larrakia Country in Darwin, the workshop brought together more than 300 attendees, with over 25% of the workforce present for over five years. Together we celebrated not only our work, but our collective commitment to community-led, culturally grounded tobacco control.
In July, we acknowledged the considerable work that went into submitting Performance Reports and Activity Work Plans. The reporting cycle can sometimes feel demanding, but your commitment to transparency and accountability strengthens the evidence base that drives policy and funding.
Now, we are planning the National TIS CEO Workshop in Sydney this September. This event will bring together senior leaders from funded organisations, the Department of Health and Aged Care, National Evaluators, and Professor Tom Calma. Together, we will reflect, strategise, and strengthen the TIS vision at a national leadership level.
Eileen Van Iersel Executive Program Lead, NBPU TIS
August 22, 2025
Reflecting on the Past Six Months | Progress, Partnership and Purpose
Over the past six months, the Tackling Indigenous Smoking (TIS) Program has grown in strength, visibility and impact, driven by the dedication and wisdom of the people in our national network.
We began the year with momentum. In February and March, our team reviewed performance reports, advanced recruitment, and led strategic planning. When unexpected reporting discrepancies arose, funded organisations responded quickly and professionally, ensuring a smooth transition into the next planning cycle.
During this time, we welcomed new members to the NBPU TIS team. Telita Goile joined as Executive Officer, with Ronald O’Brien and Astrid Innes stepping into newly appointed Program Officer and Marketing roles. They quickly became part of the team, bringing valuable perspectives and experience.
April became a period of preparation. While I travelled overseas for a short time, our Workforce Development Advisor, Kerindy Clarke, stepped into the Acting Program Manager role. She maintained momentum as we finalised plans for the National TIS Workers Workshop and supported teams with their Activity Work Plans.
The TIS Workers Workshop exceeded expectations. Numbers were strong, and the enthusiasm across the network showed the power of these gatherings. Held on Larrakia Country in Darwin, the workshop brought together more than 300 attendees, with over 25% of the workforce present for over five years. Together we celebrated not only our work, but our collective commitment to community-led, culturally grounded tobacco control.
In July, we acknowledged the considerable work that went into submitting Performance Reports and Activity Work Plans. The reporting cycle can sometimes feel demanding, but your commitment to transparency and accountability strengthens the evidence base that drives policy and funding.
Now, we are planning the National TIS CEO Workshop in Sydney this September. This event will bring together senior leaders from funded organisations, the Department of Health and Aged Care, National Evaluators, and Professor Tom Calma. Together, we will reflect, strategise, and strengthen the TIS vision at a national leadership level.
Eileen Van Iersel
Executive Program Lead, NBPU TIS