I’m Bruce McGarvey, a semi-retired ex-farmer. I live in Feilding and I am married to Mary with two adult children, one of whom is a consumer of mental health services. I have a strong belief in the importance of support for the family/whanau in their dealings with all areas of mental health. This is my first year on the Board, and I feel privileged to be able to help in the governance structure of Manawatu Supporting Families.

I’m Paul Feekes, the consumer representative on the Board. I am married with three children and have always lived in Palmerston North. This is my first year on the Board, but I have been involved with Manawatu Supporting Families for approximately three years.

I am Catherine Whitehouse. I live with my partner and two children. My background is in banking. In recent years I have been studying psychology and that is how I became involved with Manawatu SF. I spent a year working for SF and thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I have been on the Board for over a year and for the last six months as Acting Chair. At the beginning of 2010 I started a new position as Director of Manchester House in Feilding.

I hold a PhD in psychology and work at Massey University as a researcher and as a lecturer in Community Psychology and Psychological Research. My contribution to the Board is influenced by these perspectives. My involvement on the board was inspired by Manawatu SF’s reputation and multi-level approach to mental health and illness.

Hawakiinui – the Central Region Pacific Mental Health and Addictions Expert Advisory Group, MidCentral Pasifika Health Development Group, the Depression Management Group, the National Standing Committee on Bicultural Issues in Psychology, and the Mental Health and Addictions Local Advisory Group (LAG) to MidCentral Health. I also provide clinical input into major DHB projects, Pacific health and mental health plans and have been pub­lished in the New Zealand Medical Journal and the Professional Practice of Psychology in Aotearoa New Zealand edited book. I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology, MA, BA(Hons).

Kia ora koutou katoa. I am descended from Te Whanau-a-Tuwhakairiora, in a place called Wharekahika on the East Coast, north of Gisborne. I work at Massey University in te Putahi-a-Toi/School of Maori Studies as a lecturer in the areas of Maori health and Te Tiriti of Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi. I am a Maori representative on the board.