THE 2026 Coffs Harbour Electorate Local Woman of the Year, Dr Rebecca Tallis was guest speaker at the Probus Club of Coffs City meeting in July.
Dr Tallis spoke to the meeting about matters which affect older Australians and how times have changed.
She told News Of The Area it was a pleasure to speak with members of the Probus Club about her team’s work at Elara Women and Children’s Clinic in Sawtell and, more broadly, about the importance of preventative healthcare within our community.
“One of the most valuable parts of the morning wasn’t simply discussing medical conditions, but the conversations that followed,” she said.
“We spoke about the benefits of regular physical activity throughout life, particularly as we age, and touched on the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause; topics that have historically received far less attention than they deserve.
“We also explored childhood immunisation and some of the barriers families face when making healthcare decisions.”
Dr Tallis’ approach has always been to create a space where people feel comfortable asking questions without judgement or pressure.
Open, respectful conversation allows people to make informed decisions.
“I believe that trust is built by listening first,” Dr Tallis said.
Although the audience was largely from an older generation, Dr Tallis hoped that the discussion might continue beyond the meeting itself.
“Grandparents often play an important role in family life and are in a unique position to encourage conversations with their children and grandchildren about preventative health,” she said.
“Whether that’s discussing childhood vaccinations, recognising symptoms of illness or change, or simply encouraging loved ones to seek medical advice when something doesn’t feel right.”
Preventative medicine begins with conversation, she said.
“If we can help families feel more informed, more supported and more confident to seek advice early, we strengthen not only individual health but the wellbeing of our whole community.
“Good health spans generations, and sometimes the most important healthcare conversations begin around the family dinner table.”
By Andrea FERRARI
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