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Edition 70, 2025
Hi Friends,
A Message from the CEO – Looking Back and Giving Forward
This year marks a profound milestone for Epilepsy Tasmania—50 years of service, support, and advocacy for Tasmanians living with and impacted by epilepsy. Since our first meeting in July 1975, community generosity has been the steady heartbeat behind everything we’ve achieved. From launching awareness campaigns to delivering personalised support services across our state, your support has enabled us to walk alongside thousands of individuals and families navigating their epilepsy journey.
As we prepare to officially celebrate our 50th anniversary in July, we’re also mindful of what lies ahead. The needs of people with epilepsy are as real today as they were in 1975—only now, with more awareness, more understanding, and more opportunities to make a lasting impact.
That’s why, as we approach the end of the financial year (EOFY), we’re inviting our community to consider making a tax-deductible gift to Epilepsy Tasmania. Your donation today is an investment in the next 50 years of service—ensuring we can continue supporting Tasmanians with epilepsy through practical help, education, connection, and compassion.
Whether you’ve been part of our journey for decades or just joined us recently, your contribution makes a meaningful difference. We know that behind every dollar is a story of kindness, and we never take that for granted.
As we celebrate 50 years of service and support, we look ahead to the next 50 years with the same commitment and passion. With your continued help, we can ensure every Tasmanian impacted by epilepsy has access to the care and understanding they deserve—today, tomorrow, and for decades to come. Thank you for standing with us.
With heartfelt thanks
Paul Quilliam
CEO, Epilepsy Tasmania
Would you like to eat local 100% natural food and support Epilepsy Tasmania at the same time?
We have teamed up with Local Matters Grill'd North Hobart in June. Local Matters give back to the communities they’re part of and support issues that matter most to locals, gifting over $7 million to 30,000+ local community groups, organisations and projects.
During June when you buy from Grill'd Burgers in Hobart you will get a token/s that you can put in the Epilepsy Tasmania Jar. This is a great way of supporting us as we support others.
Leave a Lasting Legacy with Epilepsy Tasmania
Would you like to support Epilepsy Tasmania through a gift in your Will?
You can now write your Will online from the comfort of your home in just 15 minutes—for as little as $159.
We’ve partnered with Willed, an Australian organisation that makes end-of-life planning simple, affordable, and accessible. Their experienced team of lawyers, paralegals, and funeral consultants are here to support you every step of the way—from writing your Will, to managing probate and funeral arrangements.
By leaving a gift to Epilepsy Tasmania, you’re helping ensure we can continue supporting Tasmanians living with epilepsy for generations to come.
Start your Will today at www.willed.com.au/epilepsytasmania
Thank you for leaving a legacy of care, compassion, and hope.
Bianca Hodgetts (used with permission) was excited to collect her beautiful fluffy toys last week. Bianca was one of the winners of our "Name the Toys" competition, with her successful entry to name our kangaroo, Matilda. Matilda's baby has been named "Joey.:
We are still waiting to hear back from the winner of our new toy cat, so hopefully we can share her exciting news soon also.
If you would like to purchase one of our beautiful toys, go to our online shop or pop in to see us in Launceston or Hobart. My Shop
Patronage
If you are new to Brainwaves, last month we were excited and privileged to announce that the Governor of Tasmania, Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC, and Emeritus Professor Don Chalmers AO have accepted our invitation to become joint patrons of Epilepsy Tasmania. Over the decades, we have had a longstanding association with past Governors and Government House. We are thrilled to formalise this patronage again.
You can help us Celebrate 50 years of Epilepsy Tasmania
As we prepare to celebrate this year, we would love to hear from you if you or someone you know has been connected with Epilepsy Tasmania in the past-whether as a volunteer, donor, staff member, Board Member or someone who has benefited from our services.
We can't wait to celebrate with you AND if you are able to help out with names of people from the past or you are related to an inaugural Committee member below, please contact us at 50th@epilepsytasmania.org.au or as per the contact details below.
We are looking forward to your help in creating a memorable 50 years of stories, memories and acknowledgements.
Inaugural Committee Members
President: Mr M L Jenner
Senior Vice President: Mrs D Eldridge
Vice President: Mrs A Jenner
Secretary: Miss G Bennett
Treasurer: Mr D Woods
Committee:
Mrs C Napier
Mrs B Steward
Mrs B Woods
We hope you enjoy reading our very first Newsletter from 1975.
Education and Training: Are YOU Epilepsy Ready? Why Seizure First Aid Training Matters
At Epilepsy Tasmania, we are committed to ensuring everyone has the knowledge and confidence to support someone living with epilepsy. Our Education and Training team offers tailored programs that empower individuals to provide the right help at the right time - because timing and knowledge can make a critical difference.
Our training sessions cover essential topics such as:
- What is epilepsy, and what causes it?
- The different types of seizures
- Common triggers
- Seizure first aid
- When to call an ambulance
- How to administer emergency medication
- Creating practical support plans tailored to your environment
Whether you're a teacher managing classroom safety, a disability support worker, a family member, or simply a concerned friend, our training is designed to meet your unique needs.
Being prepared is more than just knowing the steps—it’s about being confident in moments that matter most. Seizure first aid training equips you with that confidence.
Want to learn more or book a training session?
Contact our team today:
education@epilepsytasmania.org.au
Liz: 0456 231 632 | Sarah: 0422 818 490
Together, let’s build a safer, more supportive Tasmania for people living with epilepsy.
Join Our Private Facebook Group:
Epilepsy Connect – Individuals, Families, Friends & Carers!
Looking to connect with others who truly understand epilepsy? Come and be part of our warm and welcoming online community! Whether you're an individual living with epilepsy, a family member, friend, or carer, this is your space to share, support, and engage with others who "get it."
· Make new connections
· Swap stories and tips
· Find encouragement and understanding
Go to Face Book and type in Epilepsy Connect: Tasmanians with epilepsy, family members & support people, fill in the 3 questions and submit. So easy!
You're not alone — let’s connect and thrive together!
Shirl – Social Worker, Education & Training 0439 439 041
Epilepsy Tasmania Feedback Survey
Epilepsy Tasmania is a not-for-profit community organisation improving the quality of life of Tasmanians with epilepsy, and those around them, through education, coordination and support.
This survey is for anyone who has recently interacted or received services from Epilepsy Tasmania. This short survey asks a few questions about your experience and satisfaction with Epilepsy Tasmania services.
Your answers will remain anonymous. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5ZB2BH2
From our Registered Nurses
There’s always new research emerging in the field of neurology, making it hard to highlight just one thing—especially when so much of it is groundbreaking. Each month, we'll share a new development to give you a sense of the scale and pace of change in epilepsy-related science, explained in an accessible way.
This month, we were drawn to recent progress in stem cell research. Stem cells are like biological building blocks. They begin without a set function and can develop into specialized cell types as needed. Their ability to replace damaged cells and support tissue repair makes them a powerful tool for future treatments.
This article about the first in-human transplant of lab-grown neuron cells to treat seizures was interesting. These cells were engineered to replace damaged neurons and target drug-resistant focal epilepsy. This first-of-its-kind approach, conducted by UChicago Medicine, is still in the early stages, but it offers real promise for people living with hard-to-control seizures.
Jill – Outreach Education & Training Registered Nurse 0422 101 272
Kate - Outreach Education & Training Registered Nurse 0407 994 205
Peer Support
Did you Know?
We've partnered with Entertainment to offer some great deals if you purchase a membership in support of our fundraising goals. We know you will be keen to see what bargains you can score.
Download the Epilepsy First Aid Poster for Your Workplace
Place it in prominent positions around your workplace for both staff and customers.
Epilepsy Tasmania is a not-for-profit community organisation improving the quality of life of Tasmanians with epilepsy, and those around them, through education, coordination and support.
"Try to be like the turtle - at ease in your own shell." – Bill Copeland
