Welcome to new GM Cairns, Gwion Cain

selectability’s executive team has been further strengthened with the appointment of Gwion Cain as the Cairns region’s new general manager.

 Mr Cain’s appointment comes as Ingrid Westthorp, who previously held the dual role of GM Cairns and Clinical Services, will focus on growing selectability’s clinical services function across regional Queensland.   

selectability CEO, Debra Burden said she was delighted to welcome Mr Cain to the executive team.

“We are committed to improving the mental wellbeing of regional Queenslanders and Gwion’s skills, knowledge and expertise complements those of the existing executive team,” said Ms Burden.

“Gwion is well known across Cairns with an established network and strong connections to his community.

“His commitment to the area spans more than 22 years, including 12 years holding senior positions in the Cape and Torres regions.

“Gwion’s leadership philosophy aligns closely to selectability’s values of accountability, commitment, compassion, innovation, integrity, positivity and respect.”

Mr Cain said he would be working in collaboration and consultation with groups and key stakeholders to ensure that selectability’s services were flexible, accessible and in line with the diverse needs of the communities across the region.   

“There is a great need for innovative mental wellbeing and suicide prevention programs in Cairns,” said Mr Cain.

“I am looking forward to strengthening my existing stakeholder networks as well as building new collaborative relationships across all sectors of the community.

“My previous experience implementing successful MenSheds frameworks will provide a solid foundation for establishing the first Bike Shed for the region.

“I will be leading a team of highly capable and competent employees … all with a passion for improving mental wellbeing and contributing to suicide prevention across Cairns.”

Gwion has an in-depth knowledge of the NDIS, and a broad range of operational experience including working closely with First Nations groups and providing grass roots NDIS advocacy support for remote communities. In 2016 he developed and opened the MaraWay Community Hub in Cairns which supports approximately 5,000 disadvantaged people per year with crises housing, domestic violence, parenting, training, and job search support.