Topsy was born and raised in Townsville she is a proud Wagadagam Ipikaz and Dowareb Koskir with connections to Mabuiag Island and Dowar Island in the Torres Strait. Topsy was raised with strong spiritual and cultural values, which were instilled by her parents from a young age.

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Topsy is a proud mother, wife, grandmother, and a big mum to many of her nieces and nephews.  She loves spending time with her family, traveling, and making memories with her napa’s (grandchildren).  Topsy is also a passionate supporter of the Nth Qld Cowboys!

 

Topsy has worked in the human services / community development sector in both Government and Non-government organisations for over 30 years, dedicating her entire career to working with individuals and families experiencing vulnerability, disadvantage and marginalisation.  Topsy has worked in the fields of Youth, Family Law, Family support, Child Protection, Housing, Health and Education and for the past 15 years has channelled her interest in leading change, advocacy, and support to families who have witnessed and/or experienced domestic and family violence.  

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Although this work can be quite challenging, it gives great satisfaction, it inspires her to do better, especially when faced by systematic challenges.  Topsy works within a strength-based approach, by identifying people's strengths so that they can achieve positive outcomes for themselves, and for the people they work with.

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One of Topsy’s passions is walking through the process of self-empowerment and professional support of people.  This work enables individuals to overcome their sense of powerlessness and lack of influence and to recognise there, full potential, skills and self-worth.

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