FAMILY DRUG SUPPORT
COVID-19 / CDATs/LDATs/Schools

FDS - Mission Statement

“To assist families throughout Australia to deal with alcohol and other drugs issues in a way that strengthens relationships and achieves positive outcomes”.

Our People

Tony Trimingham OAM - CEO

TonyTony Trimingham arrived in Australia in 1968 as a Ten Pound Pom from the English Lake District. His lifelong loves are Manchester City Football Club and the Beatles although he has an eclectic taste in hobbies including history (esp. English Medieval), theatre, opera, all kinds of music, poker, cricket and collecting stuff. 
 
He is a bridge Grand Master (although he hasn't played for years), a member of the Australian Sceptics Society and the Richard 111 Society. He has been on 'the road less travelled' for about 32 years and recommends the journey.  Tony has worked for the past four decades as a counsellor, group leader and psychotherapist.
 
Tony Trimingham OAM - CEO & Founder

Sandra Lines

Sandra Lines Sandra is the FDS Senior Manager and a co-founder of the organisation. She has a Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs and a Diploma in Community Welfare.

Until recently she was responsible for all aspects of the telephone line operating and working with the volunteers.  She now holds a part time position and works closely with James who has taken over a large part of her duties. Unfortunately, this has led to having less contact with the volunteers which was an integral part of her job and one which she enjoyed.

Sandra has worked closely with the Centre for Volunteering for over 20 years on supporting volunteers. She loves to read psychological thrillers and watch UK programmes on renovating houses. Sandra is a mother to Nicola and Jess and grandmother to Joshua.

Sandra Lines
Senior Manager & Co-founder

Cigdem Watson

Cigdem smlCigdem joined the FDS team in September 2022.

Based in Narrabri, NSW, Cigdem will provide FDS support services and programs across the New England, North West NSW area. She looks forward to establishing and facilitating regular FDS family support meetings for that area. Cigdem will provide 1-1 support for families and will deliver FDS programs including Stepping Forward information sessions and Support the Family – Improve the Outcome professional development workshops, as well as facilitating our award winning Stepping Stones interactive and experiential course.

Cigdem’s first involvement with FDS began in 2006 as a volunteer on FDS National Telephone Support Line.

Cigdem truly believes in the FDS model for supporting families and welcomed the opportunity to expand FDS supports for families across the New England, North West NSW area.

Cigdem has over 15 years’ experience working across the Alcohol & Other Drugs, Youth, homelessness, and Mental Health sectors in rural and remote NSW. Cigdem has Diplomas in Counselling; Alcohol & Other Drugs and Community Services Case Management.

In her spare time, Cigdem enjoys creating art and spending time with her family and her two dogs – she prefers to call them her ‘fur-babies!’.
 
Cigdem Watson
Business Manager

James Lomas

James Lomas smlJames joined FDS in October 2015. As our Volunteer Coordinator, his role encompasses working with the Volunteer team, undertaking Interviews with potential volunteers, assisting with the delivery of the volunteer training courses, overseeing the 24/7 telephone roster including debriefing and supporting volunteers and any other administrative requirements.

Prior to joining FDS, James had worked in a number of customer service, administration and learning and development roles, primarily in the Social Service sector. James is passionate about social justice and equality. James is currently completing a Cert IV Coordination of Volunteer programs.

Outside of work James enjoys most sports, collecting records, playing guitar and drums, Scrabble, gardening and DIY projects.

James Lomas
Volunteer Manager

Gayle Shaw

Anna Daglish
Gayle joined Family Drug Support in June 2020 bringing with her nearly 30 years of administrative experience working in various sectors including legal, health and 10 years working in the not-for-profit community sector including several years in the AOD field. 
 
Gayle believes in the FDS model and considers it a privilege to help make a positive difference in the lives of the families assisted by FDS.
 
In her spare time Gayle enjoys gardening, drawing, digital design, photography and spending time with her family and pets enjoying the outdoors.
 
Gayle Shaw
Office Manager - Head Office

Ellen Courtney

Ellen Courtney smlEllen joined Family Drug Support in May 2022 bringing with her over 25 years administrative experience working in the private sector.
 
Ellen believes in the FDS model for supporting families in times of need.
 
Ellen enjoys reading, camping and catching up with family and friends.
 
Ellen Courtney
Compliance & Grants Officer - Head Office

Chloe Span

Krystal Scott
Chloe is the Victorian Project Officer for Family Drug Support Australia and is responsible for running support groups, community workshops and the FDS flagship program, ‘Stepping Stones to Success’ for families affected by problematic alcohol and drug use.
 
Chloe has a background in case management for people receiving unemployment benefits, is a Board Member of Students for Sensible Drug Policy Australia and is in her qualifying degree to become a social worker. She is also a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) and the Australia Community Workers Association (ACWA). 
 
Chloe Span
Clinical Services Manager, Victoria

Anna Daglish

Anna Daglish
Anna transitioned from the private sector into the health domain initially as a carer for her mother in 2014, then joined the FDS Team as a volunteer on their National Support Telephone Service in 2018, and became a Family Support Worker at FDS in 2019. Having completed a BA in Humanities majoring in political science, Anna identifies the complex landscape of policymaking and is working towards better outcomes for families within drug reform in Australia.
 
Currently undertaking a Masters Degree in Human Services, with a dissertation in Childhood and Family Studies, Anna has a strong research focus on AOD and Mental Health, positing dependency as a health issue in alliance with Queensland Human Rights Legislation 2020.

As an advocate for harm reduction initiatives, she supports therapeutic rehabilitation for recovery and re-integrative purposes. Anna’s passion for social justice drives her commitment to empower families and friends of loved ones that are faced with a dependency journey. Spare time revolves around spending time with her precious family and friends and loving her cats and dog.
 
Anna Daglish
Clinical Services Manager, Queensland

Katelyn Durbin

Katelyn Durbin

Prior to joining Family Drug Support, Katelyn worked in the AOD field in a residential and day program.

Katelyn believes the FDS model is instrumental in providing the support and knowledge families deserve, in a safe and supportive environment.

In her spare time Katelyn enjoys reading and spending time with family and close friends.

Katelyn Durbin
Family Support Worker, Australian Capital Territory

Mona Elkhishin

Mona Elkhishin profile

Mona is a mental health and peer support worker based in Rockhampton, QLD.

Mona completed her Certificate IV in Mental Health and Peer Work and is currently enrolled in a Diploma of Project Management.

Her passion for helping families led her to start working for Family Drug Support in April 2023. Having worked with families in previous roles, Mona understands the importance of supporting families with loved ones experiencing substance dependency without judgment. She is committed to providing compassionate care and support to those in need.

Mona Elkhishin
Family Support Worker, Rockhampton, Central Queensland

Edgar Venegas

Edgar Venegas

Edgar joined the FDS team having worked in the community sector for over 20 years. His experience and studies encompass the community services, human services, youth work, coaching and community development spaces. 

Edgar brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role having worked with youth and families in a variety of capacities particularly relating to mental health and drug and alcohol support.

Edgar is specialised in trauma informed practice and person centred, strengths-based frameworks greatly influencing his current practice. He is a strong believer in the power of connection.

Edgar has also worked as a case manager, team leader and coordinator of activities for children, youth and parents who have required wellbeing support.

He has made it a priority to live his values through respectful, authentic, caring and compassionate interactions when living and working with community members. He is committed to supporting community.

In his spare time Edgar enjoys walking, playing and watching sport, listening to music, singing, coffee meet ups and family time. 

Edgar Venegas
Family Support Worker, Darling Downs/West Moreton , Queensland

Belinda Arnold

Belinda Arnold sml

Belinda has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Science and a Post Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Management.

Belinda has a long work history working with children and families in the public and private sector and this has endowed her with the knowledge and skills to work successfully with families, empowering them to cope and manage during times of adversity.

In her experience as a case manager Belinda has had the opportunity to work with children and families from many different backgrounds and understands the need to listen, respect and acknowledge the power and wisdom encompassed in families. She is also aware of the barriers families experience when seeking support and works to advocate and empower families to build relationships, connect with their communities and continue to care for themselves and the people they love.

As a manager in early intervention services, Belinda has worked alongside families impacted by drug and alcohol use and understands that empathy and building relationships are fundamental to working with people to remain engaged and to strengthen families.

Belinda is excited to be part of Family Drug Support and looks forward to connecting with carers and families in the Central Queensland Region.

Belinda Arnold
Family Support Worker, Rockhampton, Central Queensland
 

Sophie Marsh

Sophie Marsh sml profileSophie has been part of the FDS Queensland team since October 2022. As a part-time Family Support Worker, she runs support groups, guides educational sessions and co-facilitates FDS’ award-winning Stepping Stones course.

Sophie brings over 20 years of experience as a somatic educator, group facilitator and wellbeing coach, as well as lived experience caring for loved ones with mental health and substance use issues. She warmly connects with people of all ages and backgrounds, holding a non-judgmental and compassionate space for learning, sharing, and healing. 

Sophie is certified as a trauma-sensitive mindfulness and movement teacher and the only Australian Trainer on the international faculty for the Nia Technique. With a contagious energy, Sophie inspires people to reclaim their embodied joy and personal power, which often get diminished when caring for a loved one with AOD challenges.

Sophie comes alive sharing Nia dance classes, hiking Mt Coot-tha, swimming in the ocean, and hugging her children.
 
Sophie Marsh
Family Support Worker , Brisbane Queensland

Jascinta Black

Jascinta BlackJascinta has a Diploma in counselling and is currently undertaking a BA in Counselling. In addition, she has also completed a number of courses in the mental health sector.

Jascinta has vast experience working in helping professions and throughout these roles, Jascinta has worked with many families who have been impacted by drug and alcohol use. Specialising in trauma informed and person-centred practice, Jascinta has an acute awareness of the uniqueness of each individuals experience and recognises that every individual is the expert of their own life. Jascinta aims to meet each person with empathy, unconditional positive regard and curiosity. 

Jascinta’s work experience, incorporated with her counselling studies has demonstrated her ability to work with families from varied cultural and diverse backgrounds, and treat individuals with inclusivity, dignity, and respect.

Jascinta is elated to be a part of the FDS team and is looking forward to connecting with families in the Brisbane Bayside, Logan and Gold Coast regions.
 
Jascinta Black
Family Support Worker, Brisbane Queensland
 

Kylie Wilson

Kylie Wilson sml

Kylie joined the Family Drug Support team in September 2022 bringing with her 23 years of knowledge and experience working in law enforcement. Having dedicated her career within education in various spheres, she began her career in primary school education and moved into adult education within law enforcement. Kylie’s passion for education stems from the belief that education is the key to a person’s ability to see the world from a different lens and understand that everyone has their unique life path. This path should be respected without judgment. This belief prompted her to begin studying a Master in Social Work in 2021.

Kylie believes in the FDS model where people are free to share their stories in a safe space without judgement or stigma to gain the support they need. She believes it is a privilege to hear people share their stories and be able to walk alongside them throughout their journey, understanding they are experts in their own life. She believes that in doing so, people’s self-efficacy will be strengthened.

Kylie is dedicated to respect for all people, social justice and professional integrity with a strong focus on shame resilience and reducing stigma in all facets of drug and alcohol dependency.

In her spare time Kylie enjoys studying and spending time with her family, two dogs and a cat.

Kylie Wilson
Family Support Worker, New South Wales

Sally Glover

Sally Glover sml

Sally is the South Australia Clinical Services Manager and facilitates support groups and the Stepping Stones course as well as delivering the Stepping Forward information sessions and the Support The Family – Improve The Outcome professional workshop. She enjoys helping people find coping skills, express their emotions and find empowerment to make their own choices and decisions while still maintaining a safe connection and support for their loved one using substances.

Sally joined FDS in June 2019, after being a support line volunteer since January 2018 but has also worked in a harm minimisation treatment service providing case management and counselling to people experiencing substance use issues. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and English, worked in the private sector for many years in targeted marketing and client engagement before pursuing further study, gaining a Graduate Diploma in Psychological Science then continuing on to complete a degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

In her spare time Sally enjoys creative writing, reading, yoga, music and spending time with close friends.
 
Sally Glover
Clinical Services Manager, South Australia

Angela Tolley

Krystal ScottAngela has a BA in Communications and extensive experience as a publicist in film, theatre and publishing. She first connected with FDS as a parent reaching out for support. While a regular attendee at support group meetings, she volunteered on the FDS 24/7 Support Line.
 
Since losing her 28 year-old son to suicide, Angela embraces with passion her new role as a Family Support Officer with FDS in South Australia. Angela is driven by the courage of so many families struggling to cope with the impact of drug and alcohol use in their midst. Like many she meets, she never expected to find herself in that place of overwhelming fear and grief. She is pleased to be able to direct her empathy and lived experience to a positive end. A committed advocate for the FDS model, Angela also enjoys spending time with her family (including her dog), going to the theatre, travelling, Zumba and French language.
  
Angela Tolley
Family Support Worker, South Australia

Catherine Winter

Catherine_pic.jpg
Catherine first came to FDS in June 2019 as a parent struggling with the impact her son’s substance use was having on her family. She regularly attended the Elizabeth Support Group and found that as well as getting help for herself, she also got a great deal of satisfaction out of listening to others and offering her support.
 
Catherine feels very passionate about the FDS model and welcomed the opportunity to join the organisation in November 2020 as a Family Support Worker.
 
Originally coming from Scotland, Catherine came to Australia with her parents at age 13. She definitely calls Australia home, but loves to go back to visit her home country when she can.
 
Outside of work she enjoys the physical challenge of Boot Camp and Yoga. She loves catching up with friends and family & walking her dog Baxter.
 
Catherine Winter
Family Support Worker, South Australia

Vicky Liu

Emma Gallacher sml

Vicky is a dedicated advocate for Mental Health and Well-being, driven by a profound passion to make a positive impact on the lives of others. With a Bachelor of Psychological Science and an Advanced Graduate Diploma in Psychology, Vicky possesses a solid academic foundation complemented by extensive practical expertise.

Throughout her career, Vicky has amassed a wealth of experience across diverse settings, including NDIS, Primary Health Care, private Psychology practice and research, higher education sector and the Australian Defence Force. Her diverse experiences have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of mental health issues and effective practice for person-centred care.

Having embarked on a journey of self-discovery after migrating to Australia as a teenager, Vicky's personal experiences have shaped her into a compassionate and empathetic individual. Her global travels and diverse experiences have deepened her understanding of human nature and fuelled her passion for helping others navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. She is committed to supporting and empowering individuals and families on their journey towards harm reduction and wellbeing.

Vicky Liu
Family Support Worker, South Australia

Arneen Walden

Arneen headshot
I grew up in a small mining town in South Australia, I am the youngest of six children. I have followed many dreams in my life
 and explored many careers.

My hobbies are gardening, travelling and being with my friends and family.

My passion has always been people; caring and listening to them. I have two amazing children and four grandchildren, and it was my daughter’s journey into drugs in her teens, and successfully walking away from them, that steered me into supporting people who venture into this arena. It was through my lack of support at the time that has finally led me to Family Drug Support.

I have spent the last five years exploring the academic side of counselling, and have just completed my Bachelor of Applied Social Science in Counselling. I have spent the last 7 months (before coming to Family Drug Support) in an organisation that services CALD communities. I was taught how to counsel and support them as they are unique groups of people that they are, with empathy and consideration towards their needs and cultural beliefs.

It is through my life training and education that I believe I can now contribute greatly to Family Drug Support in assisting and supporting families by listening and being empathetic to the traumas they are going through.

 
Arneen Walden 
Family Support Worker , South Australia

Family Drug Support Australia

Supporting families and friends of people who use substances as well as bereaved families in Australia.

SUPPORT LINE (24 Hours - 7 Days)
Phone: 1300 368 186


© Family Drug Support Australia / PO Box 7363 Leura NSW 2780 / ABN 49 081 764 258.
Website by Collaborative