The Far West Local Health District has appointed Ms Shannon (Shan) Henderson as the first First Nations (Identified) McGrath Cancer Care Nurse, the first position of its kind in New South Wales.
Ms Henderson is a proud Dieri woman, Registered Nurse and Aboriginal Health Practitioner and will support patients with cancer in the wider Broken Hill region community.
Ms Henderson said she is looking forward to working within the Broken Hill community, and excited to commence the role:
“It feels like a meaningful opportunity to make a positive difference, particularly by supporting First Nations patients and their families through what can be a very challenging time. It’s important to me to provide care that is respectful, supportive, and grounded in understanding.”
– Ms Shan Henderson | McGrath Cancer Care Nurse
“I can provide a safe space for open conversations, answer questions in a way that feels approachable, and support them to feel more confident in the care they’re receiving. It also helps build trust in the health system, as people are more likely to seek help, ask for support, and stay connected to their treatment when they feel understood and supported by someone they recognise,” Henderson continued.
The new position, funded by the McGrath Foundation, has been introduced to increase cancer screening awareness within the First Nations community, with the aim of improving health outcomes through earlier diagnosis and treatment access.
Working in partnership with the Far West LHD Cancer Services team and primary health care providers, Ms Henderson will provide clinical, psychosocial and emotional support to patients with cancer while ensuring culturally safe care.
Ryan Barlow, McGrath Foundation CEO said Ms Henderson’s role will provide meaningful connection for communities to health services.
“We’re honoured to support Shan in this vital role. She brings both cultural understanding and extensive clinical expertise and we know her impact will be felt deeply in the community. Shan’s appointment marks an important step towards addressing inequities in cancer care for First Nations peoples in the district.”
– Ryan Barlow | McGrath Foundation CEO
The McGrath Foundation is committed to supporting First Nations McGrath Cancer Care Nurses through the dedicated leadership of First Nations Nurse Clinical Lead and Educator, Amy Windisch.
Through Amy’s leadership, these nurses are supported to navigate the unique responsibilities they carry, with a strong focus on both cultural and clinical support. This includes fostering environments where mob supporting mob is central, helping to ensure First Nations people experiencing cancer receive care that is both clinically excellent and culturally safe.
Melissa Cumming, Far West LHD Director Cancer Services said Ms Henderson was an incredible addition to the Far West LHD team, made possible through the McGrath Foundation’s support.
“We are thrilled to have Shan join the team. By tailoring her role to the distinct needs of our community we will be able to provide much needed support for our cancer patients and their families. Our sincere thanks go to the McGrath Foundation for supporting this initiative in Far West Local Health District.”
– Melissa Cumming | Far West LHD Director Cancer Services
For over 20 years the McGrath Foundation’s care was dedicated to people experiencing breast cancer, but as of 2025 the Foundation has taken its care to all cancers. The McGrath Foundation’s purpose is to ensure that no one goes through cancer without the care of a McGrath Cancer Care Nurse.
There are currently 367 McGrath Cancer Care Nurses across Australia, and 128 supporting people with cancer throughout New South Wales.
McGrath Foundation nursing care is completely free and doesn’t require a referral. To find your nearest nurse use the button below:
