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Vale Marie Bashir, former NextSense Patron

We pay tribute to former NSW Governor Dame Marie Bashir, who passed away on Monday 20 January, aged 95.
Headshot of Marie Bashir, a woman with dark shoulder-length hair
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Dame Marie was the first female Governor of NSW, and held the post for 14 years, from 2001-2014. She served as NextSense Patron from 2001-2014 and was appointed a Dame of the Order of Australia in 2014 for her services to child and adolescent health.

A clinical psychiatrist, Dame Marie’s distinguished career also included work in mental and Indigenous health, juvenile justice and children's services.

NextSense Board President, David Dinte, and Chief Executive, Chris Rehn, both worked alongside Dame Marie during her time as Patron of NextSense and acknowledged her outstanding contribution to the organisation and the wider community.

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former Patron Dame Marie yesterday. As a passionate advocate of children and young people’s health, her immense contribution to NextSense will not be forgotten,” Mr Dinte said.

“Dame Marie took a genuine and heartfelt interest in the people we support and beyond. As our Patron, she left a lasting impact on our organisation, and it was a great privilege to have known her. Dame Marie’s legacy and humanity will continue to guide us,’ Mr Rehn said.

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