Formed in 1986, the ACT Branch has 37 members going into our 22nd year. Our members come from a variation of oral health backgrounds and work in general, orthodontic, periodontic, prosthodontic and cosmetic practices around Canberra and surrounding districts.

Canberra is the epicentre for hygienists working in NSW districts geographically closer to the ACT than Sydney – we enjoy the membership of those working in Yass, Goulburn, Jindabyne and from coastal areas.

The standards of dental hygiene practice are incredibly high in the ACT and Australia-wide. Members continue to seek new information, strive for excellence in patient care and work as a most valuable asset alongside dentists and dental specialists. The modern dental practice is increasingly seeking to have a hygienist as an integral member of the clinical team.

Exciting times are ahead for Dental Hygiene practice and members of recent years have been approved to carry out an extended list of duties such as giving local anaesthesia. A career in dental hygiene is vibrant, exciting, evolving and a wonderful chance to provide primary oral health care to growing numbers of fortunate patients.

Congratulations and thank you to the immediate past President and Executive of 2007. Your example in all aspects has set the bar at an all time high for our incoming executive. We will grow and learn much in 2008, and hope to emulate those members who have served the DHAA ACT Branch in years gone by. The pioneers of Dental Hygiene practice and original members of the association leave exceptional standards for future members to attain (and attempt to surpass!!)

2008 will be an exciting year, and I urge all dental hygienists to join the DHAA for the numerous benefits, and wonderful support and friendships it provides. New hygienists to the region or to the profession will be heartily welcomed – DHAA ACT Branch will be enriched by new faces and new ideas. 2008 is the year of participation – ACT Branch is only as strong and successful as its members contribute.

Tanya Fane
ACT Branch President