When Peter mentioned he was going to interview “Deeksy” for ‘white with one’, we were expecting one of our favourite MCs and voiceover people – John. We have since learnt there is another “Deeksy” and this one’s a doctor no less. It’s true, Dr Mandy Deeks is the better half of John, but she is also a passionate psychologist and Deputy CEO at Jean Hailes for Women’s Health.
Peter: How do you take your coffee?
Mandy:
What coffee I have is dependent on what I feel like, so at any time it could be a latte, cappuccino, espresso or short black – no sugar though.
Peter: Mandy you are the most versatile coffee drinker I have ever met!
Mandy:
As well as one coffee per day, I drink up to 10 cups of tea a day. English breakfast – again, no sugar. My first is at 6am and the last at 9.30pm. And yes I can still sleep even having one that late.
Peter: I think you must hold the record for the person who drinks the most tea a day! How long have you worked at Jean Hailes and what is your background?
Mandy:
I have been at Jean Hailes for 16 years, which in today’s terms is a long time. I have a Bachelor of Education and Psychology degree and started my career working in the medical centre and education unit. I’ve always loved being able to go out and talk to women about their health issues and helped to rewrite website. I think I’ve been to almost every town in Victoria to do this and met some amazing women. I’m now the Deputy CEO but this still allows me to get out and about.
Peter: What are some of your proudest moments/highlights whilst being at Jean Hailes?
Mandy:
I’d have to say being able to watch our organisation grow to where it is today. I really feel we can make a big difference to the everyday lives of all women. Recently, I did a radio interview talking about paying attention to our health and if something doesn’t feel right, please follow it up with your doctor. A listener had been feeling this way, went to see her doctor and it turns out she had the early stages of Ovarian Cancer. She was able to be treated but perhaps without thinking “I need to do something” the story might have been different. To be able to help and touch people in different ways makes me feel extremely proud. Also being able to secure our funding from the Federal Government and, for the first time this year, the Victorian Government was a major achievement. We now run six digital webinars a year and that has changed not only the way we reach out to people but also the way we operate.
Peter: Why is Melbourne such a great city to host major events?
Mandy:
Melbourne has a great feel and has something for everyone which is why so many people think we are the most liveable city. Yes, we have great sporting and cultural venues but it’s more than that. It’s the restaurants, shopping, hotels and our friendly nature. Whatever you like, you can find it in Melbourne.
Peter: What is your favourite event to attend in Melbourne?
Mandy:
Unlike you, and my husband, I’m not a big event attendee but I’d have to say that the Australian Open Tennis is my favourite. I think the fact that it’s summer and you can sit outside and watch the world’s best players in action makes it really special.
Peter: What about the footy?
Mandy:
Well I’m a Collingwood supporter – family cause. Although now that Daisy Pearce is one of our ambassadors, I might have to switch to Melbourne. I know September is all about football finals but for us it’s all about Women’s Health Week which is the first week so that takes our focus off the football a little! Last year we launched our new campaign ‘No more elephants! Let’s talk’ which is about encouraging more women to address those aspects of their health they don’t usually talk about. We reached over 14 million people with that campaign so it’s working really well and this year we are taking our launch events right around the country including a roadshow around Regional Victoria in a 1950s caravan called Gertrude!
Peter: Can’t wait to see that. Who are some of your most admired Melburnians?
Mandy:
I’ve always thought Jennifer Keyte is the epitome of Melbourne. She is so classy and stylish and always puts in 100%. I’ve got to know her through being an Ambassador for Women’s Health Week. Would it also be wrong of me to say that I admire my husband! He is a true professional and I don’t think many people know how much he actually donates his time and services to different groups.
Peter: It’s Ok , we like him too! What is your favourite restaurant and favourite place to go for a coffee?
Mandy:
Nobu at Crown as I love the creativity of the food. And as I love a bit of chocolate with my coffee, I can’t go past Koco Black.
Peter: What is your favourite Melbourne Street?
Mandy:
I love the laneways of Degraves, Block Arcade and all our chic shopping strips.
Peter: Who would you like to see sing at the AFL Grand Final this year?
Mandy:
I’ve always been a fan of K.D. Lang and she was so amazing when she sang at the Vancouver Winter Olympics, but I’m not sure if she would be right for our football crowd.
Peter: Well she couldn’t be any worse than Meatloaf! Mandy, thank you for your time and insights today.
For more information on Women’s Health Week, head to – http://www.womenshealthweek.com.au/
