What began with a single laptop in a small room in Rockhampton has grown into one of Queensland’s most respected First Nations focussed mental health services. Now, Wakai Waian Healing is strengthening its presence on the Sunshine Coast, bringing four new occupational therapists and psychologists into the team. Opening in June 2026, the new clinic will quickly integrate with complementary services and become a place for healing and wellbeing.
For local GPs and service providers, this expansion means easier access to assessments, faster referrals, and culturally safe care for patients who often fall through the cracks.
The organisation was founded by CEO Ed Mosby, a proud Masig man with deep family ties to Waiben and the Masigilgal people. His belief was simple. Mental health care should feel respectful, grounded in culture, and built around relationships. That belief has guided a decade of growth across regional and remote Queensland.
“People want services that feel steady,” Ed says. “They want someone who understands their story and their community. We built Wakai Waian Healing to offer exactly that.”
Today the organisation employs more than 50 staff across Queensland. Clinics operate in Rockhampton, Thursday Island, Cairns, Western Queensland, and the Sunshine Coast. The team includes psychologists, counsellors, occupational therapists, social workers, and therapy assistants. Many are First Nations clinicians trained through the organisation’s own workforce development pipeline.
The Sunshine Coast is now the focus of the next chapter. With four new OTs and psychologists joining the new Caloundra and greater Sunshine Coast clinic, Wakai Waian Healing can offer:
• Functional Capacity Assessments
• Psychosocial therapy and counselling
• NDIS support for First Nations participants
• Telehealth services across Australia
• Strong collaboration with local GPs, AMSs, paediatricians, and community services
“We are ready to partner with the health sector here,” Ed says. “Our model works best when we walk alongside GPs and other services. It is about building a strong circle around the person.”
Wakai Waian Healing has earned a reputation for its culturally grounded approach to NDIS participants. The team supports people to build daily living skills, strengthen independence, and understand their plans. They also support families who need mental health education, community outreach, and trauma-informed care.
With the Sunshine Coast Caloundra expansion, the organisation hopes to build strong local partnerships, especially with GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services, disability providers, and hospitals.
“We want to make things easier for busy doctors,” Ed says. “Timely assessments. Respectful communication. Cultural safety. Clear reports. We know what good partnership looks like.”
For GPs struggling with long waitlists for mental health or OT assessments, the message is simple. Wakai Waian Healing is ready.
The name Wakai Waian means straightening yarn in the language of Masig. It speaks to the heart of the organisation’s work. To guide people, to untangle heavy stories, and to walk forward together.
As Wakai Waian Healing grows into its second decade, the Sunshine Coast becomes an important part of that journey. A place where cultural knowledge, clinical skill, and community spirit meet on shared ground.
“Our goal is simple,” Ed says. “Good care for every person who walks through the door. No matter what their background. We welcome all Australians. Respect. Safety. Culture. And a team that will stand beside you.”
For referrals or partnership enquiries, contact the Wakai Waian Healing Sunshine Coast clinic. The team is ready to support local GPs and service providers today. 1800 732 850 0r email ndis@wakai-waian.com.au
By Tom Hearn