Published Friday 17 Feb 2017

An international expert in cannabis and other drugs’ effects on the brain will be speaking in Wellington next week.

Mark MontebelloDr Mark Montebello is the senior staff specialist in addiction psychiatry at the South Eastern Sydney Drug and Alcohol Service. He is also a lecturer in the School of Psychiatry at the University of New South Wales and the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre.

Dr Montebello will present a series of workshops for mental health staff and specialist clinicians during his four day visit. He will also hold a public lecture about methamphetamine on Wednesday February 22 from 6-7pm at Victoria University’s Rutherford House in Bunny St in Wellington.

Mental health, addictions and intellectual disability service 3DHB general manager, Nigel Fairley, said the service was fortunate to secure the services of a high caliber speaker.

Dr Montebello is coming to Wellington as the 2017 Buckle Fellow. The Chad Buckle Fellowship was set up in 2003 by the Capital & Coast District Health Board to bring an international expert in mental illness to share with mental health staff and the public latest research findings and practices.

Media contact: Reuben Wharawhara – 027 203 5198

Dr Montebello will be available for media interviews on Tuesday, February 21, during the afternoon. Please contact Reuben Wharawhara to arrange.