MEET Our Team
Next Gen NPs is a pioneering initiative founded by three experienced healthcare professionals: award winning Nurse Practitioners Darren Smyth and Jason Harrison, and Colleen Blums.
With a collective background in nursing, nurse practitioner roles, and senior management, our team is dedicated to advancing healthcare through specialised education and consultancy services. Our primary focus is to provide comprehensive training and support to Nurse Practitioners, with a special emphasis on the integration of substance use disorders and chronic disease management.
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Darren Smyth
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Darren Smyth is an experienced Alcohol and Other Drugs Nurse Practitioner and Director of Next Gen Nurse Practitioners. With a career spanning clinical, custodial, and community health, he is dedicated to advancing addiction care, supporting professional education, and preparing the next generation of Nurse Practitioners to lead in complex healthcare environments.
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Jason Harrison
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Jason Harrison is a Nurse Practitioner specialising in Alcohol and Other Drug Services with over 20 years’ experience at Queensland Health. Based in Central Queensland, he brings extensive clinical expertise, leadership, and commitment to improving patient outcomes, supporting vulnerable communities, and strengthening the role of Nurse Practitioners in healthcare.
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Colleen Blums
EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Colleen Blums is Executive Officer of Next Gen Nurse Practitioners with nearly five decades of nursing experience. A former hospital executive and long-serving DANA President, she has specialised in alcohol and drug health, driving education, research, and professional development to strengthen the workforce and improve outcomes for patients and communities.