#WeAreNorthern

Today, in recognition of both Mental Health Month and Mental Health Day, we’re delighted to introduce Emily Miranda, our new Adult Community Group Program Coordinator within the Mental Health Division.

The group program is being introduced as part of the new Adult Community model of care and will offer consumers and carers a range of group-based sessions to complement the care provided by the treating mental health teams.  Emily brings valuable experience from her previous roles as a Mental Health Occupational Therapist and Team Leader and Group Coordinator.

What is your coffee order?
I love a good chai latte.

What will your role as Adult Community Group Program Coordinator entail? 
This role is an exciting opportunity to build a group program that provides recovery-oriented group interventions which complement the work that is already being done individually, drawing on the expertise of all disciplines.

What excites you about this opportunity?
After spending the last two years establishing a successful group program in Monash Health’s adult community mental health services, I’m looking forward to leading the development of a service-wide program at Northern Health and to work together on this exciting new aspect of the service.

Why is the group program important for your consumers?
There is something fundamentally powerful about feeling part of a group; a sense of acceptance, emotional safety, support and validation that are the remedy to loneliness and a sense of isolation. Group work allows us an opportunity to connect people, and I don’t just mean socially.
In therapeutic groups, participants share their experiences, learn from each other, gain a sense of hope from hearing from others who’ve been where they’ve been, and also a sense of pride and accomplishment when they are the person providing that example for others.

How do you unwind after work?
I like to unwind by making plans to meet friends, singing loudly in my car and trying out new recipes for dinner.

Where is one place you would like to travel to and why?
I would love to go back to Spain. Between the tapas, siestas and salsa dancing I can’t think of anywhere better!

What is something not many people know about you?
I am obsessed with coriander; I’m convinced it makes everything better. I like to use the entire bunch in a dish, regardless of what the recipe says!

Last week, Northern Health’s Addiction Psychiatry and Toxicology (APT) team hosted the first-ever Acute Withdrawal Symposium. The event aimed to spark conversation around integrated care, increase awareness of substance dependence and related conditions, and explore the future of substance use services and treatment.

The symposium was opened by Executive Director for Mental Health, Ms Belinda Scott, who said, “At Northern Health, we believe healthcare should be accessible to everyone who needs it, with no wrong door for consumers seeking support. Separation of services creates barriers, and true person-centred care means meeting people where they are, with the support they need, when they need it.”

The event featured a keynote address from Dr Zeff Koutsogiannis, Clinical Toxicologist and Emergency Physician, who delivered a simple yet powerful message: “People who use drugs are people.” He highlighted that empathy and non-judgemental care contribute to better outcomes for consumers, reflecting Northern Health’s values of Safe, Kind, Together.

Victoria’s Chief Addiction Medicine Officer, Dr Paul McCartney, shared insights into the future of addiction medicine services in Victoria. The symposium included several talks on different acute withdrawal conditions and concluded with a compelling consumer story from Trent, who shared his recovery journey with the APT team.

Reflecting on the symposium, A/Prof Joe Rotella, Clinical Director of APT, said, “The goal was not only to raise awareness and knowledge around substance dependence but to remind us that all consumers come to the hospital for a service, not a judgement. Terms like ‘IVDU’, ‘junkie’, or ‘addict’ have no place in a hospital or wider society. Keeping people central to our care ensures it isn’t hampered by stigma or bias.”

Ms Scott added, “We need more research, more innovation, and more collaboration to continue improving the care we provide. Gatherings like last week’s symposium are vital, they allow us to share knowledge, challenge assumptions, and commit to doing better.”

Joby Philip, APT Program Manager, who helped shape the symposium, said, “The success of this event is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our presenters and the entire team. Together, we’ve created something special.”

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for future events. Encouraged by this response, the APT team is excited to announce that plans for the second Acute Withdrawal Symposium in 2026 are already underway, promising even more opportunities for learning, networking, and growth.

Today, on International Emergency Nurses Day, we celebrate these extraordinary professionals whose resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication form the backbone of our Emergency Departments.

Every day, our emergency teams care for hundreds of patients and families who turn to us in moments of crisis. With over 330 presentations daily and a team of approximately 240 nursing staff across our campuses, our emergency nurses work tirelessly to provide safe, timely, and compassionate care to everyone who walks through our doors.

Daniel Crompton, Emergency Department Director at Northern Health, expressed his gratitude to the team for the difference they make each day.

“Congratulations to all our emergency nurses this International Emergency Nurses Day. I can’t express enough how much I value everything you do. You go above and beyond every single day, and it’s a privilege to work alongside such an exceptional team. You are, without a doubt, the most awesome team I could ask for. Thank you for your incredible work.”

Working in emergency is no easy feat. It demands resilience, empathy, adaptability, and teamwork, often under intense and unpredictable circumstances. Yet, our nurses continue to rise to every challenge, showing remarkable professionalism and compassion even in the most demanding situations. Their work reflects not only clinical excellence but also the human side of healthcare – where empathy, kindness, and teamwork shine through in every interaction.

Amanda Paleologos, Nurse Unit Manager of the Emergency Department, says, “I’d like to thank all of my incredible team this Emergency Nurses Day for the work they do today and every day. It’s an incredible privilege to lead such compassionate, skilled, and committed nurses who make a difference in the lives of so many.”

At Northern Health, we are immensely proud of our emergency nurses who embody our values of Safe, Kind, and Together. Their commitment to supporting patients, families, and each other forms the foundation of our emergency care.

In a proactive response to feedback from the People Matter Survey, Lana Dent, Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) of the General Operating Theatre, reached out to the OHS and Wellbeing team to explore opportunities to enhance staff wellbeing. One key idea that emerged was to introduce a short, team-based physical activity session during the daily morning huddle.

Staff shared that they were looking for a fun and energising way to start their day – something that would support both mental and physical readiness for work.

Dylan Perera, Staff Exercise Physiologist, worked closely with Lana, Anna Caro, NUM, and Lucy White, a nurse who volunteered to champion the initiative. With Lucy’s background in yoga and her deep understanding of the demands of the role, the team co-designed a simple, effective routine focusing on mobility, stretching, breathwork and mindfulness — all tailored to the specific needs of clinical staff in physically active roles.

“We were very excited to receive this request,” says Dylan. “There’s growing evidence supporting the broad physical and mental health benefits of workplace physical activity, and it’s increasingly being adopted across many sectors. It’s great to see healthcare teams leading the way.”

The morning huddle activity was launched in July and has been met with great enthusiasm.

“The team are loving the new initiative,” says Lana. “They’re now trying to do it a couple of days each week.”

Lucy, who leads the sessions, says the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with staff requesting even more frequent sessions.

For physically demanding roles, such as nursing, incorporating warm-up and stretching before a shift can help reduce the risk of injury and support overall wellbeing. For those in more sedentary, desk-based roles, the literature recommends increasing incidental movement throughout the day and incorporating short bursts of muscle-strengthening exercises. Resistance bands are one simple and cost-effective way to facilitate this in the workplace.

Research shows that small, regular investments in physical activity during the workday can lead to improvements in productivity, reduced musculoskeletal injuries, and better health outcomes for staff.

If other teams across Northern Health are interested in starting a similar initiative, they are encouraged to contact the OHS and Wellbeing team at staffexphys@nh.org.au to plan a tailored program that suits their team’s needs.

As Mental Health Month continues throughout October – highlighting the importance of awareness, advocacy, and systemic change – two trailblazers at Northern Health are making a profound impact in the ever-evolving landscape of mental health and housing support. Cassie MacAlpine and Meghan Burkett, both deeply committed social workers, are leading the charge in transforming how individuals navigate housing pathways—bringing compassion and advocacy to a system often described as complex and under-resourced.

For mental health consumers, accessing and maintaining secure housing is the foundation for recovery. Yet this critical need is often met with significant barriers, with many individuals experiencing homelessness or facing the risk of it. Cassie and Meghan’s work directly address these challenges, helping to build safer, more stable futures for those most vulnerable.

Cassie MacAlpine stepped into the newly created role of Housing Pathways Coordinator in October 2024, bringing with her 25 years of frontline experience in mental health, housing, and homelessness. Her career spans community and public housing, crisis assessment, outreach, inpatient and hospital social work, and case management.

“Housing and homelessness have been such a large part of my working career,” Cassie shares. “I feel very fortunate to assist clinicians and consumers in navigating this space, and to work with regional partners to advocate for those without a safe and secure place to live.”

Joining Cassie in July 2025, Meghan Burkett took on the role of Housing Pathways Clinician. Her journey began at Northern Health through the Mental Health Early Careers Program, followed by work at Neami National. There, she provided integrated mental health and housing case management, always keeping the individual’s goals at the heart of her practice.

“I absolutely love working at the intersection of mental health and housing,” Meghan says. “The system can be complex, but there’s nothing more rewarding than supporting someone in achieving their housing goals.”

Meghan’s return to Northern Health marks a full-circle moment, bringing her expertise and passion back to where it all began.

Together, Cassie and Meghan offer a comprehensive support system across Northern Health’s Mental Health division. Their work includes:

• Guidance on general housing options and homelessness services
• Assistance with Victorian Housing Register (VHR) applications
• Access to Housing Establishment Funds (HEF), PRAP, and Bond Loans
• Crisis accommodation and rooming house referrals
• Budgeting for private rentals and sourcing financial aid for essentials
• Legal support around tenancy breaches and VCAT matters
• Advocacy and connection to legal and housing information services

Their collaboration is more than a job—it’s a lifeline for many. By demystifying housing systems and advocating fiercely for those in need, Cassie and Meghan are reshaping what it means to provide holistic, person-centered care. Their collaboration is more than a job—it’s a lifeline for many. By demystifying housing systems and advocating fiercely for those in need, Cassie and Meghan are reshaping what it means to provide holistic, person-centered care.

With leaders like Cassie MacAlpine and Meghan Burkett at the helm, the future looks a little brighter for those seeking a place to call home.

#WeAreNorthern

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness of the disease, education about its symptoms and prevention, and fund research into causes, treatment, and cure.

Today, we chat with Sarah Young, McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Consultant (Breast) at Northern Hospital Epping.

Q: Firstly, what is your coffee order?

Medium skinny latte — but honestly, some days I’m not picky and I’ll take whatever gets me through the day!

Q: Tell us about your role as a McGrath Cancer Care Nurse supporting people and their families experiencing breast cancer.

As a McGrath Breast Care Nurse, my role is to provide specialised physical, emotional, and psychological support to individuals and their families who are experiencing breast cancer. From the moment of diagnosis, throughout treatment and into survivorship. I am there as a consistent point of contact to help navigate what can be an overwhelming and challenging journey.

At its core, being a McGrath Breast Care Nurse is about being present, offering a listening ear, a comforting presence, and practical guidance during what is often one of the most difficult times in someone’s life. It’s about walking beside patients and their loved ones so they never feel alone.

Q: What is the most rewarding, but also challenging, part of your job?

The most rewarding, yet also the most challenging part of being a McGrath Breast Care Nurse is building a trusted relationships with patients and their families during some of the most vulnerable and emotional times of their lives.

Being able to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life, even in small ways, is incredibly fulfilling. Whether it’s explaining a difficult diagnosis in a way that makes sense, offering a shoulder to cry on, advocating for patients wishes or simply being present when things feel overwhelming, knowing you’ve helped someone feel supported and less alone is a privilege.

At the same time, forming those close connections means that you feel all of their emotions with them. It can be emotionally draining, especially when outcomes aren’t positive. You carry a lot, not just medically, but emotionally and psychologically and balancing that compassion with the need to protect your own wellbeing can be tough.

Q: What does an ideal weekend look like to you?

Most of my weekends are spent playing taxi for the kids, so my ideal weekend would be one without sports or children’s activities, just relaxing and catching up with family and friends.

Q: Do you have a favourite travel destination, and why?

Fiji – where the weather is always warm, the cocktails never stop flowing, and the locals greet you with a smile and “bula” every time.

Q: If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, real or imaginary, who would it be and why?

If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be my brother. Losing him when he was young left so many things unsaid, and there’s a lot I’d love to talk to him about. I’d want to reminisce about old memories, fill in the gaps of the time we missed, and hear his perspective on everything that’s happened since then.

As October marks Mental Health Month, a time to spotlight awareness, advocacy, and progress, Northern Health’s Mental Health Division made a powerful impression at the 2025 Australian College of Mental Health Nurses (ACMHN) Conference, showcasing its clinical excellence and commitment to innovation in mental health care.

Held earlier this year, the ACMHN Conference brought together leading voices in mental health nursing from across the country and internationally. Among the standout contributors was Northern Health’s own Shaveta Sood, NUM of Northern Health’s Women’s Mental Health Unit, who received the coveted Stan Alchin Award for Best Clinical Paper – a prestigious honour that celebrates the best clinical presentation at the conference.

Shaveta’s achievement reflects the Division’s broader mission to elevate mental health care through evidence-based practice and shared learning. Her paper exemplifies how Northern Health is actively shaping a future of mental health care that is inclusive, responsive, and grounded in real-world impact.

Northern Health’s Mental Health Division was well represented throughout the conference. Alongside Shaveta, presenters included Barbara Williams, Sharon Maurer, Gary Ennis, and Trudy Brown. From nurse-led activity groups to integrated models of care, the Division’s contributions underscored its dedication to continuous improvement and meaningful partnerships.

Northern Health also featured in sessions led by university partners, spotlighting a collaborative nursing undergraduate clinical placement pilot project in which the Division plays a key role.

Belinda Scott, Executive Director, Mental Health said, “Northern Health’s Mental Health Division continues to support emerging leaders and clinical experts to showcase the wonderful work being done, proving that when we build a better future together, the results speak for themselves.”

“Think Pink!” is more than a slogan – it’s a rallying call during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, reminding us to honour, support, and uplift those affected by breast cancer. At Northern Health, we shine a light on two extraordinary groups whose generosity and compassion bring comfort and dignity to patients: the Whittlesea City Salvos Craft Group and Zonta District 23. Their handmade gifts – from drain tube bags to post-operative cushions – are small acts of kindness with a big impact.

Every Tuesday morning, a vibrant group of women gathers at the Whittlesea City Church in Mill Park – not just to craft, but to care. The Whittlesea City Salvos Craft Group, with around 40 active members, creates handmade items that bring comfort and dignity to patients across Northern Health services.

Among their many contributions are drain tube bags, used not only by breast cancer patients but also by those receiving care through Hospital in the Home (HITH). These bags are more than functional – they’re thoughtfully designed, often with cheerful patterns, allowing patients to move about with confidence.

“The ladies from the Whittlesea Salvation Army Craft Group are like little Christmas elves,” says the HITH team. “These bags magically appear at front reception on a regular basis and our team, and our patients, are extremely grateful for them.”

Natalie Carroll, Volunteer Coordinator, adds, “They are an amazing group of women. Anything we request is met with enthusiasm and received in quick time. They run solely on donations and the kindness of the community.”

Beyond their craft donations, the group also raises funds through four annual stalls, supporting initiatives both locally and abroad. In 2025 alone, they funded two humidifiers for the Neonatal Ward at Northern Health—valued at $3,000.

Joan Matthews, Craft Group Coordinator, reflects,“The Whittlesea City Salvos Craft Group takes great joy in giving back. Their work not only brings comfort and support to countless people but also fosters strong, lasting partnerships.”

Since 1995, Zonta District 23 has been quietly transforming recovery experiences for breast cancer patients through its Breast Care Cushion project. These crescent-shaped cushions are designed to ease post-operative discomfort, especially from seat belts and everyday movement.

Made by volunteers – both Zonta members and community contributors – the cushions are distributed free of charge to hospitals, where Breast Care Nurses offer them directly to patients.

Cheryl Murray, Breast Care Nurse Consultant, shares, “One of the most common remarks I receive is how comfortable and comforting the Zonta cushions are. Patients are happy to choose a turban or knitted beanie to help with hair loss or the seat belt cushion to protect their scars.”

Mel Gwynne, Nurse Unit Manager for Oncology and Medical Day Unit, echoes the sentiment, “The donations from these groups are very special for our patients. As soon as we receive the items, they are picked up by patients very quickly! A very big thank you for all your hard work – we all appreciate you.”

Together, the Whittlesea City Salvos Craft Group and Zonta District 23 exemplify the power of community-driven care. Their contributions – whether a handmade cushion, a cheerful drain bag, or a warm turban – offer not just physical comfort, but emotional reassurance to patients navigating cancer treatment.

 

Main image shows from left to right: Melanie Bullock, McGrath Cancer Care Nurse (Advanced Breast), Cheryl Murray, Breast Care Nurse Consultant, Renate McDonald (Zonta, Western Melbourne) and Sarah Young, McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Consultant (Breast).