A celebration of light, healing, and community took centre stage at the second WellAhead Open Day, held at Whittlesea U3A and funded by Whittlesea Council. The event, themed around Deepavali, welcomed 18 participants to a half-day program of free wellness activities designed to support cancer patients, individuals facing mental health challenges, those living with chronic conditions, and their carers.

The day was officially opened by Cr. Martin Taylor, Mayor of Whittlesea, who was joined by health and community leaders including Associate Professor Angela Yang (RMIT), Glen Wall (Chair, U3A Australia), and senior representatives from Northern Health, GenesisCare and DPV Health.

Participants engaged in a series of restorative sessions including sound bath therapy, chair yoga, card making, qigong, and guided meditation, each aimed at promoting relaxation, emotional resilience, and social connection.

The incorporation of Deepawali into the activities created a serene atmosphere, allowing participants to begin the day in a peaceful state. The day allowed participants to connect with others and the activities provided were an excellent way to relax and unwind.

“It was soothing and inspiring—quite transformative,” said one participant after the sound bath session.

“I truly appreciated the time spent and the opportunity to learn practical techniques we can integrate into our daily lives,” added a third.

“Meeting other people was the highlight of my day,” shared another.

The WellAhead program, co-designed with consumers, is part of a broader initiative to bring holistic care into the community. It aligns with the City of Whittlesea’s 2040 Vision, supporting goals of social cohesion, health, and active participation.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the activities as “very relevant” and expressing a strong desire to recommend the program to others. As one participant said, " I feel hope for our consumers that they will be able to access such nurturing and self-compassionate support through the Wellahead offerings."

By partnering with organisations like Whittlesea U3A, the program ensures inclusive outreach to seniors and culturally diverse communities, making wellness accessible beyond hospital walls.

For more information about the WellAhead program, visit https://www.nh.org.au/wellahead

Main image shows participants embracing the calming flow of Qigong at the WellAhead Open Day. Qigong is a gentle practice that nurtures mind-body balance, reduces stress, and supports wellbeing for those navigating cancer recovery and mental health challenges.

Northern Health has launched its first dedicated public Sleep Service, marking a transformative step in addressing a long-standing gap in access to sleep medicine for communities across Melbourne’s northern suburbs.

Located at Northern Hospital Epping, the new Sleep Centre introduces a digitally enabled, person-centred model of care that is reshaping how sleep health is delivered. Until now, all sleep testing at Northern Health was outsourced to external providers, both public and private, leading to long wait times, high out-of-pocket costs, and limited access to clinical support. These barriers were particularly challenging for patients with time-critical conditions.

The Sleep Centre features a six-bed laboratory with capacity for both overnight and daytime testing, including assessments for hypersomnia. It offers a streamlined, multidisciplinary model of care designed to improve access, reduce delays, and deliver timely treatment for conditions such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), insomnia, and parasomnias.

Dr Katharine See, Director of Respiratory and Chief Outcomes Officer, said, “This service is a powerful example of how innovation can drive equity. By prioritising those most at risk and supporting people through digital pathways, we are improving access and delivering the outcomes that matter most to our community.”

What sets our Sleep Centre apart is its innovative, digitally enabled care pathway delivered through the My Health@Northern app. Before their first consultation, patients complete an evidence-based questionnaire via SMS, enabling clinicians to identify those at highest risk and prioritise them for care. The pathway continues to support patients while they are on treatment, providing trusted education resources, tracking symptoms, treatment responses, and quality of life, and enhancing patients’ ability to stay engaged and adhere to their care plan.

This approach not only empowers patients to manage their health from home, but it also improves long-term outcomes while freeing up clinician time for more individualised care.

Nicholas Romeo, Scientific Director, Respiratory and Sleep, acknowledged the collaboration behind the new service, “Driven by Dr Liam Hannan, this has been in planning for many years, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life including teams from Engineering, IT, Health Information, Support Services, CLEO and the Executive Team. Special thanks to Sasha Ghassad who supported building the space which was tailored to our patients’ needs, and the rest of the sleep team who have worked hard for us to accept our first sleep patients.”

The launch aligns with Northern Health’s values of Safe, Kind, Together and its strategic goal of delivering high-quality, sustainable, person-centred care. By integrating diagnostics, consultation, and treatment into a single, streamlined pathway, the Sleep Service not only improves outcomes—it restores dignity and control to people navigating complex health challenges.

As the region continues to grow, Northern Health’s new Sleep Service stands as a model for how public health systems can innovate to meet rising demand without compromising on compassion, quality, or access. It is an exemplar of how Northern Health delivers the health outcomes that matter most to our patients and community.

Pictured in featured image:

Back (L-R): Dr Katharine See, Nicholas Romeo, Sasha Ghassed, Basil Ireland, Rosie Joyce
Front (L-R): Dr Pierce Marsden, Alexis Teo, Sami Abubaker, Ishmeet Singh 

At the recent Victorian Prevocational Medical Training Awards, Northern Doctors Education won the Award for Health Service Innovation and Excellence (Metro) for their Introduction to Clinical Governance Program.

The program encourages junior doctors to become involved in Quality, Safety and other governance processes. The program is overseen by Northern Doctors Education in conjunction with Dr Kristen Pearson, Medical Lead for Clinical Governance, creating both a centralised contact point for junior doctors and a means to promote clinical governance activities. Junior Medical Doctors (JMOs) are matched with mentors who will assist them to participate in National Standards or other Clinical Improvement Committees, complete audits and quality improvement projects, and to be involved in patient safety reviews such as Mortality and Morbidity audits and Clinical Incident reviews. Participants are required to write a report and/or reflection on the activity to demonstrate their learning. Whereas these activities previously occurred on an ad hoc basis, there is now a central record of participants that can provide certification of their involvement and provide advice as to how to incorporate these experiences in building CVs and applying for roles.

Dr Kim Jeffs, Director, Northern Doctors Education, said, “Previously junior doctor involvement in clinical governance relied heavily on serendipity of meeting an appropriate mentor, which limited Northern Doctors Education’s ability to support the JMOs and to maximise their learning and career benefits of their work. Northern Health was also missing out on the incredibly valuable perspectives of junior doctors. The program has the potential to lead to immediate improvements in the quality of care delivered to patients, as was evidenced by one audit of patient handover meetings which has already led to improvements. We hope that the program will inspire future leaders in healthcare and provide basic skills to start them on the path to continuous improvements in patient care.”

She added, “Although the Introduction to Clinical Governance Program only began in March 2025, we have seen considerable interest from junior doctors wishing to develop skills and apply an organisation lens to improving patient safety and quality of care. These are the doctors who will ensure that hospitals are even better places in the future.”

Dr Pearson said, “It is wonderful to formalise this program which gives me the opportunity to work closely with junior doctors on important topics such as documentation, deaths and clinical handover.”

Northern Health also congratulates our other nominees: Dr Jessica Gu (Prevocational Doctor of the Year, Health and Safety Representative of the Year), Susie Sangas (Lifetime Achievement Award), and Dr Carol Chong (Lifetime Achievement Award).

Featured image shows Dr Jeffs accepting the award.

#WeAreNorthern

Today, we chat with Melanie Bullock, McGrath Metastatic Breast Care Nurse at Northern Hospital Epping.

Q: Let’s start with your coffee order.

Not being a coffee drinker, it’s a skinny hot chocolate if I feel like a hot drink.

 Q: Tell us about your role as a McGrath Metastatic Breast Care Nurse Consultant, what does this entail?

As a McGrath Metastatic Breast Care Nurse, I support both women and men who have been diagnosed with advanced (stage IV) breast cancer from diagnosis through the entire care continuum ensuring that the complex needs of patients are being met.

My role provides clinical, psychosocial and emotional support to not only patients but their families and support network. I identify potential and realised barriers to a high level of patient focussed care and facilitate referrals as  recognised.

The McGrath Metastatic Breast Care role ensures that all patients and their  loved ones have access to a familiar and consistent point of contact to aid with the navigation of the public health service during their at times complex pathway of appointment, scans, treatments and wider multidisciplinary teams involved in their care.

 Q: What do you enjoy most about your role?

There are so many aspects of my role that I enjoy. Mostly it would be the relationships that are built with patients, their loved ones and their support networks. To support someone during such a difficult diagnosis through to end of life care and know that you have made a difference to enable a patient focussed approach and flexibility to individualised care needs. Working as part of the wider multidisciplinary teams at Northern Health from Medical Oncology, Day Oncology, SURC, NOAH, Ward staff and the Palliative Care team.

Q: Tell us about your career leading up to where you are today.

I initially starting in my nursing career working across both Paediatrics as well as Oncology. I actually came to nursing with the aim to be a midwife but became passionate about Cancer nursing.

This led me to stay on the Oncology ward whilst becoming accredited to administer chemotherapy and also work in our Day Oncology unit. During this time I completed a Grad Cert in Oncology & Palliative Care.

An opportunity arose to work in a new area of Day Oncology, NOAH (Northern Oncology & Haematology at Home) to administer chemotherapy and other cancer treatments in patients homes.  Which was a fantastic experience (& during COVID a great opportunity to have some time without a mask on whilst in the car!)

I completed Grad Cert in Breast Cancer Nursing and when the McGrath Foundation saw a need for a Metastatic Breast Care Nurse within our service, we were fortunate to receive funding for this new role at Northern Health.

 Q: Do you have a favourite travel destination, or some place you have always wanted to visit, and why?

I really enjoy to travel and like to try somewhere new if possible each time. My dream would be a trip to Antarctica.

 Q: What is something many people mat now know about you?

I was a disability support worker for 15 then moved to Dubai for 4 years when my children were young.  While there decided it was time for a change of career when returning to Australia. I was accepted into Nursing and actually turned 40 in my Grad year. Just slightly order than most other grads!

Northern Imaging Victoria and Northern Health clinicians have achieved another milestone, taking centre stage at the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) 2025, the largest radiology conference ever held in Australia and New Zealand.

Hosted at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 23–25 October, the event welcomed over 2,000 delegates to celebrate 90 years of RANZCR and explore the future of imaging across clinical practice, education, innovation, and technology.

Dr Rose Thomas and Dr Jyothirmayi Velaga, Consultant Radiologists at Northern Imaging Victoria, played pivotal roles in the success of this landmark event, co-chairing the Clinical Radiology stream. Their leadership helped deliver a world-class program featuring 41 international speakers from 20 countries, including Nepal, Morocco, Ukraine, Indonesia, and the UAE — each bringing fresh perspectives on the science, art, and future of imaging.

Reflecting on the experience, Dr Jyothirmayi Velaga, one of the four conveners of the ASM, described it as “a defining moment for radiology in Australia and New Zealand — one that brought together clinicians, educators, and innovators from every corner of the world to imagine the future of our field together.”

The Diagnostic Imaging stream offered a rich and diverse array of topics, including:
• Radiologists branching into business beyond medicine
• Advances in post-mortem imaging
• Imaging’s vital role in recognising intimate partner violence
• The wellbeing of clinicians and trainees
• Hot-topic updates and exam preparation for future specialists

Together with the Interventional/Neurointerventional Radiology and Radiation Oncology streams — led by experts from Monash Health and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre — the program catered to every discipline, reaffirming the RANZCR ASM as the jewel in the crown of the College’s annual calendar.

Conference highlights included:
• The Nisbett Oration by futurist Anders Sorman-Nilsson, exploring the future of medicine and imaging
• A commemorative session celebrating RANZCR’s 90-year legacy
• Hands-on workshops showcasing cutting-edge technologies and case-based learning
• Sessions on AI, sustainability, and the future of radiology education
• A lively finale — the inaugural Closing Quiz, curated by Northern Radiology Registrars Drs David Duong, Nathan Ng, and Sebastian Seah

The record-breaking event was further strengthened by the support of 40 sponsors and 92 exhibitors, contributing to an engaging, globally relevant, and future-focused conference.

Reflecting on the event’s impact, Dr Rose Thomas, Co-Convenor of the Diagnostic Imaging stream, said,
“It was inspiring to see the breadth of ideas and expertise come together under one roof. From technical innovation to trainee wellbeing, the conversations were forward-looking, inclusive, and full of energy. What made it truly special was the spirit of collaboration — radiologists, radiation oncologists, and industry partners all working together to shape what’s next for our profession.”

Northern Health extends warm congratulations to Dr Rose Thomas and Dr Jyothirmayi Velaga, and to all Northern Hospital Radiologists and Clinicians who contributed to this historic event, proudly showcasing the innovation, leadership, and collaborative excellence that continue to define our organisation.

Since 2005, Kilmore District Hospital Op-Shop has stood as a cornerstone of community generosity, a place where second-hand treasures find new homes, friendships are formed, and every sale makes a real difference to local healthcare.

The shop story began over twenty years ago, when Ian and Denise Lee decided to make good use of the leftover donated goods from a Garden Party fundraising drive they helped to organise for Kilmore Hospital. What started as a simple pop-up shop quickly grew into something much bigger. Thanks to the incredible support from the local community, the temporary shop became a permanent fixture, and the Kilmore District Hospital Op-Shop was born.

Over the years, this small but mighty shop has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to fund vital hospital equipment and improvements. From helping purchase essential diagnostic tools to enhancing patient comfort, every dollar spent in the shop has directly contributed to better care for patients at Kilmore District Hospital.

In the last financial year alone, the Op-Shop raised an incredible $44,000, despite operating only 2.5 days a week. Those funds helped purchase an ultrasound machine for Kilmore District Hospital, a life-changing piece of equipment that supports faster, safer diagnosis and treatment for patients.

Behind the counter, the Op-Shop has always been powered by the energy and kindness of its volunteers. Current coordinators Elizabeth Stewart and Annie Brooks, along with their small but mighty team, have been the heart of the operation, sorting donations, managing sales, and welcoming every customer with warmth and good humour. Their tireless work has built more than a successful retail outlet – it has created a true community hub. With classic rock ’n’ roll tunes playing in the background and a welcoming atmosphere, customers often comment on how much they love visiting.  It’s as much about the friendly faces as it is about the bargains!

As the Op-Shop enters a new chapter, with both Elizabeth and Annie stepping down as coordinators, there is an exciting opportunity for new volunteers to take the reins and continue this proud legacy of giving.

If you are interested in volunteering your time to help with the coordination of the Kilmore Op-Shop, please email your interest to volunteer@nh.org.au

The Australian Government is reforming in-home aged care to help older persons live independently at home for longer.

These changes stem from the recommendations made from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and include

• A rights-based approach to providing care to older persons;
• Enhancing quality and safety standards with the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards;
• Greater choice and control for older persons to make decisions about their life and the services they receive; and
• Stronger advocacy and complaints processes with increased protection for whistleblowers.

From November 1 2025, current in-home aged care services will form a single program called Support at Home. It will replace Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs from this date, with Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) being combined no earlier than July 1 2027.

As a result of these changes, Northern Health Home Care Packages will now be known as Northern Health Support at Home. Their experienced Health professional Case Managers will know be known as Clinical Care partners.

The Support at Home program will improve access to services, equipment and home modifications to enable older people to remain healthy, active and connected to their communities.

Support at Home includes:

• Better access to assessment and reassessments as older persons needs change
• More funding levels available for complex needs
• The Restorative Care Pathway, to maintain and improve older persons independence through allied health services and support of up to 12 weeks.
• The Assistive Technology and Home Modifications Scheme for access to equipment and home modifications to meet older persons assessed needs.
• The End-of-Life Pathway, with extra funding to support older persons to stay at home in their last three months of life.

“This is a once in a generation reform, which will improve the quality of support for older people wanting to remain at home,” said Julie Williams, Northern Health Support at Home Program Manager.

The Support at Home team in Hospitals Without Walls Division at Northern Health have been working hard to ensure this transition is seamless for older persons receiving services under this program.

October is World Menopause Month, a time to raise awareness and start conversations about midlife health.

While menopause is a natural transition and experienced differently by every woman, the way women approach their lifestyle during these years can have a profound impact on their wellbeing – both now and in the decades to come.

Dr Nikki Chambers, Women’s Health GP, Menopause Clinic VVSC, said menopause marked the end of menstrual cycles, typically occurring between the ages of 45-55.

“Hormonal changes can often begin years earlier during perimenopause. Fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone levels can bring symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and brain fog,” she said.

“Other less recognised, but common symptoms, include joint paints and muscle aches. Oestrogen is an anti-inflammatory hormone so it’s no wonder that conditions such as frozen shoulder and hip tendinopathy can worse.”

“Perimenopausal symptoms can come and go, which can leave women wondering what they’re experiencing. Add to this an often busy stage of life, with competing demands from family, work, and health, and it’s easy to see why focusing on lifestyle can feel overwhelming.”

“Beyond symptom management, menopause is a critical window for long-term health, particularly for the heart, bones, and brain.”

Dr Nikki encourages women experiencing perimenopause and menopause to engage in healthy lifestyle choices to manage symptoms and reduce future health risks. This includes, movement, exercise, balanced nutrition, prioritising sleep, stress management, limiting alcohol, and quitting smoking. Another option is menopausal hormone therapy.

“Menopausal hormone therapy can be transformative for many women, particularly with healthy lifestyle foundations,” said Dr Nikki.

“Hormones can easy symptoms and support long-term health, but lifestyle will not only increase the gains, but also promote longevity and feeling strong and healthy in the later years.”

Dr Nikki encourages women to view menopause as a “time of renewal and reprioritisation, rather than an end.”

“It is an opportunity to focus on wellbeing, deepen social connections, and set new health goals,” she said.

“Acceding reliable information and evidence-based care, through GPs, specialist menopause clinics, or trusted resources, can make this transition empowering rather than overwhelming.”