January 2025

#WeAreNorthern In light of World Cancer Day (4 February) next week, we spoke to Sharni Norouzi, Research Coordinator- Scientist, part of our Cancer Clinical Trials team. Q: First, can I have your coffee order please Sharni? A: I’m not a real coffee drinker, but I usually go for a small flat white, extra hot please. Q: Tell us of your role in the Cancer Clinical Trials team?  A: I have a dual role, contributing both to an important project supporting Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) patients and to the overall clinical coordination of cancer trials. Q: What satisfaction does your…

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Summer brings sunshine, longer days, and the perfect chance to enjoy your favourite sports like tennis, golf, or basketball. But before diving in, it is important to remember that enthusiasm without preparation can lead to painful setbacks. From fractures to strains, common sports injuries can turn your summer fun into a season of recovery. Here are some of the most common sports related injuries to watch out for: Fractures: A partial or complete break in any bone, which can result from repeated stress (like overuse) or a single trauma such as a fall. Dislocations: A painful separation of two bones…

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Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in many East and Southeast Asian communities. Embedded in centuries-old traditions, the holiday marks the beginning of a new year based on the lunar calendar, which follows the cycles of the moon rather than the solar calendar used in most Western countries. Lunar New Year typically falls between late January and mid-February, with celebrations lasting up to 15 days. The holiday is a time for renewal, reflection, and reconnection – a fresh start to honour ancestors, cherish loved ones, and…

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Northern Health is committed to strengthening and supporting the research our staff undertake to improve healthcare. The Northern Health Research Grants Program provides funding to projects and work that will benefit Northern Health’s community, lead to applications for external grants or funding, develop and strengthen the research culture across the health service, support pilot projects and increase research productivity at Northern Health. Applications for the 2025 program are now open, with three exciting funding opportunities available: Northern Health Foundation Grant ($50,000): Our flagship grant, awarded to one exceptional researcher, is designed to build capacity and drive success in securing Category…

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#WeAreNorthern Meet Natalie Tirant, Executive Assistant and Digital Content Creator for the Clinical Leadership, Effectiveness, and Outcomes (CLEO) team. Q. Nat, could I start with your coffee order please? I’m one of those rare individuals who doesn’t drink coffee! I’ve never liked the smell or taste—I’m the caffeine rebel in a world of coffee aficionados. Q. Can you tell us a bit about your career? I graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Art and started out working in a variety of gallery administration roles, but eventually found my way into medical reception work. I’ve been in medical administration for over…

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With the demand for healthcare continuing to rise in Melbourne’s fast-growing northern growth corridor, the Northern Hospital is undergoing a major redevelopment. The Victorian Government has committed $813 million to deliver the Northern Hospital Redevelopment Project as part of the Victorian Emergency Department Expansion Program. The project, which aims to deliver expanded and improved facilities and enhanced service delivery to meet the needs of the growing local community, will be delivered in two stages over the next six years to ensure minimal disruption to patient care. The first stage, which commenced last week with the closure of the Southern Afternoon…

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What a joy it is to see the smiling faces of our incredible volunteers back at Northern Health after their Christmas and New Year break. Our volunteers have returned with renewed energy and enthusiasm, ready to do what they love most – sharing their time and talents to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. The year has already kicked off with a whirlwind of activity for our volunteers, and as always, they’ve stepped up with unwavering kindness and generosity. In a world often filled with negative headlines, their dedication reminds us of the immense compassion and goodwill…

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Summer brings sunshine, outdoor fun, and unfortunately, the unwelcome buzz of mosquitoes. A recent outbreak of Japanese encephalitis in mosquitoes has raised alarms across northern Victoria, with health authorities urging vigilance among residents and visitors. The discovery of two infected mosquitoes in Moira Shire, near Cobram and Yarrawonga, highlights the presence of this rare but potentially serious virus in inland riverine regions, particularly near the Murray River. What is Japanese encephalitis? Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause inflammation of the brain. Symptoms range from fever and headaches to seizures, paralysis, and, in severe cases, coma. The virus…

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