Nurses are at the heart of our health system – caring for lives, families, and communities every day.

Today, 12 May, Northern Health proudly celebrates International Nurses Day.

In line with this year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” we’re sharing reflections from Milly Frezghi, Clozapine and Physical Health Nurse Coordinator, Mernda Community Mental Health and Noogal Clinic, Northern Health.

Q: What does International Nurses Day mean to you?
A: International nurses’ day means a lot to me. For centuries, nurses have been the most caring, compassionate and kind human beings on Earth, even through wars, plagues and human devastations. It has been nurses who have been there for all humans, no race, politics nor religion being a barrier to care for vulnerable people, only pure humanity. This is not something you learn but innate within each person who choose to become a nurse. I have worked and still work with some amazing, kind and compassionate nurses. These nurses go above and beyond to care for their consumers. While we have chosen the profession and get paid to do our job, pay is not the main reason nurses chose the field. It is rather the satisfaction that nurses get from witnessing patients improve physically and mentally, by being there for them through the most difficult time of their lives, at times even through their last breath. The experience is priceless and difficult to explain unless you have been there.

Q: What motivated you to choose a career in nursing?
A: When I migrated to Australia on my own at the age of 21, I had to choose an education pathway that will allow me and my family to migrate permanently. My father had instilled in me the importance of education, especially as a female. I initially enrolled in Bachelor of Nursing and moved into the new Psychiatric Nursing degree at Deakin University. I was very intrigued by the course and naturally gravitated towards psychiatric nursing, especially being raised during war in my hometown, and witnessing trauma and mental illness.

Q: Can you walk us through your professional journey in nursing?
A: I started my Bachelor of Psychiatric nursing at Deakin University in 1991 and graduated in 1993, following which I was accepted into the Gradate program at Northeastern Metropolitan Psychiatric services. I completed rotations in various areas, such as rehab, geriatrics, admission and acute as well as speciality units. I gravitated towards inpatient psychiatry, working with the most acutely unwell patients. I worked in acute setting for many years, including while raising two children and doing 14 years of night shift to balance my career and duties as a mother.

I have worked with many experienced and competent senior nurses throughout my career. I have worked across various roles in Northern Health since its opening in 1998. In 2012, my then Nurse Unit Manager Gary Ennis, who is our current Director of Nursing (Mental Health), encouraged me to apply for the Clinical Nurse Unit Manager (CNUM) role as he believed in my capability to be a future leader of the ward. After five years as a CNUM, I felt I needed a change and moved to Emergency Mental Health and worked at the emergency department (ED), including PACER, until 2020. When COVID happened, working in ED became exceptionally challenging physically and emotionally. Being inspired by my colleagues in the community mental health setting, I decided to explore a career there. I joined Noogal clinic as the Senior Nurse before moving into the Clozapine and Physical Health Nurse Coordinator role. I love my job as I feel I have been part of many consumers’ lives, from their acute to community journey. It cannot get better than this!

Q: Is there a patient story or moment of care that has left a lasting impact on your heart?
A: When I was in my graduate nursing program, I was working in Mother/Baby and Mood Disorder Unit (speciality ward). My role was to look after new mothers experiencing post-natal depression. I remember a very young mother with twin boys, who was struggling with grief of losing her own mother and had become severely depressed. I was not only looking after her but her babies as well, as she was not able to bond with them. After a few weeks of supporting her through electro-convulsive therapy to treat her depression, she started to hold and feed her babies. I still remember the day she walked out of the ward with a smile on her face, in the company of her family. We all hugged and cried in happiness. I will never forget this experience as it made me realise the level of compassion and care we as nurses have for our vulnerable patients with mental illness.

Q: What message would you like to share with your fellow nursing colleagues?
A: Nursing is not an easy profession; it is challenging and exhausting but also very rewarding. So, no matter how difficult it gets, please remain kind at all times.

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Dr Prakash Kamath, Consultant Psychiatrist.

Q: Let’s start with your coffee order
A: I keep it simple but specific – an extra-hot latte, ideally brewed with a single-origin bean like a Costa Rican or Ethiopian blend.

Q: Tell us about your journey at Northern Health – where you started and how you ended up in your role today
A: My time here has been a rewarding evolution within the clinical space. I joined Northern Health as a clinical professional with the support of Dr. Vinay Lakra, our Divisional Director. Since then, I have enjoyed focusing my contributions on registrar education and digital health.

During my tenure, I also completed a Global Executive MBA and an Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP). Today, I leverage this combination of clinical expertise and leadership training to contribute to our network’s growth and enhance our clinical documentation standards.

Q: What do you enjoy the most about working at Northern Health?
A: The genuine sense of community and our shared commitment to the diverse population we serve in Melbourne’s north. There is a collaborative spirit here that is hard to find elsewhere; whether we are navigating a complex clinical case or a new administrative initiative, everyone works together to find the best possible solution for our patients.

Q: What advice would you give others considering your specialty?
A: Prioritise adaptability. Healthcare is changing rapidly, especially with the integration of new technologies and digital health records. Beyond sharpening your clinical skills, try to understand the broader “system”—how different departments interact and how data flows between them. Also, never underestimate the power of clear, concise communication; it is the most essential tool in any clinician’s kit.

Q: How do you like to relax after work?
A: I find balance through a mix of technical projects and family time. I enjoy staying active with information technology and exploring new ways to use technology for productivity. When I’m not at a screen, I’m usually reading, spending time with family and friends, or helping my daughter with her studies.

Q: Favourite travel destination, and why?
A: Anywhere in nature. There is nothing better than finding a quiet spot outdoors to unplug, recharge, and gain a bit of perspective away from the hustle of daily life.

Last night, under a quiet evening sky at Kilmore District Hospital’s Rose Garden, the glow of candlelight brought warmth and reflection as the local community gathered to remember and honour the lives tragically lost to family violence.

The hospital’s historic bluestone building was illuminated in vibrant purple light – a symbol of strength, solidarity and commitment to ending the silence that so often surrounds this national emergency.

Held on National Family Violence Remembrance Day (Wednesday, 6 May) during Domestic Violence Prevention Month, the Vigil offered space for grief, hope and renewed determination. It was part of a statewide series of memorials coordinated by Safe Steps Family Violence Crisis Service.

Tania Nicholson, Director of Nursing and Site Operations states, “I am proud that Kilmore District Hospital (KDH) continues to honour Family Violence Remembrance Day through our annual Candlelight Vigil. This event holds deep significance for both our staff and the broader Kilmore community. It provides a dedicated space for reflection, remembrance, and solidarity with those impacted by family violence. Each year, the Vigil reinforces our commitment to raising awareness supporting those affected and acknowledging the impact of family violence within our community. Coming together in this way is both powerful and purposeful, ensuring that lives lost are remembered, stories are acknowledged and hope for change remains visible.”

For six years, KDH has stood with others across the state in this powerful act of remembrance.

Tanya Ellis, Strengthening Hospital Response to Family Violence Program Manager, says, “Family violence is a serious health issue that has a profound impact on the physical and psychological well-being of victim-survivors. The hospital system is a critical entry point for many victim-survivors, presenting a vital opportunity for identification, response and referral.”

“At Northern Health, we receive family violence disclosures from our patients each and every day. In order to provide the best possible patient care, we have implemented a whole-of-hospital response where all of our staff members and volunteers have family violence practice responsibilities. We remain committed to strengthening our response by continuing to build on our knowledge and skills, to ensure we provide the highest standard of trauma-informed care”.

Each year, the Vigil grows in resonance, not just as a memorial, but as a call to action. Stories shared on the night serve as reminders of the people behind the statistics – individuals whose lives were tragically cut short or forever changed.

Associate Nurse Unit Manager Regula McKinlay, said, “KDH hosts the Vigil each year as an evening of remembrance to honour the memories and help bring light to this national crisis by lighting a candle and illuminating the heritage hospital building in purple. The space created at the Vigil invites staff and community members to grieve and connect in sharing their own story of how they have been touched by the lives lost. It is a powerful and healing time experienced collectively.”

Tanya reminds staff to use the Family Violence Screening & Identification Tool when working with a patient at risk of family violence. The Tool is trauma-informed and best practice in identifying and responding to family violence.

If you, or someone you know is experiencing family violence, there is support and safety available:

Support Services:

• Safe Steps (24/7): 1800 151 188
• The Orange Door: 1800 319 355
• 1800 RESPECT (24/7): 1800 737 732
• Rainbow Door: 1800 729 367
• inTouch: 1800 755 988
• Disclose to your health professional to receive support and safety.

Together, as health professionals and as a community, we can help prevent further loss, break cycles of violence and ensure every person feels seen, supported and safe.

Pictured in featured image: Northern Health staff members Tanya Ellis, Regi McKinlay (ANUM) and Mel Riseley (Maternity Unit Manager) with members of the community.

Northern Health was proud to host a distinguished international delegation from the Taiwan Regional Hospital Association (TRHA) on Tuesday, 28 April, in a visit that highlighted the importance of global collaboration in shaping the future of healthcare.

The delegation was warmly welcomed by Executive Director of Public Affairs & Foundation, Pina Di Donato and A/Prof Jason Cirone, Chief Allied Health Officer, reflecting Northern Health’s commitment to fostering strong international partnerships and knowledge exchange.

With a strong interest in virtual models of care, the delegation began their visit with Northern Health’s Virtual Emergency Department (VVED). Here, they engaged with the team to explore how digital health solutions are being used to improve access, streamline patient pathways, and deliver timely, patient-centred emergency care. Discussions focused on the practical implementation of virtual care, the challenges and opportunities of scaling such models, and the impact on both patients and clinicians.

Following this, the group visited the surgical department, where they were introduced to Northern Health’s advanced surgical capabilities. The delegation worked closely with surgical teams to explore how robotic assisted technology is enhancing precision and patient outcomes, complemented by a tour of the hybrid theatre and vascular surgery control room.

As part of the exchange, the delegation also shared valuable insights into Taiwan’s healthcare system. In Taiwan, regional hospitals are healthcare institutions with more than 250 acute beds that have successfully passed rigorous government accreditation. There are currently 82 regional hospitals across the country, collectively delivering around 40 per cent of the nation’s healthcare services. These hospitals play a critical role as the backbone of the system, bridging the gap between primary care and academic medical centres.

“The TRHA is long committed to helping our member hospitals enhance medical quality, strengthen system resilience, and promote sustainable development. We firmly believe that international exchange is not merely a learning process, but a vital pathway for us to collectively address global challenges and seek innovative solutions.,” said the President of the TRHA, Mr Chiang-Liang Wu.

“Therefore, today’s visit is more than just a tour; it is a catalyst for deepening our interaction, sharing experiences, and opening doors for future cooperation. We look forward to establishing a long-term, substantive partnership with Northern Health in areas such as digital health innovation, talent cultivation, and healthcare system transformation,” he added.

Pina Di Donato, Executive Director, Public Affairs and Foundation, shared, “We were honoured to have hosted the TRHA delegation, and we look forward to building on this relationship into the future.”

Pictured in featured image: The Taiwanese delegation with Pina Di Donato, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Foundation.

Midwives are the heroes of millions of stories.

International Day of the Midwife is celebrated annually on 5 May. Established in 1992 by the International Confederation of Midwives, the day celebrates and raises awareness about the midwifery profession. To mark the occasion, we’re sharing the reflections of Jamie Jordan, Registered Midwife at Kilmore District Hospital.

Q: What does International Day of the Midwife mean to you?
A: International Midwives Day is a time to come together and celebrate a workforce that promotes the empowerment of women, and provides care and support to families and babies.

Q: Why did you want to become a midwife?
A: The day I had my first baby — a young, vulnerable mum, feeling lost in a whole new world — was the day I felt the need to study my way through to midwifery, so I could support, guide and care for women and mothers, especially those feeling as lost and vulnerable as I once was.

Q: Tell us about your journey to become a midwife.
A: Many years of study while raising a young family. There were lots of tears and sleepless nights, but it was absolutely worth it.

Q: What inspires you?
A: The beautiful families welcoming new life into the world, and the incredible friendships I’ve formed with my colleagues along the way.

Q: Tell us about a particular patient or care interaction that has really stayed with you.
A: Delivering the baby of a beautiful young mum who I used to care for when she was a baby herself. She is a long-term family friend, and I felt so grateful to be part of her journey.

Q: Do you have a message for your midwifery colleagues?
A: You are the reason I show up some days. Our team is amazing. You are all amazing, strong, beautiful women who strive for the best outcomes. Our dedication to our women and families is amazing. Happy International Midwives Day.

At Northern Health, these moments are not just commemorations, but a reflection of the extraordinary care our nurses and midwives deliver every day across our organisation, shaping patient experiences and strengthening outcomes for our community.

As we celebrate Patient Experience Week at Northern Health, we had the pleasure of speaking with David Hattam, Consumer Representative for Standard 6. Drawing on his own lived experiences as a patient, David offers a powerful and thoughtful perspective on what truly matters in healthcare. His journey, from receiving care during some of life’s most significant and challenging moments to now helping shape and improve services for others, highlights the vital role consumer voices play in creating more compassionate, responsive, and patient-centred care.

Q: Let’s start with your coffee order.

A: I love a good oat latte.

Q: Can you tell us about your first experience with Northern Health? What stands out to you most from that time?

A: Northern Health has come to my aid several times over the years. The first was when my daughter was born there, the nurses were incredible, not only in supporting her safe arrival but also in guiding me through those early days as a first-time parent. Another significant experience was after an incident, when a secondary issue was identified in me. The specialists supported me through what was one of the scariest times in my life, and that care has stayed with me.

Q: As someone with lived experience as a patient, how did that journey lead you to become a Consumer Representative on St 6?

A: During one of my hospital stays, I met someone who had brought in a therapy dog for patient support. While chatting, we spoke about Northern Health and the opportunity to get involved as a Consumer Advisor. That conversation sparked my interest – I made some enquiries, went through the process, and that’s how I came to be in this role today.

Q: What motivated you to get involved in improving patient care and experiences for others?

A: I’ve always had a strong passion for community and helping others, something that’s been part of who I am from a young age.

Q: From your perspective, why is it so important to have consumer voices involved in healthcare decision-making?

A: Consumer voices are essential in shaping the future of healthcare. They provide an “outside looking in” perspective that can highlight things that might be overlooked internally. Real experiences and honest feedback help ensure services truly meet the needs of patients and families.

Q: How has your own experience as a patient shaped the way you approach your role today?

A: Absolutely! It has shaped not only how I approach this role but also how I view life more broadly. It’s reminded me to make the most of every moment and not take things for granted.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of being a Consumer Representative so far?

A: Gaining insight into the inner workings of Northern Health has been incredibly rewarding. Being able to explore the data, understand the challenges, and contribute to improvements that enhance the consumer experience is something I value highly.

Q: What do you do outside of this role, professionally or personally?

A: Professionally, I work as a manager in the manufacturing sector. Outside of work, I’m a leader in Scouts, which is now a strongly youth-led organisation. I also love the outdoors – camping and getting away from the pace of city life whenever I can.

Q: What message would you like to share with patients, families, or staff during Patient Experience Week?

A: Make the most of life and appreciate the small things. We live in a busy world, and it’s easy to forget to pause, breathe, and truly enjoy the moment.

Q: A little something fun – do you have a favourite superhero, and why do they resonate with you?

A: Superman, because I feel incredibly fortunate for the support and care I’ve received. It reminds me that even in tough times, there are people who step in to help when you need it most.

Q: And finally, what’s your favourite place to travel, or a destination you’d love to visit, and why?

A: Southeast Asia is my favourite region to travel to. There’s such a richness in culture, food, and experiences. I’ve already had some amazing trips there and look forward to exploring even more.

Northern Health’s Accreditation Survey has been officially announced for 4 – 8 May 2026.

The National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards set the standard of care in our hospitals and services. The NSQHS Standards provide a nationally consistent statement of the level of care consumers can expect from Health Service organisations.

The primary aim of the standards is to address high risk areas, with the aim to protect the public from harm and to improve the quality of the health care that we provide.

Approximately every three years, health services across the country are required to complete an accreditation survey by an external body authorised to review the care that they are providing in line with the National Standards.

Northern Health was successfully accredited under this scheme in May 2024. An accreditation assessment includes all actions in the National Standards across all Northern Health sites and services. This will include Northern Hospital Epping, Broadmeadows Hospital, Kilmore District Hospital, Bundoora Centre, Craigieburn Community Hospital, Mernda Community Hospital and all of our community Mental Health facilities.

If you are a patient, or visiting Northern Health during this time, Assessors may ask you questions about your treatment and care.

They will be wearing identification and ask permission to speak to you. It is okay if you choose not to be involved.