As temperatures soar and the warm wind blows, the threat of bushfires in Victoria intensifies.

According to the Australian and New Zealand National Council for fire and emergency services (AFCA), there is an increased risk of fire to the southwest, west, and northwestern parts of Victoria due to a drier-than-average first half of the year.

This heightened risk is exemplified by the recent bushfire in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, which was started by a lightning strike on 17 December.

Over three weeks, the fire has burned more than 76,000 hectares and is now contained. The blaze began after dry lightning ignited multiple fires in the southern part of the park, highlighting the severe conditions across the state.

Jason Amos, Director of Emergency Management and former CFA volunteer, encourages staff and members of our community to download the VicEmergency app and save the VicEmergency phone number – 1800 226 226 – to their devices.

“Given Northern Health’s catchment area, many staff and consumers may live near bush or long grass areas, and it is important for everyone to have a plan this fire season,” said Mr Amos.

“It’s crucial to understand and monitor the Fire Danger Rating, a scale that forecasts how dangerous a fire would be if one were to start. These ratings are forecast four days in advance, using Bureau of Meteorology data and other environmental factors, such as fuel loads.”

Staff who conduct home visits as part of their duties must complete the CFA’s Bushfire Safety for Workers eLearning module.

For more information on staying safe during bushfire season, please click here.

Summer is in full swing across Victoria, which also means the arrival of snake season.

Victoria’s snake season is typically between September and April, with sightings more common in the warmer summer months and in rural areas. Knowing what to do if you or someone has been bitten, is critical.

Associate Professor Joe Rotella, Emergency Physician and Clinical Toxicologist at Northern Health, knows a thing or two about snakes, and what to do when bitten by one.

“The first thing is not to panic and call for help. At the time the snakebite happens, remain still, lie down if you are standing up, don’t move and don’t run because that can circulate the venom if you been envenomed by the snake – stay calm and call Triple Zero (000),” he said.

“We have tubes that run alongside our veins and arteries, called lymphatics. The venom typically goes into your lymphatics and if you pump your muscles by running or walking, it can circulate the venom through your body and that’s what you want to avoid doing, so staying still will help slow the rate of spread.”

“Snakes will often bite to protect themselves as a warning sign, they don’t necessarily want to use their venom on you.”

As well as staying calm in the event of a snake bite, A/Prof Rotella says applying immediate first aid around the bite is the next step.

“If you have got a bandage available, and you know how to put one on, immobilising the limb and putting on a pressure bandage from above the closest joint down will help,” A/Prof Rotella explains.

“Our paramedics are very well versed in how to apply them, so if you don’t happen to have a bandage on you, just stay still, tie some newspapers to the area, anything to immobilise the limb.”

“It’s important to get yourself to a hospital. Once you get to the hospital, a doctor will examine you, and together with the nurses, will do some blood tests and make a determination if you have any clear signs of venom. Alot of people don’t, so we’ll then observe you for a period of time, take the bandage off, see if anything changes.”

As people spend more time outdoors during summer, A/Prof Rotella explains what to do in the event of a snake sighting, and how to help avoid them slithering into your homes.

“If you do find a snake, do not try and catch it, call a professional. Secondly, please don’t try and kill it – it’s illegal and people who I have seen be envenomed, have tried to harm the snake and have been bitten and envenomed, which makes sense because if the snake thinks it’s either that or death, they are going to pick using their venom.”

“It’s also about being mindful, as the weather warms up, looking for common places where snakes might like to set up homes – woodpiles outside, rubbish, places where snakes can hide under.”

“If you own a dog, it is worth looking into snake avoidance training. There are businesses who will train dogs to avoid snakes because another common situation is a dog goes after a snake, they get bitten and you get bitten trying to rescue your dog. The problem is, for dogs, snake bites can be a far bigger issue because they are relatively smaller, so the amount of venom they get may be fatal, whereas it may not be the case for a human.”

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Glen Ellul, Theatre Technician at Northern Health. Glenn celebrated 40 years of service at Northern Health in 2024.

Q: What is your coffee order?

A: I don’t drink coffee much but I like Earl Grey tea.

Q: How does it feel to reach 40 years of service?

A: It feels good. I have met a lot of people over the years and have made lots of friends.

Q: Tell us a bit about your career from the beginning and how you ended up where you are today?

A: I first started at Preston and Northcote Community Hospital (PANCH) in 1984 working as an Allocated Day Off (ADO) Reliever throughout the hospital replacing orderlies and theatre techs when they had their ADOs. At about 1992, a position became available in the Plastic Surgery Unit, and I began working there until PANCH located to the Northern Hospital in 1998.

Q: What changes in healthcare have you seen over four decades?

A: I have seen lots of technological changes over the years. When I first started, there were no laparoscopic procedures using cameras, everything was open. We lifted patients onto the operating table using a canvas with two metal poles inserted into both sides. A diathermy plate was a reusable square piece of aluminium which was covered in gel and placed under the patient’s buttock.

Q: What brings you the most joy in your work:

A: Working with surgeons, anaesthetists and nurses who are highly skilled, do a lot of great work and are a delight to work with.

Q: What is something most people wouldn’t know about you?

A: Before working at PANCH, I was a vehicle body maker building truck bodies and semi-trailer bodies.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with approximately two in three Australians being diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.

Skin cancer can appear as a new mole or any existing skin lesion that is growing or changing over time. The “ABCDE” signs are a simple way to identify suspicious changes in a lesion that should be brought to the attention of your doctor.

A = asymmetry (lesions becoming asymmetrical)

B = border (lesions with irregular borders)

C = colour (lesions with multiple colours)

D = diameter (lesions growing to have a large diameter above 6mm)

E = evolution (lesions changing over time

We spoke with Associate Professor Aaron Robinson, Head of Dermatology at Northern Health, on the topic of skin cancer.

“Skin cancer risk is highest in people who have had significant sun exposure, such as those who work outside or have outdoor hobbies,” says A/Prof Robinson.

“In particular, individuals who regularly tan or burn in the sun are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. There is no such thing as a healthy tan. A tan is a sign that your skin is distressed from sun damage. While people with lighter skin types are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer, it can occur in people with darker skin, too,” he adds.

To prevent skin cancer, it is recommended to minimise sun exposure and always use sun protection, such as wearing a hat, long sleeves, and sunscreen when outside for extended periods. It is also important to be aware of your own skin and moles, and see your doctor to review any suspicious or changing lesions. Early detection can make skin cancers easier to treat.

There are also various apps available to provide a forecast of the UV index, to help people choose safer times (with lower UV index) for outdoor activities such as exercise.

“Any new growths or changing lesions should be brought to the attention of your GP, particularly for people that have had a history of significant sun exposure or sun damage,” advises A/Prof Robinson.

Your doctor may also recommend having a regular check of your skin, if you have a history of significant sun damage or exposure, previous skin cancer, or a significant family history of skin cancer. Regular checks can help with early detection of any suspicious changes, when they are easiest to manage. In cases of skin cancer diagnosis or particularly high-risk patients, a referral to a Dermatologist for specialist care might also be appropriate.

Northern Health runs a clinic for management of skin cancers. Patients can be referred to the clinic by their General Practitioner (GP), after a biopsy.

2025 is a year brimming with potential and possibilities, where dreams will be realised and new frontiers will be conquered. But as we look to the future, we can’t forget the year that was. The year that tested our resolve and set the stage for the extraordinary journey ahead. Here’s what our executives had to say about the year that shaped us:

“2024 has been a year full of both challenges and incredible achievements by the team we have here at Northern Health. We had eight finalists at the Victorian Health care awards; however, we had many more applications that showcased the exceptional and innovative work undertake by our staff. There is so much to be proud of,” says Debra Bourne, Chief Executive Officer.

Professor Prahlad Ho, Chief Medical Officer says, “2024 has been a year of significant change and challenges, with a new executive leadership team, as well as the budget crisis and ongoing challenges with the Health Service Partnerships. Nonetheless, Northern Health with its classic resilience has successfully delivered numerous successes including but not limited to the growth of Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), Victorian Virtual Specialist Consult (VVSC), Women’s Health Hub with its first IVF baby, multi-million-dollar research grants, and the commencement of both anatomical pathology and PET services.”

Linda Romano, our new Chief Operating Officer, reflecting on the year 2024, is really proud “to highlight the successful short-notice accreditation achieved by all. This accomplishment was a direct result of the unwavering hard work, dedication and commitment demonstrated by every member of our staff.”

“Throughout the year, everyone truly embodied the Northern Health Values – Safe, Kind , and Together – in everything they did. These values were not only reflected in our work but also in the care and compassion shown to those we care for and one another, ” she says.

Belinda Scott, Executive Director, Mental Health says, “2024 has been another busy year marked by significant improvements in our consumer experience of care and access to right care in the right place.  Our dedicated staff have consistently delivered outstanding results through their resilience and commitment to excellence, their great work has been instrumental in helping us navigate demanding times.”

Chief Allied Health Officer, Associate Professor Jason Cirone spoke of the “notable commitment to patient care and working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.”

“Another big year of Northern Health being innovative and embracing change.  I am so proud of not only of Digital Health but the Northern Health team, ” says Anthony Gust, Executive Director Digital Health.

Lisa Cox, Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, says, “2024 has been a big industrial year for nurses and midwives at Northern Health. Northern Health in conjunction with the Victoria Public Sector negotiated a new 4-year enterprise agreement. It was great to see that Northern Health nurses and midwives always put the patient first and patient safety was not compromised. Finally, on November 15 the agreement was endorsed by Fair Work Australia until 2028.”

Adds Lisa, “I am proud to professionally lead a great team of nurses and midwives at Northern Health and have enjoyed welcoming Kilmore District Hospital nurses and midwives into Northern Health.”

Pina di Donato, Executive Director, Public Affairs and Foundation says, “This past year has been one of much change and a few interesting challenges thrown in for good measure. But in true Northern Health style, we embraced these challenges and forged ahead. I believe that is a real strength we have, and it is great to be a part of that.”

Which brings us to 2025 – not just a new year; it’s a year where we get to embrace the extraordinary. As Debra says,  “My wish is for all of us to continue to think differently to deliver the care our community needs.”

Just as important, says Debra, is “to also lean on each other, to build on being supporting and kind to each other, to create a workplace we all wish to be in.”

Prahlad believes, “In 2025, we will continue to grow from strength to strength as we continue our transformation into a principal hospital of significance that is destined to support our growing population, with many new big projects on the horizon. While there will no doubt be challenges, our innovative skills and strong values of being Safe, Kind and Together, and determination to provide the best care for our local community, will be our beacon going into 2025.”

in 2025, Linda is keen to foster “collaboration within all staff, ensuring we work together to deliver exceptional care to the community of the North. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, particularly as we embark on new health service partnership, the development of community hospitals and the continuation of our health service redevelopment plans.”

Belinda’s hope is that “All Northern Health staff can find work / life harmony, where all of the parts of a person’s life are working in harmony and not competing with other parts.  I hope that there is time for rest, relaxation and time spent with those you love whilst undertaking fulfilling work that is professionally challenging. We will continue to build a better future, together.”

In the new year, Jason is “looking forward to building on workforce capability through enhanced education and continuing to facilitate and embed research within the division, helping to drive evidence base and best practice.”

Anthony says, “My vision for 2025 is to continue to change healthcare in looking after patients not only in the hospital but in the community. There of course will be a digital component but more importantly it will be our amazing staff that bring this to fruition. ”

Lisa looks forward to “the opportunities that exist for nurses and midwives in 2025, with the creation of new roles, education, professional and leadership opportunities.”

“My resolution is to offer opportunities, ensure the workplace brings joy and continue to retain and attract wonderful nurses and midwives at Northern Health,” she says.

While the challenges will continue in 2025, Pina expects, “they will bring with them some wonderful opportunities.” She is excited to see how the new year unfolds and is “looking forward to a fresh start under new leadership and working with my teams to think differently and keep evolving.”

Together, we will embrace the challenges and celebrate the victories that lie ahead. Here’s to a new year of growth, harmony, and endless possibilities.

As 2024 draws to a close, Northern Health Foundation reflects on a year of remarkable achievements and dedication to enhancing healthcare in Melbourne’s north. As the philanthropic arm of Northern Health, the Foundation’s mission to support the hospital and its surrounding communities has translated into impactful initiatives, innovative programs, and a renewed commitment to community well-being.

This year, the Foundation’s fundraising initiatives reached new heights, with its gala event raising over $130,000 for Cancer Services at Northern Health, bringing the Foundation one step closer to achieving its vision of building a cancer wellness centre here in the north. This will allow cancer patients access to a wellbeing facility close to home and to their families.

Northern Health Foundation patrons, Bev Carman and Trudi Hay, hosted their annual events to continue supporting Cancer Services at Northern Hospital Epping, raising over $18,000 between the two of them; an exceptional effort. Thank you, Bev and Trudi, for your ongoing support.

The Foundation also launched its new bequest program, which is instrumental in raising funds for the health service, directly enhancing the hospital’s capacity to deliver exceptional care for generations to come. Regular donor campaigns have also fostered a culture of giving, encouraging sustained community support.

Looking back on the year, there have been some fantastic fundraising initiatives that have supported the ongoing needs of the health service, including the renovation and fit out of new staff areas, refurbishment of courtyards, purchasing of equipment, and countless donations of knitted goods from community members to the Women and Children’s Department.

This year, the Workplace Giving Program also supported the funding of projects around Northern Hospital Epping, such as beautiful artwork that is earmarked for Ward 5, home to our new Cancer Wellness Lounge. The program also supported the funding of three new Corplus Modular Patient Monitors for the Emergency Department, which will make a tremendous addition to the ED. Thank you to all Workplace Givers for your kind contributions throughout the year. It truly does make such a great difference.

In the new year, the Foundation will continue to focus on funding life-changing medical equipment and innovative programs to support the growing healthcare needs in the north.

As 2024 comes to a close, the Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to empower healthcare through philanthropy and innovation, paving the way for a healthier future and its vision of creating a healthier northern community.

Thank you to everyone for your ongoing support of the Foundation this year. We look forward with a renewed sense of enthusiasm to 2025 and what we will be able to achieve, together.

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Mary Mackie-Low, Emergency Mental Health Team Leader.

Q: Firstly, what is your coffee order?

A: Large flat white, weak but very hot.

Q: Tell me about your role?

A: There are variety of components to the Emergency Mental Health, Consultation Liaison Psychiatry, Northern Police Ambulance Clinician Emergency Response Team Leader.

Supporting the EMH Program Manager, empowering, supporting, providing governance and supervision for the EMH multidisciplinary team. Liaising and supporting the ED, wider hospital staff, and hospital flow. Facilitating referrals from the community, ED arrivals from the forensic systems and assessments in the ED.

Providing weekly education with Mental Health and Wellbeing Act with regards to restrictive intervention. Rostering, updating policy’s procedures, facilitating and attending various meetings, the list goes on.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your work?

A: I enjoy supporting, empowering EMH multidisciplinary teams.

I love that EMH, CL psychiatry, NPACER Team Leader roles are very challenging. Mental Health is a fast-paced environment, with no two days the same. You need to be super organised and a very good ‘juggler’, at times all your balls, clubs, knives and flaming torches are in the air at the one time!!

It’s extremely rewarding when all the puzzle pieces come together, with support of the EMH staff, Mental Health IPU and the Community Teams across the Mental Health Division, to ensure that patients in our care, receive the right care, at the right time in the right place.

Q: What is your favourite movie, and why?

A: Pretty Woman. I’m a sucker for a love story, with a knight on a white horse that saves the princess from a tower. Who doesn’t like looking at Richard Gere!

Q: What is someplace you have always wanted to travel to?

A: Although I have travelled extensively, this year I have been to Vietnam, with pending holidays booked later this year to both Airlie Beach and India. I still have an extensive bucket list. In 2025, I plan to either visit Japan or Canada and Alaska.

As we look back and reflect on our accomplishments of the past year, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to all of you for your valued contributions. Thank you for everything you do each and every day, to take care of both our patients and one another. It takes each and every one of us for Northern Health to thrive.

This year has been one of change. We farewelled our former Chief Executive, Siva Sivarajah, as he stepped up to a departmental role. We are proud that he was chosen to lead in this capacity and we are grateful for the legacy he has left us after nine years of service. Now, we look to the future and prepare to build even further on our strong foundations, guided by our values of safe, kind and together.

Whilst there have been some challenges this year, our staff have stepped up and found new ways to ensure we remain efficient and sustainable. We have embraced these challenges because that is what we do. We are innovative and forward thinking, working together to find solutions and ways to advance our health service.

Next year will bring about the commencement of our new strategic plan, taking us through to 2029. Much work and consultation has gone into the plan’s development. It is an exciting time to be at Northern Health and it is my privilege to work alongside all of you to lead this health service into the future.

On behalf of our board chair, Jennifer Williams AM, the board and executive, I would like to thank all our staff, contractors, volunteers, consumers and our partners for your hard work, dedication and support. Thank you for making this a great place to work.

To you and your loved ones, I extend my very best wishes of the season. For those who are having a break I hope it is a relaxing one and you have time for what brings you joy. For those who are working through the festive season, we are truly grateful for your work over this time. Please stay safe and I look forward to welcoming you back in 2025.

Kind Regards,

Debra Bourne
CHIEF EXECUTIVE