Northern Health’s Residential In-Reach (RIR) service hosted a highly successful Education Day on 30 April, bringing together 81 nursing staff from Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) across the Northern catchment.

As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing aged care, the RIR team, a seven-day service supporting 37 RACFs, provides rapid, in-home medical responses aimed at reducing avoidable emergency department presentations. In 2023, the service expanded with a virtual model (VRIR), extending support to aged care facilities across the Hume region and other parts of regional Victoria.

The Education Day featured a series of engaging presentations and practical workshops led by RIR Geriatricians, a Nurse Practitioner, and Clinical Nurse Consultants. Topics covered included:

• Diabetes and heart failure management

• Managing behavioural and psychosocial symptoms of dementia

• End-of-life symptom management

• Structured clinical communication using the A to E Assessment Framework

The sessions combined lectures with hands-on clinical skills training, equipping attendees with practical tools to apply in their daily practice.

Feedback from 65 participants highlighted the event’s success, with attendees reporting increased confidence in clinical assessment, communication, and intervention strategies. Many expressed a strong desire for similar education opportunities in the future.

Janet Cain, RIR Clinical Nurse Consultant, reflected on the day, stating, “The Education Day provided a fantastic opportunity to build our confidence in delivering education and sharing knowledge with our aged care colleagues.”

Katherine Jones, RIR Nurse Practitioner Candidate, added, “The skills day allowed us to strengthen our relationships with facility nursing staff across the Northern catchment. It really felt like one big team working together—even though we represent different organisations.”

Participants also shared positive feedback:

• “I’ve gained confidence and knowledge in assessing patients.”

• “All the topics were valuable, especially in palliative care and wound management.”

• “It’s empowering to truly know your residents and effectively communicate their care needs and goals.”

• “I’ll remember to always do proper handovers using ISBAR.”

The event fostered collaboration between RACF nurses and the RIR team, while providing insight into existing knowledge gaps. This deeper understanding will help ensure that care is delivered safely, effectively, and at the right time and place—reinforcing Northern Health’s dedication to excellence in aged care.

Pictured in featured image: Residential Aged Care Nursing staff in the NCHER Lecture Theatre 

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Don Goonesekera, Manager, Cleaning and Waste Management, ISS Facility Services at Northern Hospital Epping.

Q. Don, could I start with your coffee order, please?
My mornings typically begin with a medium almond latte, it’s my go-to before the day gets going.

Q. Tell us about your journey at Northern Health?
I first began working at Northern Health in 2016 when ISS was awarded the contract. Shortly after, I relocated to Hamilton Island to pursue my career as a chef. In 2020, I returned to Northern Health and took on a variety of roles across several sites, including Food Services Assistant, Concierge, and Cleaner.

My dedication and versatility led to an opportunity to become a Cleaning Supervisor, followed by a promotion to Assistant Manager of Cleaning and Waste Management. I am currently serving as the Manager of Cleaning and Waste Management, where I continue to contribute to the delivery of high standards across our facilities.

Q. What do you like most about your role?
ISS Facility Services is involved in many different areas across Northern Hospital, playing a vital supporting role. There’s always something new and exciting happening, whether it’s furniture moves, sustainability initiatives, or advancements in innovation and technology.

But for me, the most meaningful aspect is the patient journey. Contributing to that journey as part of a dedicated team is something I deeply value. When my mother was undergoing cancer treatment at Northern, I saw firsthand how much of a difference it made to have the right support staff around her. That experience continues to inspire my commitment to making a positive impact every day.

Q. What are some things people don’t know about you?
Outside of work, I play cricket for GCC on the weekends, which helps me stay active and connected with the community. Earlier in my career, I worked in hospitality, where I had the privilege of working alongside some truly great chefs, an experience that taught me a lot about teamwork, discipline, and attention to detail.

Q. Do you have a bucket list item? Something you would love to do.
Since I was a kid, I’ve always loved wildlife, and going to Africa to see the Big Five is definitely a bucket list item for me. Hopefully, I’ll be able to cross it off by next year!

Q. If you were a superhero, who would you be and why?
Tony Stark (Iron Man) has always inspired me, not just because he was a billionaire, inventor, and philanthropist, but because he chose to become a superhero. He didn’t have to, he made a conscious choice to use his talents for the greater good. I believe that, like him, we all have the power to define who we are through the choices we make in life. It’s when we step out of our comfort zones that we truly grow and make a meaningful impact.

Northern Health hosted a dynamic and multidisciplinary Neurovascular Workshop last month, bringing together leading experts in neurology and vascular surgery from across the state and beyond. The collaborative event focused on enhancing neurovascular care, with particular emphasis on improving outcomes for patients affected by stroke.

The workshop, co-convened by Associate Professor Douglas Crompton, Head of Neurology, and Mr Shrikkanth (Raj) Rangarajan, Vascular Surgeon at Northern Health, offered a rare and impactful platform for open dialogue, clinical exchange and cross-specialty collaboration.

Held at Northern Hospital Epping, the event welcomed visiting clinicians including Dr Bernard Bourke, Vascular Surgeon from Gosford Hospital in New South Wales, Mr Damien Holdaway, Vascular Surgeon from Barwon Health, and Mr Jason Chuen, Director of Vascular Surgery at Austin Health.

The day featured robust discussions, shared insights, and live case presentations, highlighting real-world scenarios in the management of complex neurovascular conditions, particularly those involving carotid artery disease and acute stroke.

“This has been a great opportunity for stroke neurologists and vascular surgery specialists to study new techniques and look towards a future of enhanced collaboration, ultimately improving outcomes for people with strokes due to carotid disease,” said Associate Professor Douglas Crompton, Head of Neurology, Northern Health.

Mr Srikanth Rangarajan underscored the importance of multidisciplinary forums in tackling health challenges specific to the northern suburbs of Melbourne.

“Bringing together like-minded clinicians from different backgrounds allows us to provide insights we may not see within our own specialties. Stroke is highly prevalent in our catchment, and through shared understanding and new techniques, we can dramatically impact patient outcomes. It’s truly inspiring to see this kind of collaboration happen here at Northern Health,” he said.

“A big thank you to the organisers for this exciting initiative. The workshop included informative discussions and live cases that were valuable for both vascular surgeons and neurologists. I hope to see more of this in the future,” said Iman Byatt, Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon, Northern Health.

Dr Bernard Bourke, visiting from Gosford Hospital, reflected on the strength of the workshop’s structure and its collaborative nature.

“Raj has done an excellent job in presenting a multidisciplinary workshop that emphasised teamwork. It’s been incredibly valuable for everyone involved and should be expanded in the future,” he said.

Other visiting specialists echoed the importance of cross-disciplinary understanding.

“As neurologists and vascular surgeons, we can sometimes find ourselves working in silos, which makes opportunities like this workshop very valuable. Gaining insight into each other’s thought processes, priorities, and clinical structures helps us align more effectively. It was eye-opening to explore alternative stroke pathways and question existing approaches,” said Mr Damien Holdaway, Vascular Surgeon, Barwon Health.

“Raj brought us together today to have a shared conversation around the timing of carotid surgery in patients with symptomatic disease. These discussions are essential for removing delays and improving care pathways to prevent further strokes,” added Mr Jason Chuen, Director of Vascular Surgery, Austin Health.

Northern Health remains committed to fostering such collaborative events that bring together passionate clinicians united by a shared goal – to deliver safer, kinder and more integrated care to the communities we serve.

As we celebrate Orthoptics Awareness Week and this year’s theme, “I am an Orthoptist,” we acknowledge the essential contributions orthoptists make to eye health every day. With expert knowledge, innovation, and compassion, they leave a lasting impact on every patient they care for.

Orthoptists are highly trained allied health professionals who play a vital role in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of eye and vision disorders. At Broadmeadows Hospital, they are an integral part of the ophthalmology team, working closely with ophthalmologists to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care.

Orthoptists specialise in evaluating the visual system, monitoring eye development, and managing eye movement disorders. They care for a wide range of conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, and neurological visual disorders. Their responsibilities include performing diagnostic tests, contributing to personalised treatment plans, and supporting areas such as low vision care, vision rehabilitation, and paediatric eye health.

They support both surgical and non-surgical treatment pathways – preparing patients for procedures, conducting pre- and post-operative assessments, and providing ongoing education and support throughout the patient journey.

The Orthoptic team at Broadmeadows Hospital consists of four permanent staff, Leyla Avci, Zeina Dayoub, Anastasia Giantsis, and Hiba Casado, and three experienced locum orthoptists, Ozlem Akdemir, Mary Ochana, and Yasmine Hazim. Each team member brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to exceptional patient care.

The team is also deeply involved in education and training, offering clinical placements and hands-on learning opportunities. They regularly support orthoptic, medical, and optometry students in developing essential skills.

Leyla Avci says, “I am an orthoptist, and I find great personal fulfillment in helping patients enhance their vision and overall quality of life.”

“One of the most rewarding aspects of being an orthoptist is forming lasting connections with patients throughout their eye care journey,” adds Anastasia Giantsis.

Hiba Casado shares, “I enjoy working in the eye clinic – it’s a supportive environment where you’re constantly learning and growing.”

The value of orthoptists is also recognised by their medical colleagues. Dr Jack Kane, one of the ophthalmologists at Broadmeadows Hospital, says, “Our orthoptists are the backbone of the ophthalmology service.”

United in their commitment to evidence-based and compassionate care, the orthoptic team at Broadmeadows Hospital plays a vital role in improving vision and enhancing patients’ quality of life.

From all of us at Northern Health, happy Orthoptics Awareness Week and thank you for all that you do!

Pictured in featured image (L-R): Leyla Avci (sitting), Zeina Dayoub (standing), Anastasia Giantsis (standing) and Hiba Casado (sitting).

An exciting new initiative has recently launched in collaboration with our onsite cafes at Northern Hospital Epping.

In partnership with Henry’s Cafe and Greenbag Cafe, a program designed to reduce environmental waste by using a re-usable cup when ordering coffee, is causing quite a stir among Northern Health staff.

The sweetener comes in the form of a discount – Henry’s Cafe is offering a 20-cent discount for all people using reusable cups. To top it all off, both Henry’s Cafe and Greenbag Cafe will donate an additional 20 cents per coffee to Northern Health Foundation, each time a reusable coffee cup is used. Staff will continue to receive their regular discount and Happy Hour pricing at Greenbag Cafe.

Not only will staff be helping the environment, but they will also be giving back to the health service through these donations. Everyone benefits, and that coffee is even more rewarding.

That warm cup of coffee being poured into your favourite reusable cup can change the world. While our staff benefit from the discount, the environment benefits from a reduction in landfill, and most importantly, our patients and their families will benefit from the funding that comes from Northern Health Foundation.

The use of re-usable coffee cups significantly reduces the demand for single-use cups, thus preventing a vast amount of waste going into landfill. This is another example of how Northern Health is making a conscious effort to reduce its carbon footprint.

By actively seeking new ways to improve sustainability, Northern Health remains on track to achieve its target of net zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Rick Garotti, Deputy CFO and Director of Support Services, is excited about the impact this initiative will have.

“This is another great example of how Northern Health makes a conscious effort to reduce its carbon footprint,” he said.

“We are grateful to the management and staff of Henry’s Cafe and Greenbag Cafe for supporting our staff and patients in such a meaningful way.”

Staff are encouraged to use reusable cups where they can to help with environmental sustainability and contribute to the Foundation. Each time you take your re-usable cup to purchase your coffee, you are contributing to a greater Northern Health.

On Saturday, 17 May 2025, the Northern Health Foundation transformed the Grand Hyatt Melbourne’s Savoy Ballroom into a beacon of hope. Over 430 guests gathered for the annual Gala Ball—not just to dine, dance, and bid on dazzling prizes, but to stand united in support of cancer services in Melbourne’s northern suburbs.

Amid the elegance and celebration, the video below was played. It told the story of Montse. A story of defiance in the face of stage 4 cancer. Yet, finally, a story of hope. It ended with yet another patient’s plea: “Couldn’t you have held at least one of my hands?”

 

A question at the heart of the WellAhead program. A program created not just to treat, but to truly care. Because healing isn’t just about surviving. It’s about thriving. It’s about holding hands—literally and figuratively—through every step of the journey.

Through Qigong and yoga, voices lifted in the Northern Health Community Choir, and tailored programs for seniors, WellAhead offers wholeness.

It’s not about the disease. It’s about the person. It’s about living fully, joyfully, and with purpose.

Backed by the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia’s vision for holistic care, WellAhead empowers individuals to reclaim their lives—not defined by cancer, but by courage, connection, and possibility.

And if this program helps just one person feel seen, supported, and strong again—it matters.

 

#WeAreNorthern

Meet Alexis ‘Alex’ Wellavize, Data and Integration Manager, always smiling and (most times) seriously bearded. Read Alex’s story, from stubble to sage, his beard not just grown, but earned.

Firstly, what’s your coffee order, please Alex?

Medium cappuccino, sometimes with one sugar.

Tell us of your journey at Northern Health?

I started at Northern Health in April 2018 as a Business Intelligence Developer in the Decision Support Unit (DSU) developing Power BI reports, self-service web portals, database development, process automation and system integration. In March 2024 I applied and was successful for the position of Data and Integration Manager in DSU and now manage the day-to-day operation of our data warehouse at Northern Health.

What is one of the more exciting projects you have worked on, Alex?

Probably the Quality Scorecard Dashboard – as this was my first project at Northern Health. Being new to healthcare, it was a steep learning curve. The complexity of the data and how well received my solution was, gave me a sense of accomplishment and gratitude to everyone who helped me learn and understand our clinical systems.

What are the challenges? What keeps you going?

Particularly during the pandemic, times were tough, but the strength and camaraderie at Northern Health is something I’m proud to be part of. Knowing friends and colleagues will go above and beyond in time of need is comforting and reassuring.

What makes Northern Health home to you?

I enjoy team bonding in morning teas, birthday lunches and other celebrations around the hospital which gives a chance to catch up on any news and events. I enjoyed attending the Northern’s Choir singing carols last Christmas.

Tell us something about you, that will surprise us?

I’m interested in many things outside of tech. I was a drummer in a band in high school and met my wife when I was taking Latin dance lessons. I love travelling, music, trying new things and food.

Lastly, tell us of your attachment to your beard and how it has evolved?

I go through periods where I feel like a change and shave it all off. But then I forget what I look like without it and grow it back again. I’d love to grow it really long like ZZ Top but never can.

Last week, Northern Health’s Spiritual Care, Palliative Care, Mental Health and Social Work teams hosted a Memorial Service to honour the memory of those who passed away at Northern Health between June and November 2024.

The service, ‘A time to remember’, was an opportunity for loved ones and staff to join together to remember those who passed away. The service also paid tribute to Northern Health staff who passed away during this time.

The event was attended by more than 100 family members and 40 Northern Health staff, including Dr Andrea Kattula, Northern Health Board Member, Debra Bourne, Chief Executive, A/Prof Jason Cirone, Chief Allied Health Officer, Linda Romano, Chief Operating Officer, Pina Di Donato, Executive Director, Public Affairs and Foundation, and representatives from Spiritual Care, Palliative Care, Social Work and Mental Health. The Northern Health Community Choir also performed at the service.

Beautiful flower arrangements were also kindly donated by Melbourne Markets and were used as part of the service.

During the service, guests were invited to reflect by choosing a butterfly that represented an element – grief, courage, memories, love, peace and hope – that was meaningful to them. The butterflies were placed on a community tree in memory of those being honoured, creating a very colourful representative of attendees thoughts and feelings.

Julius Quiring, Nurse Unit Manager, Palliative Care Unit said the service was a heart felt gathering to honour the patients Northern Health has cared for.

“Many families attended, with around half of their loved ones having spent their final days in the Palliative Care Unit,” he said.

“From the sharing by families on the night, it was lovely to hear that the feedback we received as a whole organisation was deeply appreciative, highlighting the compassion, dignity, and support their loved ones received throughout their care.”

“A moment that touched everyone was when the mother of our youngest patient shared a memory of her daughter’s special graduation in the unit. Her teachers and classmates came to celebrate, and it was heartwarming to hear how we made it possible.”

“This service would not have been the same without the leadership of the Spiritual Care team, whose thoughtful guidance made the evening so meaningful.”

Alycea Formosa, Social Work Clinical Leader – Subacute, said the Northern Health Memorial Service is an incredible display of multidisciplinary collaboration.

“The Spiritual Care, Palliative Care, Social work, Volunteer and Choir teams all come together across both physical and mental health to make this service possible,” she said.

“While the effort that goes into organising the memorial is significant, it is well worth it to be able to see staff and families come together in such a beautiful way to honour those who have passed away. The Spiritual Care team do a fantastic job of holding space for families to share their memories and grief, but in this, they also find capacity to provide gentle education about the experience of grief.”

“Having written resources and support on hand to those who need it after the service, allows us to provide a pathway to link those who need it with ongoing care. Having more than 150 people attend the memorial is a testament to the strength of the Northern Health Community and sends a clear message regarding the value of the service to the families of those we have cared for.”

“Well done to all of the teams involved.”

Natalia Dewiyani, Spiritual Care Coordinator, said it was a privilege to offer a service that brought healing to all who attended — for both staff and the family and friends.

“We acknowledged how confronting it can be to return to the place where they last saw their loved one. And yet, so many families came forward to share stories — heartfelt, funny, and deeply moving — about those they had lost. The room was filled with both tears and laughter,” she said.

“That night, their grief was heard, and the lives of their loved ones were honoured and celebrated. At supper, it was beautiful to witness the healing that can unfold through conversations — between families, and between families and staff.”

“One woman shared how it was the first time in eight months since her husband passed that she had left her house, aside from shopping or paying bills. Another had travelled all the way from Northern Victoria, touched by the thoughtfulness of the invitation — not only as a step in her own healing, but also to thank us for the care we provided.”

“The Executives and Board member shared how the family stories reminded them of why they do this work. On behalf of the Spiritual Care Team, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Social Work, Palliative Care, Mental Health, the NH Foundation, Volunteers, and the Northern Health Community Choir for the beautiful music performed on the night.”

“What a meaningful way to come together — to offer a safe, kind, and healing space in which grief could be held, and love remembered.”

Debra Bourne, Chief Executive, said it was an honour to attend the memorial service.

“It was an extremely moving occasion, reminding us of the importance of coming together to honour and remember those we have lost,” she said.

“It is very special to join with families of our patients and to hear their reflections. Thank you to all who contributed to such a heartfelt event.”

Featured image: John Davies, Spiritual Care Practitioner, Reverend Melanie Moore, Spiritual Care Practitioner, Natalia Dewiyani, Spiritual Care Coordinator, Kelly Pinto, Spiritual Care Practitioner, and Sebastian Anthony, Spiritual Care Practitioner.