March 6, 2026Northern Health proudly celebrated International Women’s Day on Friday, 6 March, bringing together staff, board members, distinguished guests, and community members for an inspiring morning at Mantra Epping.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, speaks directly to who we are. Progress is built through contribution, when women give their time, knowledge, care and leadership to create opportunity – not just for themselves, but for others.
From students and graduates beginning their careers, to senior clinicians, managers and executive leaders guiding strategy across our campuses, Northern Health is shaped by women who choose to give, and in doing so, elevate those around them.
The event was well attended by staff from across many divisions and departments. The event was also attended by Bronwyn Halfpenny MP – Member for Thomastown, Adjunct Professor Alan Lilly, Board Chair, Northern Health, Debra Bourne, Chief Executive, Northern Health, Dr Andrea Kattula, Cate Kelly and Nirasha Parsotam, Northern Health Board Members, Josie Minniti AM and Margie Hill, Northern Health Foundation Patrons, and Shannon Ryan, Northern Health Foundation Board Member.
The morning began with a powerful message from Pina Di Donato, Executive Director, Public Affairs and Foundation. She spoke about the important reminder that when we invest in women, we support, uplift and empower one another.
“Today, as we come together under the ‘Queen B’ theme, we acknowledge the powerful truth – that excellence in healthcare, much like a thriving hive, depends on leadership, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to the collective good,” she said.
“At Northern Health, women are central to that strength. They lead with clarity, deliver care with compassion, and support one another so that our communities receive the very best possible care.”
‘We are proud to foster an environment where people are supported to grow and succeed – a place where opportunity is nurtured, leadership is encouraged, and potential is realised. Here, a PSA can go on to become a nurse. A ward clerk can one day become a surgeon, and a nurse can rise to become our Chief Executive. This is what Give to Gain looks like in action.”
The highlight of the event was a presentation by Dr Susan Alberti AC AO AM, a highly respected Australian businesswoman, philanthropist, and former Vice President of the Western Bulldogs Football Club.
She has raised more than $200 million for medical research and other charitable causes. In 2016, she was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC), one of the nation’s highest civilian honours, for eminent service to the community. She was later named Melburnian of the Year in 2017 and Victorian of the Year in 2018, recognised for her influence across community, health and sport. Her story embodies resilience, advocacy and the power of collective action. It promises to challenge, inspire and remind us of what is possible when leadership is grounded in purpose.
She captivated the audience from start to finish, with a remarkable and emotional story of resilience, courage, and fortitude. She spoke about her work in the AFL and building industry, two industries often associated with men. An avid lover of AFL, kicking the footy with her brother, and her beloved Western Bulldogs, she’s proud to see the progress of women sport in Australia, but admits, there’s still a long way to go.
“It gives me such joy to see these little girls given the opportunity that their brothers are given to go and play the sport they truly love – and why not, why shouldn’t they be given the same opportunity,” she said.
“It’s there for them now, they can have a career in footy, whether it be playing the game, administration, coaching – it’s there for them to realise their dream.”
“It is the modern 21st century Australia. Let us celebrate the achievement of the birth of women playing at the highest level of AFL football. We have come a long way, but there is still a lot to be done. Why should women not be given the same opportunities as men?”
Following her speech, the excitement continued with the much-anticipated door prizes. All attendees also received honey jars, lovingly made by Rowan Shield, Director, Digital Projects.
The event was more than a calendar event. It was an opportunity to collectively honour the women who shape our culture at Northern Health, strengthen our services, and drive the future of health in Melbourne’s north.
Progress does not happen quietly.
It happens because women step forward.
They mentor the next generation on busy wards.
They lead services through complexity.
They build teams. Shape culture. Open doors.
At Northern Health, this is not abstract…it is everyday practice.
