Podcasts
Northern Health is proud to present Visiting Hours, a podcast where listeners are invited beyond the frontline to learn about the inspiring lives, outstanding work and personal triumphs of our Northern Health family. Tune in, lean in, and be part of the touching narratives that remind us of the unwavering dedication and compassion of these wonderful humans that call Northern Health home.
New episodes are released fortnightly and are also available here –
Latest Episode
Visiting Hours S03 E09 – Adj. Prof Alan Lilly
In this episode we visit with Northern Health’s Board Chair, Adjunct Professor Alan Lilly.
We explore what it means to be, not just a good leader, but a great one. Alan shares his thoughts on why Northern Health’s values Safe, Kind, Together, are so vital and why embracing them from the top-level down, is the key to a good reputation in our community.
Alan commends the staff for the wonderful work that’s been done this year, and looks forward to a sensational 2026
Pull up a chair and settle in for the last episode of series 3 as you enjoy Visiting Hours.
Previous Episodes
In this episode we visit with Northern Health’s Board Chair, Adjunct Professor Alan Lilly.
We explore what it means to be, not just a good leader, but a great one. Alan shares his thoughts on why Northern Health’s values Safe, Kind, Together, are so vital and why embracing them from the top-level down, is the key to a good reputation in our community.
Alan commends the staff for the wonderful work that’s been done this year, and looks forward to a sensational 2026
Pull up a chair and settle in for the last episode of series 3 as you enjoy Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Seda Kiroglu, Unit Manager of Maternity Services here at Northern Health.
Seda shares her story of growth in the organisation and her thoughts on leadership. She highlights the vital role the Medical Obstetrics At Home (MOAH) program plays in delivering patient focused care when mums-to-be need it most.
We talk about Seda’s passion for healthcare at an early age and her determination to make that dream a reality; despite being told it wasn’t for her.
Take some slow, deep breathes and resist the urge to push, until this episode of Visiting Hours has finished.
In this episode we visit with Ella Critchley, Program Manager, Advance Care Planning at Northern Health and Chair, Victorian Advance Care Planning, Community of Practice.
We focus on the importance of putting an advance care plan in place and the benefits that it yields. Ella shares some real-world examples of the freedom and relief felt by patients during the process.
As we explore Ella’s journey into nursing, we discover how she developed a real connection with people while she visited her mum, who nursed in a rural hospital. The experiences gained there have grown into the genuine and thoughtful interactions Ella shares with her patients today.
We touch on positive aging, family life and some recommendations for the perfect picnic location.
Settles in and include Visiting Hours in your plan for the next 20 minutes or so. You won’t regret it.
In this episode we visit with Dr Miranda Siemienowicz, CT Lead, Northern Imaging Victoria and Chair of the Australia and New Zealand Society of Thoracic Radiology.
We chat about the recent commencement of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program and the positive outcomes already being seen for participants. Miranda outlines the steps she’s taken to regain a balance in her life following the programs launch, making conscious decisions to de-escalate her work habits.
We discover some of her cherished childhood possessions, prove that stuff sounds cooler in Polish, and explore a life lesson learnt from her Great Aunt, a parked car and a patch of shade.
Divert your phone, set an out of office email reply and lean in to listen to this episode of Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Andrew Morrison, Northern Health’s Aboriginal Cultural Safety and Employment Advisor.
Andrew shares on the importance of fostering a culturally safe environment within a health setting. He reveals what prompted his journey into healthcare, and why he remains so passionate in his role today.
Take a seat in the yarning circle, lean in and lend an ear to this episode of Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Dr Isra’a Al Jumaily, a Hospital Medical Officer here at Northern Health.
Dr. Isra’a shares her experience of needing to flee her country with her family as refugees., leaving behind her home and her career.
She relates what it’s been like to start from scratch in Australia while she completes her registration, the importance of holding onto the best of one’s culture, and theory on why fishing was different post covid lockdowns
Hug your family, be kind to those around you as you lend an ear to this episode of Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Dr Lucy Forrest, Music Therapist, who works with oncology/palliative care patients and their families at Northern Health.
We discuss how vital it is to have a supportive team around you, the joys of cooking, and how music and art have the power to change the way people perceive and interact with clinical spaces.
Lucy tells the story behind one of her original pieces of music, she explains the lasting impact legacy creation can have for patients, and even has time for a song or two.
Pull up a chair, lend an ear and hum along to the soothing sounds of Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Emergency Department Nurse Practitioner, Letty Bastian.
We discuss an exciting study underway in ED using acupuncture for pain management and its potential benefits in that setting. Letty shares the insights she gained while studying for her Masters of Acupuncture and how it has helped shape her interactions with patients.
We explore the highs and lows of living in Far North Queensland, the hidden treasures to be found in her local community and discover a path to contentment.
Take a seat, warm up those smile muscles and immerse yourself in this episode!
Being spoken to in one’s own language is often a safe habour; the walls come down, the wrinkles in a furrowed brow relax and for patients, it’s one less thing to worry about.
In this episode we visit with Yue Hu, Northern Health’s Director of Transcultural and Language Services and the Aboriginal Support Unit. Both these teams nurture a culturally safe environment where people can truly be themselves as they move through the health system.
Yue highlights the services available through Northern Health as she shares her passion for letting people know they’re being heard. She offers some insight into her early life in China and shares the experience she had at the Northern Hospital that helped her decide to stay in Australia.
Celebrate the diversity that embodies our health service as you stop by during Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Northern Health Foundation Board Chair, Peter McWilliam.
A long-time supporter of Northern Health, Peter recalls some of the highlights of the last year and points to a bright future for the organisation.
He praises the work of the foundation, noting some of the lifesaving work being done here as a direct result of the foundation and its supporters.
Peter shares on the lasting influence of his grandfather, the rewards of serving the community and how a black cowboy hat helped kindle a lifelong partnership.
Pull up a chair, pour yourself a cuppa, and sprinkle in some Christmas cheer as you enjoy the grand finale of Season 2 on Visiting Hours
In this episode we visit with Jen Gilham, Divisional Director of Community Hospitals at Northern Health.
From her early days as a rural and remote nurse, a seed was planted that has seen her career blossom into senior leadership. A prime example of not being able to take the ‘country out of the girl’, she maintains a strong connection with the community she serves.
Jen shares her love of travel, friendships and nursing. She highlights the true value that nurses bring to their patients and families, and looks forward to the expansion of Northern Health’s facilities bringing better connected care closer to home for rural residents.
Pull up a chair, grab some chocolate and relax with Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with obstetrician and researcher, Professor Lisa Hui
A respected global leader in her field of prenatal diagnosis, Lisa talks about the work being done by the Reproductive Health Biobank and the benefits the research is allowing.
She shares her passion for photographing our feathered fauna, bringing family together in the kitchen, and boosting biodiversity in the backyard.
Grab a spade, plant some natives and enjoy the outdoors as you listen to Visiting Hours.
Today we pay a visit to Northern Health’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Prahlad Ho.
An enthusiastic advocate for research, Prahlad talks about the support he received throughout his journey at Northern Health, starting as an intern. He shares fondly about his family, the importance of making everyday moments an opportunity to connect, and how an encounter in the cardiac ward changed his life for the better.
Get out your stethoscope, remember to warm it up first, and listen intently to Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Associate Professor Vinay Lakra, Northern Health’s Divisional Director of Mental Health Services.
A long-time crusader for social equity, Vinay shares on the importance of having a specialised focus on psychiatric illnesses in the same way we do for other medical conditions, and advocates for legislative change beyond awareness.
He presents a strong argument as to why Melbourne is one of the best cities in the world, challenges our thinking on ‘speaking up’, and reveals he could have been an international cricketer.
He enjoys riding his Harley on the open road, but you won’t believe where he prefers to watch movies.
Step up to the crease and prepare to face some right arm over the wicket swing in this episode of Visiting Hours.
Today we head to Northern Health’s Emergency Department and visit with Nurse Practitioner, Tyson McLeod.
A northern man through and through, Tyson reveals his goal of becoming a very specific kind of nurse after having seen the wonderful treatment his Grandmother received in the ED.
He shares on his passion for toxicology, the importance of getting away from screens, and where your mind can go on a 100km run.
Tighten your laces and remember to hydrate, as we limber up for this episode of Visiting Hours.
In this episode we pay a visit to Graham Wilson, Northern Health’s Director of OHS and Wellbeing.
A passionate advocate for making the workplace not just safe, but positive and engaging, Graham shares his thoughts on authenticity being the key to unlocking meaningful conversations.
Graham offers insights into his love of cooking where simple ingredients are allowed to shine, his Techno-centric search for rare vinyl, and how his Mum’s views on body modification were forever changed by a single string of binary.
Get out your glow sticks, set the B.P.M. to no less than 120 and enjoy this episode of Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Associate Professor Jaclyn Yoong, Oncologist and Palliative Care Physician at Northern Health.
Jaclyn shares on how making connections with people has become a crucial part of bringing joy to her life.
A self confessed ‘Jaclyn of all trades’, she’s an accomplished pianist, a ballroom dancer and a passionate participant in motorsport.
Find the perfect line through the turns as you buckle yourself in for Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Dr. Katharine See, Chief Health Outcomes Officer and Director of Respiratory Medicine at Northern Health.
Katharine talks about the importance of building resilience, practicing mindfulness and the sacrifices needed to make tough choices as a leader. She shares her relaxation routine, favourite cinema hack and why working at Northern Health is like fixing healthcare with your friends.
Take a slow cleansing breath in, hold for four seconds…and exhale as you settle in for Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Professor Shekhar Kumta, Academic Lead for the Department of Surgery.
From early beginnings in India as a trauma surgeon, to micro-vascular reconstruction in Hong Kong, Shekhar recounts the steps that led him to Northern Health.
He identifies Northern Health as the perfect place to build research data sets, given the richly diverse cultural demographic of the area, and stresses the importance of keeping patient outcomes at the centre of that research.
He reveals how passions and hobbies can actually free up your mind enabling you to tackle work in new and creative ways. We learn that the opportunity to interact with people is the driving force behind everything he does.
Stop by and enjoy a visit with us.
It’s not often you have the privilege to sit and chat with someone that’s 104 years young. As we visit with Betty Soraghan in the hair salon at Dianella Village, nestled in Kilmore’s rolling hills, it’s our hope that you catch a glimpse of not just the lady she is today, but the youthful woman whose life experiences shaped her.
In this episode Betty, joined by her daughter Anne, recalls getting all done up for the Saturday night dances, horse-riding with no bridle in sight and how important having the Kilmore District Hospital is for the community.
Although some memories have begun to fade, Betty’s recollections of hard work, a good family, and neighbours you could count on, have become indelible truths.
Come in out of the cold, grab a hot beverage and snuggle in to Visiting Hours.
In this episode we visit with Gordon Dennis, one of Northern Health’s Consumer Advisers.
A retired Artificer Sergeant Major in the Australian Army, Gordon draws on his years of experience, to pass on what he knows for the benefit of others.
He shares on the importance of building a good reputation, dealing with loss and loneliness and how he’s come full circle by building model replicas of the locomotives he worked on as an apprentice.
All board, as Episode 9 is about to leave the Visiting Hours station – Stand clear please. STAND CLEAR.
In this episode we visit with Adjunct Associate Professor Tony McGillion, Northern Health’s Divisional Director of Education and Training. From early work as a nurse in the U.K. and Saudi Arabia, through to his various roles in education, Tony’s appreciation for other cultures has left him at ease encouraging those around him to feel comfortable and accepted.
We explore the role of education in a health setting and beyond, discuss the benefits of mentorship from both sides of the coin and discover just when you hit ‘the wall’ on a long-distance run.
Come on in, make yourself at home.
In this episode we visit with Debra Bourne, Northern Health’s Chief Operating Officer. From grassroots healthcare to a senior executive role, Deb has never lost her love of nursing and midwifery. She celebrates the positive impact nurses and midwives have on their patients and offers some sage advice for those thinking about starting a career in health.
We chat about the importance of switching off outside of work, despite the temptation of a home office, delve into her love of opera and discover how a gift from her son led to an encounter with the King.
Come on in, we’re happy for the company.
In this episode we visit with Jacque Dulson from Northern Health’s Fertility Clinic. A delightful advocate for the Northern Health values of safe, kind, and together; Jacqui shares the highs and lows of working in fertility and the importance open communication as a pathway to resilience. She reveals her true passion when it comes to movies, her rediscovery of the gym, and how a Hungry Jack’s burger wrapper changed her life forever.
Come on in, visiting hours are open.
In this episode we visit with Fiona Jeal, Program Manager with Northern Health’s Mental Health Division. A firm believer in harnessing her team’s strengths, Fiona talks about the importance of having the right people offering the best care. She celebrates the quiet achievers, brings class to the campsite, and happily switches hats between captain and pirate.
In this episode we visit with Fidel Touma, Consultant General Surgeon at Northern Health. A proud father and smitten husband, Fidel shares candidly about leaving his life behind in Syria and starting over in Australia, with his family by his side. He talks about the importance of treating patients with respect and the kindness shown to him by Northern Health staff as he navigated new frontiers. As you listen, you’ll understand why Fidel is held in such high regard by his family, his community, and his patients.
In this episode we visit with Associate Professor Wanda Stelmach, Northern Health’s Chief Medical Officer. Wanda shares her insights on the importance of nurturing hobbies, skills and interests outside of work, her gutsy navigation of a heavily male dominated field with graceful aplomb, and her special connection with Thailand.
In this episode we visit with Natalia Dewiyani, Northern Health’s Spiritual Care Coordinator. Natalia talks about the importance of holding a space for patients to express their true selves, overcoming cancer one smile at a time, and the spicy secret weapon she never leaves home without.
In this episode, we visit with Wendy Nicol, Northern Health’s Operation Manager of Support Services. Wendy discusses her vision for the department, shares openly about her battle with the BRCA2 gene, but draws the line at singing Disney songs… in public.
In this episode we visit with Siva Sivarajah, Northern Health’s Chief Executive. Siva shares the plans for Northern Health’s expansion over the next few years, to better serve our community. He chats about studying in London, his love of cricket, and how a magnifying glass might just help keep you from going hungry.
In this episode we visit with Adjunct Professor Anthony Gust, Northern Health’s Executive Director of Digital Health. Anthony shares his insights on the virtual space, his fascination with historical adventure, and how three circles and some thought can lead you to your dream job.
In this episode we visit with Danielle Cook, Northern Health’s Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. Danielle shares the importance of compassion in clinical excellence, her love of baking and how the toss of a coin led her on a path she never imagined.
In this episode we visit with Leanne Murphy, a Northern Health Consumer Representative. Leanne shares her insights on self-advocacy, the lessons learnt on a pilgrimage through Spain and the meaning of life.
In this bonus ‘Extended Hours’ episode Leanne talks in-depth about her birthing trauma, her healing journey, and some warning signs to be aware of. The Extended Hours episode does contain some sensitive content, but understanding Leanne’s experience adds so much depth to her triumphant story.
In this episode we visit with Jason Amos, Northern Health’s Manager of Emergency Management. Jason shares his experiences as a firefighter, his family’s routine as they deal with a rare form of epilepsy, and how a sweet mobile phone plan prompted a relationship status update.
In this episode we visit with the head of Northern Health’s Medical Unit 5, Doctor Vinita Rane. She shares her experiences on the collaborative care for patients, the importance of selfcare for clinical staff, and how enabling people to share their stories is such a powerful tool for healing.
In this episode we visit with Breast Care Nurse Consultant Cheryl Murray. Cheryl shares her insights on helping patients navigate life-changing diagnoses, her advice to new nurses just starting out, and reveals the playlist that pumps her up to take her opponents down.
In this episode we visit with Tracey Webster OAM, Director of Clinical Leadership, Effectiveness & Outcomes (CLEO). Tracey talks about the success of Northern Health’s Digital Pathways program, service to the community and how Crocodile Dundee changed her life forever.
In this episode we visit Professor Don Campbell, Northern Health’s Divisional Director of Hospital Without Walls. Don talks about health service innovation, research trials and how an ironing board, a football match and a players reaction has led to some amazing encounters in Alice Springs.
In this episode we visit with Associate Professor Joe Rotella, an emergency department physician and clinical toxicologist heading up Northern Health’s SPECTRE Unit. We chat about his motivation to help people, his passion for sharing information and why teleportation would be his ‘go to‘ superpower.
Today we’ll be visiting with Northern Health’s Senior Aboriginal Liaison Officer, Karen Bryant. We chat about visits to Country, the importance of family and her divisive choice in pizza topping that’s outraged some of her friends.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which this podcast is recorded, the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nations. We pay respects to their Elders past, present and future. Embracing their rich tradition of conveying information and ideas through stories and song, by sharing our stories with you.
Visiting Hours Disclaimer. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Northern Health.
