NCN Health offers FREE counselling service for residents in the Moira Shire.
NCN Health counsellors offer counselling in the following areas:
Strategic Plan Launch - A Message from the NCN Health Board Chair and Leadership Team
NCN Health is proud to introduce our Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 setting the direction for the next five years and providing a clear framework to guide our priorities, decisions and actions within three broad strategic themes; Community, Workforce and Organization. It also positions our planning relative to the Hume Local Health Network strategic directions and address our commitment to the Health Service Plan (2024).
The NCN Health 2026-2030 Strategic Plan has been shaped by the voices of the people who know our health service best.
A clear message from our community, through the planning process, was the importance of services that are equitable, easy to access and as close to home as possible. As a rural health service, we know that accessing healthcare can sometimes feel complex. This plan places a strong focus on making it simpler for people to connect with the care and support they need, when and where they need it.
Our new vision - To be a trusted leader in rural healthcare, known for exceptional care, deep community connection and a commitment to health and wellbeing - reflects both our ambition and our responsibility to the community we serve.
Importantly, our new strategic plan introduces Innovation as an additional NCN Health value, to our existing values of Accountability, Respect and Partnership. As a health service that values innovation we will be open to new ideas, we will embrace technology and commit to continuously improve how we deliver care. Our commitment to innovation also means we value empowering our workforce to explore better ways of working and ensuring our services and the people in it, continue to grow and prosper to meet the changing needs of our community.
Our workforce also shared valuable insights during the planning process, about the opportunities and challenges of delivering care in a rural setting. Their insight and lived experience will help shape how we strengthen services as well as improve the way we support our workforce.
RESPECT ACCOUNTABILITY
As a Board and Leadership team, we are proud of the commitment and achievements of our workforce and partners, and we believe we are well positioned for the future. This Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan 2026-2030) builds on the strengths of our past and establishes the foundations for our future as we continue working towards sustainable, innovative and community-connected health services for our region
Our strong connection to community, dedicated workforce, valued partnerships across the region as well as sound financial practices, provide significant assets for us as we strengthen and evolve our services into our future
Guided by this strategic plan (Strategic Plan 2026-2030), we will continue to build on these assets while responding proactively and confidently to the challenges ahead. Together, driven by our values and this shared vision, we will continue working side by side towards our three strategic themes of Community, Workforce and Organization.
You can read the Strategic Plan 2026 - 2030 here
Public Sector Residential Aged Care Development -
Numurkah
The $55 million Public Sector Residential Aged Care (PSRAC) development at NCN Health Numurkah is progressing steadily, with substantial behind-thescenes planning and preparation laying the groundwork for the future of aged care in our region
The new facility, which will be built off Hurley Court, adjacent to the current NCN Health Numurkah Urgent Care Centre and Karinya Nursing Home, will replace the current Numurkah Pioneers Memorial Lodge. Land acquisition negotiations and general site preparations including demolition of several dwellings on Hurley Court were completed last year The building tender has closed and a building contract is expected to be awarded soon, from here, we look forward to an annoucement for when the building works will start
The Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority (VIDA), in conjunction with the Department of Health, are leading this project in collaboration with NCN Health.
Operations and PSRACs Project Manager Bronti O’Connor said an internal Project Control Group (PCG) will meet for the duration of the project to guide the transition into the new facility. She said the group is responsible for coordinating the many operational and cultural elements required to bring the new facility to life including consultation on work practices, model of care and workflows, planning for services such as cleaning and kitchen operations, community engagement, volunteer programs, and providing input into key design elements that will shape the look, feel and culture of the new ‘Lodge’
“While much of the work isn’t yet visible on site, there is significant planning underway behind the scenes,” she said. “Our Project Control Group will begin carefully mapping out operational processes, staff workflows and service delivery models to ensure a smooth transition and a high-quality experience for residents and staff from day one.”
She said the group has representation from across NCN Health Numurkah clinical and non-clinical departments, and includes three consumer representatives
“There was strong interest for the consumer representation positions within the group and we would like to welcome Rosemary Kennett, Patrick Kempton and Graham Henderson. Consumer representatives are included to ensure the perspectives of residents, families, and the broader community are central to planning and decision-making.”
Representatives from the Project Control Group have also started visiting new Residential Aged Care Facilities across Victoria as part of the benchmarking and consultation process
By visiting other health and aged care services, the Project Control Group can observe operations firsthand, speak with staff, and learn from their experiences. This insight into what works well, the challenges faced, and lessons learned will help guide informed decisions about the Model of Care (MOC) and future staffing profile
Bronti said group representatives have travelled to Rumbalara Elders Facility in Shepparton, Mansfield Aged Care and Glenview at Rutherglen They are heading to inspect two PSRACs projects in Cohuna and Camperdown in April.
“These visits are significant as all of the residential aged care facilities we are touring have been designed in line with the new Aged Care Design Principles, specifically, using a “household model,’ providing valuable opportunities to benchmark and learn from others. The household model is a residential aged care design that breaks larger facilities into household units, fostering a genuine home atmosphere and giving people more control over their routines, relationships and environment.”
She said NCN Health are eager to share detailed floor plans, 3D images and renderings with the staff, community and stakeholders as soon as they are available
“This development will be a significant part of our community and NCN Health looks forward to sharing detailed floor plans, 3D images and artist impressions We know there is strong interest in seeing what the new facility will look like, and we’re just as excited to share those images”
PSRACS Project Control Group members:
Director of Operations Justin Sullivan, Graham Henderson, Numurkah Pioneers Memorial Lodge Nurse Unit Manager Raj Kumahr, Karinya Nursing Home Nurse Unit Manager Kylie Darcy, Support Services Manager Kendra Hixon, Numurkah Director of Clinical Services Sophie Scott, Infection Control Coordinator Niki Vidler, OHS Officer Tanya Fothergill, Volunteer Coordinator Jacquie Hughes, PSRACs Project Manager Bronti O’Connor and Maintenance Manager John Fothergill.
Absent: Communications Coordinator Marissa Daly and community representatives Rosemary Kennett and Patrick Kempton.
Community Representation Essential To New Development
Rosemary, Graham and Patrick at the site of the new development.
NCN Health welcomes Rosemary Kennett, Patrick Kempton and Graham Henderson, who have been selected as Consumer Representatives on the Project Control Group for the development of the new Public Sector Residential Aged Care in Numurkah
NCN Health called for Expressions of Interest from community members to join the Project Control Group to ensure the perspectives of residents, families, and the broader community are central to planning and decision-making.
There was strong interest from the community with 13 applications received. The review panel selected Rosemary, Patrick and Graham for their connections to residential aged care in Numurkah, previous and current community engagement and connection.
Operations and PSRACs Project Manager Bronti O’Connor highlighted the key role consumers will play in the Project Control Group.
“Their lived experience and insights will help shape services, design, and operational processes so that the new Lodge meets the real needs of those who will live and use the facility, creating a truly resident-focused environment.”
She said community members who were not selected for this group, together with current Lodge residents and other stakeholders will be asked to participate in several working parties in other areas of service planning and delivery. This includes, the naming of the new facility, volunteer and community engagement programs, clinical model of care and support services model of care, wayfinding and access and operations.
“The contribution of our consumer representatives is invaluable The current Lodge is much more than just bricks and mortar it has a unique character and spirit that we want to protect and carry forward into the new facility The voices of residents, families, staff, and the broader community will be key in guiding decisions, ensuring the new facility reflects the care, culture, and sense of belonging that make the current facility so special”
10:00am-12:00pm
We are looking for volunteer drivers to support our community transport program
NCN Health has two vehicles to support community members to access dialysis treatment outside our local area for example, to Shepparton, Yarrawonga, Kyabram etc.
We need volunteers to help us run this community transport program.
This Community Transport Program is designed to complement - not replaceexisting transport services, working collaboratively to fill identified gaps in transport.
Volunteer opportunities available Monday to Saturday, morning and afternoon shifts.
Choose your level of commitment, for example, once a week, fortnightly, or monthly shifts.
Help community members stay connected.
Structured rosters with a clear schedule and volunteer support.
Support local people to access essential appointments and services.
Meet new people and build meaningful community connections.
To register as a volunteer or for more information contact Volunteer Coordinator Jacquie Hughes E: volunteers@ncnhealth.org.au
P: 0408 828 994
NCN Health (based in Nathalia, Cobram and Numurkah) is launching a volunteer-led Community Transport Program to help local people access transport to get to dialysis and other medical treatments.
Flexible and compassionate volunteers will help patients get to appointments safely and on time. Do you need help to get to
If you, or someone you know needs assistance with transport, we would love to hear from you.
This is a new free transport service open to residents on dialysis in Moira Shire and nearby. Please phone to discuss your needs.
To register your interest in accessing transport for dialysis contact the Project Coordinator Jacquie Hughes:
E: volunteers@ncnhealth.org.au
P: 0408 828 994
Well done and thank you to all participants for bringing Christmas cheer to NCN Health. The anonymous judge took the job very seriously and the winners are as follows:
Overall Grand Prize - Irvin House
Most Sutainable Grand Prize - Karinya
Most Creative Nathalia - Medical Clinic
Most Creative Cobram - Irvin House
Most Creative Numurkah - OHS and The Hub
Best Use of Space Nathalia - Medical Clinic
Best Use of Space Cobram - Irvin House
Best Use of Space Numurkah - P&C, Quality and Payroll.
The Grand Prize Winner (Irvin House) will choose the theme for 2026 - watch this space!!!
Irvin House- The Polar Express
Karinya- Miracle on 34 Street
th Nathalia Medical ClinicElf
Numurkah OH&S and The Hub- How the Grinch Stole Christmas
P&C, Quality and Payroll- The Bluey Christmas Movie
Cobram Medical ClinicWinter Wonderland
Nathalia Maintenance- How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Numurkah Acute- The Grinch and the Elf
REACH HAS LAUNCHED!
NCN Health along with partner health services in the Hume Region have now rolled out the new REACH process.
REACH encourages patients to advocate for their health care and speak up if they are concerned about their own care or the care of their loved ones.
REACH stands for:
Recognise – You notice a worrying change
Engage – Talk to the nurse or doctor
Act – Ask for a clinical review if you’re still concerned
Call – Call the hospital’s REACH number to escalate your concerns
Help – A senior health worker will respond
REACH supports partnerships between patients, carers and health workers to ensure concerns are heard and acted upon.
Graduate Nurses 2026
Welcome to the 2026 Graduate Nurses including 9 RNs and 2 ENs.
Over the next 12 months they will be rotating through acute, aged care and district nursing across all 3 campuses. Welcome to NCN Health, we are all looking forward to working with you.
ZDENA- 100 CELEBRATION AND LIFE STORY TH
Congratulations to Numurkah Pioneer Memorial Lodge Resident, Zdena Cykner who celebrated her 100 birthday at The Lodge surrounded by family and friends in January. th To mark the occasion, Zdena’s son, and only child, Paul, shared her remarkable life story.
Zdena enjoyed a happy childhood in a small village in Czechoslovakia called, Kročehlavy (now swallowed by Kladno, a 20-minute drive from Prague) Her father encouraged her to continue ballet as part of her formal education via the “Gymnasium”, this was thought to be a path direct to University
During WW2, the neighbouring village Lidice was razed and her high school was closed and used to ‘process’ the village occupants. Zdena became a secretary in the Steelworks at the age of appox14
Zdena embarked on an adventurous escape into Germany in 1948 with childhood sweetheart, Vladimir They were processed in a German refugee asylum to Switzerland. He was fortunate to gain a scholarship for university studies and Zdena became a translator for the nascent United Nations in Geneva
Their son Paul was born in 1949 and the young family arrived in Melbourne on Cup Day 1950, temporarily residing in Bonegilla.
Refugees to Australia at that time had to repay passage by working in heavy industry or government employment. Zdena began work in a commercial bakery in Carlton, carrying heavy trays of lamingtons, vanilla slices and other delights to and from the ovens, preparation benches and cooling racks
The family became Australian citizens at a naturalisation ceremony in Collingwood Town Hall in 1956, the year of the Melbourne Olympics
They moved to Port Fairy in 1958, where Zdena developed a love of cats, gardening, and volunteering at Port Fairy Hospital - her dedication shaped in part by her husband’s diagnosis with a rare and aggressive form of Parkinson’s disease
When the family left Port Fairy 17 years later, she was honoured with Life Membership of the Hospital Auxiliary in recognition of her commitment and service.
A new home in Boronia, close to GlaxoAllenbuury’s was purchased with the help of the company Vladimir worked for, situated close to his former manager This was a significant mark of respect for the new “Orstralian” couple as they were known. Here Zdena found another passion, joining the local choir.
Zdena nursed her husband for 7 years, in his final two years, Vladimir was paralysed and unable to talk. The Red Cross organised a roster of people to lift him out of bed before breakfast into his wheelchair and into bed at night
A month after he died, Zdena was so run down that she needed to go to the doctor. When crossing the road to the surgery, she was hit by a speeding car which flung her two metres high onto the road in its wake There were at least half a dozen witnesses Zdena, being made of stern stuff, was discharged with hairline fractures in her spine, multiple bruises but no other discernible injury. She refused to press charges against the driver, also named Vladimir He was a single-family friend (who escaped Czechoslovakia in 68)
Vladimir (#2) became a supportive partner to Zdena and the two spent time travelling together When Vladimir retired, they pooled their money and built their dream house in Yea, where Zdena’s gardening skills were challenged with landscaping on the steep property
Unfortunately, Vladimir developed numerous serious health conditions linked to long-term smoking, including respiratory illness, cancer, diabetes, and vision loss Zdena naturally stepped into a caregiving role, supporting him through the last ten years of his life Vladimir spent his last year at The Lodge
Around this time Zdena was adopted by her most special feline; Oscar, who lovingly, fearlessly, followed her everywhere - they shared many interesting experiences and adventures, garnering her the title of “Cat Lady”
As time moved on Zdena decided the The Lodge was the place that was most suited to support her health and wellbeing needs
She says as a resident she felt valued and respected and her gardening knowledge was acknowledged when she was invited to provide input on the proposed kitchen garden planned for Karinya Nursing Home
Zdena shares that while she is not as active as when she arrived at The Lodge nearly 12 years ago, she still feels very valued and love by everyone.
SomethingtoSmileAbout DentalCareClosertoHome
Cobram Dental Clinic Manager
Stephanie Veal said the new equipment would greatly improve access to dental care for local patients.
NCN Health Cobram has recently installed an OPG (Orthopantomogram) machine, delivering a major boost to our local dental services and making care more accessible for the community.
An OPG machine provides specialised panoramic dental Xrays that are essential for diagnosing and planning a wide range of dental treatments. With this technology now available on site, patients attending the Cobram Dental Clinic can access this imaging locally and bulk billed, removing the need to travel outside the region for the service.
Having this service available in Cobram means faster diagnosis, while making it easier for local residents to obtain care, particularly families, the elderly and those with limited transport options. This investment reflects NCN’s commitment to ensuring the community can access high-quality services close to home.
Staff are currently undergoing training on using the new machine, we look forward to sharing when it is operational.
Pictured are: Medical Imaging Technologists Sheree Razga and Andrea Packer
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO OFFER YOU
An opportunity for students studying a health related course, for example, Nursing, Physio, OT, Speech Pathology, to connect, discuss their university work, explore career pathways, and seek support on topics important to them.
Develop professional relationships with dedicated mentors and educators to support your university journey.
Flexible monthly sessions – tailored to your needs. Theory support, practical skills or just a chat.
Face to face sessions at NCN Health Campus or online.
Support students on their health careers and ensure they are set up for success.
For more information contact Thomas.lewis@ncnhealth.org.au or NCNAlliedHealthEducators@ncnhealth.org.au
EVERYSTICHTELLS ASTORY
Talented staff member Sandy Sier created this fabulous quilt for residents and staff of The Lodge - Look closely, there is so much to see!
Afternoon Tea and a Show!
Written by Karinya Nurse, Louise Rands
On the 13 of November 2025, our residents at Numurkah Nursing home, Karinya, enjoyed a lovely afternoon tea under a shady tree in a garden at Koonoomoo property while enjoying a horse demonstration on “Attunement” Attunement with horses is the ability to read and respond to their subtle body language, energy, and emotions in real time It’s about being fully present so the horse feels understood, safe, and willing to connect. The residents were joined by volunteers, neighbours, friends and work colleagues. th
The stage was set, the table and chairs where ready, the garden was glowing and the lawns are perfect. The horses on display. All that was needed was the wonderful residents to come and enjoy the day.
The residents arrived on the Karyina bus, the atmosphere came alive. The resident walked over confidently and sat at their own prepared table that was “Centre stage”. As the residents started to look around and settled in the horses started to whinny. Some horses then came over to say hello and looked like they were asking “What’s going on”? In the back drop was Harley the main attraction. The chooks came over and to get the latest gossip! The marvellous, friendly Mr Mustang, the house dog Border Collie, came over to join in the action. The residents were now in the thick of it.
The weather provided us with a gusty day and even that was OK, because that kept the flies at bay………Nothing was going to stop this keen lot from enjoying “Their” day.
Then came time for Louise to start her demonstration.
Louise Rands, one of our nurses at Karinya Nursing home, acknowledged the instrumental team members that made this wonderful day a success:
Thank you to NCN Health for supplying the bus. The residents certainly travel in style
Kylie Darcy for ensuring that the event would go ahead - no matter what!
Teruko our D.T. for the commitment, preparing the to-do list and getting the job done. Huge day to prepare for and having the residents get to and from the venue.
Kay for driving the bus and being such a great sport on the day with her laughter.
A big thankyou to the staff that assisted the residents to get ready before and after the event
To those staff that had said the idea was a real “Go-a”. Such a great contribution to the elderly Only if it was to say “it’s is a great idea” Thankyou we have an amazing staff network, that support each other.
The volunteers for their commitment to assisting the residents to have this day turn out so well
To Brendon and his dad Bill for their great effort working tirelessly to get the garden looking so great - the best it’s ever been and having the environment perfect Huge task and completed The garden looks amazing
The local community for supplying the table and chairs.
For Anne (a resident’s daughter) for supplying the beautiful roses
Mary-Rose for capturing the day on video and the other photos taken. We will gather them and put a display on for the other residents in our facility that were unable to be there on the day
Louise went on to create the intention for the day;
FUN, CONNECTION, POWER and LEADERSHIP
A FUN afternoon, CONNECTING people together with the great outdoors and animals. People having time to chat and CONNECT together. POWER of the people coming together and LEADERSHIP in all of us to ensure the day was a success. Our host then addressed the guest residents personally and welcomed them, explaining that afternoon tea will be served during the horse demonstration. She then invited the guests to wander the gardens later if they wish to and to please enjoy. Everyone felt right at home. Louise explained that this event was created out of a course she is a participate in which focuses on Teams Leadership Management. Louise said that she often shares her adventures with her residents about her horses and her property when she is working at Karinya so putting the two passions together made sense She invited the residents to enjoy this magical day with the animals
She then spoke about her horse Harley, and how she was going to do a demonstration with him starting on the ground first She explained that she this part of training is call “Attunement”.
Then there was music while Harley was being saddled up. At that point one of the residents, John got up to dance. So much fun was happing in the background
The residents then got to be introduced to Harley the star of the show. Ian loved being around horses again.
A lovely day was had by all. Anna encouraged a question time and some great questions was asked
The resident then had a bit of time to look around the garden and even some venturing inside to look at the uniqueness of the house and a stained-glass feature inside.
The residents thanked the host and said it was such a lovely day. “What a great day”
It has been suggested that another events like this be held in March 2026. So to be continued…….
Cobram Auxiliary Donation
Pictured are the Cobram and District Hospital Ladies Auxiliary with Medical Clinic staff.
The Auxilary recently purchased two cryosprays.
We thank the Auxiliary for all their support of inititiatives for residents, patients and clients of the Health service.
All Abilities Talent Show All Abilities Talent Show All Abilities Talent Show
Put simply - it is a joy to behold. What a fantastic group of singers, dancers and performers. Congratulations Moira Shire Council and the All Abilities Committee and most importantly to all the Talent, for another great event.
NCN Health was proud to support the All Abilities Talent Show at the Cobram Civic Centre on Friday December 5. Now in its third year, the Talent Show is an Annual Event that also celebrates International Day of People with Disability.
Irvin House Woodwork Project
We would love to recognise Willow, one of our incredible student volunteers at Irvin House.
Willow attends Cobram Secondary College, and this project was entirely her initiative. Willow identified a need at Irvin House and took her idea back to school, where it formed part of a class project. Together, they created a beautiful planting table for our residents to enjoy. The planting table will be used for hands-on gardening activities, supporting wellbeing, connection, and meaningful engagement for our residents.
We are so proud of Willow for showing such leadership, initiative, and care for others, and we thank Cobram Secondary College for supporting students to turn great ideas into real community outcomes.
Table Air Hockey At Karinya
Karinya residents enjoy a new activity “Table Air Hockey.”
This is a simple game that we can all enjoy and is quite exciting. This game is inclusive of all abilities which is so important in aged care Everyone can have a go and we are all having fun!
KARINYA CHRISTMAS PARTY
The residents and families enjoyed a lovely celebration in Karinya for Christmas. Thank you to Teruko and all the staff that attended and organised the food and entertainment.
HEAT WAVE ACTIVITIES
The Karinya men enjoyed a takeaway lunch of Fish and Chips as it was too hot to go out. Bus driver Tim stayed in and had a chat with Brian, Ian, John, Stan, Michael and Eric.
Residents enjoy their cooked breakfast once a month... but nothing beats homemade pasta with fresh ingredients.
The Care Finder Program supports vulnerable older people who would not be able to arrange services without intensive support and do not have a family member or friends who can help.
Who can receive assistance from a Care Finder?
Care Finders are not for everyone They specifically help older community members who need intensive assistance to access aged care and other supports.
To receive care finder support, a person must:
• have no carer or support person who can help them, or
• not have a carer or support person they feel comfortable or trust to support them, and
• be eligible for government-funded aged care. They may:
• have difficulty communicating because of language or literacy problems
• find it difficult to understand information and make decisions
• be reluctant to engage with aged care or government
• be in an unsafe situation if they do not receive services.
What help can Care Finders provide?
Care Finders can help people understand what aged care services are available, set up an assessment and find and choose services.
Talking to My Aged Care on their behalf and arranging an assessment Attending and providing support at, during and after the assessment Solving other challenges and connecting to supports in the community, such as health, mental health, housing and homelessness, drug and alcohol services and community groups.
IRVIN HOUSE PHOTOS
DIETETICS SERVICE
Our Dietitians provide advice to help you learn how to manage your dietary, nutrition and health needs. We work closely with you to help you make decisions about what to eat to maintain good health, recover from illness or manage specific health conditions.
To access the Dietetics service at NCN Health you can call the Access and Intake team who will book your appointment for you.
ACCESS AND INTAKE
MOIRA PALLIATIVE CARE OUTPATIENT CLINIC
The Moira Palliative Care Outpatient Clinic is a public outpatient clinic for palliative patients with complex needs. The clinic is available, via referral, for GPs and the Moira Community Palliative Care team who feel their patients have complex medical or palliative care needs, difficult or unstable symptoms, or may benefit from additional medical support. The Moira Palliative Care Service will continue to provide community based palliative care support in partnership with the patients treating General Practitioner where appropriate.
Clinic Days: Thursday mornings by appointment
Where: Yarrawonga Health - Community Services Hub 33 Piper Street, Yarrawonga
Shannon is a Rural Generalist with special interest in Palliative Care He began his medical career at Deakin University in Geelong before progressing to Northeast Victoria for post graduate positions at Northeast Health Wangaratta, Yarrawonga Medical Clinic and Albury Wodonga Health He's worked in many roles including as a Palliative Care Registrar at Albury Wodonga Health and East Hume Regional Palliative Care Consultancy More recently he has provided support for Moira Palliative Care Service, in a consultation liaison role. His main clinical role is as a GP at Yarrawonga Medical Clinic. Prior to his medical career he was a helicopter pilot in the Royal Australian Navy.
ncnmoirapalliativecare@ncnhealth.org.au
The Meryula Clinic is a free and confidential service run by GV Health and supported by NCN Health. The clinic is for all individuals within the region and is run by experienced nurses who specialise in sexual and reproductive health
Testing & Treatment for infections that can be spread through sexual contact. Contraception, including Implanon insertion
Emergency Contraception
Pregnancy Testing
Unplanned pregnancy counselling, treatment and referral
Cervical Screening Tests > 25 yrs of age
Genital pain and discomfort
Sex work certificates
Booking Link
Numurkah Community Health & Wellbeing 2025 CLINIC DATES Bookings
Screening, counselling & referral for viruses in the blood
Hepatitis C treatment
Hepatitis B treatment and management
HIV PrEP and nPEP
Immunisation (HPV)
Contact Tracing
Referral to specialist services
via GV Health Community Services intake team 1800 222 582 (option 4) or email
sauintake@gvhealth.org.au
Consumer Story
Details:
Department: Numurkah Acute
Story:
Megan is a Numurkah resident who lives with schizophrenia and is supported at home by support workers through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) who assist her to manage her health and daily living. Megan came to NCN Health Numurkah as a patient in mid-2025 after a fall at home which resulted in a broken arm.
“I fell over at home in June last year. My support worker went out to do the shopping and I got up to answer the phone My foot caught under a mat, I put my arm out to stop myself falling and hitting my head.”
Megan was initially sent to GV Health to manage the break, then transported back to NCN Health Numurkah while she recovered.
Once admitted to NCN Health Numurkah, the medical staff identified that Megan was also experiencing low blood pressure, and this was monitored closely as part of her ongoing care.
A night duty nurse became concerned her blood pressure had dropped too low, and a decision was made to transfer Megan to Shepparton for further investigation.
“The nurse and doctor asked me if I felt dizzy or lightheaded, they checked my blood pressure a lot of times and said I needed to go urgently to Shepparton to be monitored by the heart specialist I was starting to feel worse and worse The ambulance arrived and I was taken by stretcher to the ambulance and then given a police escort to Shepparton. Then, I was put on a little plane with the Royal Flying Doctors I was given ear muffs so that I wouldn’t be frightened when the plane took off. I was also given some tablets to settle me down. They said to me the plane would start and be noisy and not to get frightened. I was frightened at first, so I closed my eyes”
“We landed at the Essendon Airport, then I was taken by ambulance to St Vincent’s Hospital I didn’t have my Medicare card or information with me, so they had to call my sister, she is my medical power of attorney, and she gave them the information.”
Consumer Story
Megan says she was put on a heart monitor and told she would need a pacemaker, but she wasn’t yet strong enough to have surgery “It took 2 weeks for me to be strong enough for surgery. My sisters and children and grandchildren all came to see me.”
Megan said before the operation she felt quite emotional and worried, her family told her they loved her and provided support.
“After the operation I felt really sick from the anesthesia, but I was very happy to be ok. The heart specialist saved my life.”
Megan said she spent approx. 2 weeks recovering in St Vincent’s and then was sent back to NCN Numurkah while she continued to recover from surgery and the break to her arm
At this time, NDIS notified Megan and NCN Health that due to Megan’s changed needs, there were funding shortfalls for her care, meaning it was not possible for her to return home safely without the assistance of her support workers.
While in hospital recovering and waiting for a resolution to the NDIS funding shortfalls, it has been an opportunity for restorative health for Megan NCN Health Numurkah are working with the GV Health Psychiatric Team to manage her mental health needs. The Numurkah staff have been working with Megan on exercise and short walks to build up her strength post-surgery Megan came into hospital weighing over 100 kilos and has since lost 30 kilos, which she says makes her feel much healthier.
While the issue with the NDIS funding shortfalls has been difficult for Megan, and she is very keen to move home as soon as she can She says it has been great being in Numurkah Hospital where she is close to home.
“I have been able to go out on day leave and see my husband and garden. I am hoping to go home soon”
Megan wants to extend her gratitude to the diligent nurse who picked up her very low blood pressure. She says without him, she may not still be here today. She also wants to tell people to get their heart checked and regular health checks.
Consumer Story
Reflections / Recommendations:
Megan’s story highlights the importance of holistic, person-centred care, particularly for consumers living with complex physical and mental health needs. The story also reflects the importance of integrated care across services and settings. Effective coordination between teams ensured continuity of care during a complex transfer. Megan’s experience highlights how mental health needs must be considered alongside physical health care, particularly during acute episodes and transfers.
The calm communication, reassurance, and practical supports provided during transport helped reduce fear and distress and supported Megan’s sense of safety and dignity. The challenges arising from changes to Megan’s NDIS funding underscore the impact that external systems can have on discharge planning and recovery. While difficult for Megan, this period also provided an opportunity for restorative and rehabilitative care. Finally, Megan’s story is a reminder of the value of care close to home
Being able to recover in Numurkah, remain connected to family, and maintain links to her community supported her emotional wellbeing and recovery.
Do you have a story you’d like to share about your experience at NCN Health? Your story can be a positive experience or include opportunities to improve our service delivery, For more information on how to share you experience with us, contact ncncommunications@ncnhealth.org.au
