DRAFT - Winter 2025 Community Newsletter by ncncommunications

COUNSELLING ATNCNHEALTH

NCN Health offers FREE counselling service for residents in the Moira Shire.

NCN Health counsellors offer counselling in the following areas:

Making changes in your life

Life changes - major milestones, work changes, relationship changes.

Grief and Loss

Resolving past trauma or conflict

Counselling is available at the NCN Health Nathalia Campus.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday - 9am - 3pm.

(03) 5862 0560

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Hello and welcome to the Winter Edition of the Community News.

STRATEGIC PLAN

The NCN Health Strategic Plan is due for renewal at the end of 2025. The Board of Directors have approved the appointment of a consultant to drive the Strategic Plan Process This will involve engagement and consultation from staff and community with the aim that the Strategic Plan belongs to all of us and we see our language and vision for the health service reflected in the plan. The plan sets the direction of NCN Health for the next five years, we look forward to connecting with our community and hearing what priorities and values you are keen to see feature in our plan.

HEALTH SERVICES PLAN

As you know, The Health Services Plan (released in August last year) aims to reform Victoria’s health services system and provides recommendations for a more connected system. One of the key reforms was establishing 12 Local Health Networks, with NCN Health being part of the Hume Health Network The health networks will come into effect from the 1st of July, and will see a greater focus on health services working in partnership with services in their geographical region. NCN Health already works quite closely in partnership with our surrounding health services,

therefore, we are unlikely to see much change in the coming months We will continue to work with the Department of Health to support any transitions after July 1 and commit to keeping our community informed of any changes as the Health Services Plan evolves.

CAPITAL WORKS

There are a number of upgrades and developments happening around the three campuses of NCN Health this year. Earlier in 2025, the Cobram Campus Urgent Care (UCC) Redevelopment was completed and staff have settled into the workflow of the new UCC. Externally, we will be installing more signage to enhance visibility and access Internally, floors have been replaced in the front entrance and administration areas and medical clinic. Painting and upgrades continue in the Cobram Acute ward

In Numurkah, works to upgrade the Theatre are ongoing. These works include new sterilizing equipment to ensure we meet contemporary requirements for operations. To minimise impact to the community some services will continue during the works, while a small number of procedures have been rescheduled.

At NCN Health Nathalia, works have begun this week to repair and restore some external areas including; the front entrance to the facility, the court yard in the Community Health and Medical Clinic

areas and carport at the back of the facility. Internally, all the kitchen flooring has been replaced

WINTER PREPAREDNESS

There is an increased risk of respiratory illnesses heading into the winter months In Victoria, the increase in COVID-19 cases between April and May this year was 2.5 times higher than the same time last year, and hospitalisations have been increasing. Flu and RSV cases are also increasing. There are some simple steps you can take to help protect yourself and others from severe illness. Immunisations are available for many respiratory illnesses including flu, COVID-19 and RSV. These can be accessed through GPs, pharmacies and Aboriginal Controlled Community Health Organisations. If you feel unwell and have symptoms it’s a good idea to stay home and refrain from visiting sensitive settings such as hospitals and residential aged care.

Your GP can talk to you about what to do if you get sick and if you are eligible for antiviral treatment.

We hope you stay warm and well this Winter

Mark Ashcroft NCN Health CEO

Cobram Medical Clinic’s New Look

Cobram Medical Clinic underwent some upgrades in May with the old carpet being replaced with vinyl flooring in walkways and new carpet in the waiting and office space. The result is a fresh, clean, bright new look!

Nathalia Upgrades

Works have begun to repair and restore some external areas of NCN Health Nathalia. These include the front entrance to the facility, the court yard in the Community Health and Medical Clinic areas and carport at the back of the facility. These upgrades will take 1 - 2 weeks to complete.

Despite the work happening at the front of the health service, pedestrian access for the public is not affected. You can continue to park in the public car park and walk into the facility as normal.

However, there is currently no parking/standing of vehicles at the front entrance, this section has been cordoned off for the duration of the works.

Disabled parking is still available and if you have any concerns around access, please contact front reception on 03 5866 9444.

New vinyl flooring has been installed in the Nathalia Kitchen and the team have been busy moving back into the space. It was a large project and staff have done an amazing job minimising disruption to food services. The new flooring will enhance work flow and ease of cleaning for our environmental staff.

@ NCN Health @ NCN Health Work Work

With many opportunities at NCN Health across a range of clinical and non clinical roles, there has never been a better time to join the health service.

Environmental Service Assistant

NCN Health have an exciting opportunity for an Environmental Services Assistant to join our team in Environmental Services at Nathalia. The Environmental Assistant will be required to keep the hospital and nursing home clean and hygienic and maintain equipment used in achieving these objectives The position is also required to wash, dry, fold, iron and put away clothes for the nursing home residents

Food Services Assistant

NCN Health have an exciting opportunity for an Food Services Assistant to join our team in Food Services at Nathalia. The Food Services Assistant will help to provide quality, nutritious food prepared according to Hazard analysis and critical control point guidelines (HACCP) and the Food Safety Plan

Graduate Enrolled Nurse

NCN Health have an exciting opportunity for a Graduate Enrolled Nurse to join our team This position will be supported by the Education Team as part of the NCN Health Graduate Program, aimed at enabling a smooth transition from novice to confident & skilled independent clinician The role requires promotion of independence of Residents/Patients & Clients whilst assessing, planning, implementing and re-evaluating the care provided according to accepted nursing practice and standards under the direction of ANUM / Registered Nurse

Community Midwife

The Community Midwife is responsible for providing and coordinating high quality antenatal and postnatal domiciliary maternity care and support to women and families of NCN Health, in line with services provided under the Level 1 Maternity Capability Framework The Community Midwife works in partnership with women, their General Practitioners and the birthing hospital to give support, care and advice during pregnancy and the post-partum period, ensuring that women and their babies receive holistic, coordinated care and support

ANZAC Day 2025 ANZAC Day 2025

Our Numurkah Network Group and Nathalia PAG (Planned Activity Group) clients made wreaths for ANZAC Day commemorations across the region. These were placed at the Numurkah and Nathalia ceremonies on ANZAC Day.

Meanwhile at Irvin House, families, friends, volunteers and staff supported residents in creating ANZAC wreaths and assisted them to attend the local march.

Many thanks to all involved with making ANZAC Day both meaningful and memorable.

Volunteers Report

Volunteer Week Events

About 120 volunteers gathered on Tuesday 20th May 2025 to acknowledge all that our volunteers do and a chance to mingle with other volunteers. Moira Shire funded a bus for the volunteers to be able to travel from Nathalia, Numurkah and Cobram to the event. NCN Health joined Yarrawonga Health, Yarrawonga Community and Learning Centre, and MHA Care volunteers for the morning tea.

Moira Shire also hosted Volunteer Week events at various locations in the Shire last week, at Wunghnu last Friday.

Aged Care Training

About half of our current Aged Care volunteers have completed onsite training covering Resident Charter of Rights, Volunteer Code of Conduct and also Infection Control and other aged care matters relating to volunteers. This will be included in onboarding for new volunteers.

Auxiliary Updates

Friends of Karinya Auxiliary - have updated their charter. They previously had a very formal constitution last updated in 2011. If you know anyone that would be interested in being treasurer, they are after assistance. Pioneer Lodge Auxiliary – are helping the Lodge celebrate their 49th birthday.

Cobram Auxiliary - are celebrating 75 years this year and are acknowledging this milestone with a rerelease of their 2012 cookbook. Nathalia Auxiliary – next activity will be a raffle later in the year.

Vacancies on Reader Roster at Lodge:

Lodge Numurkah need volunteer newspaper readers. Only once a month for 30 minutes from 10am to 1030am reading the good news stories from the local papers and following it up with the highly contested and popular quizzes. If you know anyone that is interested let me know.

Influenza Vaccinations

About three quarters of volunteers have been vaccinated for 2025. It is mandatory this year for volunteers that volunteer in Aged Care or Acute Aged Care and Acute volunteers have until end of July to get vaccinated. If wish to get your influenza vaccination visit your GP. It is highly recommended for other volunteers.

If you are interested in getting involved in volunteering at NCN Health, contact Jacquie Hughes, Volunteer Coordinator, volunteers@ncnhealthorgau

Happy Birthday to Nancy Retallick who celebrated 100 years young on Saturday May 24th. Surrounded by family and friends including her 4 children, many grandchildren (too many to count!) and 12 great grandchildren, Nancy celebrated with lunch at Numurkah Pioneers Memorial Lodge, followed by a party at the Golf Club complete with balloons, cake, and warm tributes.

Nancy Retallick (née Nicolson) was born in Benalla in 1924, the second of three children and sister to Max and Jack. She grew up in Yarrawonga, moving there with her family at age three. A bright student, Nancy excelled at school, earning dux honours two years in a row by Grade Ten.

Her working life began in the office of a local grocery store, and she later joined the ANZ Bank. In 1945 she went to Tungamah, then to Tallangatta. It was here that she met her husband Jim (dec) a returned serviceman. The pair married a year later and began sharefarming on a dairy farm in Tallangatta. After 5 years, Nancy and Jim were among the first families to settle on a new Soldier Settlement block on what is now Spencers Road, where they farmed for 14 years.

In 1965, they moved to McGregor St, Numurkah. Jim went on to work with Kraft and then with the shire in the engineer’s office as a draftsman. Nancy raised their family and became a pillar of the community and worked a variety of jobs. She was Treasurer of the Welfare League at the local school, then worked in the office at Brown & Corke’s, she was in the primary school cafeteria for 3 years, then later in the office at the primary school, before moving to the high school cafeteria for 4 years. She also cared for her aging parents and found time to enjoy bowls in her later years.

Nancy said she received a letter from both the King and Governor General to mark the milestone birthday.

Happy 100th Birthday Nancy, congratulations on a truly remarkable lifetime of memories.

Thursday July 24

Thursday August

Week Blokes Brekky -

Week

To Highlight Men’s Health Week, NCN Health supported the Moira Shire Council to hold ‘Blokes Brekky’ events across Nathalia, Cobram and Numurkah. These chilly mornings have been a great opportunity for the community to get together, connect, chat and see what is going on around the town. Plus, they got some valuable health advice and a free tasty brekky!

A number of staff across NCN Health have organised Biggest Morning Tea events during May and June. All monies raised from these events go towards supporting Australians impacted by cancer.

New Dentist at

New Dentist at Cobram Dental Clinic

Cobram Dental Clinic

Welcome to Cobram Dental Clinic's new Dentist - Dr Adrita

Dr Adrita Arif was born and raised in New Zealand and graduated from the University of Otago in 2024 with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Adrita pursued dentistry because it encompassed a passion for science, handson skills, and interacting with people. Outside of work you will find Adrita outdoors, going on walks, playing tennis or baking.

Dr. Adrita is available for appointments Monday - Friday. Contact Cobram Dental Clinic or book online

ULTRASOUND & X-RAY OPENING HOURS

NCN Health has Ultrasound and X-Ray services available at Cobram and Numurkah campuses

Numurkah

ULTRASOUND X-RAY

Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday 8:30am - 4:00pm 8:30am - 4:00pm 8:30am - 4:00pm 8:30am - 1:30pm

Cobram

ULTRASOUND X-RAY

Thursday 9:30am - 2:30pm Monday

Wednesday Friday 9:30am - 3:00pm 9:30am - 3:00pm 9:00am - 3:30pm 9:30am - 3:00pm

Monday - Friday 9:30am - 4:00pm

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.

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. What

INVISALIGN @ COBRAM DENTAL CLINIC

Invisalign treatment is the process of wearing a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. No brackets and wires, and none of the restrictions that come with metal braces.

If this sounds good to you, and you want to jump into 2025 with a perfect smile contact Cobram Dental Clinic today.

NCN Health at Careers Day Out

NCN Health was proud to be part of the Careers Day Out expo, held at the Shepparton Showgrounds on 8 May 2025. The event brought together 3,000 students from across the region, all eager to explore their future career options NCN Health were one of 90 businesses there to spark inspiration in school leavers

Our vibrant and welcoming stall quickly became a popular stop for students, where NCN Health staff were on hand to share insights into the wide range of rewarding careers available across our health service. From nursing and allied health to support roles and administration, students gained a better understanding of the many pathways into healthcare.

A clear crowd favourite was our interactive Smoothie Bicycle! As part of this fun and educational activity, students answered a few age-appropriate questions about sexual health and wellbeing touching on topics such as safe practices and access to support services. Once they completed the quiz, students hopped on the bike and used pedal power to blend their very own smoothie a delicious and healthy reward for their efforts!

The activity not only got students moving but also opened up valuable conversations around wellbeing and the role of healthcare in the community. The combination of fun, facts and fitness made for an unforgettable experience.

The Careers Day Out also featured a strong presence from other healthcare providers and university representatives, creating a collaborative atmosphere that encouraged curiosity and connection It was a fantastic opportunity for young people to ask questions, gather resources, and imagine themselves in roles that make a real difference.

We’re proud to have contributed to such a dynamic and inspiring event and look forward to supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals

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.

OUR SERVICES

Food Intolerance and Allergies

Diabetes

Weight Management

Hypertension

Disease Management

Healthy Ageing

Lifestyle Management

IBS

Eating Disorders Childhood Nutrition

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

ncnhealth.org.au

Understanding and responding to babies feeding cues/signs

When and how to introduce solid foods and sippy cups

Progressing through food textures - from Puree to Lumps to family food

Dealing with gagging and choking

Active play you can do together

Exploring healthy body image

Strategies for limiting screen time

Lots of practical tips and ideas IDEAL FOR FAMILIES WITH BABIES 5-10 MONTHS ALL WELCOME. FREE TO ATTEND.

Join NCN Health, Yarrawonga Health and Maternal Child Health Moira Shire as we explore baby stages. With a focus on: moira.vic.gov.au

BOOKINGS PREFERRED - DETAILS BELOW.

(03) 5871 9275

Meryula Clinic (Sexual Health) @ NCN Health - Numurkah

WHAT IS MERYULA CLINIC?

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.

Bookings

GV Health Community Service Access Unit

1800 222 582 (option 4)

SERVICES - SELF REFFERED

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

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

Consumer Story

Department: Home Care Packages

The following stories were collected in 2024 from NCN Health Home Care Package clients.

Client – Paulette

Paulette is a Cobram Resident who has been using NCN Health as her Home Care Package provider since December 2020. Paulette suffered an injury that significantly impacted her independence and ability to continue with some day to day activities.

The services she utilizes though the NCN Health Home Care Package Service include occupational therapy, physiotherapy, transport assist, gardening, personal care and domestic assistance. Paulette says the service has given her peace of mind.

“I am very happy with NCN Health Home Care Package, I have everything that I wanted and Rebecca (NCN Health Case Manager) looks after me very well. I find it makes me feel very secure. I broke my kneecap and needed assistance with showering, ironing and housework. With the help of the OT (Occupational Therapist) I have had some alterations to the house, including rails put in and new taps that I can flick on and off. It is handy not to have to grip and turn the taps which I find hard. I am currently going to Cobram Physio, which is paid for under the Home Care Package. The service has definitely improved my health and wellbeing.”

Client - Barry

Barry lives in Cobram and uses NCN Health as his Home Care Package Provider. Barry’s wife had a Home Care Package before she transitioned into Residential Aged Care, and when Barry found that he needed extra support around the home he contacted NCN Health. He initially signed up with NCN Health in 2022 on a Level One Home Care Package, before being offered a Level Two package 5 months later. He says the service has helped him “immensely” and provided access to an Occupational Therapist, Podiatrist, Domestic Assistance, funds to assist with meal provision, taxi travel following back surgery, some gardening assistance and approved Pharmaceutical supplies.

“I have a cleaner in once a week for some cleaning and vacuuming, I have had my windows cleaned and am currently waiting on someone to come out and do the ceiling fans – it’s not safe for me to be on a ladder anymore.”

Consumer Story

Barry says with the help of the Occupational Therapist he has had some alterations to his bathroom, has equipment such as a Wheelie Walker, a lounge chair that rises up and down to assist him getting in and out and some specialised can and bottle openers to make meal preparation easier. He also has 5 visits per year to a podiatrist. He says the NCN Health Team are in place to guide you before and during your package.

“Tess has been my Case Manager and I can ring her or the team if I have questions about my package. If you don’t ask you don’t know.”

I have domestic help like cleaning and vacuuming once a week, I have had my windows cleaned and am currently waiting for someone to come out and do the ceiling fans.

The Occupational Therapist has been very helpful and has assisted in keeping my independence.”

Client - Gwen

Strathmerton resident Gwen has been supported by NCN Health Home Care Packages for 2 years. She currently has a cleaner come once a fortnight and also receives pre-prepared meals. Gwen said she has trouble with her knees and has found the service “really helpful”

“I have had both my knees done and it’s awkward trying to clean.”

She has also been able to have an Occupational Therapy assessment and a number of safety recommendations were made.

“I now have a seat in the shower and a grab handle, it’s really helpful.”

Gwen said she also has a small key lock for her home, which is accessible to people with the code, for emergency use. She said this has added to her feeling safer at home.

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

Ambulance Cover

Didyouknowthat Ambulancetravelisnot freefromUrgentCare CentresandMedical Clinics.Thistravelisat yourowncost.

Illness/Accident

Canhappenatany time.Thisiswhyitis vitalyoulookat separateAmbulance Cover

Ifyoudonothave AmbulanceCoveryou couldbeexpectedto paythousandsof dollarsintheevent youneedtransportby Ambulance. Exceptionsmayapply forpensioncard holdersandsome PrivateHealthpolicies.

NAVIGATE

What is NAVIGATE? NCN Health

NCN Health are proud to introduce NAVIGATE. A program designed to support members of the community to stay well in their homes.

NAVIGATE will provide short term support to members of the community who have been in hospital to get home safely and reduce the risk of re-presentation to hospital.

You are eligible for NAVIGATE services if you:

Live in the NCN Health catchment area

Recently attended or have been admitted to hospital

Have been screened by NCN Health

Consent to the program