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

NCN Health counsellors offer counselling in the following areas:

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

STRATEGIC PLANNING AND CONSULTATION

The Board of NCN Health has approved the development of NCN Health's next strategic plan The current strategic plan is due to expire at the end of this calendar year. Consultation with staff, the community and our partners is helping to inform the development of the next strategic plan.

The opinions, ideas, priorities and voice of our staff and community are very important to this process So that we can make sure these are included in the planning, we will be holding a number of consultation opportunities We have scheduled in person staff forums in each campus during the month of September, we have invited representatives from our partner health services, local businesses, service clubs and organisations to attend a community workshop, we will have hard copy survey’s available at main reception, community health and for the resident and families in our aged care facilities. There will also be an online survey circulated on our social media pages, on our website and in this newsletter. When participating in consultation, you will be asked to share your views about the future of NCN Health and the type of organisation it needs to be so that it can best support the community

You may be asked to think about what matters to you in health care, what the priorities of local health care should be and any thoughts on how we can achieve these outcomes.

You can complete the online survey HERE:

https://www.surveymonkey.c om/r/NCNCommunity

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NUMURKAH PIONEERS MEMORIAL LODGE

Numurkah Pioneers Memorial Lodge celebrated 49 years on Thursday August 28 with residents, their families and staff in attendance. A number of attendees have had a long affiliation with the Lodge, including past Board Members, Auxiliary members and Volunteer Coordinators. Many thanks to our wonderful staff and Auxiliary for organising the celebrations and afternoon tea.

It is a particularly exciting time for the Lodge as the new residential aged care development progresses In the coming month/s we will see demolition of existing dwellings in Hurley Court and extensive site preparation where the new ‘Lodge’ will be built We can expect to see construction of the new facility begin in mid 2026.

COMMUNITY READING DAY

Congratulations to the Community Health and Community Development Team for three very successful community reading days across Nathalia, Cobram and Numurkah. These events attracted the most engagement we have seen, especially in Nathalia where participation was significantly increased. It is such a joyful event that promotes important partnerships with our community; from local business, to schools and families. Great work everyone and thank you for your efforts.

New Residential Aged Care Development Numurkah

NCN Health are working with the Victorian Health Building Authority on finalising the detailed design of the new ‘Lodge’ at NCN Health Numurkah, before it can be put out to tender and a builder appointed. The final stages of the design also include further consultation with user groups to determine finer details and needs within the design. Community members will start to see the demolition of buildings in October in Hurley Court and the start of site preparation. We look forward to sharing the finalised building plans once they become available

Aged Care Employee Day falls on August 7 annually. NCN Health would like to recognise the incredible aged care team at NCN Health, not just during August, but every day. Their compassion, dedication and tireless commitment make a real difference in the lives of our residents and their families. From providing quality care and comfort to creating moments of joy and connection, they are at the heart of our community. We are proud and grateful for everything they do.

International Youth Day

August 12 was international Youth Day and Karinya Residents passed on some wisdom the youth in our region!

Mark Ashcroft NCN Health CEO

Community Reading Day

In August, NCN Health proudly partnered with local schools, businesses and community members to celebrate Community Reading Day across Nathalia, Cobram and Numurkah

The day was a wonderful success, with approximately 550 children taking part Many came dressed as their favourite book characters, bringing colour and imagination to the event

A huge thank you goes to the 46 local businesses who opened their doors to welcome students and share in the joy of reading. Their support helps create a strong sense of connection between our schools and communities

We are also incredibly grateful to the 34 volunteers who generously gave their time to read with the children and help bring the stories to life

Community Reading Day is a wonderful reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of nurturing a love of books in young people. Events like this strengthen the bond between our health service, local businesses, schools and families – creating moments of joy and inspiration that will be remembered for years to come

Irvin House Leadership Group

driven to one that empowers staff to work to their full scope and prioritises resident-centred care. We focused on building a culture that encourages staff engagement, collaboration, and strong teamwork.

My name is Faith and Iam currently on a Social Workplacement here at NCNHealth. My Project is looking at dementia friendly communities. There is not enough awareness out in society surrounding the topic of helpingpeople with dementia – starting with theyoungergeneration, Ensuring they have information on what is occurring for this group and teaching them how to be kind and compassionate is essential for making sure the wellbeing ofpeople with dementia is kept at a high level. Ihave apersonal connection to this topic, as my Granny was diagnosed with dementia in 2014. This has had a significant impact on my family as it has progressed. It would have been excellent to have had some kind of early discussion about how we could support Granny with her emotions as it has become more difficult for her.

Lodge Birthday Celebrations

Numurkah Pioneers Memorial Lodge celebrated 49 years on Thursday August 28 with residents their families and staff in attendance.

Adding to the festivities were the birthdays of Lorna Morris (98) and Margaret Mitchell.

A number of attendees have had a long affiliation with the Lodge, including past Board Members, Auxiliary members and Volunteer Coordinators.

Many thanks to our wonderful staff and Auxiliary for organising the celebrations and delicious afternoon tea.

Back: Margaret Caccianiga, Lindsay Mitchell, Barb McKeown, Margaret McClelland, Heather Brown

Middle: Gweneth Varley and Rosemary Kennett

Front: Lorna Morris and Margaret Mitchell.

Winter Warmers at Karinya

Karinya staff and residents have stayed active and warm during winter enjoying some recent self care with foot baths and table top games.

Connections Day Bridge Walk

Representatives from NCN Health joined Many Mobs Indigenous Corporation in the Annual Connections Day Bridge Walk at Yarrawonga Mulwala. We are grateful to have the opportunity to walk together and celebrate Country with respect and acknowledgement of everyone who came before. Thank you to the Community Development Team who shared some health information resources on the day

Dharnya Day 2025

It was beautiful and sunny in the heart of the Barmah Forest for Dharnya Day, where community gathered to celebrate Yorta Yorta Country, culture, connection and community during NAIDOC Week Congrats to all the team at Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation for creating such a special day each year for us to come together!!

@ 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.

Manager Allied Health and Chronic Disease

The Manager Allied Health and Chronic Disease provides operational and clinical leadership, management and direction for the Allied Health and Chronic Disease programs across NCN Health, including Allied Health, Chronic Disease and Mental Health programs, Access and Intake, Moira Community Rehabilitation Centre and the Moira Respiratory Program ensuring that all clinicians are well supported in their individual roles

Registered Nurse

NCN Health is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Registered Nurse to join our Theatre team in Numurkah. This position requires current perioperative experience, including proficiency in PreAdmission Anaesthetics, Operating Theatre, Recovery, CSSD, and the Day Procedure Unit. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing high-quality patient care, demonstrating clinical excellence, and working both autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Environmental Services Assistant

NCN Health have an exciting opportunity for an Environmental Services Assistant to join our team in Environmental Services at Numurkah. 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

Intake Administration Assistant

This position is responsible for providing high level administrative and clerical services within the NCN Health Intake Team. The role involves working collaboratively with intake staff as well as clients in the community. The role requires timely and efficient management and processing of incoming referrals and confidential management of medical record establishment and adherence to the NCN Health Intake process

ULTRASOUND & X-RAY OPENING HOURS

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

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

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

NEW LOOK ULTRASOUND

Ultrasound at Cobram has moved into their new room! Spacious, fresh and ready to continue servicing the community. This upgrade was part of the final stages of the Cobram Campus redevelopment that included a redeveloped urgent care centre and acute ward area. The new ultrasound room is fit for purpose allowing better access for community members. While the room is upgraded, the process remains the same:

Booking can be made by calling Cobram Main Reception on 03 5871 0777, or come in and chat to our reception staff.

Check in at Main Reception

The new room is right off Main Reception

Same great care, fresh new space!

Xray and Ultrasound also available at Numurkah Campus.

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.

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

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

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

Meryula Clinic (Sexual Health)

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

@ NCN Health - Numurkah 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

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

Consumer Story

Department: X-Ray and Ultrasound

The consumer is a Nathalia resident who was referred by her doctor to get an X-Ray. Not wanting to go travel to Shepparton she called NCN Health Numurkah.

“Parking is an issue in Shepparton, and then you have to hobble into the health service, access can be an issue.”

Unfortunately, when she rang to make an appointment in Numurkah there was a wait of over one week.

“The receptionist asked me where I lived and if I was able to get to Cobram. When I said yes, she said they could fit me in that day. I got straight in the car and drove the Cobram, I parked right outside the front door and only waited 5 minutes to have my X-Ray done.”

The consumer said she was very impressed with the access to the health service and the new look front entry and acute/urgent care area.

“I haven’t been to Cobram since the renovations were completed and I thought it looked lovely, so much more space and very easy to get around.”

During 2025 the consumer has also been managing an infection in her heel due to an underlying health issue.

“I have had an infection that has caused a wound on my heel and have been visited by the District Nurses from both Nathalia and Numurkah twice a week. I find their wound care knowledge is excellent, their care is perfect. I think we are very lucky in this rural area to have access to the health services that we do.”

Reflections

This consumer story is an example of the importance of care provided close to home. For many people in rural areas, travel can be a significant barrier to accessing timely health care whether due to distance, mobility, or simple things like parking and building access. It also shows the value of flexibility across our campuses. When an appointment wasn’t immediately available in Numurkah, staff were able to quickly find an alternative at Cobram, allowing the consumer to receive the care they needed without delay.

Consumer Story

The responsiveness of our team and the consumer’s positive experience of Cobram’s upgraded facilities demonstrate the impact that service accessibility, well-designed spaces, and good communication can have on patient experience.

Finally, the consumer’s comments about the district nursing team reflect the ongoing importance of high-quality community care. The ability to receive skilled wound care support at home not only reduces the need for hospital visits, but also provides reassurance, trust, and continuity of care.

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