STAFF NEWS
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
AGED CARE EMPLOYEE DAY
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. Your 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, you are at the heart of our community. We are proud and grateful for everything you do.
STRATEGIC PLANNING AND STAFF 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 are very important to this process. So that we can make sure these are included in the planning, you are invited to participate in a staff forum The forums will be facilitated by Nicole Amsing, an experienced consultant who is assisting
NCN Health with the strategic plan development. During the forum, 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.
All are welcome to attend the staff forums and there will be one at each campus. For more information see over page
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.
OUTBREAK MANAGEMENT
Despite the warmer weather and longer days a reminder to remain vigilant against illness and please stay home if you feel unwell, even if you test negative to Covid or influenza. It is vital you take care of yourself and return to work when it is safe to do so. Equally if you become symptomatic while at work, please speak to your manager or direct report immediately.
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
PEOPLE MATTER SURVEY SHORT EDITION
The People Matter Survey –Short Edition runs from September 1 to September 19. This is an exciting opportunity to speak up and help shape the future of our workplace.
It takes only 10 minutes to complete and is 100% confidential. Your feedback directly informs improvements in safety, wellbeing, leadership, culture, and team connection.
A joyful workplace is built on trust, respect, and shared purpose.
Survey results will be reviewed and actions developed by the SWELL and OHS Committees to ensure all staff voices and ideas are included in shaping what matters most.
We encourage all staff to be open and honest in their response. We are aiming for 65% participation rate, please take a moment to complete the survey.
Follow the link to complete the survey here: Survey Link
As always, thank you for your great work.
Mark Ashcroft NCN Health, CEO
Invitation to NCN Health Strategic Plan, Staff Consultation Forum
To all staff
The opinions, ideas, priorities and voice of our staff are very important to this process of Strategic Planning So that we can make sure these are included in the planning, you are invited to participate in a staff forum The forum will be facilitated by Nicole Amsing, an experienced consultant who is assisting NCN Health with the strategic plan development During the forum, 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 will be asked to share your thoughts about questions similar to the following:
• • • • If we were to look back in five years, what would success look like for our health service what would we be most proud of achieving?
What do you think are the unique strengths of our health service and how might these position us to make the biggest impact in our region? What makes you proud to work at NCN Health?
What kind of organizational culture and values do we want to live by, so that our staff, patients, and community feel confident in and connected to our service?
There will be staff forums held in each campus on the following dates:
Cobram, Wednesday 17 September, 2.30pm – 3.30pm Cobram meeting room, (in the corridor near environmental services)
Nathalia Tuesday 23 September, 2 30pm – 3 30pm Harbison Day Room
Numurkah, Monday 29 September, 2.30pm – 3.30pm
Numurkah Admin Training Room (in the building where People and Culture are located)
We understand that not everyone will be able to make it to the staff forums For those who cannot attend, a staff survey covering similar questions and feedback will be launched in mid-September Keep an eye out for more information about this over the coming weeks
We look forward to your participation and thank you in advance for helping us shape the future of health care across our communities
Yours sincerely,
Dr Mark Ashcroft Chief
Executive Officer NCN Health.
Jennifer Goldsack, Riette Kaine, Gabrielle DeMamiel, Nadja Wild, Lucky Gaya, Jennifer Jones, Jessica Sotto
Welcome Heather Flynn
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Heather Flynn as NCN Health’s new Director of People, Culture and Experience, commencing 25 August 2025.
Heather brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership from her time at Albury Wodonga Health, where she has served as Director of Workforce and Organisational Development With extensive experience leading diverse People and Culture portfolios in complex environments, Heather has a proven track record of building capability, driving continuous improvement, and shaping positive workplace cultures
What makes this role especially exciting is the addition of ‘Experience’ to the title. This reflects NCN Health’s strong commitment to ensuring both our staff and consumers have the best possible experience at every level of our organisation – something that aligns perfectly with Heather’s expertise and passion.
Alongside this appointment, there are also some reporting changes to note: Admin will now report to Tania Hill in her new role as Executive Services and Administration Manager, while Accommodation will sit with Kylie Jackson
We also want to extend our sincere thanks to Leanne Daldy for stepping into the role of Interim Director of People and Culture. Leanne has provided steady leadership and invaluable support, and she will continue to play a key role in helping Heather transition into her new position and into the NCN Health team
Please join us in warmly welcoming Heather to NCN Health – we look forward to the knowledge, energy and vision she will bring to our organisation.
Welcome Back Sandra Simpson
Welcome back Sandra Simpson to the payroll team and P&C team, in her newly appointed role as Senior Payroll & Systems Officer
Sandra will be looking after our payroll & roster systems and assisting with payroll processing
One of her first projects will be the implementation of our new roster system – Optima over the next 6-9 months After working at GV Health in their Optima project team and payroll team, we are excited to utilise the new skills and knowledge that Sandra brings with her.
Sandra will be working 4 days a week from 8am – 4 30pm and will be located in the payroll office.
Staff Service Awards
Congratulations to the following staff who have received a Service Award in August. These staff will be acknowledged at the Annual General Meeting.
Tabatha Burch, 10 years
Elizabeth Newby, 20 years
Karen Edwards, 10 years.
Farewell
Jacquie Bell
We farewelled Jacquie Bell after 30 years with the health service. Jacquie was one of our fabulous Community Midwives working in the community. Imagine how many babies of Moira Jacquie has known over 30 years!
Heather and Ash Celebrate
Congratulations to Heather and Ash in the Cobram Medical Clinic - both celebrating milestones early in August.
Heather has been part of the Cobram Medical Clinic team for 25 years, and Ash for 15!
New Look Ultrasound at Cobram
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
Outlookupcoming changes
The modern Outlook Web App allows you to access it anywhere, anytime, from any device. It’s faster than the desktop app and has many great features.
WHAT IS CHANGING?
The Outlook Web App is already available to all staff. We will be removing the Outlook Desktop App in phases in sync with Microsoft’s plan and licensing.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
If you have received an email, then you are the first group to be part of the Modernisation Plan. Please start familiarising yourself with the Outlook Web App now, before the cut-off date of 19 August 2025
GET READY NOW
Familiarise yourself with the Outlook Web App: https://outlook.office.com/mail/ (Available on the home page of our NCN Health intranet)
Prepare for a 2GB mailbox size
Continue to access other Microsoft apps like Teams, Word, Excel etc. without changes
FAQ’S
Is Training Available?
Yes, join a Lunch n’
Learn via the Intranet.
My Mailbox is greater than 2GB. What will happen?
You will not be able to send or receive mail until you have reduced the size.
I need the Outlook Desktop App due to my role, what do I do?
Send a request to HRHA with your Manager and Finance approval. We can add an additional licence upon approval.
Can I still use LiquidFiles via Outlook?
No, it is not currently available in the Outlook Web App. You can access LiquidFiles via the Intranet - Bookmarks and Links section.
OutlookAdding a shared Mailbox to Webmail
I NEED TO ACCESS DIFFERENT MAILBOXES.
HOW DO I DO THIS?
1.Open the web app, either by finding it on the intranet or via the staff login on the NCN Health website.
2. Locate the three ... next to folders and click. You will get the options to the side.
3. Click add shared folder or mailbox, search for the mailbox you are wanting to add, select it and click continue.
4. If you have permission to that mailbox, you will get the following message.
5. Click close and exit the window, the mailbox will now be visible below your main inbox on the lefthand side. Expand it by click the arrow in front of the name.
HybridHero
What is HybridHero?
HybridHero is our desk booking system which enables staff who work across campuses to make sure they always have somewhere to sit.
How do I book a desk?
Booking a desk has never been easier - simply jump onto the Intranet and select Desk Booking from the front page. You will need to enter your username (staff email) and password.
Once you have logged in and set up your profile you have access to the desks to book what you need. Watch the video below to see how to book your desk and check in.
How often do I need to book a desk?
You only need to book a desk if you are working at a campus that you don’t normally work from and need to sit in a new location.
How do I know if a desk is available?
When booking in the desks that are available will be able to be selected. If you can’t select a desk, it has already been booked by someone else
What if my work plans change?
If you are no longer in need of a booking, please adjust your bookings as soon as you know. This allows someone else to use that desk
ICT REQUESTS
TO SUBMIT AN ICT REQUEST TO HRHA
PLEASE USE THESE DETAILS:
Email: Service.Desk@hrha.org.au
Phone: (Internal) *4742
Phone: (External) (03) 5825 9990
Please alert your direct manager if you feel the request needs escalating. They will escalate to the Business Services Manager if required for escalation with HRHA. In this instance you will need to give your manager and the Business Services Manager the job number associated with your IT issue.
REWARD AND RECOGNITION
ANGE SORTINO - AFTER HOURS MANAGER / NUMURKAH ACUTE
Ange always works to ensure that patients are advocated for and that someone is speaking up for them and voicing their concerns when they may feel they can't Ange also works to ensure that all of the junior/new staff are given opportunities to practice and learn new skills that they may not be entirely confident with yet Through this Ange is ensuring that new staff are practising within best practice and patient centred care to ensure the best possible health outcomes for patients.
ADMINISTRATION TEAM - COBRAM
I would like to recognise the whole administration team. Staff are continuing to work within the values and providing extra support and accountability for their workload, The administration team are respecting each other, despite extra pressures The team are showing great partnership and showing the importance of working collaboratively in a team.
KARLEE MILLSTEED - EDUCATION / COBRAM
Karlee is always going the extra mile for her team and those she interacts with. She has recently been incredibly busy in her role but has still found time to go out of her way to assist other staff with work tasks during her work time and provide meaningful input to people in other departments (staff and participants)
KATE WIESNER - PHYSIOTHERAPIST / COBRAM
Recent collaboration with Kate regarding an inpatient who is also a home care package client. I was so impressed with Kate's high standard of care, her respectful manner & conversations with the client & her attention to detail considering how the client will manage on discharge to home. Holistic care provided was impressive.
TABATHA BURCH - LEISURE AND LIFESTYLE / NUMURKAH PAG
Always doing outstanding work planning activities and outtings and following up work outside of expectations.
MANJU JOHN - REGISTERED NURSE / COBRAM ACUTE
Manju works diligently to complete all paperwork to a high standard during her shifts as a Registered Nurse at Cobram Acute. Her attention to detail is to be commended and provides excellent role modelling for all staff in the Acute Ward. Recent quality audits done in Acute have demonstrated great improvements in areas needed to support patient risk assessment and safety. She has recently completed post graduate studies and regularly shares her knowledge and skills for all those she works with. Manju has proven leadership qualities and will easily be a valued candidate for future leadership positions at Cobram Acute.
JACINDA LAWRENCE - ACTING NURSE UNIT MANAGER / COBRAM ACUTE
Jacinda is working in a new role as the interim Nurse Unit Manager of the Acute/UCC Cobram She is embracing this role with enthusiasm and confidence. She has the patients at the centre of her decision making and is supporting the team to provide safe patient care. Jacinda is taking all learning opportunities in her stride and has really consolidated her leadership skills during this time. I know the team are in good hands a Cobram.
KRISTEN, ALICE AND THE DENTAL TEAM - COBRAM DENTAL CLINIC
Kristen, Dentist Alice and dental staff, Went beyond and above to help a patient who was having terrible pain and finding it hard to get the help they needed The dental clinic worked closely with the medical clinic to help assist the patient. They all went beyond their means and out of their ways to help this patient
Sexual Health Month Quiz
Each week we will be sending out a Sexual Health Month Quiz for all staff to participate in!
Respiratory Fit Test
Is your N95 Mask the correct one?
Did you know that you need a new fit test done at least every few years? You may need one sooner if you have had any changes.
WHEN DO I NEED A NEW TEST?
You can request a Respiratory Fit Test at any time - particularly is you have:
Significant weight loss or gain
Facial trauma/surgery
Scarring or cosmetic surgery/cosmetic procedures such as fillers
Extensive dental work including extractions and new dentures
Any concerns about the respirator you were previously fitted
HOW DO I BOOK A TEST
Appointments can be scheduled via the Intranet under the People and Culture tab.
Irvin House Leadership Project
Over the past five months, the Irvin House Leadership Team completed a culture transformation project focused on improving communication, strengthening accountability, and creating a joyful, positive workplace.
The project shifted our leadership approach from being taskdriven 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.
GP & Nursing Medical Emergency Training
On Friday August 8 the Education team delivered an interactive GP & Nursing Medical Emergency Training session in the Cobram Urgent Care Centre.
The Education team were thrilled with the attendance, the interaction and the commitment to continued learning and are looking forward to the next session
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
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.
Second Hand Uniform Sales
We have a selection of Second Hand Uniform items that are for sale. Second hand uniform items are a great way to update your work wardrobe on a budget It is also a great way to recycle textiles! Second hand uniforms are available to purchase year round (subject to what is available at the time) at a fraction of the cost of a new uniform.
Payment is made via salary deduction. Once items are selected and the order and salary deduction form is complete, please email it to ncnuniforms@ncnhealthorgau
The list of items available, order and deduction form can be found on the Second Hand Uniforms page on the Intranet. Simply locate the page under Popular Hangouts on the home page.
Currently the uniforms team are having a Winter sale on Winter outerwear items. Please find the list of available items on the Intranet. All items start at $10!
Social Club Happenings!
Billy Barrell Winners!
Every month, 2 lucky social club members win a $30 cash prize in a random Billy Barrell Draw.
The latest winners are:
August
Justin Sullivan
Brooke Clurey
July
Teruko Smith
Andrea Walker
June
Julie Anne Vella
Lynne Peterson
Please arrange to collect your $30 cash prize from Numurkah reception, please note you can have someone pick it up on your behalf, but they will have to sign for it. If you have any issues, contact ncnsocialclub@ncnhealth.org.au If you’d like to be in the draw to win a Billy Barrell Cash Prize, join social club! Just $5 per fortnight. To join, head to the Social Club page on the intranet for all the details - Social Club
We would love a representative from each department to come onboard and join the committee. Help us grow in the right direction �� Including more staff on the committee from Nathalia and Cobram to help in this process.
What does the Social Club Committee do?
Help organise social events for staff
You are wondering what the committee commitment is?
Attend bimonthly meeting (usually go for about an hour) on a Monday in the evening every two months.
What about, if I wish to become a social club member only, what are the benefits of becoming a member (if currently not a Social Club member)?
Social Club costs you $5 per fortnight and currently offers the following;
• One entry into the monthly Billy Barrell monthly $30 draw
• Free or discounted tickets to social club events
• Free or discounted ticket to the NCN Health Club Christmas Party! Scheduled for November 21, 2025.
What do I need to do to become a member? Fill out an Authority to Deduct Form and email the completed form to NCN Payroll –
A newsletter is a periodical publication, which can either be printed or published electronically It is issued regularly, usually every week or every month, and it contains a variety of content. This can include articles, stories, photographs, and advertisements.
Sharing Wisdom, Bridging Generations
To celebrate National Youth Day, residents at Karinya Nursing Home joined in the fun by offering heartfelt advice to the young people of Numurkah. With years of life experience behind them, residents shared pearls of wisdom on everything from friendship and family to kindness, resilience and chasing your dreams. Their thoughtful messages were warmly received and will no doubt inspire our local youth as they navigate their own journeys.
Karinya had a busy month. We enjoyed a ‘Hyacinth’ themed high tea with entertainment, kindly organised by Bev, one of our fabulous volunteers.
On the International “Left Hander Day”, some residents tried some left handed activities (drawing and cutting and putting their left handed skills to the test.)
One of our youngest, and most popular volunteers, turned 4 and shared his birthday with the residents, complete with cake!
Visit Kineo Now
Mandatory Training is due to be completed by September 30, 2025
Easy to complete via Kineo
Book practical training via Kineo, attend and get signed off!
Easy to do, essential to your role
Different training depending on your role at NCN Health
TRAININGPORTAL
Dental Discount for NCN Health staff located at Nathalia and Numurkah
10%
Staff must be in uniform or show their Staff ID Photo Card at the time of the appointment to receive the discount.
Can only be used at the Numurkah practice. No discounts will be given post appointment
Do you have a baby between the ages of 3- 9 months?
Are you introducing solids or have questions about food?
Would you like practical tips and ideas?
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
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
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
Meryula Clinic (Sexual Health) @ NCN Health - Numurkah Bookings
Monday 15th September
Monday 10th November
GV Health Community
Service Access Unit
1800 222 582 (option 4)
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
Footy Tipping Winners 2025
1. Catherine 86
Dawn Anne
CatsPremiers22
All prizes will be organised from throughout the year and the final result. These will be distributed soon.
