STAFF NEWS
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The NCN Health Board of Directors invites our staff and community to attend, in person or online, the Annual General Meeting. The AGM is an opportunity to table the Annual Report and celebrate our Staff Service Awards and Annual Awards for 2025. Each year the AGM is rotated around our three towns, this year the AGM will be held in Numurkah on Wednesday November 26 at 4pm. If you cannot be there in person, you can attend online via zoom, by clicking on the link shortly before the scheduled meeting. Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82 540846425
Meeting ID: 825 4084 6425
AGED CARE REFORMS
Aged care reforms took effect on November 1, 2025, with the introduction of the new Aged Care Act, which aims to put older Australians' rights and needs first. Key changes include a new Statement of Rights, strengthened Quality Standards, the replacement of Home Care Packages with the Support at Home Program, and a new framework for registered supporters. The reforms also introduce a new fee structure for residential care, including price caps and protections on prices
Well done to our staff within Community Health and wellbeing, the Support at Home Team and our Residential Aged Care staff for your work in understanding, managing and implementing these important changes.
‘NEW LODGE’ DEVELOPMENT
After many months of planning and detailed design the early works to pave the way for the new Public Sector Residential Aged Care Facility at Numurkah campus began on October 21 The facility will replace the existing Numurkah Pioneers Memorial Lodge.
The Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) who are an arm of the Department of Health, are leading this project in collaboration with NCN Health.
Land acquisition negotiations were finalised earlier in the year and Crow Constructions have managed the early works of this project. This included the demolition of several dwellings on Hurley Court and general site clean-up and preparation. The tender to appoint a builder for the project has closed, and applications are currently being reviewed Once a builder is appointed, construction will begin mid 2026.
The detailed design of the ‘new Lodge’ must consider the recommendations from the National Aged Care Design Principals and Guidelines which were created as a result of the Royal Commission into Aged Care.
Designed with residents’ privacy, dignity and independence front of mind, the facility will feature single bedrooms, each with a private ensuite. The facility will be divided into smaller households, each with its own dedicated kitchen, dining and lounge areas, giving residents the choice to socialise or enjoy quiet time. In addition to modern living spaces, the new building will include shared facilities such as a café, personal care room, activity room and reflection room, alongside outdoor areas for residents and their families to enjoy.
Natural light and views of the surrounding landscape have been prioritised throughout the design to create a calm, home-like environment. It will also feature dementiafriendly design and provide a more modern, efficient and safer working environment for staff.
We are hoping to be able to share some images from the design in the coming weeks.
STRATEGIC PLANNING
Thank you to all staff who took the time to provide feedback, whether in person or online, for the next NCN Health 5 year Strategic Plan. The voices, opinions and priorities of staff at NCN Health are very important in helping to set the direction of health service and we really appreciate your time and contributions.
MESSAGE FROM THE C
Our Strategic Planning consultant Nicole Amsing is now working on drafting the plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors. Once finalised it will be available to all staff. It’s important to remember that this is only the first step. The plan isn’t a static document it’s a living guide that will continue to evolve as our services, our communities and our workforce change. Over the next five years, we’ll keep revisiting, reviewing and testing the plan to make sure it remains relevant and aligned with our goals. Your insights and involvement will be key to keeping the plan meaningful, practical and responsive to the needs of our organisation and the communities we serve.
Mark Ashcroft NCN Health, CEO
Land Cleared for ‘New Lodge’
Picture above and right are photos of the demolition and site preparation taking place in Hurley Court.
This will be the site for the new residential aged care, set to replace Numurkah Pioneers Memorial Lodge.
The new Statement of Rights
TheAgedCareAct2024,whichstarts from 1 November 2025, will include a Statement of Rights. This explains the rights you have when accessing aged care services funded by the Australian Government. Independence, autonomy, empowerment and freedom of choice
Youwillhave therightto make yourown decisionsandhavecontrolover:
•
•
•
• which funded aged care services you use how you access funded aged care services and who provides them your money and belongings how you live, even if there is some personal risk.
You will have the right to get support to make these decisions if you need to.
Equitable access
Youwill have therighttoa fair and accurate assessment to find out what funded aged care services you need.
This assessment should be done in a way that suits you. It should respect your:
•
•
• culture and background personal experience and the impact of any trauma you may have experienced cognitive conditions, such as dementia.
You will also have the right to get the kind of care you need, when you need it.
Quality and safe funded aged care services
Youwill havetherighttosafe,qualityandfairfundedagedcareservices that treat you with dignity and respect.
This includes the right to access funded aged care services that:
•
•
•
• value and support your identity, culture and background respect your experience, including any trauma are accessible and meet your needs are free from violence, abuse and neglect.
You will have the right to access funded aged care services from:
•
• workers with the right training, skills and experience providers that meet all the conditions under the aged care laws.
Respect for privacy and information
Your provider must:
• respect your personal privacy
• protect your personal information, such as information about your health and finances.
You will have the right to get records and information about your rights and the funded aged care services you use. This includes how much they cost.
Person-centred communication and ability to raise issues without reprisal
You willhavetheright to:
• get information in a way you understand
• give feedback.
You will have the right to communicate in the language or method you prefer. This includes using interpreters or communication aids if you need them.
You will also have the right to meet with your provider and your supporters in a way that suits you.
When there are issues with your funded aged care services, you will have the right to:
• get support from your provider
• complain without fear or being punished
• get a quick and fair response to your complaints.
Advocates, significant persons and social connections
You may need support to understand your rights,make decisions ormakea complaint. You will have the right to get this support from an independent advocate or someone else you choose.
Providers should respect the role of the people who are important to you.
You will have the right to stay connected with:
• the people who are important to you
• your community, including by taking part in leisure or cultural activities
• your pets.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will have a right to stay connected with their community, Country and Island Home.
More information
Read the fullStatement ofRights, including how you can make sure your rights are upheld: www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-act/about
Christy Culton
Anneke Hardi
Deborah Swan
Amanda Aguirre-Villalobos
Jennifer Becroft
Jordan Merriman
Maree Sartori
Sarah Sweeney
Leema Arangassery Jose
Dominica Bowden
Lynne Bradley
Regi Joseph
John La Torre
Kerryn Powlesland
Felicity Tozer
in Moira Shire
Staff Service Awards
Congratulations to the following staff who have received a Service Award in September and October. These staff will be acknowledged at the Annual General Meeting.
Deborah Swan, 30 years
Lisa Formica, 40 years
Dorothy Barbaro, 10 years
Kylie Murray, 15 years
Cathryne Sykes, 10 years
Rebeka Denham, 15 years.
There is also a walk against family violence happening in Yarrawonga on November 30.
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.
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.
Temporary X-ray Closure in Cobram
The Cobram X-Ray Department will be closed from Monday, 17 November and will reopen on Monday, 1 December.
This short closure will allow for some upgrades to the X-Ray room, including new flooring and wall linings.
X-Ray services will still be available at NCN Health Numurkah during this time 5 days a week.
To make an appointment, please call (03) 5862 0555 or email NCNImaging@ncnhealthorg au
If you need to contact Cobram, you can still phone (03) 5871 0777, and reception will direct your call
Ultrasound services at Cobram will continue as normal during this period. Thank you for your understanding while we complete these improvements!
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
SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER
BRONTI O'CONNOR – OPERATIONS MANAGER
Bronti displays the NCN Health values in her excellent communications skills, commitment to assisting and supporting her staff and co-workers and initiative in projects. She genuinely cares about her role and the organisation.
JACQUIE HUGHES - VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
If you looked up Respect, Accountability and Partnership in the dictionary you would find a photo of Jacquie Hughes. She displays these values in abundance with every person she meets, whether a volunteer, client, resident, staff member or community member. She applies her broad skills and initiative to every situation, even when it sits outside her specific role. Some examples; In group projects JH is always engaged, helpful and progressive She often takes work off other people’s shoulders when she sees they are overwhelmed. She is someone you can go to for advice on a problem and she will always, without fail, try to assist you to find an effective resolution. She has a can-do attitude about EVERYTHING, she says yes first then gets to work trying to sort out what is the best approach JH is a positive representative of NCN Health at all times, she has built trusted partnerships, is transparent in her approach to her work and gives all people, of all levels, her time and respect. She remains calm under pressure and seeks to ensure all tasks and interactions with clients, volunteers, community members and consumers are undertaken with care and a mindful approach. She is efficient, effective and brings a positive attitude to work consistently.
JACKSON FITZPATRICK – EEN
Thank you to Jackson who looked after me overnight a while ago. When he took my blood pressure in the morning, he noticed that my heart rate was very low. After checking it manually and doing an ECG, he escalated my care to the After Hours Manager an On Call Doctor If it wasn't for him, I would not have received higher care and in the end I had to have a pacemaker inserted.
CAROLYN HARGREAVES – DIRECTOR CLINICAL SERVICES COBRAM
1.Going above and beyond her role and offering help to support services, delivering goods to another department It was a real help as we were very busy and goods needed to be delivered on time for Enviro staff to use to start their day.
2. Carolyn works tirelessly to ensure NCN Health is recognized as an exemplary Health Service at both a local and state level It could be argued that as an executive manager it is simply Carolyn's job to do what she does, but I would challenge any NCN staff member who could not acknowledge the dedication, passion and commitment shown by Carolyn is above and beyond her position description. Her unwavering professionalism and exceptional ability to consistently support and encourage staff and colleagues is remarkable Carolyn leads by example and has an ability to elevate all those she works with. I am consistently inspired by the way that Carolyn approaches unfamiliar and/or challenging situations with fortitude and resilience Managers like Carolyn are rare and often don't receive the recognition they deserve. Thank you for your guidance and support. Your passion for your people is infectious.
KYLIE JACKSON - ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT
Kylie brings good energy wherever she goes. She’s always willing to jump in and help out, and she does a great job with accommodation too!
SANDRA SIMPSON - SENIOR PAYROLL AND SYSTEMS OFFICER
Thank you, Sandra, for your help in organizing and clearing out the uniform clutter It made a big difference!
TRICIA PEREZ – ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Tricia does an amazing job keeping everything clean and organized Her attention to detail really shows in the quality of her work
JO AND BROOKE JOHNSTON – ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Jo is always thoughtful towards residents and staff doing many little things to make peoples day a good one. On Father’s Day, Jo personally went and purchased a pack of much appreciated chocolate biscuits for all the men in our facility. The gifts were a hit with our men. This is just one of the many wonderful things she has done to make our workplace and the residents home a great one.
I would like to nominate Kellie Salter for the Living the Values Award, recognising her exceptional demonstration of Respect, Accountability, and Partnership Kellie consistently shows a deep respect for her colleagues, clients, and the community. She actively listens to others’ perspectives and ensures that everyone’s voice is heard. Whether in meetings or casual conversations, she fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated Her considerate approach creates a positive and inclusive workplace, where people are empowered to be themselves. Kellie holds herself and others to high standards. She takes ownership of her work, is transparent about challenges, and always follows through on her commitments. When things don’t go as planned, Kellie faces the situation head-on, taking responsibility and learning from the experience. Kellie consistently works toward mutual goals, celebrates team successes, and helps elevate others to achieve their best. Her dedication to building strong, meaningful relationships with colleagues makes her an invaluable part of the team.
Morning Tea at Banawah
Nathalia District Kindergarten Students enjoyed morning tea and activities with Banawah residents recently. The event was a hit with the students and residents alike and many stories were shared The morning tea is part of a project on ‘Creating Dementia Friendly Communities’ facilitated by Charles Sturt University Social Work Student Faith Butt. Faith is currently on a Social Work Placement at NCN Health and is working on raising awareness and support for people with dementia, with a special focus on engaging the younger generation
Dr Niki Vincent
We were honoured to welcome Dr Niki Vincent to NCN Health Numurkah recently.
Dr Vincent is Victoria’s inaugural Public Sector Gender Equality Commissioner, leading the implementation of Australia’s first Gender Equality Act Her work drives systemic change across more than 300 organisations and 450,000 employees in the public sector.
With a PhD in Psychology and a career spanning leadership, academia, and the community sector, Dr Vincent is nationally recognised for her expertise in equity, leadership, and organisational culture reform She’s also a Harvard Kennedy School graduate, Nationally Accredited Mediator, and award-winning advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership.
Dr Vincent’s passionate yet practical, no-nonsense approach resonated strongly with staff helping them understand the real and measurable impact of gender equity in the workplace
Thank you, Dr Vincent, for visiting NCN Health and sharing your insights on advancing gender equality in the public sector.
Pictured from left:
Dr Kate Farhall, Dr Niki Vincent, NCN Health People and Engagement Manager Donna Holmes and Director of People and Engagement Heather Flynn and CEO Mark Ashcroft.
Life Membership for Dr Tyndall
NCN Health congratulates Dr Pauline Tyndall, who has been awarded Life Membership of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) a prestigious honour recognising her long-standing contribution to general practice.
A couple of weeks ago, I received an invitation from the RACGP to attend a ceremony where I would be awarded Life Membership. At the time, I hadn't planned to go partly because I felt a little overawed by the idea
It was actually a patient who changed my mind. They happened to overhear the reminder phone call and, as I hung up, they surprised me with a cheerful and encouraging comment: "You should go it's a great honour." And they were right
Very recently, I attended the ceremony. I had the joy of sharing the experience with the lovely Dr Caroline Kamenjarin currently working in GVH ED and a GP anaesthetist of many years. She, too, was being honoured. (That's her in the picture.) Her late husband, Dr Michael Kamenjarin, had been a visiting general surgeon at Cobram Medical Clinic, and was much loved in our community.
It was, indeed, a great honour to be recognised as a long-serving GP and to be made a Life Member of RACGP. But it's more than just an individual achievement
So, on behalf of "we GPs," I want to extend sincere thanks to our team. Some of us have been around a long time, all doing our best to support our patients and improve their health. But we know that the work of general practice is not done in isolation.
To the current and past staff medical, nursing, allied health, administrative and to those from nearby and former workplaces: thank you You've all played an important part in my GP journey, and in the work we do collectively. Thank you for doing your best, for supporting us, and for helping to make a difference in our communities
And to those mentoring or simply working alongside our younger doctors our interns, residents, and registrars it’s worth remembering that their journey, though long and often challenging, is made lighter and richer through your encouragement and support Perhaps, one day, they too will be invited to accept a similar award. And when that moment comes, I hope they will look back and remember, with gratitude, the people who helped them along the way
With appreciation and gratitude,
Dr Pauline Tyndall
Nathalia Gym Going Strong!
Nathalia Gym has a full house at the Strength & Balance class in Nathalia – 14 participants! It’s fantastic to see so many locals staying active and connected. Want to join in? New participants are always welcome – come along and give it a try! Before attending the gym you will need to have an assessment with Sharon, please contact Sharonabel@ncnhealthorgau 03 5866 9444
Trivia Success for Karinya Auxiliary
A big thank you to everyone who joined us for the Friends of Karinya Auxiliary Trivia Night at the Shamrock in Numurkah It was a fantastic evening, and thanks to your support, all proceeds will go towards enhancing the lives of our residents
Melbourne Cup Comes to Irvin House!
Irvin House residents, staff, volunteers and friends were thrilled to be part of the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour This was followed by a gala dinner Profits from the gala dinner are going towards a push for dialysis service to be installed at NCN Health Cobram
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:
October
Lauren Hennessy
Jacquie Hughes
September
Marisa Friedrich
Rachel Hitchcock
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
The Social Club Christmas Party is happening Friday November 21, there will be lots of prize draws for those attending. We look forward to celebrating with you all.
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.
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
Annual Cobram Barooga Golf Club
Veterans
Fundraiser
The 14th Annual CBGC Veterans Community Health Charity Golf Tournament was held on Tuesday, 7 October, in perfect weather conditions on the West Course.
Around 100 golfers took part in the charity event, with all money raised to be donated to NCN Health/Cobram District Hospital.
CBGC Vets President Greg Boyer proudly presented a cheque for $7,345.80 to NCN Health representatives Melissa Neal and Jason Kerr.
Over the years, this much-loved tournament has raised more than $80,000 for community health initiatives.
The CBGC Veterans Golf Committee includes Greg Boyer (President), Brian Nowell (Secretary), Michael Burton (Treasurer), and members Brian Oldham and George McLaughlin.
Pictured: (From left) NCN Health representatives Jason Kerr and Melissa Neal, with CBGC Veteran Golfer President Greg Boyer and Secretary Brian Nowell.
Coombs Memorial Back On Display
NCN Health Numurkah unveiled the new Coombs Memorial Signage and seat installed on Coombs Memorial Drive (Katamatite-Nathalia Road) in front of the health service this week. The original Coombs Memorial Drive sign, which you can see pictured on the plaque, dates back to the 1950s. It was taken down from near this site when the road was widened in the 1990s. The original sign is now proudly displayed at the Numurkah and District Historical Society. This new memorial sign has been erected as part of the 150th celebrations of the gazetting of Numurkah and Wunghnu — and represents NCN Health’s contribution and legacy project to these important community milestones. Thank you to members of the community, historical society and residents of the Lodge and Karinya who attended the event.
Find us online
Lap the Map for Diabetes 11am - Newman Square
3
Palliative Care, Volunteer Information Session. 0408 828 994
NCN Health Annual General Meeting, 4pm Numurkah Campus.
Community Walk Against Domestic and Family Violence 11am, Train Park Numurkah
Walk against Family and Domestic Violence Splash Park, 9am, Yarrawonga
International Day of People With Disability
All Abilities Talent Show 9.30am, Cobram Civic Centre
A