STAFF NEWS STAFF NEWS STAFF NEWS
Message from the CEO
INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY
May 12 is International Nurses Day, an opportunity to recognise and thank our nurses and midwives for the care, skill and compassion they bring to our communities every day. This year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives”, highlights the importance of creating safe and supportive workplaces where nurses are empowered to lead, grow and deliver the very best care for our patients and residents.
At NCN Health, we also acknowledge that quality care is only possible because of the contribution of our entire workforce. Behind our clinical staff is a team of nonclinical and support staff who help keep our services running each day from administration, environmental services and food services, to maintenance, finance, IT and many others.
International Nurses Day is an opportunity to reflect on the vital role nurses and midwives play across our health service, while also recognising the collective effort it takes to support patient care and strong health services in our communities.
PEOPLE MATTER SURVEYACTIONS
Thank you to the 52% of our team who took part in the 2026 People Matters Survey. Your feedback provides an important opportunity for us to listen, learn, and better understand what matters most to our people.
Next steps – Over the coming weeks, our survey results will be finalised, giving us the opportunity to dig deeper into the key themes, feedback, and opportunities identified.
Director People, Safety and Engagement Heather Flynn will be establishing a People Matter Survey Working Group made up of employees from across NCN Health.
The purpose of the group will be to explore the survey results, identify the priorities that matter most to our people, support positive change, and help shape ideas that strengthen our culture and workplace experience. If you are interested in contributing ideas and creating change, please register you interest in joining this group via email. ncnpeopleculture@ncnhealt h.org.au
OUR VISION AND VALUES
Our 2026 – 2030 Strategic Plan was launched in February, it sets the direction of our organisation for the next 5 years and guides our priorities, decisions and actions The Plan has been shaped by the voices of our staff and community, and includes a new vision, and updated values, including the additional value of innovation.
I encourage staff to familiarise themselves with our refreshed vision and values, reflect on what they mean in your role, and help bring them to life through the way we work, support one another and provide care to our communities day to day
There has been some great work happening across NCN Health over the past month, including establishing a Community Transport Program to support dialysis patients to access care around the region, our new psychosocial reporting portal, our influenza vaccination program, The Optima Project Launch and construction ready to start on the new residential aged care in Numurkah
Read on to learn more and have a great month.
Mark Ashcroft Chief Executive Officer.
We are looking for volunteer drivers to support our community transport program
NCN Health has two vehicles to support community members to access dialysis treatment outside our local area for example, to Shepparton, Yarrawonga, Kyabram etc.
We need volunteers to help us run this community transport program.
This Community Transport Program is designed to complement - not replaceexisting transport services, working collaboratively to fill identified gaps in transport.
Volunteer opportunities available Monday to Saturday, morning and afternoon shifts.
Choose your level of commitment, for example, once a week, fortnightly, or monthly shifts.
Help community members stay connected.
Structured rosters with a clear schedule and volunteer support.
Support local people to access essential appointments and services.
Meet new people and build meaningful community connections.
To register as a volunteer or for more information contact Volunteer Coordinator Jacquie Hughes E: volunteers@ncnhealth.org.au
P: 0408 828 994
Education Team Update
We have successfully recruited Maddie Watt and Emily Buggy into Clinical Support Nurse positions, each at 0.3 EFT on a fixed-term basis. Additionally, Tom Lewis has been appointed as No Lift Coordinator at 0.4 EFT.
Please join in congratulating Maddie, Emily & Tom on their new roles and welcoming them to the Education Team.
Chelsea Nelvis
Jane Cronk
Abitha Balachandran
Leanne Purcell
Cameron Stauton-Latimer
Emily Harry
Kylie Monk Karinya
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
APRIL
CASSIE MARSHALL
Always willing to help and teach. And just seems to know her role inside and out making it really easy to learn and grow in my own role
GratefulForOurNurses
This International Nurses Day
A recent graduate of the University of Otago, Dr Arif from the Cobram Dental Clinic is passionate about delivering high-quality, evidencebased care and continuing to grow her skills. This bursary supports ongoing professional development, helping early-career dentists build strong foundations for the future.
Congratulations, Adrita - an exciting milestone in your career!
Preloved Fashion Show Preloved Fashion Show Preloved Fashion Show
The recent fashion parade at the Lodge was a truly heartwarming occasion, filled with joy, generosity, and community spirit. Residents were treated to a delightful showcase of clothing, all thoughtfully donated, and beautifully presented by our wonderful volunteers who stepped confidently into the role of models for the day. It was more than just a parade it was an opportunity for residents to engage, enjoy, and even select items they loved, bringing a sense of independence and pleasure to the experience.
A special highlight of the day was the raffle draw, which added an extra touch of excitement.
Events like this truly showcase the kindness, dedication, and generosity that surround the Lodge. A heartfelt thank you to all who contributed, participated, and made the event such a meaningful success.
Smile 4 Miles Award Smile 4 Miles Award
Winners Winners
We’re proud to support local early learning centres across Moira Shire in promoting healthy smiles through the Smiles 4 Miles program
With simple messages like; Drink well, Eat well, Clean well, these services are helping children build lifelong healthy habits.
A big congratulations to Strathmerton Pre School who were recognised for their commitment to creating a healthier future
Career Readiness Career Readiness
Late in Term 1, Year 10 Project Ready Students from Cobram Anglican College, headed to NCN Health Cobram for an immersive industry tour. This visit was a fantastic opportunity for students to step out of the classroom and explore the diverse career pathways available right here in our community.
Having just completed their 'Plan and Prepare for Work Readiness' unit, the students are now focusing on 'Workplace Health and Safety.' During the walking tour, they met with professionals across various departments to learn about different vocational fields: Learning about the Administration of the organisation with Jacqui Hughes and Danielle Perri.
Discussing workplace safety with Lisa Aquilina and career paths in health with Thomas Lewis.
Exploring roles within the Education Team and the Food Services & Enviro Teams.
A huge thank you to the team at NCN Health for hosting us and helping our students visualise their future careers!
ACTIVE ACTIVE APRIL APRIL
COMMUNITY FUN DAYS - THAT’S A WRAP!
NCN Health had a blast hosting this years’ free fun days at Nathalia, Cobram and Numurkah, thanks for those who came along and joined the fun
SKATEBOARDING
BUTTON MAKING
FOOTY AND GAMES
FACE PAINTING
CRAFTS
SMOOTHIE BIKE
ACTIVE ACTIVE APRIL APRIL
BANAWAH PHOTOSHOOT
Nathalia's Banawah staff and residents recently got creative with a photoshoot day. We had a great time and have some fun framed photos to keep.
The official launch of the NCN Health Cultural Uniform was a meaningful and well-attended event, bringing together staff, residents, community members and partners to celebrate culture, community and connection. The gathering reflected a strong sense of pride and shared purpose, as attendees came together to recognise the importance of cultural identity in healthcare.
The event program was thoughtfully delivered, commencing with a Welcome to Country from Nikki James, followed by a smoking ceremony and didgeridoo performance by artist and educator Troy Firebrace.
The morning concluded with time for connection and reflection over morning tea and an opportunity to purchase the new uniforms and review future uniform options, such as scrubs.
The event was widely appreciated by those who attended, and special thanks go to everyone involved in its planning and delivery for creating such a respectful, engaging and memorable occasion.
NCN Health now has a Polo Shirt and Lanyard available for staff to purhcase.
NCN Health Polos
The polo shirts were pre-ordered and have been delivered to staff who ordered these. However, there are still some sizes available for staff to purchase.
If you are interested in purchasing a shirt, contact ncnpeopleculture@ncnhealth.org.au to see the shirt and organise a size.
Lanyards
Due to infection control and OHS restrictions, Lanyards can only be worn by staff in certain areas of the health service. Please contact ncnpeopleculture@ncnhealth.org.au for further information and to organise to purchase a lanyard.
What’s next?
NCN Health is looking at Scrubs and another polo design to be available for staff later this year. Watch this space.
You can look online for Skin Cancer Clinics, but to get your started, here are a few Specialist Centres in our region;
GV Skin and Specilist Centre, Shepparton, 03 5820 0500
Shepparton Skin Clinic, 03 5822 2393
Gardens Skin Cancer Centre, Albury, 02 6067 2039
Riverina Skin Specialists, Albury, 02 6025 3900
RESPIRATORY ILLNESS’S AND GASTRO
CASE NUMBERS ARE ON THE RISE IN OUR COMMUNITY..
Report to your Direct Manager or After-Hours Manager if unwell...
How to book? How to book?
STEP ONE = head to the infection control page on the intranet
STEP TWO = click on the “Book in for your flu vaccine”, it will open a booking or each campus with dates and ns
HREE = add your name onto the g sheet where there is a vacant on your specific campus site mber to bring your medicare number with you to your booking
Remember all cat A & B mandatory vaccinations must be attended or evidence sent into NCNInfectionControl2@ncnhealth.org.au or your manager by 31/07/2026 as per the NCN Health policy.
IMPORTANT REMINDER
A reminder to all nursing and midwifery staff that registration is due for renewal by 31 May 2026. All nurses and midwives must renew their general or nonpractising registration annually. You can check your registration details and expiry date via the national register.
If you do not renew by 31 May (or within the one-month late period), your registration will lapse and your name will be removed from the register in accordance with the National Law.
When renewing, you will need to declare that you meet the required registration standards, including:
Professional indemnity insurance
Recency of practice
Continuing professional development (CPD)
Any changes to your criminal history
Please note the 2026–27 renewal fee for general registration is $193 (tax deductible). Dual registered nurse/midwives are only required to pay one fee. If you experience any issues renewing online, contact the Customer Service Team on 1300 419 495.
Please ensure your registration is renewed on time to avoid any impact on your ability to practise.
MANDATORY TRAINING UPDATE – 2026
We are pleased to advise that our Kineo Portal (Learning Management System) is ready and you can now commence your 2026 Mandatory Training.
The 2026 Mandatory Training policy will soon be loaded onto Prompt. Further advice on this will be provided once live.
Please note that Cold Chain Management remains an Annual requirement for some roles. There is currently a change in the training package for this, so we ask that if Cold Chain Management appears on your learning allocation, please do not attempt to complete this until further advice is provided.
Note for Manager/Education/OHS/Quality: The training allocation aligns only to the approved Mandatory Training for 2026. If additional training is required for specific roles, please contact Jenny Jackson, Learning and Development Coordinator at jenny.jackson@ncnhealth.org.au, to support you in allocating any further required training.
If you have any question, please do not hesitate to reach out Jenny Jackson or Donna Holmes
OPTIMA IS COMING!!
NCN Health is currently preparing to roll out our new rostering system Optima in April/May 2026. Optima use finger scanning to scan in and out of your shifts and record your worked hours!
START FINGER SCANNING IN AND OUT OF EVERY SHIFT NOW SO YOU CAN BE PAID ON TIME WITHOUT DELAYS!
Our Project Team
Sandra Simpson – Senior Payroll & Systems Officer
Karen Ford – Payroll Manager
Our team is here to support you during this transition with any queries relating to issues with swiping, implementation updates, providing training and answering any questions you have! Please contact via email: ProjectOptima@ncnhealth.org.au
PROJECT OPTIMA AND LOOP
As part of our transition to the new Optima rostering system, we're also introducing a companion app called ‘Loop’.
Loop is available to download on your phone and gives you easy access to:
View your roster
Apply for leave
Request additional shifts
If you prefer not to use your phone, Loop is also accessible via any web browser.
Training videos on Optima and LOOP are available on the intranet here:
https://hrhacloud.sharepoint.com/sites/NCNHealthIntranet/ SitePages/Optima.aspx?
e=5lTqEP&share=IQDggScXlz7sSoiiHKSn7P8 AUhFfetmevjB zPg6Wj3MVwQ
Questions?
Change is hard! So, our team is here to support you during this transition with any queries relating to issues with swiping, implementation updates, providing training and answering any questions you have!
Please contact via email: ProjectOptima@ncnhealth.org.au
Getting Started Getting Started with Loop with Loop Getti
ng Started
with Loop
As part of our transition to the Optima rostering system, we’re excited to introduce Loop — a new app designed to make managing your work life easier.
View your roster anytime
Apply for leave
Request additional shifts
Set your availability
Download Loop via the App Store or Google Play and log in using your NCN email through Single SignOn .
Prefer desktop? Access Loop via your web browser using the same login details.
Training videos and further guidance will be available soon.
Clocking in/out is not available in the app continue using fingerprint scanners Some features (like messaging) are not used at NCN Health Sensitive leave appears as “Unavailable” on team rosters
The app also includes a personal calendar where all shifts and leave are displayed, and a team calendar to view roster coverage across your area
PYSCHOCIAL HAZARDREPORTING PORTAL
The new Psychosocial Hazard Reporting Portal (PHRP) is now available via the intranet (under Popular Hangouts, or the OHS page).
This platform allows staff to report workplace issues that may impact mental health, safety or wellbeing—with the option to remain anonymous.
Reporting early helps us identify risks, provide support and improve workplace culture. All reports are reviewed by the OHS team, managed confidentially, and used to inform improvements across the organisation.
For more information, training opportunities or support, contact NCNOHS@ncnhealth.org.au.
Psychosocial Hazards
New Victorian regulations clarify that psychosocial hazards must be managed in the same way as physical risks. Hazards such as bullying, harassment, violence, and exposure to traumatic material can cause serious psychological injury.
The Occupational Health and Safety (Psychological Health) Regulations 2025 introduce specific duties for Victorian employers to identify psychosocial hazards, control associated risks, and regularly review those controls.
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO OFFER YOU
An opportunity for students studying a health related course, for example, Nursing, Physio, OT, Speech Pathology, to connect, discuss their university work, explore career pathways, and seek support on topics important to them.
Develop professional relationships with dedicated mentors and educators to support your university journey.
Flexible monthly sessions – tailored to your needs. Theory support, practical skills or just a chat.
Face to face sessions at NCN Health Campus or online.
Support students on their health careers and ensure they are set up for success.
For more information contact Thomas.lewis@ncnhealth.org.au or NCNAlliedHealthEducators@ncnhealth.org.au
Cervical Screening Available in Numurkah
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, but it is also one of the most preventable. Free cervical screening tests (formerly called pap smears) are available for Medicare card holders, with self-collection options and no referral required. Screening is recommended for anyone with a cervix aged 25–74 who has had sexual contact. The test is quick, simple, and could save your life.
Appointments are available at Community Health @ GV Health, 121 Corio Street, Shepparton, or at special cervical screening clinics at NCN Health Numurkah, 2 Katamatite Road, on
March 23rd
May 25th
July 27th
September 28th
November 23rd
To book an appointment, call the GV Health Service Access Unit on 1800 222 582 (option 4). By keeping up with cervical screening, you are taking an important step to protect your health and wellbeing.
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.
The Meryula Clinic is a free and confidential service run by GV Health and supported by NCN Health. The clinic is for all individuals within the region and is run by experienced nurses who specialise in sexual and reproductive health
Testing & Treatment for infections that can be spread through sexual contact. Contraception, including Implanon insertion
Emergency Contraception
Pregnancy Testing
Unplanned pregnancy counselling, treatment and referral
Cervical Screening Tests > 25 yrs of age
Genital pain and discomfort
Sex work certificates
Booking Link
Numurkah Community Health & Wellbeing 2025 CLINIC DATES Bookings
Screening, counselling & referral for viruses in the blood
Hepatitis C treatment
Hepatitis B treatment and management
HIV PrEP and nPEP
Immunisation (HPV)
Contact Tracing
Referral to specialist services
via GV Health Community Services intake team 1800 222 582 (option 4) or email
sauintake@gvhealth.org.au
We want to know your opinion on the barriers of sexual health awareness, safety and condom access in the Moria shire as a community member, service provider or parent/carer
HTTPS://WWW.1800MYOPTIONS.ORG.AU/HEALTH-INFORMATION/
HTTPS://WWW.1800MYOPTIONS.ORG.AU/HEALTH-INFORMATION/
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
Staff who are interested in creating and promoting Staff Wellbeing programs, events and initiatives across NCN Health. Meetings are held monthly and we welcome all new ideas.
