2025: Embrace the Extraordinary Northern Health

2025 is a year brimming with potential and possibilities, where dreams will be realised and new frontiers will be conquered. But as we look to the future, we can’t forget the year that was. The year that tested our resolve and set the stage for the extraordinary journey ahead. Here’s what our executives had to say about the year that shaped us:

“2024 has been a year full of both challenges and incredible achievements by the team we have here at Northern Health. We had eight finalists at the Victorian Health care awards; however, we had many more applications that showcased the exceptional and innovative work undertake by our staff. There is so much to be proud of,” says Debra Bourne, Chief Executive Officer.

Professor Prahlad Ho, Chief Medical Officer says, “2024 has been a year of significant change and challenges, with a new executive leadership team, as well as the budget crisis and ongoing challenges with the Health Service Partnerships. Nonetheless, Northern Health with its classic resilience has successfully delivered numerous successes including but not limited to the growth of Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), Victorian Virtual Specialist Consult (VVSC), Women’s Health Hub with its first IVF baby, multi-million-dollar research grants, and the commencement of both anatomical pathology and PET services.”

Linda Romano, our new Chief Operating Officer, reflecting on the year 2024, is really proud “to highlight the successful short-notice accreditation achieved by all. This accomplishment was a direct result of the unwavering hard work, dedication and commitment demonstrated by every member of our staff.”

“Throughout the year, everyone truly embodied the Northern Health Values – Safe, Kind , and Together – in everything they did. These values were not only reflected in our work but also in the care and compassion shown to those we care for and one another, ” she says.

Belinda Scott, Executive Director, Mental Health says, “2024 has been another busy year marked by significant improvements in our consumer experience of care and access to right care in the right place.  Our dedicated staff have consistently delivered outstanding results through their resilience and commitment to excellence, their great work has been instrumental in helping us navigate demanding times.”

Chief Allied Health Officer, Associate Professor Jason Cirone spoke of the “notable commitment to patient care and working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.”

“Another big year of Northern Health being innovative and embracing change.  I am so proud of not only of Digital Health but the Northern Health team, ” says Anthony Gust, Executive Director Digital Health.

Lisa Cox, Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, says, “2024 has been a big industrial year for nurses and midwives at Northern Health. Northern Health in conjunction with the Victoria Public Sector negotiated a new 4-year enterprise agreement. It was great to see that Northern Health nurses and midwives always put the patient first and patient safety was not compromised. Finally, on November 15 the agreement was endorsed by Fair Work Australia until 2028.”

Adds Lisa, “I am proud to professionally lead a great team of nurses and midwives at Northern Health and have enjoyed welcoming Kilmore District Hospital nurses and midwives into Northern Health.”

Pina di Donato, Executive Director, Public Affairs and Foundation says, “This past year has been one of much change and a few interesting challenges thrown in for good measure. But in true Northern Health style, we embraced these challenges and forged ahead. I believe that is a real strength we have, and it is great to be a part of that.”

Which brings us to 2025 – not just a new year; it’s a year where we get to embrace the extraordinary. As Debra says,  “My wish is for all of us to continue to think differently to deliver the care our community needs.”

Just as important, says Debra, is “to also lean on each other, to build on being supporting and kind to each other, to create a workplace we all wish to be in.”

Prahlad believes, “In 2025, we will continue to grow from strength to strength as we continue our transformation into a principal hospital of significance that is destined to support our growing population, with many new big projects on the horizon. While there will no doubt be challenges, our innovative skills and strong values of being Safe, Kind and Together, and determination to provide the best care for our local community, will be our beacon going into 2025.”

in 2025, Linda is keen to foster “collaboration within all staff, ensuring we work together to deliver exceptional care to the community of the North. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, particularly as we embark on new health service partnership, the development of community hospitals and the continuation of our health service redevelopment plans.”

Belinda’s hope is that “All Northern Health staff can find work / life harmony, where all of the parts of a person’s life are working in harmony and not competing with other parts.  I hope that there is time for rest, relaxation and time spent with those you love whilst undertaking fulfilling work that is professionally challenging. We will continue to build a better future, together.”

In the new year, Jason is “looking forward to building on workforce capability through enhanced education and continuing to facilitate and embed research within the division, helping to drive evidence base and best practice.”

Anthony says, “My vision for 2025 is to continue to change healthcare in looking after patients not only in the hospital but in the community. There of course will be a digital component but more importantly it will be our amazing staff that bring this to fruition. ”

Lisa looks forward to “the opportunities that exist for nurses and midwives in 2025, with the creation of new roles, education, professional and leadership opportunities.”

“My resolution is to offer opportunities, ensure the workplace brings joy and continue to retain and attract wonderful nurses and midwives at Northern Health,” she says.

While the challenges will continue in 2025, Pina expects, “they will bring with them some wonderful opportunities.” She is excited to see how the new year unfolds and is “looking forward to a fresh start under new leadership and working with my teams to think differently and keep evolving.”

Together, we will embrace the challenges and celebrate the victories that lie ahead. Here’s to a new year of growth, harmony, and endless possibilities