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  • Six people with a bicycle outside an Emergency Department entrance.

    Port Macquarie Base Hospital’s Ironman volunteer effort

    A dedicated team of 287 medical volunteers, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, physiotherapists and students, will represent Port Macquarie Base Hospital this weekend as they support one of Australia’s most iconic endurance events — the Port Macquarie Ironman, held on May 4. Led by Medical Directors Simon Ross and Dr Dawn Martin, the hospital’s presence at… Read more »

  • Two men and a woman wearing feather boas, crowns and crazy glasses in a photobooth.

    Kempsey gets quizzical and fun about falls prevention

    Kempsey District Hospital celebrated April Falls 2025, a day of safety awareness and promotion to reduce patient falls. We kicked off with a fun scrub day on 1 April, which included a photo booth and a Falls Prevention Escape room. Throughout the month, the hospital has also marked the occasion with an afternoon tea, accompanied… Read more »

  • A doctor smiling standing in a hospital corridor.

    A flood of community spirit welcomes Dr Genevieve

    When Doctor Genevieve Postlewait arrived for her first shift at Bellinger River District Hospital, she had no idea she was about to experience the heart of Bellingen in full force. Severe weather due to Cyclone Alfred meant floodwaters threatened to cut off the road back to her home. Genevieve came well-prepared, bringing along her two-year-old… Read more »

  • A man looking at a television screen which is broadcasting a message from a nurse.

    Showcasing our careers and lifestyle at the Easter Show

    Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) was proudly represented at the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show. Respiratory Protection Program Fit Test Assessor, Michael Ryan, volunteered to support the NSW Health interactive stall on Easter Sunday. Located in the bustling Woolworths Fresh Food Dome, the NSW Health stall was a hub of activity, offering visitors… Read more »

  • A nurse standing outside a hospital entrance and smiling.

    Zoe returns home to grow her career in Bellingen

    Mid North Coast Local Health District warmly welcomes Clinical Nurse Consultant Zoe Raward, who recently joined Bellinger River District Hospital’s palliative care team. She is returning to the community where her nursing journey first began. With nearly a decade of experience in palliative care, she brings clinical expertise and a deep passion for supporting patients… Read more »

  • Four healthcare workers are smiling and holding certificates.

    An experience that changed me: Schwartz Round at Kempsey

    The Schwartz Rounds Leadership Group held its latest Schwartz Rounds at Kempsey District Hospital on 16 April 2025. Attendees listened to their colleagues’ stories on ‘An experience that changed me’. The panel consisted of Bryce Lacey – Third Year Medical Student, Tegan Saul – AHNM, Midwife RN ED, Kim-Maree Doolan, – Acting Manager, Disaster Recovery… Read more »

  • A nurse holding a coffee mug, sitting at a desk with a computer and notepad.

    Superannuation education webinar series with Aware Super

    Get ready for the end of the financial year by enhancing your superannuation knowledge on investing, insurance and retirement. Running from 1 to 29 May, join Aware Super’s complimentary Superannuation Education webinar series, featuring 15 sessions on topics including building better money habits, Super 101, retirement planning, insurance 101, investing, beneficiaries, estate plans and more…. Read more »

  • A mobile phone screen showing various social media applications.

    Social media: be kind, respectful and professional

    Social media is a powerful tool for connecting, communicating, and celebrating our work across NSW Health. However, it’s important to use it responsibly and in a way that reflects our values of care, integrity, and community. Whether you’re posting personally or professionally, remember that we all represent NSW Health—even online, even on our personal profiles…. Read more »

  • Three movement disorder specialists sitting in a medical office.

    Movement Disorder Service marks two-year anniversary

    Mid North Coast Local Health District’s (MNCLHD) Movement Disorders Neurology Service is celebrating its two-year anniversary of providing specialised care to the community. Launched in April 2023, the service provides patients with a hybrid model blending face-to-face appointments in Coffs Harbour, and telemedicine appointments with specialist neurologists in either Port Macquarie or Coffs Harbour. The… Read more »

  • A graphic of lungs

    Updated policy and guide around managing nicotine dependence

    Our staff play an important role in helping patients to stop smoking or vaping, which is why we’ve released the new ‘Managing Nicotine Dependence Guide‘. It offers updated practical guidance, including pharmacotherapy and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). Plus, there’s information on patient follow-up and discharge planning, including the role of General Practitioners. It supports our revised… Read more »

  • MA group of five people playing instruments and singing.

    Music brings Easter cheer to Port Macquarie Base Hospital

    Thanks to the efforts of hospital chaplains Bruce Blackbell and Bronwyn Dillon, patients, staff, and visitors at Port Macquarie Base Hospital were treated to a musical interlude this week. The chaplains organised a group of friends to perform for Music in the Atrium, a small event aimed at lifting spirits through music in the lead-up… Read more »

  • A group of older people smiling.

    Support group reduces stigma and boosts friendship

    Adjusting to life with a stoma can be challenging, but Mid North Coast Local Health District Stoma Continence Nurse Mandy Hawkins wants ostomates to know they’re not alone. A stoma is a surgical opening that allows waste to leave the body. It’s a life-saving procedure. It can be a temporary or permanent change for people… Read more »

  • Two women sitting in a garden and smiling.

    Celebrating young people and supporting healthy choices

    Youth Week recognises the strengths, passions, and potential of young people across NSW. This year’s theme celebrates their power as current and future leaders, and here at MNCLHD, our Drug and Alcohol Service is proud to support them with free, confidential services. Today’s youth make healthier choices than previous generations, with many delaying or avoiding substance use… Read more »

  • A scientist pipetting a DNA sample into an Eppendorf tube.

    Meet our new R3 Northern Clinical Trial Coordinators

    Four experienced professionals have been appointed Clinical Trial Coordinators based in MNCLHD as part of the R3 Northern Cluster Clinical Trial support unit (R3 NCCTSU). This new unit is dedicated to enhancing clinical trial capabilities outside of Oncology and Haematology and providing more equitable access to cutting-edge medical research for patients in Northern NSW’s rural,… Read more »

  • A woman holding a microphone, speaking to a room full of people

    Regional trauma expertise on show at collaborative ITIM event

    The NSW Institute of Trauma and Injury Management (ITIM), in partnership with trauma teams from Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, and John Hunter, recently hosted a successful regional trauma education event, bringing together clinical experts, students, and healthcare professionals with a shared commitment to improving trauma care. Held on 1 April at Charles Sturt University and… Read more »

  • A group of men and women in health uniforms at a marquee stall outdoors.

    Making connections at Bowraville Health and Wellbeing Expo

    On 4 April, the Disaster Recovery Team (DRT) hosted a Health and Wellbeing Expo in Bowraville, bringing together local services and community members in a vibrant afternoon of connection and support. The event was a resounding success, with 35 stallholders and over 70 community members attending. The idea for the Expo emerged directly from community… Read more »

  • A group of people smiling in a hospital corridor surrounded by Christmas decorations.

    Music in the Atrium bringing joy this Easter

    Patients, staff, and visitors at Port Macquarie Base Hospital are in for a special musical treat this Easter. The hospital chaplains have organised Music in the Atrium, a heartfelt event to lift spirits through song and melody. On Tuesday, 15 April, the Atrium will come alive with the sounds of Easter music: 11:30 am –… Read more »

  • Drawings and red notes children created on paper.

    Healthy relationships and health education at Kempsey High

    As part of NSW Youth Week 2025, the Domestic Violence Prevention Education Program (DVPEP) and the Women’s Health Team delivered impactful workshops at Kempsey High School from 1-3 April. These sessions, designed for students in Years 7, 8, and 9, focused on building awareness around healthy relationships and girls’ health, fostering open discussions and empowering… Read more »

  • Five women standing and smiling, one woman seated and smiling. On the table in front of them is a piece of hospital equipment to detect bedwetting.

    Life-changing equipment will help children and families

    Thanks to the generosity of Macleay Valley local Gail Burn and the Lilli Pilli Ladies, families needing bed alarms to help children stop persistent bedwetting now have improved access to the devices. Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) had two bed alarms to share with needy families across the Hastings Macleay Clinical Network before… Read more »

  • Five women standing arm-in-arm smiling.

    Celebrating International Social Work Day

    On March 18, we celebrated International Social Work Day, a special time to thank the amazing social workers in the Mid North Coast Local Health District, who provide services in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community settings. Social workers are vital in helping patients and families during difficult times. They offer support, advice, and resources to help people cope with… Read more »

  • Three women in healthcare uniforms standing in front of an information stall at a wellness expo.

    Community connects at Kempsey Health and Wellness Expo

    Kempsey locals had the opportunity to explore a wide range of health, wellness, and support services at a community expo held at Kempsey Central on 2 April 2025. The event brought together local providers to share information, offer hands-on activities, and connect residents with services to support their health and wellbeing. NSW Health was well… Read more »

  • An elderly man smiling and holding up hand weights. In the background are four more people laughing and working out in a hospital therapy room.

    Doug Short: Farewell to an outstanding volunteer

    With deep sadness and great respect, we share the passing of Douglas “Doug” Short, President of Heart Health NSW and a tireless advocate for cardiac patients in the Port Macquarie community. Doug’s dedication to the wellbeing of others was unwavering. For over a decade, he served as a guiding force in our organisation, ensuring that… Read more »

  • A country hospital exterior with the Australian, NSW and Aboriginal flags.

    Help shape a welcoming space for patients and families

    Wauchope District Memorial Hospital seeks a talented local Aboriginal artist to contribute to a special outdoor artwork project that will transform the garden and gazebo area between the rehabilitation and palliative care units. As part of our ongoing commitment to providing culturally safe, inclusive and welcoming spaces, we are commissioning seven unique designs representing the… Read more »

  • Regional UHA Forum celebrates dedicated volunteers

    The Regional United Hospital Auxiliaries (UHA) Forum was held in Urunga last week, with Bellingen UHA proudly hosting the event. Volunteers from across the region came together to celebrate their incredible contributions to Mid North Coast Local Health district hospitals, health facilities and communities. Acting Coordinator Coffs Clinical Network, Doctor Philip Hoyle, expressed his gratitude,… Read more »

  • An Aboriginal woman holding a bowl of ochre

    Understanding the why and how of Acknowledging Country

    Simone Smith, our Aboriginal Cancer Care Coordinator, ran cultural awareness sessions this week with the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute Port Macquarie staff. The sessions were an extension of Close the Gap events, focusing on the significance of Acknowledgement to Country and how to personalise your acknowledgement respectfully. A Welcome to Country is a ceremony… Read more »

  • A woman seated at a table ad smiling

    Mid North Coast Local Health District’s new Chief Executive

    Jill Wong has been appointed to the position of Chief Executive of Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD), effective 1 April 2025. An accomplished healthcare leader with more than 17 years’ experience across legal, social work, and executive health leadership roles, Ms Wong brings a unique multidisciplinary perspective to health service delivery. Her tenure… Read more »

  • Two women measuring a wall.

    Empowering independence: OT home modification workshop

    In exciting news for our Occupational Therapy (OT) team, MNCLHD recently received a HETI Grant to host a workshop on Minor Home Modifications—providing our OT staff with new skills and knowledge to enhance patient care and independence. Occupational Therapists play a crucial role in supporting patients both in hospital and within the community, ensuring they… Read more »

  • A barbeque feast for Kempsey

    When the Kempsey United Hospital Auxiliary (UHA) set out to buy a barbeque for Kempsey District Hospital, they had their hearts (and stomachs) set on something special. After all, what’s better than a good old-fashioned sausage sizzle to bring people together for fundraising and social events?   But when they arrived at Bunnings South Kempsey… Read more »

  • Seven women standing in a line smiling and holding an Aboriginal artwork.

    Expanding healthcare for women and strengthening prevention

    Empowering women is at the core of everything the MNCLHD’s Women’s Health Clinic professionals do. Through safe, inclusive healthcare, respectful relationship education, and community support, the team is working towards a future where every woman can thrive. Our Women’s Health Clinics provide essential services, including cervical screening, pregnancy options, postnatal care, contraception, breast health, continence… Read more »

  • Two women holding a certificate.

    Farewell to Jen Heslop – a true champion of health equity

    After an incredible career spanning over 35 years, we say a heartfelt farewell and thank you to Jenny (Jen) Heslop, who has retired from NSW Health. Jen was the longest-serving Manager of HIV and AIDS-related Programs (HARP) in NSW, leading HIV, sexual health, viral hepatitis, and harm reduction initiatives across the Mid North Coast and… Read more »

  • A group of five people smiling and standing in front of a banner about the dangers of vaping.

    Joining forces in Port Macquarie to tackle youth vaping

    A united effort to combat youth vaping is gaining momentum on the Mid North Coast, with local organisations coming together to take action and protect young people from the harms of e-cigarettes. On 4 March 2025, the North Coast Youth Vaping Taskforce hosted a mini-forum in Port Macquarie to ensure its initiatives continue to align… Read more »

  • A group of young Aboriginal women standing in a line and smiling.

    Aboriginal student trainees begin two-year term with Health

    The Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) has welcomed 12 new students in the latest intake of its Aboriginal School Based Traineeship Program. The Department of Education-funded program, named in honour of prominent Aboriginal activist Elsa Dixon, is part of the district’s commitment to delivering training for Aboriginal students. The program aims to promote… Read more »

  • A nurse sitting on the floor in a loungeroom, holding a cup of coffee and looking at paperwork spread out around her.

    Plan well for your retirement, join the Aware Super webinar series

    Aware Super is running bite-sized pre-retirement education webinars from Monday, 31 March, for MNCLHD staff. The webinars will be held at various times (morning, lunch, and evenings), so there is a time that suits most people. Each session runs for approximately 20 minutes, covering everything we should think about before retirement. Transition Plan—Start the conversation… Read more »

  • Two female nurses hugging and smiling with a sign advertising the community health service.

    They’re kind of a Biggs deal in the Camden Haven health world

    The Camden Haven community has been fortunate to have Sally Biggs provide compassionate, caring, and expert nursing care for the past 23 years. After a career of 35+ years as a Community Nurse, Sally will retire from her full-time position at the Camden Haven Health One in April. Fortunately for the Camden Haven community, Sally’s… Read more »

  • Woman holding a trophy, a bouquet with a yellow rose, and smiling.

    Lee takes runner-up trophy for Coffs Coast Woman of the Year

    Two incredible MNCLHD women were nominated for the 2025 International Women’s Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award. Lee Millard-Newton (former MNCLHD midwife and breast care nurse) and Michele Greenwood (multicultural health clinical nurse) were among the six finalists recognised at the annual Coffs Harbour event on Wednesday, 19 March. Lee was named runner-up to winner Tiga Cross of… Read more »

  • Four people in hospital uniforms holding certificates.

    When laughter inspires gratitude for making hard times easier

    The Schwartz Rounds Leadership Group held its latest event at Port Macquarie Base Hospital on 4 March 2025. Staff from the hospital, community health, and students visiting from Dubbo and Newcastle were in attendance. Attendees took time out to listen to stories from their colleagues on the theme of ‘When laughter is the best medicine’…. Read more »

  • A large group of people smiling at an awards ceremony.

    It’s time to nominate and show your colleagues some love

    Don’t miss your chance to recognise excellence. Nominations are open! Who inspires you at work? Is it a colleague who always goes above and beyond? A team delivering exceptional patient care? A volunteer whose dedication makes a real impact? An innovative program that’s delivering great outcomes for our patients and our health system? Now is your chance… Read more »

  • A large group of people smiling. An Aboriginal mural is in the background.

    Close the Gap Day across the local health district

    National Close the Gap Day was celebrated across the district in health facilities with colleagues and health partners to acknowledge achievements and the work still to be done to Close the Gap and improve the life outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In the health space, creating equity goes beyond understanding the challenges… Read more »

  • Nurses, doctors and health workers gathering food from a table and smiling.

    Wauchope District Memorial Hospital mark Close the Gap Day

    Wauchope District Memorial Hospital recognised Close the Gap Day with an all-staff barbecue. Executive Officer/ Director of Nursing Jennifer Rudd acknowledged the country and reflected on the meaning of the day. Jenny acknowledged the work being done not only in health but also in education, employment, justice, housing, land, and water.  The collective aim is… Read more »

  • Exterior of the Port Macquarie Base Hospital Emergency Department with red building and road signs.

    High activity continues at Mid North Coast hospitals

    Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) maintained its emergency department performance despite increasingly high demand for services, according to the latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) Healthcare Quarterly Report for October to December 2024 There were 38,960 attendances at our District’s EDs throughout the final quarter of 2024, an increase of 2.5 per cent, or 936… Read more »

  • A man and a woman sitting together on a lounge holding coffee and smiling.

    Finding peaceful support at Port Macquarie Base Hospital

    In the fast-paced hospital environment, medical treatment is one part of the care people need. Emotional and spiritual support can be just as important, helping patients, families, and staff navigate the challenges of illness, grief, uncertainty, and stress. At Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Bruce Blackbell and Bronwyn Dillon provide compassionate chaplaincy and counselling, offering a… Read more »

  • New nurses and midwives join us

    A big welcome to our 100 new nurses and midwives who have recently joined our team. The new graduates will work across all clinical areas at hospitals in Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Kempsey, Macksville, Bellingen and Coffs Harbour, including in mental health and midwifery. The new nursing and midwifery graduates join MNCLHD under the GradStart program… Read more »

  • A woman walking outside. Included is a graphic encouraging women to book their breast screen appointment.

    BreastScreen campaign targets underscreened women

    BreastScreen NSW has relaunched a campaign encouraging women to have a life-saving mammogram and join the more than 13,000 women who screened across Mid North Coast Local Health District in 2024. BreastScreen NSW North Coast Acting Director Patrick Magee said with more than 250 local women expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year,… Read more »

  • Social Seniors celebrate 50 years of friendship, fun and care.

    For many elderly people, loneliness can feel overwhelming—but in Port Macquarie and Laurieton, the Social Seniors program is changing that. Run by Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD), this heartwarming program gives people aged 65 years and older a place to connect, laugh and feel part of a community. Twice a week, members gather… Read more »

  • Come together for National Close the Gap Day

    We invite all staff to take part in National Close the Gap Day on Thursday, 20 March, by joining in activities happening across our district. This is a time to come together, listen, learn and show our support for closing the health gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Whether it’s sharing a cuppa at morning… Read more »

  • Prepare drinking water and avoid floodwaters

    North Coast Population and Public Health is encouraging people to stay safe around floodwaters and take precautions with food and drinking water following the adverse weather that has impacted the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast. Drinking water supplies can be affected by storms and floods. If a ‘boil water’ alert has been issued in… Read more »

  • Wauchope bowlers turn wrong bias into right move

    The ladies from Wauchope Ladies Bowling Club have turned their on-green mishaps into a fantastic win for Wauchope District Memorial Hospital. Fines for wrong bias bowls, combined with generous donations raised during their Friendship Day, have contributed to an incredible gift—funding towards a brand-new electric recliner chair for the Rehabilitation Unit. The chair will provide… Read more »

  • On top for Lifeblood donations

    Congratulations to everyone in the Mid North Coast Local Health District who donated blood and plasma throughout the past 12 months to Lifeblood.  The team at Coffs Harbour Health Campus took out the trophy for the most donations within the Coffs Harbour area— with an incredible 297 donations!  A special shout out to Llyris Wood, who… Read more »

  • New garden blooms at Coffs Harbour Health Campus

    Our Mental Health Inpatient Unit at Coffs Harbour Health Campus now features a beautiful garden, tended to daily by patients as part of their recovery, promoting mindfulness and emotional regulation. When soil levels dropped significantly, MI Organics at Coffs Harbour generously donated two cubic metres of soil and compost. Over two days, patients and staff… Read more »

  • Cardiac rehabilitation team earns international accreditation

    Congratulations to our cardiac rehabilitation team members who have recently achieved accreditation with the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) and the Australian Cardiac Rehab Association (ACRA). Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a vital part of the recovery journey for individuals with cardiovascular disease, offering a multidisciplinary education and exercise program that improves long-term… Read more »

  • Women’s Wellness Day on Country to recognise Ochre Ribbon Week

    In recognition of Ochre Ribbon Week (12-19 February), women gathered at Ti Tree Gaagal Wanggaan, Scotts Head, for a Wellness Day—a chance to pause, reflect and heal on Country. The event was aimed to support those with lived experience of domestic and family violence, making this day of connection and cultural strength even more meaningful. Relaxing… Read more »

  • Nurturing Connections: Early intervention for families in Kempsey

    Families in Kempsey facing mental health challenges and trauma now have access to a vital early intervention program, Nurturing Connections. Launched by the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s Perinatal and Infant Mental Health team in partnership with Kempsey Families, Nurturing Connections supports families with children aged up to four years of age, where caregiver… Read more »

  • Bullwinkle Scholar announced

    Congratulations to Clinical Nurse Unit Manager John Jensen on being named a 2025 Bullwinkel Scholar by the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Foundation.  John works with the team in the Mental Health Unit at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. This prestigious achievement recognises John’s outstanding leadership, dedication and commitment to advancing mental health care. John joins a distinguished cohort of… Read more »

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