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  • A group of volunteers and health workers smiling with equipment donated for cardiac patients.

    Lions Club gift brings comfort and care to Wauchope Hospital

    In a touching show of community spirit, the Wauchope Lions Club has donated $10,000 to Wauchope District Memorial Hospital, funding two vital pieces of medical equipment that are already making a meaningful difference in patient care. The donation has enabled the hospital to purchase a state-of-the-art treatment recliner chair for the Urgent Care Centre and… Read more »

  • A large group of volunteers wearing pink are smiling.

    Volunteers shine through storms during National Volunteer Week

    Even torrential rain couldn’t wash away the warmth and gratitude felt across the Mid North Coast as hospitals celebrated National Volunteer Week; an annual tribute to the selfless individuals who give their time, energy, and compassion to support local healthcare. This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities,” couldn’t have been more fitting. As extreme weather swept across… Read more »

  • Two women and a man smiling.

    Culture and connection at Aboriginal Allied Health Forum

    On Wednesday, 13 May, Elli Wilson, an Allied Health Assistant with MNC Virtual Care, proudly represented the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) at the Aboriginal Allied Health Forum in Sydney. Held at the stunning Prince Henry Centre at Little Bay, the forum was a vibrant celebration of culture, connection, and professional development. With… Read more »

  • A group of healthcare workers standing beneath and archway made from balloons.

    Sharing joy and raising awareness at Wauchope palliative care

    A kind-hearted gesture from Wauchope Public School helped brighten up the Palliative Care Unit (PCU) during Palliative Care Week. The school generously donated a beautiful Mother’s Day balloon arrangement, which was proudly displayed in the Wauchope District Memorial Hospital Sharing Joy and Raising Awareness in Wauchope PCU foyer alongside an information display to celebrate mothers… Read more »

  • Celebrating maternity care in Macksville

    Last week, Macksville District Hospital hosted a heartwarming gathering to celebrate the strong collaboration between the Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Service (AMIHS) and the Macksville Midwifery Group Practice (MGP).   The social get-together brought together mums, dads, midwives and Aboriginal Health Workers to reconnect and share stories about pregnancy, birth and parenting.   The… Read more »

  • Palliative Care team brings comfort and connection

    The Palliative Care team at Coffs Harbour Health Campus recently hosted a series of events to honour and raise awareness of the important care they provide.  A highlight was a deeply moving remembrance service for the families of those who have used the palliative care service.  Staff, carers and loved ones gathered to celebrate and… Read more »

  • A group of people in brightly coloured shirts with an awareness message about Stroke.

    Re-Imagining F.A.S.T. goes from strength to strength

    The Re-Imagining F.A.S.T. project, led by the Dunghutti Stroke Group, continues to blaze a trail, this time on the state stage. Last month, the team was invited to present at the ACI Statewide Stroke Forum in Sydney, sharing the incredible journey and impact of their community-led initiative aimed at increasing First Nations people’s awareness and… Read more »

  • A group of nurses framed by a cardboard photo frame for Clinical Trials Day.

    Shaping the future of care, one clinical trial at a time

    Tuesday 20 May was International Clinical Trials Day – a time to recognise the life-changing work being done through clinical trials and the hope they bring to patients and families across our communities. At Port Macquarie Base Hospital (PMBH), staff and visitors joined in a day of fun, learning and career inspiration, hosted by the… Read more »

  • A group of people smiling and holding children's books.

    Rotary’s gift turns the page on early literacy for local families

    The Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour has shown its ongoing support for early literacy by raising a phenomenal $6,000 to purchase books for families attending the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) Child and Family Health Service. Nurses from the service will gift the children’s books to visiting youngsters and their carers, with the… Read more »

  • Four health workers at a nursing careers information stand.

    Careers market inspiring the next generation of health workers

    On Tuesday 13 May, representatives from the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) took part in the Mid Coast Connect Careers Market, held at the Port Macquarie Racecourse. The event brought together hundreds of enthusiastic students from local high schools, all eager to explore their future career pathways. With more than 50 exhibitors on… Read more »

  • Two nurses are performing a health check on a baby in a crib.

    Start your rewarding career in midwifery: MidStart 2026

    If you are a registered nurse who wants to become a midwife, MidStart is your pathway into a brilliant career in midwifery. Midwives practice within many models and settings to care for women and their families at a significant time in their lives. NSW Health offers many midwifery training locations, including rural and regional areas…. Read more »

  • Five people standing under a tree and smiling.

    WHIN nurse helps to shape school support centre in Kempsey

    On May 6, 2025, Kempsey High School officially opened its new Connect Centre, a purpose-built facility designed to integrate education, health, and community services to support student wellbeing and enhance educational outcomes. The opening ceremony commenced with a traditional smoking ceremony led by a local Aboriginal elder and his grandson, a student at Kempsey High… Read more »

  • Women sitting in a circle smiling.

    Tresillian workshop builds confidence and consistency

    On 30 April, Child and Family Health Nurses from across the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) came together for a valuable professional development opportunity: the Sleep and Settling Workshop, facilitated by Janice Wright and Anne-Louise Young from Tresillian. The workshop built on existing knowledge and skills, equipping nurses with the latest evidence-based information… Read more »

  • Three nurses are doing funny poses.

    Nurses and Midwives Days: mega photo gallery-o-fun

    Staff across the Mid North Coast Local Health District took time out this week to celebrate and thank the incredible nurses who are at the heart of our health services. From hospital wards to community outreach, aged care to specialist teams on the road, nurses were recognised for their compassion, skill and unwavering commitment as… Read more »

  • Two nurses in bright shirts with a certificate and box of chocolates.

    Winners at Kempsey District Hospital awards

    Kempsey District Hospital celebrated International Nurses Day and International Day of the Midwife with awards and fun. Here are the award winners: Transition to Practice Award- Shauna Wheeler, COU Shauna Wheeler is a first year Transition to Practice Program (TPP) RN who commenced at KDH in January 2025, since this time she has demonstrated great… Read more »

  • Spotlight on Safety: Celebrating International Hand Hygiene Day

    Sites across the Coffs Clinical Network embraced creativity and collaboration to mark International Hand Hygiene Day 2025, reinforcing the critical role of hand hygiene in keeping our patients, visitors and staff safe. This year’s celebrations saw a wide range of engaging activities – from solving microbiology mysteries with Sherlock Holmes in the Simulation Lab, to… Read more »

  • A woman playing lawn bowls.

    Dress up, show up, roll up for charity bowls day

    The Kempsey United Hospitals Auxiliary Branch is inviting staff, local businesses, and community members to lace up their bowling shoes for a good cause at the Bowls Day Fundraiser on Saturday 14 June. Held at the Kempsey Heights Bowling Club, the day promises friendly competition and fun, with two games of 10 ends, raffles, an… Read more »

  • Port Macquarie Pink Ladies Mother’s Day raffle a huge success

    The Port Macquarie Pink Ladies needed more than just a hat to hold this year’s Mother’s Day raffle tickets, they needed an extra-large carry bag overflowing with entries! Thanks to the incredible support from the community, the raffle raised an impressive $4,060 through ticket sales and donations. Four lucky winners took home beautiful gift baskets… Read more »

  • Two health workers in surgery gowns and gloves holding "I am the Human Experience" signs.

    Humanising Healthcare: we are the HeART of healing

    Human Experience Week (5-9 May) is our moment to recognise and celebrate the people who shape healthcare experiences every day. Across NSW Health, every action, big or small, has the power to make a difference for our patients, carers, families, and colleagues. This year, we’re inviting everyone to be part of a vital conversation: The… Read more »

  • 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 »

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