December 17, 2024That’s a wrap for 2024! As we bid goodbye to this wonderful year, let’s hit rewind and relive the standout moments we’ve shared with our amazing online followers. From feel-good stories and handy health tips to VIP visits and outstanding achievements by our Northern Health staff, this year has been a real gem.
1.VIP visits, major events and a successful accreditation!
We were thrilled to host Premier of Victoria Hon Jacinta Allan MP and Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas, who visited to announce significant funding for Broadmeadows Hospital as part of the Metropolitan Health Infrastructure plan and the opening of one of 20 comprehensive women’s health clinics by Northern Health.
In March, our social media buzzed with highlights from International Women’s Day, where we honoured the amazing women in our workforce with a fun video tribute. ANZAC Day 2024 was marked with heartfelt tributes, while our successful accreditation during the Short Notice Assessment in May proved our ongoing commitment to excellence.
2. Heart-warming patient stories
2024 was filled with incredible stories of resilience and recovery. Patient Caitlyn Cooper’s journey from a life-threatening condition to full recovery and back to professional dancing, was nothing short of inspiring. Dr Sahil Hashemi, an International Medical Graduate from Afghanistan, shared his story from being a refugee to becoming a vital part of the Northern Health team.
A dying patient’s dream came true when his treating oncologist and car enthusiast, Dr Jaclyn Yoong, took him for a ride in a loud and powerful Porsche, and 104-year-old Betty Soraghan at Dianella Village Aged Care Hostel, Kilmore, shared her wisdom in an episode for our Visiting Hours podcast. And we ended the year with joy, by welcoming Lola, Northern Health’s first ever Public Fertility Services bub!
3. Emotional farewell to Northern Health CE Siva Sivarajah
In August, we bid a bittersweet farewell to our Northern Health CE Siva Sivarajah, after almost a decade of visionary leadership. Siva’s tenure has been one of transformation and growth, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire us all for years to come.
The farewell was a celebration of Siva’s incredible journey at Northern Health, filled with heartfelt reflections from colleagues and a candid Q&A session. And in true Northern Health fashion, we couldn’t let him leave without asking our signature coffee order question!
4. Diversity and inclusivity
At Northern Health, our strength lies in our diversity, and this year we proudly celebrated the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our community. From Easter to Ramadan, Orthodox Easter to Diwali, and the vibrant events of NAIDOC Week, every celebration was a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and belonging.
These moments brought us together to learn, share, and honour the traditions of our colleagues and the community we serve, ensuring everyone feels seen, valued, and supported.
5. Northern Health stars shine bright in 2024!
Many of our staff’s achievements were celebrated throughout the year. We proudly recognised Dr Zena Barak for her excellence in nephrology and congratulated Associate Professor Suzi Nou, for being honoured with the AMA 2024 President Award. In the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours, we were thrilled to see Dr Sherene Devanesen and Dr Amanda Baric receive the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division, while Dr Oliver Cronin was successful in his application for the Fulbright Future Scholarship. We were also proud to showcase our commitment to sustainability by embracing Virtual healthcare, which was recognised and won for reducing the health sector’s carbon footprint at the prestigious 2024 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards event.
6. Podcast and ongoing engagement
During 2024, the Visiting Hours podcast kept our audience engaged with insightful interviews from Northern Health experts like Associate Professors Prahlad Ho and Jacklyn Yoong, Professors Lisa Hui and Shekhar Kumta, and many more. The podcast continued to spark conversations about important health topics and deepened our connection with the community. Alongside that, we recognised the hard work and dedication of our staff through Quarterly Awards and Length of Service events.
As we look back on 2024, the stories and milestones that defined this year remind us of the extraordinary dedication and care within our Northern Health community. From moments of compassion to the teamwork that exemplifies our values – Safe, Kind and Together, this year has truly been one to cherish.
To our online community, thank you for every like, comment, and share. Your support connects us and amplifies the incredible work we do together.
As we step into 2025, we are excited to continue this journey with you, building on our shared achievements and celebrating even more stories of kindness, care, and community. Stay tuned for what’s ahead!
#NorthernHealth #2024YearInReview #HealthcareHeroes #CommunityImpact #OurJourneyTogether
