MURRUMBIDGEE SS E TER
MATTERS INE
THIS ISSUE: VirtualCare FAREWELL Board Chair
E 1 CONTENTS PUBLICATION About Us...... 2 VirtualCare conquering isolation ...... 3 We would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of Creative Thinking: A fresh look ...... 4 the land covering MLHD and remind people that we live Pharmacy Outreach to extend ...... 5 and work on Aboriginal land. Runs on the VirtualCare board ...... 5 Frail Blazers - exercise for seniors...... 5 Welcome to the 15th issue of Murrumbidgee Matters Globetrotter sets sights on road less travelled...... 6 Magazine. Hospital Monitoring for patients isolating at home ...... 7 Virtual Antenatal Classes ...... 7 This quarterly publication is developed by MLHD. From the Chief Executive ...... 8 Information is correct at time of printing. Farewell Gayle - A decade of service ...... 10 Board Chair's Message...... 12 Publication costs are subsidised by income generated Director Message: Paul Braybrooks ...... 12 from advertising. Meet our People: Rosemary Garthwaite ...... 13 Medical Intern follows in fathers footsteps ...... 14 Lived Experience enriches role ...... 16 FRONT COVER Supporting and showcasing rural medicine ...... 18 Training partners: MLHD & Notre Dame chalk up ten years of medical training ...... 20 Photo Gallery: International Nurses Week ...... 22 CONTACT US Photo Gallery: Volunteers Week ...... 24 Reduce risk of seasonal flu with good hygiene ...... 26 EDITORIAL Photo Gallery: Palliative Care Week ...... 28 Rebekah Manwaring Photo Gallery: Around the traps ...... 30 Communications Officer 0412 324 122 E: [email protected]
Heather Hillam Communications Officer ABOUT US E: [email protected] R Juanita Golland NSW Online Communications Officer W 125 5 1 0436 911 758 square kilometres to a population of more than 240,700 E: [email protected] T S I heritage make up four per cent of the population. ADVERTISING As the largest employer in the region, with more than 3,800 Setchen Brimson healthcare staff working across 33 hospitals and 12 primary Executive Services Manager - Communications T: 02 5943 2010 volunteers who make an invaluable contribution to enriching E: [email protected] MURRUMBIDGEE LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT Level 1, 193-195 Morgan Street • 1 Rural Referral Hospital Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 • 1 Base Hospital E: [email protected] • 8 District Health Services www.mlhd.health.nsw.gov.au • 5 Community Hospitals • 16 Multipurpose Services All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be • 2 Mercy Care Public Hospitals reproduced without written permission of • 12 Community Health Posts Murrumbidgee Local Health District. • 1 Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service
R S Wellness is our Goal Excellence is our Passion Our People are Our Future
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS conquering isolation
Murrumbidgee Local Health District’s “Currently we might send a nurse out will mean staff and the patient no longer virtual care services are building to see a wound after surgery, and that have to hold the iPad; it will sit at eye momentum, with a recent funding boost might be necessary for the first few level, enhancing the patient experience, set to improve and increase health times, but by the fourth time the patient and with less handling improve infection service delivery via videoconferencing might be able to check in by video.” control. and remote monitoring using devices like The funding, announced in early May, The grant is also funding an exciting computers and mobile phones. will enable virtual hubs to be created software purchase, which will mean Murrumbidgee Internal Transformation in about 30 sites across the district, safer and higher quality care for mothers Team virtual care lead, Andy Corrigan, including local hospitals and community and babies at nine MLHD birthing sites. says a recent NSW Health grant will build health centres, ensuring people who Cardiotocography equipment, which on pockets of virtual care excellence that don’t have internet access at home have monitors foetal heart rates, will soon already exist within MLHD over the next access to virtual services. provide live information to any medical 12 months. or midwife specialists providing support Andy says this is important, as from a larger facility, increasing the risk “We had to do some fast learning in this Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network of positive clinical outcomes for mother space throughout COVID-19, and now data shows about 23% of local residents and baby, and decreasing the likelihood the community are more open, aware have no internet access at home. It of a transfer to another hospital. and wanting choices, so we are listening will also minimise connectivity issues to that demand and their preferences,” caused by irregular internet connection, Further adding to patient safety is a suite says Andy. reducing time that staff and community of new cameras, recently installed across members have to spend troubleshooting. the district, which enable specialised “MLHD is now really investing in offering clinical advisory services to zoom in people choice, to make sure they get the Patients in MLHD’s rural hospitals will and see emergency situations with care they need closer to home, where also have better access to specialist extraordinary clarity (from the ceiling- ever possible. When you can get care services, with about 20 new ward- mounted cameras, specialists could read closer to home, that is better for you, based carts set up with a computer, a business card sitting on a desk). Andy your family, your recovery and wellbeing. speaker and camera that are ideal for says MLHD is the first district to have It’s about overcoming the disadvantage quality videoconferencing. Andy says finished overhauling its Care Camera that comes with isolation.” this will make it easier for inpatients to Network, providing 24/7 support to communicate with a hospital pharmacist, Andy says about 20 per cent of MLHD staff in emergency departments, and geriatrician or Aboriginal Health Worker out-patient services are currently maternity, paediatric and other wards. when they need to, rather than waiting delivered by telephone, but adding video for face-to-face visits. “If someone comes into an Emergency to a consultation in the patient’s home Department at a small hospital site, staff brings a much better chance to develop “Specialist services might only get to can link in to the MLHD Critical Care a relationship and rapport. a small rural hospital once every two Advisory Service for immediate help, if weeks, so virtual care means more “Video is better when it comes to they need it,” he says. g frequent contact and support,” Andy checking in on someone’s wellbeing, says. because just over the phone it can be difficult to really gauge how people are MLHD has 50 iPads which are used as a going,” he says. back-up to the ward carts, supporting about 50 inpatient consultations each “It also has huge potential for things like day. The new funding will ensure they wound care. are attached to a stand on wheels, which E REAT E T
Time to take a fresh look at how we do things around here With some creative thinking, virtual care in a partner, who might be at work or out the community is saying they want to has potential to significantly improve of town, or an interstate relative or other get care closer to home and it’s our patient experiences, not just from a family members who can’t be present. responsibility to make it happen, where clinical perspective, but by enabling possible.” “People on dialysis or chemotherapy patients to share significant moments might be able to receive education Please email your creative ideas to: with loved ones, or delivering support or virtually while they are receiving [email protected] information when and where it’s needed. treatment, rather than having to travel g Murrumbidgee Internal Transformation for a separate appointment. Team’s virtual care lead, Andy is “Wouldn’t it be great if Aboriginal encouraging discussions across the patients could be connected with an district that get people thinking beyond Aboriginal Health Worker within 10 the benefits we understand now, like minutes of arriving at an emergency saving isolated patients from having to department, if there isn’t one on site.” travel. Andy says an advertising campaign will “You might have a midwife or nurse soon encourage community feedback visit newborn babies in their houses and ideas on how virtual care can to take measurements and physically enhance health care experiences. assess mum and bub’s wellbeing. We will continue to do that. But virtual care “We need to find people who think could provide a great opportunity to link differently and have ideas, because
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS Pharmacy outreach set to extend further A small three-month trial at “We were trying to make an effort Gundagai and Narrandera has to provide a service that was more shown potential for MLHD’s team of personable than a phone call,” says hospital pharmacists to use a video John. consultation to discuss medications “We know face-to-face is ideal and with patients before they are preferred, but geographically it has discharged. its challenges in a rural local health MLHD District Chief Pharmacist, John district, especially when we only have Carroll, says pharmacists ran through pharmacists based in four locations.” a printed medication list given to John says if the virtual service patients upon discharge, explaining progresses to a more formal model, any medication changes made during there is potential for it to also include their hospital stay and answering consultations on admission and any questions about their current transfer, and during the patient’s medication regimen. hospital stay as well. g
Runs on the VirtualCare board Across MLHD, our clients and And patients with cognitive patients have already had a changes or dementia have been taste of what benefits can stem able to sit with a nurse specialist from virtual care services. as they connect online with a specialist geriatrician; the team Some people presenting to working together to create a emergency departments treatment plan. with acute mental illness have received Mental Health Below are more detailed Emergency Crisis support from accounts of virtual services that clinicians based elsewhere. have potential to improve health care outcomes for people across People preparing for bariatric the district. g weight loss surgery have logged on for education sessions, from the comfort of their own homes. Frail Blazers exercise classes for seniors COVID-19 could have brought to a dramatic end MLHD’s Frail Blazers group exercise program for frail elderly clients. But with some creative thinking and a new approach, the Wagga Wagga-based program started online in April, giving clients continued access to strengthening exercises and as a valued social outlet. The transition to online has provided some unexpected bonuses; some participants have demonstrated better technique – maybe due to there being less distractions than in face-to-face sessions - and it can now be offered across more rural locations. People previously unable to travel to attend One of those group members is Frank Skinner, 95, who was sessions in person have also started participating. feeling isolated even before COVID-19. Gut issues meant he wasn’t confident to leave home to socialise or exercise – a big Senior Aged Care Physiotherapist, Merrin Moran, says it has adjustment given the international travel he and his wife Kath been rewarding to see participants try something new and give once enjoyed. virtual care a go. Being able to follow the exercise program on his tablet, from “With some group members aged into their 90s, it has been a the comfort of his own home has proven a godsend, enabling great learning experience for all involved, and one we hope to him to work on his strength and balance while also enjoying a further develop across MLHD.” chat and making new social connections. g
E 5 Globe-trotter sets sights on roads less travelled He realised his family could have aged care support across the district, stayed at home and communicated he’s aware that people often assume just as effectively with the specialist via older people won’t be able to work with computer with a camera and speaker. technology. “When the doctor says they want to see COVID-19 inspired changes which proved you in three months, you just do it,” he that wrong. With geriatricians no longer says. able to travel across the district, a new approach was essential. And now, Andy “Looking back, I realised I didn’t have the says MLHD geriatricians offer a great confidence or awareness to ask whether service virtually, particularly out west. this could be done differently. That was an eye-opener for me.” “It means people can get a diagnosis, advice and intervention faster than they That personal experience and new would if they waited for a face-to-face way of thinking was fortuitous, given assessment, which is great,” he says. that Andy went on to lead virtual care within the Murrumbidgee Internal “It may not be perfect, because Transformation Team. ideally you would have it face-to-face, but during COVID it was better than He is encouraging all MLHD staff to nothing.” think about what care they could offer virtually, and he’s asking our patients and He says one silver lining from the consumers to speak up and ask for it. COVID-19 cloud is that it changed his whole way of thinking about delivery of “The need for face-to-face clinical care is virtual care being limited by patients’ never going to disappear,” says Andy. abilities, knowledge or experience. When Andy Corrigan’s one-year-old son “But what are the opportunities for “It’s up to us, as health professionals, needed heart surgery, he and his wife saving families from having to travel, to change our thinking, and find ways didn’t think twice about travelling from from the expense and the time away? to make it work, rather than saying it Wagga Wagga to Sydney. When it comes down to it, sometimes doesn’t work for our client group.” g Andy, who was managing MLHD there is no need for them to be there in aged care services, and his wife – a person.” sonographer – found the trip a struggle. Andy, 35, who now has three children, Rarely do parents enjoy a 10-hour round aged four, two and two months, hasn’t trip with two kids under four. They had always lived with the tyranny of distance to take three weeks off work, and living affecting access to medical services. away from home was expensive. But He grew up in Sydney where he also " they begrudged nothing. The trip was worked in allied health and medical necessary. radiation services. And he has travelled It was a different story when they extensively, working in Scotland, Ireland, and intervention were asked to attend a follow-up Canada and the US, as well as Perth and appointment, three months later. Again, Melbourne. they took time off work and travelled Andy’s wife was born in Wagga Wagga, five hours each way with their two so that’s where they decided to holiday young children. They felt fortunate to after coming back from America. Their stay at Ronald McDonald House and plan was to enjoy time with her family have a government subsidy contribute while applying for jobs in Melbourne. to transport costs. But this time the trip But equipped with his Bachelor of didn’t seem necessary. Applied Sciences in Radiation Therapy, “It was a 15-minute consult with the and a Masters in Health Administration, doctor, who looked at the scar, asked Andy secured work with MLHD, and has us how everything was going, charged since held management roles in allied health and aged care. " us a few hundred dollars and sent us on our way,” says Andy, who was left Having set up MLHD’s Regional contemplating the cost – not just to his Assessment Services for Aged Care, family, but the health system as a whole. which assesses eligibility for entry-level
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS Hospital monitored COVID-19 symptoms for patients isolating at home
When Vijay Raval and his family moved from Melbourne to Wagga Wagga earlier this year, they had no idea they had COVID-19, or that they were about to experience high-quality hospital care from the comfort of their new home. Vijay, 29, says the family had no COVID symptoms when they arrived in Wagga Wagga, but over the following few days his mother, 52, had back pain from the road trip. When Vijay tried to book her a doctor’s appointment and said they’d come Vijay says it was reassuring when hospital staff reacted from Melbourne, the practice followed protocol and asked his instantly to changes on day five, when he started to feel a mother to take a COVID test. heaviness in his chest. He received a call from the hospital To everyone’s surprise, the result was positive, sparking a saying his heart rate and oxygen levels had dropped. prompt home visit from a MLHD doctor and nurse in full PPE. After answering questions about his levels of activity, staff They tested Vijay, his wife and their young daughter, who also monitored him for a further two hours before asking him to had no symptoms but returned positive results. drive straight to hospital. “It is very difficult and it is a totally new place for us, and Collected from the car park by a nurse in PPE, he had a chest we feel very bad about what is going on,” says Vijay, whose x-ray and was kept in isolation, before being deemed safe to shocked family followed all precautions thoroughly and return home. willingly, and isolated for 28 days in their one-bedroom house. MLHD staff monitored Vijay and his family for 14 days. They Just hours after their diagnosis, a nurse in full PPE visited made a video call twice a day, checking on their wellbeing, and Vijay’s family again, this time with high-tech armbands which visited the family in person every second day, wearing full PPE. would enable the adults’ heart rate, respiratory rate, blood The only other times the family opened the front door was oxygenation and skin temperature to be monitored remotely. to bring inside groceries and food parcels that had been MLHD had invested in technology knowing that while many delivered. people with COVID only experience mild symptoms, some Vijay says while it was a dramatic and challenging way for the deteriorate rapidly. While patients are generally well enough to family to start their new life in Wagga Wagga, he and his family isolate at home, keeping hospital beds free for those who need felt very well cared for and grateful not to have been admitted them, monitoring their vital signs remotely provides an extra to hospital. g layer of safety.
Virtual antenatal classes
If there’s one thing COVID-19 wasn’t able to put on hold, it was the arrival of babies, so the demand for antenatal classes didn’t stop when the rest of the world seemed to. For MLHD registered midwives Janine Sutton and Rachel Quarmby that meant a total rethink in order to develop an online offering for expectant mothers and their partners birthing at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital. And having run for 12 months, demand for the online program has been so consistent that the four-week evening sessions will continue virtually, even when expectant couples can Another said they were devastated when face-to-face classes participate in person once again from Saturday 26 June. were cancelled, so having an online option was a huge relief. Logging on to classes enabled one expectant parent to log in Another patient liked being able to see a video of the ward, from a tractor while their partner participated from home. And saying it helped them become familiar with the space and what the midwives enjoyed seeing participants sprawled on couches they could and couldn’t do, which put their nerves at ease. at home, looking comfortable and relaxed, with the family cats “I think online classes should perhaps be an option for couples and dogs generally present. who cannot make face-to-face classes,” they said. g “I found it really good to be able to do it from the comfort of our home, and it was great to have the breaks to stretch my legs and get snacks,” one participant commented. PAGE 7 From the Chief Executive
MLHD is also taking bookings for eligible people aged 40 to OUT AND ABOUT 49 for the Pfizer vaccination at the Wagga Wagga and Griffith One of the greatest pleasures I have is getting out of the office public hubs. People aged 40-49 can register for the Pfizer and visiting our facilities to find out what's happening 'on the vaccine on the NSW Government website: https://www.nsw. ground'. gov.au/ Together with our Board Chair, each week I'm on the road as People will be contacted when a booking is available. Once part of a regular program of visits to our health service sites a registration has been received, a member of the bookings across the region. team will be in contact to schedule a time at the specific The visits provide an opportunity for me to speak with staff, location. consumers, residents, consumer advocates and Councils, For more information about COVID-19 Vaccinations email: listening to their personal stories and grass roots experiences to [email protected] get a better understanding of the real issues and challenges. Over the past few weeks I had the great pleasure to visit our westernJill most sites at TooleybucLudford and Moulamein. THINKING DIFFERENTLY It is widely acknowledged that there is a critical shortage These community outreach posts are so important in providing of doctors across rural Australia, and it is difficult to attract community care to these remote communities. I also visited doctors and other medical professionals to rural and regional Deniliquin and Barham where I had some great conversations areas. with staff and community members about what matters most to them. Despite the best of intentions and a variety of approaches over recent years, there are just not enough of the doctors leaving our universities considering a rural career. COVID-19 UPDATE Over the past few years, we have had to adapt and learn how Murrumbidgee Local Health District has been supporting the we can continue to provide services, in adaptive ways. Commonwealth COVID-19 Vaccination rollout over the past few months with the vaccination of health care workers in our Our Base Hospital redevelopments at Griffith and Wagga region. Wagga will provide greater access to specialist care. The new Wagga Wagga Hospital Stage 3 building, called the Health Preventing the spread of COVID-19 is a key priority and Services Hub, opened in May 21 and provides sub-acute, vaccination is an important step in keeping people safe in our ambulatory, community and primary health care services community. To date, we have vaccinated over 6,700 people from a single site on the campus. across the District Our real challenge is to grow our rural workforce. A As part of the vaccination rollout we now welcome the generalist trained workforce can better support rural opportunity to vaccinate the Families and Household Contacts healthcare and improve access to care. We have taken action of HealthCare workers (16 +). This is available for all staff to skill our doctors, nurses and allied health clinicians to be members and Visiting Medical Officers who work in the District. trained and recognised as rural generalists, working at the top of their scope.
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS Below: Gayle and I have traversed the District and shared many great memories from award winning moments to infrastructure developments, but the best - meeting our people.
The Murrumbidgee Rural Generalist Training Pathway, a trial of a single employer model for GP trainees, is a first in Australia. FAREWELL BOARD CHAIR More than an employment model, this is a training pathway to It is with sadness that we farewell our longstanding and much enable doctors to obtain the advanced skills needed to work in loved Board Chair Gayle Murphy. Gayle has completed the rural hospitals, and in primary care. maximum Board Director tenure of 10 years. Since 2016 our Wagga Wagga ED Emergency Medicine Gayle started with the MLHD Board in 2011 and has been a physicians have been running a teaching program for GPs to vigorous advocate for healthcare in our region. She has truly gain the required Emergency Department experience to work immersed herself in the role of Board Chair, and has given in our hospitals. Five years later our program, to be presented freely of her time to better understand the health needs and at the Australian College of Emergency Medicine in July, has concerns of local people. I have spent many hours on the road not only reduced the contraction of the workforce, but with Gayle, trekking a well-worn path to facilities so that we progressively built the number of permanent doctors. can hear first-hand about what is happening on the ground. The Allied Health Rural Generalist Pathway has successfully I'd like to extend my personal thanks to Gayle for the many attracted new graduates to our region and filled allied hours she has contributed, and on behalf of staff across the health vacancies. These clinicians have been retained at the Murrumbidgee wish her well in her future endeavours. I'm completion of the program, and have formed a professional sure we will see Gayle in future forums wearing a different hat! network. We are also training and credentialing nurses and nurse practitioners to work at the top of their scope. Nurse Delegated Emergency Care accredited nurses are authorised to undertake assessment, intervention and discharge, Jill Ludford following detailed protocols. Chief Executive We will continue to think creatively and find new ways of delivering safe, quality services to people across our region.
Out and about meeting the team at Deniliquin Health Service
PAGE 9 ARE E A E A decade of service to better health After ten years in the hot seat, Murrumbidgee Local Health “Gayle truly immersed herself in the role of Board Chair,” District’s Board Chair will retire at the end of June. acknowledged Chief Executive Jill Ludford. “She has given freely of her time to better understand the health needs and Gayle Murphy commenced with the Murrumbidgee Local concerns of locals and truly given over and above what was Health District (MLHD) Board in July 2011 and soon after was required of her as Board Chair. We have spent many hours on elected to the position of Chair. the road trekking a well-worn path to facilities so that Gayle Gayle has been a vigorous advocate for Murrumbidgee Local can hear first-hand about what is happening on the ground.” Health District throughout her time as Chair and is a familiar She has been a very active participant at every level from face at all of the hospital and health service sites across the Annual Public Meetings and Awards presentations to LHAC District. She has traversed the region meeting and speaking forums, Open Days, Expos, Information Sessions, Roadshows, with staff, consumers, residents, consumer advocates and Orientations and all manner of meetings. Her attendance at all Councils listening to their personal stories and grass roots of these events will be greatly missed. experiences. Using this information and knowledge, Gayle shares with the Board helping them all make informed Members of a Local Health District Board are appointed as decisions. independent individuals by the NSW Government, after a specific application and review process, and are required to act A proud and vocal supporter of rural health, Gayle’s catch cry in the best interests of the Board and the Local Health District. “Go Murrumbidgee!” is often heard in celebration of great achievements. Gayle has served under three NSW Health Gayle’s passion and commitment to the health district was Minsters, Carmel Tebbutt, Jillian Skinner and the current acknowledged by the Local Health Advisory Committee Minister Brad Hazzard and has ‘gone into bat’ time and again members at a farewell dinner in May. Her final Board meeting for Murrumbidgee. will be in June 2021. g In addition to chairing the MLHD Board meetings, Gayle has been involved in a number of Board Sub Committees, of particular note the HealthCare Safety and Quality Committee, a subject closest to Gayle’s heart, and NSW BreastScreen. In recent years Gayle has also joined the College of Dermatologist’s Community Engagement Advisory Committee.
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: A decade of development: Tocumwal Health Service redevelopment, Wagga Wagga Redevelopment, Harden-MPS Redevelopment, Gundagai MPS opening, Installation of Telehealth cameras, Mental Health safe space at Young, Griffith Redevelopment sod turning, Deniliquin Maternity Services. PAGE 11 BOARD CHAIR’S MESSAGE
This is my final column as Board Chair for ensure our MLHD works at the top of their Murrumbidgee Local Health District as I scope of practise. have completed by term. Although I finish Jill and I have enjoyed many road trips in this role with some sadness I am excited to our many facilities. The long drives for the years ahead for MLHD. in all types of weather have been well The best part of my role over the last 10 worth it. We have learnt so much about years has been the people. I have met our facilities, their needs, and their some amazing people in our District. triumphs. We have met our amazing Unselfish people who have given freely of volunteers – members of our Local their time to assist those in need. I have Health Advisory Committees, our United also spoken to people in our aged care Hospital Auxiliaries, Local Government units who are living life to its fullest, giving representatives and those carers who give me lots to smile and laugh about. so much support to their loved ones and their communities. It is hard to thank everyone, but I must start with MLHD staff. Everyday they make I have so many wonderful memories. me proud as they strive to improve the I am always proud of what MLHD does health care they give to their patients everyday. whether it is administration or on the floor of our facilities. Quality safe care every Keep safe time. Regards Special thanks must go to Chief Executive, Gayle Murphy Jill Ludford and her Executive. I can say Proud Chair with all honesty they work tirelessly to MLHD
such important service to its community. PAUL BRAYBROOKS However, I worry how expectations and the cost of providing that expectation of BOARD DIRECTOR quality and diverse service is to be met. I find it hard to realise that it is 10 years After all the bricks and mortar are easy since I was appointed to the newly formed and comparatively cheap to provide. It Board of MLHD. I can clearly remember is the ongoing cost of meeting the local the first few meetings of the new Board community expectation of the high level when we looked at each other and quite of diverse service which is fast becoming a frankly wondered what was expected of real problem and is often compounded as us as board members and how were we to a politically driven issue. function. I hope I am not considered a defeatist Some very capable board members and when I admit that I am now pleased to senior staff have come and gone over the pass on this problem to wiser heads and I decade, but the basic principle of trying genuinely wish the Board and senior staff to provide direction, advice and support sound judgement and best wishes as they to the organisation and its senior staff is continue the struggle of providing quality still the same. How health care is provided service within ever tightening budgets. has changed during this time, the costs have risen, but the struggle to maintain As an aging consumer, I am after all relying a quality and equitable service within a on them being successful! will be stepping down after 10 years given budget are just the same. I take pride each time I drive through Wagga Wagga and look across at the new Base Hospital or I drive through a small country community to see the newly rebuilt MPS which is providing
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS MEET OUR PEOPLE
Rosemary Garthwaite General Manager Aged Care
I trained at the St Thomas’s Hospital in London from 1977- I secured a job as a casual Registered Nurse at Corowa Health 1980 and qualified as a Nightingale Nurse. Service, with Greater Murray Area Health Service. I gained some experience in respiratory and surgical services I have enjoyed a variety of positions since first arriving in the following my graduation year which saw me move to area in 2000 which has seen me experience the following: Cambridge, UK. Nurse Unit Manger Aged Care Corowa; Nurse Unit Manager Acute Care Corowa; Health Service Manager, Corowa; Regional In 1982 I had the opportunity to work in South Africa as a General Manager for MLHD and currently my position as MLHD Registered Nurse in Johannesburg in a Cardiac Intensive General Manager Aged Care. Care Unit. This experience ignited my passion for working in Intensive Care and saw me travel back to the UK to complete I am a dedicated leader and enjoy working alongside clinicians an accredited Intensive Care and Coronary Care certificate in to enable them to deliver safe care every day to meet the Brighton, Sussex. needs of the consumers in their care. I am a passionate advocate for Aged Care services and I feel very privileged to be My overseas travel bug was still prominent and I gained involved with elderly people and their families to ensure the employment once again in South Africa, this time in Cape services available in our communities are consumer focused Town working in Intensive Care at Groote Schuur Hospital. My and inclusive. experience there was truly amazing and I had to learn at a very fast pace. I have never worked with such sick people anywhere Family and Hobbies: else throughout my career. I have a supportive husband and two grown up children who On returning to the UK in 1985 I was very restless and decided have been on the journey with me to expand my professional that Australia was “calling” me and I was very keen to see a career. new part of the world. I arrived in Australia in February 1996 I have always been involved with activities in the community and commenced employment at the Repatriation Hospital in and was the President of the P&C at primary school and also Heidelberg, Victoria in Intensive Care. secondary school. I knew that Australia would be where I made my home and I I enjoy travelling, reading and AFL footy and am looking embraced every opportunity that came my way. forward to retirement where I can be actively involved in I stepped away from health for a period of six years and community events. g had two jobs working as a sales representative for medical equipment in Intensive Care and Neo-natal intensive care. In 2000, I decided to have a “c” change and with my husband and two children (aged 4 and 2) we moved to Corowa, NSW.
PAGE 13 "
I " MURRUMB D EE I MATTERS ISSUE 15 WINTER Officer Junior Medical Foley, Dr Paul 2021 MA A NE " Medical intern follows in father’s footsteps… Dr Paul Foley is a black-belt martial While studying medicine at the appreciate, because otherwise you have artist, talented pianist and aspiring University of Newcastle, Paul got his no idea why. I’m learning really good gardener. He is also one of the new first taste of Wagga Wagga’s enviable skills I can build on.” interns starting work at Wagga Wagga lifestyle through an eight-week He says his experience has been Base Hospital this year. placement at Wagga Wagga Base enhanced by Wagga Wagga having Hospital. That positive experience left Having turned 23 in March, Paul is not such a wide variety of consultants with him pleased to be offered a Junior quite the youngest of the city’s new varying specialties, who also practice Medical Officer position at the hospital doctors, but he could well be the first to general medicine. late last year. Young doctors can’t have recognised medicine as his calling. afford to be fussy about their first “If a cardiologist is the admitting doctor As a child, Paul loved science fiction placement – if they knock back their for the day, they might oversee medical and initially wanted to be an inventor, first offer they’re not guaranteed a management of a patient’s chest specialising in new devices that would second – and Paul had more than his infection or bowel problems. That’s the improve people’s lives, “like flying cars own career to consider, having married thing I love about rural and regional that had a force field, so people didn’t his childhood sweetheart, Chantelle medicine,” says Paul. get into car accidents or plane crashes”. Foley, in December (fortuitously, after a But he decided on a more grounded “They emphasise the need to be a year of planning, the timing of their big approach to helping others at age seven, generalist when working rurally and I day coincided with a break in COVID-19 having watched on proudly as his dad feel like that makes you a better clinician restrictions). So the couple, who became made people feel better. because you consider the patient more fond of one another in their early teens, holistically.” Paul’s father, a general practitioner, took appreciated Wagga Wagga offering his family along when working as the Chantelle a range of rewarding career That’s in keeping with Paul’s long term main medico for a conference for about options – she secured a new graduate career goals, as he is keen to follow in 500 people. Paul remembers watching registered nursing position at Calvary his father’s footsteps and become a GP, with interest and awe as he fielded Riverina Hospital, where she works in potentially back at his father’s surgery patient concerns throughout the day and the High Dependency Unit and aims long in Richmond or potentially as a Rural beyond to “ridiculous o’clock”. term to work in intensive care. Generalist out in the bush. “Seeing how he could have such an Paul grew up in North Richmond, at Paul’s two year contract commits him impact on people in pain, treat them and the foot of the Blue Mountains, west of to Wagga Wagga for two years, but give them medicine to help, and proper Sydney. That gave him enough exposure afterwards he is keen to do as much GP care, so they’d be back enjoying the to the big smoke for him to know he training in rural areas as possible. conference led me to being interested in didn’t like it – “I always hated the city”. Moving, however, looks like it might medicine,” he says, having not heeded Lifestyle issues aside, he also believes become more of a challenge, the longer his father’s advice that there are less medical training and learning the couple stays. Paul plans to buy a stressful ways to make a living and help opportunities are more varied and piano having played for 10 years and people. valuable in the country, with better made it through all of the Australian relationships and communication Music Examination Board’s exams, he between junior and senior doctors. now finds it good stress relief. I feel like [rural At Wagga Wagga Base Hospital Any moving truck will need room for he started work on the upper plants too “I’m definitely getting into medicine]" makes gardening while I’m here – mainly herbs gastrointestinal surgical team, sometimes assisting in theatre with and vegetables and certain succulents. I you a better retracting, cutting and suturing. have tried to make a tomato vine survive He moved on to orthopaedics, and before, but it wasn’t in very good soil clinician because will rotate through Rehabilitation, unfortunately. My wife and I are renting Emergency Medicine and finish his so we are investing in little boxes so we you consider the internship in General Medicine. can make a more permanent fixture when we move.” g “All of the surgeons have been incredibly patient more lovely to me and inclusive of me in the team. They are always trying to get me holistically. to understand why we are doing certain things and the rationale so I can perceive " where they are going, which I really PAGE 15 Tiffany Thompson, Consumer Participation Coordinator Participation Coordinator Consumer Thompson, Tiffany
" "
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS Lived experience enriches role Tiffany Thompson’s career progression “We have a Lived Experience Network supports the notion that if you follow with some amazing people who your nose, and are open to unexpected I participate in committees, provide opportunities, you can end up exactly their feedback, and participate in co- where you’re meant to be. " design, and we are working to develop that further through our new online Equipped with an events management participation platform,” Tiffany says. degree earned in the UK, Tiffany secured volunteer work with the Homeless World “People have such rich experience and Cup when she moved to Melbourne. opportunities for so much insight and wisdom to share,” That set her on track for roles for says Tiffany. charities supporting men’s health and “Their journey with mental health, drug vulnerable young people, which in turn or alcohol issues is so diverse, and they led her to Beyond Blue. That’s where show so much strength and resilience. Tiffany learned just how much she valued hearing stories from people with “Having mental health issues doesn’t lived experience of mental health issues. mean you are going to be limited by it or defined by it for your whole life. You can As someone with lifelong experience still live a very rich, full, life, even when of mental health issues, Tiffany could you are dealing with mental health issues sometimes relate to these stories. At Tiffany is a big advocate for the state- on an ongoing basis and you can and other times it was an opportunity to wide ‘Your Experience of Service" (YES)’ should expect to feel well and live your learn. But understanding the value in survey, which is available to everyone life in a way that is meaningful to you.” people sharing personal experiences who receives a MLHD mental health – and the courage it took to share service, enabling them to provide ratings Tiffany says in many ways, it’s easy to them – made for a natural progression and comments. make a huge difference to a person’s life into managing Blue Voices, Beyond and recovery, simply by being kind, and Blue’s community of people with lived More broadly, she also supports people showing compassion and empathy. experience, and carers, who contribute to share their story of receiving services “Even if you’re not working in mental their ideas and experiences to shape the for mental health, drug or alcohol issues. health, have an awareness that everyone organisation’s work. Anyone living in Murrumbidgee is invited to take part. They may have received walks around every day with their life Seven years later, with the benefit of care at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital’s history and whatever is going on for that rich experience, Tiffany and her Acute Mental Health Unit or Recovery them at that time. young family left Melbourne for North Unit, or from community-based mental “When they present to any health East Victoria, near her husband’s home health and drug and alcohol teams service, people are often at a vulnerable town, and she settled into a job with working in Temora, Tumut, Young, time in their lives, and so I think it is Murrumbidgee Local Health District it Griffith, Deniliquin or Wagga. Whenever really important to treat people with seems destiny created for her. consumers or carers share their stories, warmth and compassion. Staff should Tiffany, 37, coordinates MLHD’s they consent to how their contribution never underestimate the difference that Consumer Participation Strategy for will be used. can make to somebody’s life by offering Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Some clients choose to share their kindness and respect.” g Services. Her main focus is ensuring stories directly with staff at meetings, robust systems are in place to ensure highlighting a particular area that needs people with lived experience of mental improvement or something that worked Your mental health, drug or alcohol issues are really well. Others give permission for involved in decision making around excerpts to be included in resources for health matters their own healthcare and that they can others. participate in service development and to us, always. Consumers and carers might also be improvement. No matter how you are invited to participate in specific projects feeling, you can call the “I’m passionate about really opening up or activities that require insights gained Murrumbidgee Accessline opportunities for people to share their through personal experience. This to chat with someone 24/7 feedback and have that truly heard; approach informed content for a new 1800 800 944 feedback on their service experience or booklet supporting people who present their story as a whole,” says Tiffany. to an Emergency Department for a “We can learn so much from that.” mental health, drug or alcohol issue,
aiming to provide relevant targeted Learn more about healthLearn services more about in localyour health community services at support and information, and reduce facebook.com/yourLHACfacebook.com/yourLHAC
BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOUR LOCAL HEALTH stress caused by confusion. ADVISORY COMMITTEE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:
IF YOU NEED IMMEDIATE OR CRISIS SUPPORT CALL ACCESSLINE 1800 800 944 denimentalhealth.org.au OR VISIT YOUR LOCAL HOSPITAL OR GP. IF A LIFE IS IN DANGER, CALL 000. PAGE 17 The Notre Dame ROUNDs Group 2021 Supporting and showcasing rural medicine Autumn has been a busy period for the were travelling through south western At the Notre Dame Rural Clinical School Riverina Regional Training Hub (RRTH) NSW. This group of medical, nursing Wagga Wagga, they heard from locally with activity focussed on supporting and allied health students spent time based medical students and Notre Dame students interested in rural study, in Wagga Wagga, Temora, Griffith and alumni working locally as doctors of training and careers in health, especially Hay meeting local community members their experiences studying, training and medicine. as well as health professionals. The working rurally. Local MP Dr Joe McGirr panel who welcomed them at WWBH welcomed the group too, sharing his In mid-April medical students from the included a graduate nurse, midwife, and his family’s experience of living and Universities of Wollongong, UNSW and three trainee doctors, JMO manager and working in the region. Social events Notre Dame Rural Clinical Schools and RRTH Executive Officer who shared their showcasing Wagga Wagga and the trainee doctors from Wagga Wagga experience and knowledge of training region provided the visiting students Base Hospital (WWBH) headed out and working rurally. with opportunities to yarn with locals to beautiful Deniliquin for two days. and explore how they too might follow Initiated by Drs Grant Elliot and Martin Collaboration between the Royal their aspirations to work rurally. The Ryan, JMOs at Wagga Wagga Base Australian College of Surgeons, the students also visited local primary and Hospital and supported by the RRTH, the Murrumbidgee Local Health District secondary schools to share skills and two days showcased Deniliquin and rural (MLHD) and the RRTH has resulted stories. general practice. in the creation and funding of a new General Surgery post at the Griffith Base As Winter approaches, focus turns to The group was warmly welcomed Hospital. This position has been filled supporting those who mentor, teach to the Deniliquin District Hospital by by Dr Xainab Nassem whom we warmly and supervise our medical students Ginny Lange and her team. Drs Marion welcome to the surgical team in Griffith. and trainee doctors. An Advanced Life Reeves, Rachel and Ben James led Support Instructors course for eighteen the skills workshop and then with Drs Thirty-eight first- and second-year new instructors is being hosted by MLHD Marion McGee and Alam Yoosuff shared students from the University of Notre and the RRTH in mid-July. This will be a their experiences as rural general Dame rural health support group great boost to the existing instructor’s practitioners – the pleasures and the ROUNDS, visited Wagga Wagga between group with doctors and nurses from pain. Wonderful country hospitality was the 15 and 17 May. Welcomed to the around the Riverina Murrumbidgee extended to the delegates by Rachel and Notre Dame Rural Clinical School Wagga involved. This will be followed later in Ben James on their farm on the Edwards Wagga by A/Prof Catherine Harding and the year by two point of care ultrasound River providing an additional opportunity Student Coordinator Sharon Shaw , the workshops in Wagga Wagga and Griffith, to experience rural living. group heard from locally based Notre deepening skills regionally. g Dame medical students and alumni In May we welcomed members of the working as doctors of their experiences NSW RDN’s Go Rural road trip who studying, training and working rurally.
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS An Australian Government Initiative Rural Pathways to Post-Graduate Medical Training WAGGA WAGGA GRIFFITH RIVERINA
We can: • Give you the information you need about rural medical training pathways • Help navigate a rural medical training pathway for your career • Connect you to career advice from rural specialists Contact Us Ph: 02 8204 4607 Int Ph: 4607 Email: [email protected]
RURAL STUDY RURAL TRAINING RURAL CAREER T S R R Training Hub (RRTH) - from top: Birthing Skills Station: WWBH JMO nd.edu.au/riverina-rural-training-hub Dr Grant Elliott, UoW Brianne Larson and Rebecca Newton; Country R T Riverina Rural Training Hub Hospital (bottom) twitter.com/rural_hub
E 1 TRA ART ERS MLHD and Notre Dame chalk up ten years of medical training
Thank you MLHD for a decade of welcoming Notre Dame Rural Clinical School students. T N first made welcome by Murrumbidgee Local Health District, continuing the region’s tradition of supporting E Associate Professor Catherine Harding, Head of Clinical School, UNDA In February 2011, the first Notre Dame medical students arrived in Wagga. In that first year, a small number of fourth year students came for four-week rotations. A small area behind the Calvary Hospital was refurbished to provide a small learning area and two offices for the new school. In 2012, we welcomed the first six full-time students who studied across both hospital campuses and in other healthcare facilities throughout the region. On August 4th, 2014, the then Assistant Minister for Health Fiona Nash and Bishop Gerard Hanna, Bishop of Wagga Wagga officially opened the new training facility on the rural clinical school site. The Australian Government investment into medical training locally meant that a purpose-built flexible training space was available and paved the way for expansion of the Wagga Wagga campus to our present day numbers of 15 third and fourth year medical students plus up to three students every four weeks on rural rotations. In the first decade of Notre Dame in Wagga Wagga, over 60 full-time students and over 160 rotating students have developed their skills in the region. In 2012, our first local Notre Dame student took up internship in Wagga Wagga with many opting to stay for intern and additional post-graduate years since that time. Their accomplishments, including NSW JRMO of the year, international Golden Scalpel’s games and numerous research publications, would not have been possible without local support. There are too many supporters to name them all individually but collectively we have made this work. Thank you for the last ten years. Looking forward to the next ten years. g
T S >>> UNDA Alumni on the Med Ward: Dr Ariah Steele, Dr Kirra Parks Dr Megan T E >>> Notre Dame Gumi Race team 2014: Dr Marianne Turner, Dr Katherine Smith, Dr Kevin Ng, Dr Carolyn Wijaya, Dr Joe Mendel, Dr Simon Minns. >>> At the Front of Wagga RCS Graduating Year 4 2019: L- R Dr Daniel Szabo, Dr E E T N T R Dr Gabriel Atan Sanchez >>> Opening of Wagga Clinical School 2014: Assoc Prof Joe McGirr Associate Dean of Rural Schools, Professor Christine Bennett Dean of Medicine Sydney, N Chancellor Notre Dame University, Associate Prof Catherine Harding, Head of R S >>> Foyer of Notre Dame Graduating Year 4 2020: (L – R) Dr Harry Jude, Dr MURRUMB D EE Kirsten Dukes, Dr Imogen Hines, Dr Thomas Goubar, Dr Grant Elliott, Dr Antonia Ross Dr Kirra Parks, Dr Liz Monk, Dr George Mallat.Students 2016 Dr Chris Wilson, Dr Sylvia Lim Dr Sofia Dominguez and mascots – Photo courtesy of the Wagga Daily Advertiser. ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS PAGE 21 T ER CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY ACROSS THE DISTRICT:
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS PHOTOS: Clockwise from top right:
Jerilderie, Lockhart, Tocumwal, Wagga District Office, Hillston and Corowa
PHOTOS: oposite page: Clockwise from top right:
Temora, Young, Deniliquin, Berrigan, Gundagai and Griffith
PAGE 23 T ER CELEBRATING NATIONAL VOLUNTEERS WEEK ACROSS THE DISTRICT:
Temora: Local Health Advisory Committee
Wagga Wagga: Wayfinders, Hospital Auxiliary and consumer advocates
Local Health Advisory Committee (LHAC) Forum - 25 May 2021
MURRUMB D EE
ISSUE 15 WINTER 2021 MA A NEMATTERS PAGE 25 Reduce risk of seasonal flu with good hygiene Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) is encouraging MPHN’s Acting CEO Julie Redway said hygiene practices are all people to remember good hygiene practices again this simple and effective if done correctly and often. winter to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading seasonal “There is very strong evidence to show that good hygiene will flu and other viruses. dramatically reduce the spread of infections such as flu. People Young children, people aged 65 and over, pregnant women and should wash their hands correctly, cover their mouths and those with high-risk medical conditions are often at higher risk noses with a tissue when coughing and sneezing, dispose of of developing complications from the flu. their tissues into a bin, and stay at home if they are unwell,” Ms Redway said. MPHN Western Clinical Council Chair and General Practitioner Dr Muhammad Shahzad Arshed said although flu vaccination “We are encouraging all people to take the time to follow these remains a priority, good hygiene plays an important role in simple hygiene practices to help protect themselves and others keeping vulnerable members of the community protected and throughout the winter flu season.” g reducing pressure on health resources. “We know vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu but we should all remain vigilant with good hygiene practices to limit the spread of the flu,” Dr Arshed said. “Following good hygiene also ensures those in the community who are vulnerable during winter and at risk of more serious complications from the flu are protected.”
Wash your hands regularly
Cough and sneeze into your sleeve
For advice go to Avoid contact healthdirect.gov.au with others. 1800 022 222 Rest is best. 20 ExcellenceExcellenceAwards21 celebrating achievement
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS T ER Mental Health ups E E R TIN I TI E RE WEE R SS T E ISTRI T and downs are a normal part of life. No matter how you are feeling, there are a range of local services that can help. Wagga Wagga: Avolon Burkett and Stephanie Dunstall Griffith: Sheridan, Michelle and Tash Discuss your options any time with Murrumbidgee Accessline MY STEP 1800 800 944 TO MENTAL WELLBEING
MAP MY ACCESSLINE RECOVERY
ROAR - REACH OUT SPECIALIST AND RELAX COUNSELLING COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE E E R TIN N IENE R SS T E ISTRI T SUICIDE SUICIDE FAMILY PREVENTION WAY BACK ALCOHOL AND COUNSELLING TRAINING OTHER DRUGS SERVICE INFORMATION LGBTIQ+ SERVICE FRIENDSHIP AND SUPPORT GROUP LIFELINE 131114 WELLNESS WELLWAYS SERVICES
MHECS - MENTAL HEALTH GENERAL EMERGENCY PRACTITIONERLearn more about health services in your community CONSULTATION RECOVERY Learn more about local health services at SERVICE UNIT facebook.com/yourLHACfacebook.com/yourLHAC
BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOUR LOCAL HEALTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:
ABOVE: Griffith's Bridgid Lovemore demonstrates hand washing skills T E T S S BOTTOM LEFT: Orthopaedics enthuasistic about hand hygiene. IF YOU NEED IMMEDIATE OR CRISIS SUPPORT CALL ACCESSLINE 1800 800 944 denimentalhealth.org.au OR VISIT YOUR LOCAL HOSPITAL OR GP. IF A LIFE IS IN DANGER, CALL 000. Mental Health ups and downs are a normal part of life. No matter how you are feeling, there are a range of local services that can help. Discuss your options any time with Murrumbidgee Accessline MY STEP 1800 800 944 TO MENTAL WELLBEING
MAP MY ACCESSLINE RECOVERY
ROAR - REACH OUT SPECIALIST AND RELAX COUNSELLING COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE SUICIDE SUICIDE FAMILY PREVENTION WAY BACK ALCOHOL AND COUNSELLING TRAINING OTHER DRUGS SERVICE INFORMATION LGBTIQ+ SERVICE FRIENDSHIP AND SUPPORT GROUP LIFELINE 131114 WELLNESS WELLWAYS SERVICES
MHECS - MENTAL HEALTH GENERAL EMERGENCY PRACTITIONERLearn more about health services in your community CONSULTATION RECOVERY Learn more about local health services at SERVICE UNIT facebook.com/yourLHACfacebook.com/yourLHAC
BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOUR LOCAL HEALTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:
IF YOU NEED IMMEDIATE OR CRISIS SUPPORT CALL ACCESSLINE 1800 800 944 denimentalhealth.org.au OR VISIT YOUR LOCAL HOSPITAL OR GP. IF A LIFE IS IN DANGER, CALL 000. T ER SALARY PACKAGING We are excited to welcome Murrumbidgee LHD to our services!
Wagga Hospital Auxiliary members visit the new Renal Unit in the Wagga W S Young Hospital Maternity Unit has been kept busy in May with the birth of seven babies, six baby boys and one little girl in one week! Three of these babies were born within a 24 hour time frame. Around 130 babies are born in Young each year.
Staff and patients settle into the new Maternity services space in the W W S Scan to increase your take-home pay
Ada McGregor turns 100! Congratulations Ada! Ada is lives in our Leeton residential aged care facility Carramah House. Experience the difference with
a LeasePLUS Group company
Staff and patients settle into the new Oral Health (Dental) services 1 (12/03/2021) Number 676 I Version Document Control W W S Friendly Easy Quick Professional
the Local Health Advisory Committee Forum. 1300 402 523 salarypackagingplus.com.au/nswhealth [email protected] SALARY PACKAGING
We are excited to welcome Murrumbidgee LHD to our services!
Scan to increase your take-home pay
Experience the difference with
a LeasePLUS Group company Document Control Number 676 I Version 1 (12/03/2021) Number 676 I Version Document Control
Friendly Easy Quick Professional
1300 402 523 salarypackagingplus.com.au/nswhealth [email protected] E 1 LEASEPLUS MAKING NOVATED LEASING EVEN MORE ATTRACTIVE
ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE
Service, Tyres Registration Comprehensive 24 Hour Roadside Assist Finance Fuel 24H & Maintenance & CTP Insurance & Accident Management
Hatch FROM AS LITTLE AS per week* Potential $127 tax savings** $ 3,343 INCLUDING ALL RUNNING EXPENSES
FROM AS LITTLE AS
SUV per $ 175 week* Potential tax savings** INCLUDING ALL RUNNING EXPENSES $ 5,791
FROM AS LITTLE AS
UTE per week* Potential $228 tax savings** $ 5,889 INCLUDING ALL RUNNING EXPENSES CONTACT us TODAY
t: 1300 13 13 16 Add a novated lease to e: [email protected] your salary package w: leaseplus.com.au
Important Information: *The total vehicle package cost has been determined by the net effect a novated lease package will have on pay using the Employee Contribution Method, based on a gross annual salary of $60,000, a 5 year lease term with a 28.13% residual value, annualised kilometres of 10,000, NSW on-road costs and a GST inclusive purchase price of $17,990 (Hatch), $24,990 (SUV) and $38,990 (Ute). **Potential savings are based on income tax and GST savings over the lease term in comparison with alternative consumer finance options. Your individual circumstances have not been taken into consideration and this may affect the overall cost and benefit of a novated lease. This information is not intended as a substitute for any specific financial and tax advice which you should obtain. Credit criteria, fees and charges and terms and conditions apply. LeasePLUS is one of three authorised suppliers of novated leasing services to employees of NSW Health.
Document Control Number #609 I Version 1 (27.05.2021)