Ballarat Base Nurses League holds AGM

WITH one-hundred and thirty-one years of nurse education under its belt, the Base Hospital Trained Nurses League’s Vice-President Jan Ross welcomed attendees to the organisation’s ninety-first annual general meeting.

There are currently 150 nurses who trained at the Ballarat Base Hospital and are members of the League, which continues to provide support and friendship.

The Jean Finlayson Scholarship for 2019 was awarded to Melissa Flanagan to continue her education by undertaking an innovative Advanced Practice Nurse program to develop her knowledge and skills on managing the increasing prevalence of diabetic wounds, lymphodema and obesity related wounds.

Jan Ross, Vice-President of the League said that the major fundraiser is the eagerly anticipated raffle, with great prizes to be won.

“I’m thankful to the team of members who spend many hours at the Base selling raffle tickets. This year we raised $4000, which goes towards funding our scholarships and donations,” Ms Ross said.

Among the audience were four senior nurse administrators who have all made a significant contribution to elevating the role of nurses to professional status through initiating and encouraging formal further education and upskilling.

From Matron Shirley Ogden, Lorraine Broad Director of Nursing, Maria Stickland Executive Director of Nursing Services and to Leanne Shea the current as Chief Nursing & Midwifery Officer, each has mentored and lead by example, demonstrating what nurses can achieve through education, dedication, commitment and strategic thinking.

Guest speaker was one of these great role models. On leaving Ballarat Health Services Maria Stickland went on to become a surveyor for the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards for both public and private health facilities in Australia and overseas.

She shared her experiences on carrying out surveys in HongKong, describing the similarities but the occasional amusing differences to the processes. While there were many challenges, she is confident that her work and that of her colleagues has made a positive difference to the quality of care delivered in health services in Hong Kong.