Women+ for Western Health: Meet the 2025 Finalists

The Women+ for Western Health Giving Circle offers a unique and meaningful way to be part of transformative change. As a member, you’ll receive complimentary access to Pitch Night—the highlight of our calendar. You’ll hear bold, innovative ideas from Western Health staff competing for a significant grant.

At Pitch Night, it’s not just about watching—it’s about deciding. Members cast their vote to determine which project receives funding, directly supporting initiatives that align with Western Health’s Strategic Directions and improve outcomes for patients across the west.

Not yet a member? There’s still time to join and have your say. Or, purchase a non-member ticket to be part of this inspiring night.

Making your first fracture your last

Objective: Preventing disability through innovative fragility fracture care to reduce healthcare costs

Project details: Fragility fractures (FF) are common, especially in post-menopausal women, and often lead to disability and increased healthcare costs. At Western Health, 90–120 patients present with FFs each month. Early treatment of underlying osteoporosis and standardised care can reduce the risk of subsequent fractures, helping patients maintain independence and avoid premature entry into aged care. This project focuses on making the first fracture the last by implementing proactive, preventative care.

Left to right: Dr Lauren Nacey – Geriatrician, Co-investigator of the Western Health Fragility Fracture Registry, MSc Solange Bernardo – Fracture Liaison Nurse/Clinical Nurse Consultant, Co-investigator of the Western Health Fragility Fracture Registry, and Dr Myrla Sales – Principal Investigator (PI) of the Western Health Fragility Fracture Registry

Objective: This project aims to reduce the risk of recurrent heart attacks by empowering patients to better manage their cholesterol through proactive, personalised care.

Project details: Coronary heart disease is a major health burden in the west. Many patients fail to maintain lipid-lowering therapy after hospitalisation for acute coronary syndrome, raising their risk of readmission. The Facilitating Optimal Care Transitions in the Lives of Patients with Coronary Heart Disease (FOCIL) initiative will introduce a lipid nurse and co-designed patient resources to improve care after discharge and support long-term heart health.

Natalie Lumsden – Manager Western Health at Home

Objective: Delivering best care to our families in the west

Project details: The STOP Clinic is a nurse-led telehealth service helping people quit smoking and vaping, with a special focus on pregnant women in high-risk communities. Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of poor outcomes for both mother and baby. This program provides tailored support, aligns with national health priorities, and collects data to inform better care and healthier pregnancies.

Left to right: Suzanne Kosmider – Sessional specialist, Cancer Services and Grace Gard – Sessional specialist, Cancer Services

Don’t miss out - Join us for an inspirational evening.

Date: 21 August 2025
Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Location: Royal Victorian Motor Yacht Club, 260 Nelson Place, Williamstown
Dress: Smart casual

Sign up today to be a part of this transformative journey and help shape the future of healthcare in Melbourne’s west. Or, purchase a non-member ticket to be part of this inspiring night.