Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network

17/04/2026

Angaston District Hospital is experiencing ongoing challenges in securing GP coverage due to regional medical workforce shortages.

From Tuesday 8am to Friday 8am each week, consumers seeking emergency or face-to-face services are advised to attend Gawler Health Service.

During these periods, a virtual emergency medical service (My Emergency Doctor) is available overnight (8pm–8am) to assist with the management of lower acuity presentations.

In an emergency, always call 000.

Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network (BHFLHN) is working hard to maintain safe emergency care as we actively seek GP coverage, and we appreciate the community’s understanding.

16/04/2026

Construction of the new Mount Barker Hospital has officially topped out, with both the main hospital building and the new multideck carpark now reaching full height. With this milestone complete, work is progressing on the internal fit-out of both buildings, and the carpark remains on track to open mid-year, improving access and convenience for the community.

To mark this next phase, new images and a fly-through video are now available, offering a closer look at the future hospital and the welcoming, modern environment it will provide for patients, visitors and staff. The fly-through highlights the look and feel of the main building, surrounding gardens and landscaped spaces, as well as several treatment areas, giving insight into the enhanced facilities that will support high-quality health services closer to home.

The $365.8 million New Mount Barker Hospital Project will deliver a major redevelopment of the existing site to meet the needs of the growing Mount Barker and Adelaide Hills communities.

👇 Explore the fly-through below to see how the hospital is taking shape.

02/04/2026

🩺 Meet the nurses keeping you healthy on weekends and public holidays 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️

Minor illnesses don’t take a break, and neither do we. Our Nurse-Led Clinics are open 364 days a year, including weekends and public holidays, providing free care for Medicare card holders.

We can help with:
• flu vaccinations (from mid-April)
• illnesses such as coughs, colds, sore throats, gastro, and UTIs
• minor injuries like cuts, sprains, bruises, simple burns, and tetanus boosters
• skin and eye concerns including rashes, bites, stings, and conjunctivitis
• supportive care, including sick certificates, pathology collection, and wound dressings.
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💬 OUR TEAM WANTS YOU TO KNOW

Our Nurse-Led Clinic team is passionate about providing care close to home, staying flexible for the community, and continuously improving our services. Here’s what some of our team have to say:

💙 Richard: “As a local myself, I appreciate the importance of having an accessible service close to home.”
💙 Adrian: “Our nursing staff have a broad range of knowledge, and our flexible hours mean we’re available when our community needs us most.”
💙 Megan: “Our virtual otoscope and cameras allow for virtual assessment by a medical officer, helping people receive the care they need close to home.”
💙 Emma: “I love that it is a free service that helps people to avoid ED. We are currently working on being able to provide extra services such as suturing and prescribing autonomously without doctors.”
💙 Mark: “I like to help the local community avoid long waiting periods for care we can provide in the clinic, keeping them out of the ER and getting them home quicker.”
💙 Jess: “People are often surprised and impressed about how efficiently we solve the problems in the NLC; if we can’t fix it, we will find somebody who can.”
💙 Bec: “The clinic is always evolving, and the strongest voices for change come from our community. We’re always open to feedback.”
💙 Olivia (Admin): “I enjoy working in the Nurse-Led Clinic as it is a supportive team environment with skilled staff, and it’s rewarding to be part of a service that provides accessible care to the community.”
💙 Erin H: “I enjoy being part of this passionate team that is committed to making a meaningful difference in our community.”
💙 Tamzin: “It’s often the small things, helping someone hear clearly again, treating injuries quickly, or relieving pain so they can get back to daily life. I just love people and I love nursing.”
💙 Carolyn: “I'm genuinely thrilled to provide service to the community and enjoy the consistent positive feedback from them.”
💙 Mel: “I love working in the NLC and supporting my local community.”
💙 Erin L: “It is a privilege to lead a team that delivers safe, trusted care close to home while helping shape the future of nurse-led care in Australia.”
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📍 Gumeracha: 2 Albert St | 📞 (08) 8209 9220 – Ages 5+
📍 Strathalbyn: 14 Alfred Pl | 📞 (08) 8536 5333 – Ages 10+

🕘 Public holidays and weekends: 9am–4pm
🕘 Weekdays: 1pm–8pm

📅 Book online: BookingsNurseledclinicAppointmentBookingsGumeracha@sagov.onmicrosoft.com/?ismsaljsauthenabled=true" rel="ugc" target="_blank">https://outlook.office365.com/book/BookingsNurseledclinicAppointmentBookingsGumeracha@sagov.onmicrosoft.com/?ismsaljsauthenabled=true
ℹ️ More info: https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/services/hospitals/regional+hospitals+and+health+services/bhflhn+hospitals+and+health+services/gumeracha+district+soldiers+memorial+hospital/nurse-led+clinics+at+gumeracha+and+strathalbyn

✨Don’t let minor illness or injury disrupt your plans — our clinics in Gumeracha and Strathalbyn are here to help.✨

31/03/2026

🎉 New outdoor space officially open at Tanunda Hospital!

Colourful cupcakes, community spirit and plenty of smiles marked the opening of our brand‑new outdoor area, proudly funded by the Barossa and Districts Health Advisory Council (BDHAC).

This welcoming, multi‑purpose space has been created to support families, children, Allied Health Therapists and staff. With a new pergola, wheelchair access and a secure fenced area, it provides a calm and flexible environment for therapy, connection and time together outdoors.

BDHAC Presiding Member Heather Richardson said it best:
🌿 “Patients and their families can now step beyond the ward environment to enjoy fresh air, calm surroundings and meaningful time together.”

A huge thank you to BDHAC for their continued commitment to improving health services across our region. This space is already being enjoyed and will remain a valued part of Tanunda Hospital for years to come. 💚



📷 Pictured left to right: Skye Reimann, Team Leader, Children’s Health and Development, Heather Richardson, Don Piro, Barbara Alexander, BDHAC Members.

29/03/2026

To mark International Zero Waste Day, we are proud to spotlight the great sustainability work happening across the Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network.

Our Catering Services teams at Gawler Health Service and Strathalbyn and District Health Service are taking positive action to reduce food waste, with support from seed funding from BHFLHN’s Sustainable Futures Program.

Since February, cooks have been tracking food waste from both kitchens and patient trays to better understand what is prepared and what is eaten. This hands-on approach is already helping teams identify opportunities to reduce overproduction, improve meal planning and cut down on waste.

Less food waste means fewer rubbish collections and a more environmentally responsible workplace, supporting our ongoing commitment to sustainability.

Small changes really can make a big difference and this local initiative is a great example of that in action. 💚

25/03/2026

☕ Connecting over coffee in the Barossa

On Thursday 19 February, the Barossa Social Support Group launched a new coffee group, bringing consumers together in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Held at Cafe Nova, the first catch-up welcomed people from Gawler and surrounding towns for a morning of connection. Over coffee and cake, consumers and BHFLHN staff shared stories, laughs and good company.

The group provides a friendly, inclusive space to build connections, reduce social isolation and enjoy regular outings in the community, and will continue to meet regularly.

Locals with a social and community engagement referral code through My Aged Care are welcome to join. To find out more or get involved, contact David Kenning at David.Kenning@sa.gov.au.

23/03/2026

🌟 First Nations voices – Have your say by 25 March 🌟
Join us to have your say and help shape the next phase of the BHFLHN Aboriginal Health Strategy. As we continue delivering our 10-year roadmap, we’re inviting First Nations community members to guide what the remaining years look like, ensuring Mob continues to determine health priorities for Mob. 🖤❤️💛

If you couldn’t make it to one of the Yarning Circles, you can still share your experiences and feedback online. Your voice is an essential part of keeping this work meaningful, community led, and culturally grounded.

Complete the survey for your region (First Nations community only):
• Victor Harbor & Southern Fleurieu:
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=9yilvan8L0O8mL1-kNQJBmf5epxQ6OpLpjQO0Cn1UfVUMjVSRzZCUENGUUozNVFOUFI4N082RlpSMi4u
• Gawler & Barossa:
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=9yilvan8L0O8mL1-kNQJBmf5epxQ6OpLpjQO0Cn1UfVURFFYM0k4MFdFMTlaQkEzSFBaUldYSEtQNS4u
• Mount Barker & Adelaide Hills:
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=9yilvan8L0O8mL1-kNQJBmf5epxQ6OpLpjQO0Cn1UfVUOUNYTlpZNERPUzhYUkxaN00yRUJKWkozUS4u

Surveys close Wednesday 25 March 2026, so please share your voice and help shape health services for your community.

16/03/2026

📢FREE Rural Medical Expo on 11 April in Victor Harbor
ℹ️ Learn more and register now before seats are full: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LJGN8RS

Thinking about a future in rural medicine?

Here are 5 reasons to join us at the Rural Medical Expo:

1️ Learn how to build your career as a rural generalist
2️ Hear what life is like working in SA’s stunning regions
3️ Meet ACRRM & RACGP representatives
4️ See how regional doctors have built their careers
5️ Network directly with local health network teams.

11 April • Victor Harbor • FREE EVENT

Learn more and register now before seats are full: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LJGN8RS

13/03/2026

🌿 Yarning Circle – First Nations Event
When: 📅 Wednesday 18 March | 11am to 1pm
Where: 📍 304 Springs Road, Mount Barker 5251

Join us to have your say and help shape the next phase of the BHFLHN Aboriginal Health Strategy. As we continue delivering our 10-year roadmap, we’re inviting community to guide what the remaining years look like, ensuring Mob continues to determine health priorities for Mob. 🖤❤️💛

At this Yarning Circle, we’ll discuss:
• how deliverables and targets under the Strategy are developed and tracked, keeping them meaningful and culturally grounded
• the refreshed Strategic Plan direction, building on priorities already endorsed through earlier community-led consultation

Support for attendees:
• lunch supplied
• reimbursement available

Can’t attend in person? You can still provide feedback online:
📝 Mount Barker & Adelaide Hills: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=9yilvan8L0O8mL1-kNQJBmf5epxQ6OpLpjQO0Cn1UfVUOUNYTlpZNERPUzhYUkxaN00yRUJKWkozUS4u
📝 Victor Harbour & Southern Fleurieu: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=9yilvan8L0O8mL1-kNQJBmf5epxQ6OpLpjQO0Cn1UfVUMjVSRzZCUENGUUozNVFOUFI4N082RlpSMi4u
📝 Gawler & Barossa: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=9yilvan8L0O8mL1-kNQJBmf5epxQ6OpLpjQO0Cn1UfVURFFYM0k4MFdFMTlaQkEzSFBaUldYSEtQNS4u

To RSVP: Contact Jordan Tabe via email at Jordan.Tabe@sa.gov.au or text 0478 278 547.

Your voice matters. Come yarn, share your experiences and help shape health services for your community.

12/03/2026

🌱Volunteers bring gardens and memories to life at Southern Fleurieu Health Service

The gardens at Southern Fleurieu Health Service are flourishing thanks to the care and dedication of our wonderful volunteers.

Recently, volunteer gardener Mari spent time tending the blooms and reflecting on how meaningful it is to care for a space that brings comfort, joy and connection to residents, families and staff.

While working in Norm’s Garden, Mari uncovered a small plaque dedicated to Matron Rosemary Howard-Penny.
“I wondered about her history at the hospital, then sat back with a cuppa and toasted Norm and Rosemary. What a privilege it is to help restore the love for that special place.”

The gardens are also reconnecting people with special memories. After refreshing the Auxiliary Kikuyu garden — once the outlook from Gary Leal’s office — Mari shared the update with his wife.
“Gary passed six years ago, so his wife was thrilled and touched when I shared this with her today.”

Our volunteers play a vital role in keeping these spaces vibrant and welcoming for residents, families, and staff. 💛✨

🔎 Do you know the history of Matron Rosemary Howard-Penny?
Please send us a direct message if you have any stories, photos, or memories to share.

11/03/2026

A heartwarming morning of intergenerational connection in Eudunda 💛

Ruth Parry, Diversional Therapist at Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network (BHFLHN), teamed up with Jo Summerton, Eudunda Community KinderGym Leader, to bring a simple but meaningful idea to life.

Residents from Eudunda Hostel joined a KinderGym session at the Eudunda Daycare Centre, sharing songs, stories and even a little chair dancing with colourful scarves.

“The atmosphere was filled with laughter as residents delighted in the children’s playful antics. For many, it sparked fond memories of raising their own children, creating a beautiful sense of nostalgia and connection,” Ruth said. “The shared smiles and spontaneous laughter highlighted just how meaningful intergenerational activities can be.”

This special initiative will now run fortnightly, creating ongoing opportunities for connection across generations. 💫

07/03/2026

Today marks International Women’s Day — a day of special significance for BHFLHN, where women make up 84% of our workforce.

The 2026 theme, Balance the Scales, reminds us that while we celebrate the extraordinary contribution of women across our health service, gender equality remains a shared responsibility.

Today we’re proud to highlight two inspiring team members:

👩‍⚕️ Linda Leske, Senior Perioperative and PACU Registered Nurse at Angaston and District Hospital, leads improvements in post-operative care, strengthens clinical handover processes, and mentors colleagues to deliver safe, high-quality care. Colleagues describe her as 'resilient'💪. When asked what advice she would give to other women in healthcare, Linda says: “Support one another, celebrate each other’s successes and create space at the table for different voices.”

👩‍🔬 Kristy Park, Cert IV Sterilisation Technician, plays a vital role in patient safety by ensuring theatre instruments meet the highest standards ✨. A qualified trainer and positive team contributor, she’s known as 'organised'. When asked what International Women’s Day means to her, Kristy says: “It’s about celebrating the achievements of women and recognising that we can achieve anything in healthcare and in life.”

At BHFLHN, equality is about dignity, safety, and fairness for all. This International Women’s Day, let’s Balance the Scales together.