TDN - The District Nurses

28/09/2026

Don't Miss a Beat ❤️ | World Heart Day 29 September

We often associate heart disease with chest pain, but some of the most important warning signs can be much more subtle, especially in older adults.

"One of the most overlooked warning signs of heart disease in older adults is unexplained fatigue. When everyday activities suddenly feel exhausting, your heart may be trying to tell you something." says Alison Oakes, Chief Operating Officer at The District Nurses.

If simple tasks like walking to the letterbox, doing the shopping, or completing household chores are leaving you unusually tired, don't ignore it. Changes in energy levels, shortness of breath, dizziness, or reduced ability to carry out daily activities can sometimes be early signs that your heart needs attention.

This World Heart Day, take a moment to listen to your body and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Early detection and regular health checks can make a significant difference in managing heart health and maintaining independence as we age.

A healthy heart helps keep you connected to the people, places and activities you love. If something doesn't feel right, speak with your GP and don't delay seeking advice.

❤️🫀

24/09/2026

At The District Nurses, we know how much it means to be cared for at home — surrounded by familiar things, familiar routines and the people you love.

For more than 130 years, we’ve supported Tasmanians to receive care at home. Through our statewide in-home palliative care services, we help people live with dignity, comfort and choice, while also supporting families and carers during an important and often challenging time.

That is why The District Nurses was proud to partner with Palliative Care Tasmania and sponsor the 2026 Joy Coghlan Honour Roll, which recognises people who have made a lasting contribution to compassionate palliative care in Tasmania. Our CEO, Benjamin Jardine, was delighted to present this year’s award to Dr Paul Dunne.

“Dr Paul Dunne’s work reminds us that palliative care is not only clinical care — it is human care. It is about dignity, comfort, choice and the people we love,” said Benjamin.

As Heather Kent, CEO of Palliative Care Tasmania, noted:
"Dr Paul Dunne has made an extraordinary contribution to our sector over many years and is often referred to as the founding father of palliative care in Tasmania. His commitment to compassionate, person-centred care, and the influence he has had on colleagues and the broader sector, make him a very deserving inductee into the Joy Coghlan Honour Roll."

Congratulations to Dr Paul Dunne on his induction into the Joy Coghlan Honour Roll. Thank you for your lasting contribution to palliative care in Tasmania and for helping shape a more compassionate, person-centred approach to end-of-life care.

📸 Photo: Richard Jupe ()
💙 Join us in congratulating Dr Dunne on this remarkable achievement.

15/09/2026

80 Years of TDN on Tasmanian Roads

This month marks 80 years since The District Nurses took delivery of their very first car in September 1946.

Following a successful community fundraising campaign, a sturdy Vauxhall was purchased for the princely sum of £445. It made it easier to reach more clients across Hobart and beyond.

By 1960 our two Minis were travelling an average of 600 miles per month. (That’s 966 kilometres.)

Today, the fleet has grown into 48 cars, travelling more than 680 000 kilometres each year to deliver care where it's needed most.
For eight decades, our nurses and support staff have been on the road connecting with the community, supporting people in their homes, and making a difference every day.

Do you remember seeing one of our staff out and about in your community over the years? Share your memories, photos, or stories in the comments below. We'd love to hear them! 👇

10/09/2026

We rarely know everything that’s happening in another person’s life.
Often, it’s not the grand gestures people remember. It’s the simple moments when someone takes the time to check in, listen and show that they care.
That’s something all of us can do, not just today, but every day.

13/08/2026

06/08/2026

Today, on Aged Care Employee Day, we’re celebrating our team of superheroes.

For 130 years, every member of The District Nurses has helped Tasmanians stay independent, connected, and comfortable in their own homes—making everyday part of a life well lived.

A big thank you to all our staff, past and present—you make a real difference in our community. We’re proud of our long history and excited for the future!


Photos: Daniel Peek / Ashton & Peek

02/07/2026

The District Nurses are proud to be joining the other sponsors of Palliative Care Tasmania's 2026 Tasmanian Palliative Care Awards.
Do you know someone making a real difference in palliative care? Whether it’s a nurse, doctor, volunteer, or caregiver, we want to celebrate their compassion and dedication. Nominate a someone who goes above and beyond for people at the end of life by 10 July, 2026
For more information or to submit a nomination visit www.pallcaretas.org.au/tasmanian-palliative-care-awards
Photo: Glenorchy Gazette

19/06/2026

We're so grateful for the incredible work City Mission North & North West TAS does in our community. Your dedication to helping those in need truly makes a difference every day.
Working with you in partnership for International Women's Day has increased the type of resources and care Tasmanian women experiencing hardship can access.

We were pleased to welcome the wonderful team from The District Nurses, where they dropped off a generous collection of everyday essentials raised as part of their International Women’s Day activities 💛

The donation included personal care items, hygiene products, sanitary products, nappies and other practical items that will be greatly appreciated by the people and families we support 🙌

We're grateful for the ongoing kindness and support of The District Nurses, and it means a lot to have them continue standing alongside us and our local community. Thank you to everyone involved for your generosity and care 🌻

05/06/2026

Celebrating 20 Years of Dedication: Thank You, Patsy!

For two decades, Patsy Absolom has been at the heart of The District Nurses—improving systems, inspiring her colleagues, and making a real difference in the lives of older Tasmanians. Her commitment, compassion, and wisdom have shaped who we are today.
Patsy’s mentorship and leadership have set an incredible example for all of us. We’re grateful for the countless hours she’s invested in guiding staff and creating a supportive, collaborative workplace.
As Patsy embarks on her next chapter, we reflect on her legacy and the lasting impact she’s made. Thank you, Patsy, for your 20 years of service, heart, and inspiration. You will be truly missed! 💙

Photos: Prabin Gautam

12/05/2026

Today is 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗡𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 — a day for all of us to say thank you.

This year’s international theme says it best: 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘕𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘴. 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘍𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦. 𝘌𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘕𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘚𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘓𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴.

In cities, suburbs and rural communities across Tasmania, nurses show up every day with practical care, calm reassurance and a friendly conversation — often when it’s needed most.

Community nursing is part of our story. Our first nurse, Elizabeth Mezger, completed 2,425 visits with 120 patients in her first year, often travelling on foot in all weather.

It’s also a reminder that when we invest in nurses — their wellbeing, education and support — we empower them to keep delivering safe, sustainable care close to home, and to save lives.

To every nurse: 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂. If a nurse has helped you or someone you love, please share a short message in the comments — or tag them to let them know they’re appreciated.