Wee Waa hospital has welcomed Natasha Middlemiss as its new Health Service Manager.
“I’m very excited to be starting in the role here at Wee Waa Health Service,” Natasha told the Wee Waa News.
“Everyone has been incredibly welcoming, and I already feel like part of the community.
“I’ve been working in the region since October 2024, so I’m familiar with the area and pleased to now be working more closely with the Wee Waa community.”
The registered nurse and midwife said she has always had “a passion for rural healthcare”.
“I love the teamwork, the strong sense of community, and the opportunity to make a real difference locally,” she said.
“I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including Narrabri Hospital and previously in the emergency department at Goulburn Hospital, and those experiences really reinforced my commitment to rural nursing.”
Wee Waa hospital has been in the media spotlight, particularly last year, following rallies, a petition and a community driven campaign calling for change – including the restoration of 24/7 services, an emergency department and access to an onsite doctor.
Since May 2023, Wee Waa hospital has been operating with restricted daily hours from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, without an onsite doctor.
In September 2025, community members stepped up to take on roles with the Wee Waa Local Health Committee.
Late last year, committee chair Lorna Gleeson spoke with the Wee Waa News about its formation.
“Many communities across the Hunter New England Local Health District area have a Local Health Committee and such committees give the local community a formal opportunity to provide valuable input into local health services.
“The committee’s role is to ensure open and transparent dialogue between the Wee Waa local community and the HNELHD as we look to improving health outcomes for everyone in Wee Waa and the surrounding districts.”
Before Natasha started as Wee Waa’s Health Service Manager, Narrabri’s HSM Michelle Wilkinson was relieving in the role, covering both sites.
The permanent appointment of a Wee Waa HSM has been well received, with hopes it will offer further stability.
“I understand how important it is for both staff and the community to have a permanent health service manager,” said Natasha.
“It’s an honour to step into this position and provide that stability.
“My focus is on supporting our staff and ensuring we continue delivering safe, high-quality care for the community.
