Northern NSW Business Awards prove the community is counting on Southern Cross graduates

Partner Peter Fowler, who completed both a Bachelor of Accounting and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University, said his studies provided a strong technical foundation and a values-driven approach to leadership.

“The University’s emphasis on ethics and sustainability shaped my approach to responsible business practices,” Peter said. “Completing the MBA helped me transition from a technical role to a strategic leadership position, enabling me to advise clients on a broader range of topics and deliver outcomes at a higher level.”

Also celebrated for their contribution to the Northern NSW business community was nursing alumna Haley Hodgson, registered nurse and owner of Maclean Medical.

Maclean Medical received awards for Excellence in Innovation and Excellence in Health, Care and Wellness Industries, for its pioneering new model of primary care. This model allows patients to access low-cost, same-day care for both acute and chronic conditions, improving outcomes while reducing GP demand.

“Our Access Health Clinic is a nurse-led model where nurse practitioners and registered nurses deliver timely, affordable care,” Haley said.

In less than a year, the clinic has provided over 10,000 consultations, demonstrating measurable impact on community health and sustainability. 

“Receiving this award validated that innovation in healthcare doesn’t always come from large corporates or capital cities. Small, regional practices can lead meaningful change,” Haley said.

“Personally, it’s been deeply rewarding to see our nurse-led model recognised as a legitimate and scalable solution for rural healthcare and to see the dedication of our team celebrated at this level.”

Driven by an urge to meet a gap in access to healthcare services in the Clarence Valley, Haley took over as owner of Maclean Medical three years ago. Her aim was to bring together local clinicians, integrate preventive and chronic disease care, and empower nurses to work to their full scope. 

After completing her Bachelor of Nursing in 2002, Haley returned to Southern Cross University this year to study a Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management.

“The Bachelor of Nursing equipped me with clinical and leadership skills, while my postgraduate studies in diabetes education strengthened my capacity to design chronic disease management programs that are both patient-centred and data-driven. Together, they gave me the confidence to challenge traditional care models and design new ones.”

Maclean Medical’s upcoming expansion includes a new health precinct opening in 2026, featuring Maclean Radiology and integrated specialist and nurse-led services. 

“It’s a continuation of the same vision of local care, innovation, and accessibility and a proud example of what regional health professionals can achieve when they’re empowered to lead change,” she said.
Haley stated that the access health clinic will be replicated across rural towns Australia-wide over the coming years as an alternative to traditional general practitioner (GP) clinics.

“We are expanding this model of healthcare in a time where GP numbers are dwindling and the cost to access a GP is increasing, due to the rising cost of living. Our Access Health Clinics is a long term sustainable, accessible solution for all Australians in the rural health care space.”