February 2026 Murdoch Monthly

A message from the CEO, Ben Irish

Welcome to the February Murdoch Monthly.

We're off to a busy and exciting start to the year, with plenty already happening across our hospital.

Thank you to everyone who attended Murdoch Unplugged and took the opportunity to ask questions and share what matters most to you. Your engagement and openness are what help us continue to grow and improve together. You can read more about who said what on page 12.

It has been incredible to hear the enthusiasm surrounding the launch of our First Nations Polo. Many caregivers have already preordered their own shirt, featuring the beautiful artwork we created together. It’s wonderful to witness this shared piece of culture and connection being embraced across Murdoch - read more on how to secure yours on page 14.

Coming up this month, we are proud to host St John of God Health Care's second annual National Nursing and Midwifery Graduate Ceremony in the Auditorium on 25 February, recognising and celebrating the next generation of healthcare professionals.

We also look forward to celebrating St John of God Day on 10 March - an important opportunity to reflect on our heritage and Mission, and to celebrate the many ways our wonderful caregivers are upholding the legacy entrusted to

us today. You can find details on how we’re marking the occasion on page 9.

Lastly, you can now enter our team in HBF Run for a Reason. Here are the details for FREE entry:

Go to: bit.ly/2026-HBF-run-team Register or login

Team: St John of God Health Care Murdoch

Team code: runwithsjog2026

Checkout code: SJOGMU26 (Enter this for FREE entry)

Numbers are limited, so please register promptly if you are keen.

Thank you for your continued dedication and the care you provide every day. Have a wonderful month.

Ben

Reflection

Over the last couple of weeks during my morning walk, I have encountered two elderly walkers. The first time I walked past them, they greeted me as if I was a long-lost friend, and I spent days trying to work out how I knew them – perhaps they are my neighbours; maybe I have met them before; surely we aren’t related...

For the life of me, I had no idea why they kept greeting me so enthusiastically with such beautiful warm and encouraging smiles. It was as if they knew me and were genuinely invested in making sure that I had a good start to my day.

And they keep doing it…When they approach, with their heads held high, they look me straight in the eye and smile in a way that

lights up every nook and cranny of their faces. When they know they have my attention and I am grinning back – because what else can you do - they wish me a great day. Sometimes they comment on the weather and sometimes they don’t.

They are strangers. They don’t know me or my dog. They have nothing to gain by smiling at me and wishing me a great day. But I am so very grateful that they do.

Every morning when I see them walking towards me my heart warms and I smile even though its 5.15am and I don’t really feel like smiling. They see me and by engaging with me they let me know that I matter. When I smile back, I remind them that they are seen and they matter. Such is the power of a simple smile.

When someone smiles at us, we often smile back without thinking. This simple connection loop spreads warmth, boosts mood, and helps create a positive environment.

Smiling, even when it’s gentle or subtle, can reduce stress, calm the nervous system, and release “feel-good” chemicals in the brain. It doesn’t erase challenges, but it can help people feel grounded, safe, and hopeful.

In our work of caring for others, a smile isn’t just about being cheerful - it’s a form of presence. It communicates empathy, patience, and openness. It reassures others that they are in a space where kindness is possible, and they are safe.

Smiling matters – so let’s not forget this as we go about our tasks and responsibilities, living our values and supporting those in our midst.

Maybe give a smile today and revel in the joy that comes back. It costs little but achieves much.

Jenni Director Mission Integration

Patient Experience Matters

Murdoch patients are saying:

Comment 1: St Rose

The nursing staff on the ward were fantastic. Without their support and encouragement, I would not have felt comfortable with going home to recuperate.

Comment 2: Surgicentre

Staff were first class and very caring. Nothing was too hard. All procedures on time. On both days of eye surgery, I received wonderful care and attention. I felt I was in good hands during the procedure. Congratulations to all staff and doctors - all very professional, and it was the best hospital experience I have ever had.

Comment 3: St Emilie

I was made to feel very welcome and could not fault the staff. Nurses and doctors were great and made sure I was well looked after. A very comfortable stay.

Patient Experience Matters

Murdoch patients are saying:

Comment 1: Day Procedure Unit

I was so well looked after, with lovely nurses, and even the volunteers who brought tea and sandwiches. I also received excellent information about how to look after the wound and myself for the days afterwards. My husband and I have both received excellent care from St John of God Murdoch several times.

Comment 2:

St Mary

The nurses on St Mary ward are just so kind and supportive. They went above and beyond for me - with little things like filling up my water bottle and bringing me biscuits first thing in the morning while I waited for breakfast. I felt so cared for and supported.

Comment 3:

St Joseph

I was very well looked after. Every aspect of my treatment was satisfactory - the nursing staff were wonderful.

JMO of the Month

The Junior Medical Officer (JMO) of the month award recognises an outstanding intern or resident who exemplifies excellence in clinical care, teamwork, professionalism, and a commitment to learning. Nominated by their peers and supervisors, this award celebrates those who go above and beyond in supporting their colleagues and delivering compassionate, high-quality care to patients.

January: Dr Lu Chen

We are delighted to congratulate Dr Lu Chen on being awarded JMO of the month for January 2026! Lu is known for her lovely personality and her kind, caring approach to patient care. She is an exceptionally hardworking clinician with outstanding documentation skills, and this recognition is a well-deserved reflection of her dedication and the high standards of care she consistently provides.

Well done, Lu, and thank you for your contributions to St John of God Murdoch Hospital!

2025 DMS Special Award: JMO

The DMS Special Recognition Award is chosen by our Director of Medical Services, Dr Ed Debenham. This award acknowledges a doctor’s exceptional dedication and excellence in patient care, services, compassion, kindness and professionalism.

Dr Ony Ojo

Congratulations to Dr Ony Ojo.

Ony has been with us since 2023, and is now a casual employee. She has recently taken a step to advance her career in Occupational Medicine.

We wish you all the very best for your future endeavours, Ony!

2025 JMO of the Year

The Junior Medical Officer (JMO) of the year award recognises the outstanding intern or resident who stood out in 2025 for their excellence in clinical care, teamwork, professionalism, and a commitment to learning. It is voted by the Duty Managers, Nurse Managers, Ward Clerks, CDS and the Clinical Supervisors.

2025: Dr Emma Wardle

Dr Emma Wardle was recognised for delivering the highest standards of patient care with a very calm, conscientious, polite approach. She is highly appreciated by her colleagues and by patients alike.

Emma started with us at the beginning of 2025, and was also voted as the JMO representative - a reflection of her commitment and positive influence with her colleagues.

Congratulations, Emma! Well deserved!

JMO Supervisor of the Year

The JMO Supervisor of the Year is an award for the Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) who is voted by the JMO cohort and recognises outstanding commitment and support toward the ongoing professional development and education of our junior doctors.

A/Prof Abe Jacob

This year’s recipient is A/Prof Abe Jacob.

Since commencing at St John of God Murdoch Hospital, Abe has been an exceptional team player and highly valued member of our medical workforce. He consistently demonstrates dedication, leadership, and support for junior doctors

Congratulations, A/Prof Jacob. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and guidance to our junior doctors at St John of God Murdoch Hospital!

Catering receive the Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence Award

This month, our St Michael ward presented Catering with the Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence award.

"This award recognises the behind-the-scenes work, the long hours, the teamwork, and the care they put into everything they do often without much recognition, but never without impact.

No one has done more to keep the spirit of Murdoch alive, awake, and functioning than this team – they are here for us every day. For the early starts, the long days, the celebrations, the stressful moments, and the very serious personal emergencies that sound like, “I haven’t had coffee yet.”

This team does so much more than serve food. They create spaces where people gather, take

a breath, catch up, and feel looked after. They know our orders, our routines, and occasionally our life stories, whether they asked for them or not.

And let’s be real: they have seen Murdoch at its absolute worst. They’ve seen us before coffee. They’ve seen us during lunch rush. And they’ve seen us say, “Wow, you’re busy today,” while doing absolutely nothing to help. That takes a special kind of patience and grace.

This team embodies the spirit of Murdoch through their teamwork, their care, and their ability to keep showing up with warmth, no matter how long the line is or how complicated the order."

Congratulations to the Catering team!

ST JOHN OF GOD DAY

10 MARCH 2026

Join us: Mass

11:00am

Hospital Chapel

Caregiver lunch 11:30am - 2:00pm*

Caregiver Dining Room

$2 donation for Charity of the Year (eftpos available)

* menu available for dinner

Caregiver of the Year presentation

2:30pm - 3:30pm

Hospital Chapel

Farewell, Fontenay's!

After more than three decades of serving coffee, conversation and comfort, Fontenay Gardens poured its final cup on 19 December.

Opening alongside the Medical Clinic at Murdoch more than 30 years ago, Fontenay Gardens became much more than a coffee shop. It was a familiar meeting place, a quiet moment between appointments, a morning ritual, and a welcoming space for caregivers, patients and visitors alike. The simple act of sharing a coffee helped create a sense of warmth and community within our hospital.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many caregivers who have been part of Fontenay's over the years.

While this chapter has come to

a close, we are pleased that our barista caregivers will continue sharing their skills and smiles in Ferns and within our catering department.

To everyone who stopped by

for a cup, a chat, or a moment of pause — thank you for being part of the Fontenay Gardens story. It has been a cherished part of life at St John of God Murdoch, and its legacy lives on in the memories created there.

Caregiver open forum with Adjunct Assoc. Prof Eman Alnaggar

On Tuesday 10 February, Adjunct Associate Professor Eman Alnaggar held an open forum for caregivers on endometriosis, treatment options, and post-operative management.

A valuable Q&A with A/Prof Alnaggar during the session gave caregivers advice on how to care for patients undergoing caring for patients undergoing treatment for endometriosis, and management of pelvic pain.

The session was attended by multiple disciplines including nursing, clinical nurse specialists, physiotherapists, and some non-clinical staff.

Initially organised for St Catherine ward staff, the interest from other areas was so great that the forum was moved into the auditorium and recorded on Teams, available here: bit.ly/gynaecology-open-forum.

Thank you for the informative session, A/Prof Alnaggar!

Ciennah's Career Tracker journey

Murdoch was proud to once again welcome Ciennah Nestoridis as she completed her second internship with CareerTrackers at St John of God Murdoch Hospital.

CareerTrackers is a national not-for-profit organisation that supports First Nations university students by connecting them with paid internships and real-world career opportunities to help build confidence, skills, and strong professional futures.

Over five weeks, Ciennah gained a broad and immersive experience across the hospital, spending time in the Cancer Centre and Theatre

during week one, Theatre and Emergency Department in week two, Maternity and Birth Suite in week three, and Paediatrics and ICU across weeks four and five. The placement provided a valuable cross-section of clinical environments and patient care settings.

Ciennah considers her greatest accomplishments to be the exposure, communication and education she gained throughout the internship. While transitioning between wards and specialty areas was initially challenging, she embraced the experience

and developed confidence — particularly in communicating with nurses and engaging with multidisciplinary teams.

Reflecting on her journey, Ciennah shared a powerful reminder to herself: "You are not studying to pass exams, you are studying to save lives."

We congratulate Ciennah on her dedication, growth and commitment to learning, and look forward to seeing where her health care journey leads next.

Who said what? @ Murdoch Unplugged

Carparking and Orthonova were hot topics discussed direct with CEO, Ben Irish at Murdoch Unplugged on Monday, 2 February.

The topics raised by caregivers at both the morning and afternoon sessions were very similar. We’ve captured them all here below:

“It’s clear there’s a lot of interest in carparking and Orthonova. Hopefully the discussion at Murdoch Unplugged provided valuable answers and updates. You’ll also see and hear much more from me and others on those topics in the weeks, months and year ahead,” Ben said.

“As always, you needn’t wait for the next Murdoch Unplugged to raise any questions or topics of interest with me. You can catch me on my rounds in wards and departments, or email me any time.”

A gift from the heart

After spending more than 12 weeks as an inpatient, Paul knows firsthand the comfort, care and compassion found on Thomas Furlong ward - and now he’s giving back in a way that will support other patients during some of their toughest days.

Through St John of God Foundation, Paul has generously donated two recliner chairs to the ward, inspired by his own experience of receiving comfort from a chair once donated by another patient.

Paul shared:

“Without your care, compassion and professionalism provided to me during the slightly higher than 12 weeks in two stints as an in-patient, I can confidently say I wouldn’t be here today.

When things were pretty hopeless, you amazing people gave me the motivation to soldier on. I really felt like a burden at times, but without that ability to have an open discussion and feedback I wouldn’t be here.

One of the biggest changes for me was the provision of the recliner chair that had been donated by a previous patient. From the moment it was brought in it had an immediate positive impact on me… I knew it was something that would benefit other patients.

I can only tip my hat and sing your praises… you are incredible - thank you. You quite literally saved me.”

Paul, we are so grateful - not only for your generous donation, but for sharing your story and

for thinking of others walking a similar path. Your gift will bring comfort to many patients and families.

St Mary ward holds bake sale for "In Memory of You" memory boxes

On Thursday 12 February, the team on St Mary ward recently came together for a heartfelt cause, hosting a bake sale to raise funds for In Memory of You memory boxes.

Together, the team raised $1700 to support the provision of memory boxes for families experiencing the loss of a baby. These boxes offer comfort during unimaginable times, helping families create precious keepsakes and lasting memories.

Thank you to everyone who baked, donated, and supported the sale - a beautiful example of compassion in action.

New! First Nations polo shirt, pre-orders now open

By popular demand, we are launching a NEW First Nations polo shirt that we can wear to convey hospitality and welcome Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people into our hospital.

Wearing the polo shirt is also as an expression of our hospital’s respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and culture, and our commitment to Reconciliation.

Designed by us, for us

On the polo shirt is our very own Djilba artwork, which many of us created, alongside Aboriginal artist, Aunty Neta Knapp.

The artwork features colours of Djilba, which is the first spring season in the Noongar calendar (August - September), and celebrates Murdoch and the beautiful land that our hospital stands on.

Who can purchase one?

Our hospital's senior leadership team would love everyone to purchase one.

When can we wear it?

We can wear it any day in place of uniform (where clinically appropriate), or when representing the hospital at external events. Here are some examples: bit.ly/when-towear-First-Nations-polos

How much does it cost?

$45, but may be slightly less if we can secure a bulk order discount for this first production run.

Which size should I order?

Until 25 February 2026, you can view sample sizes in Admin 3 (lower ground floor)

How do I pre-order?

Until 4 March 2026, pre-order your First Nations polo shirt via this form: bit.ly/First-Nations-Polo.

When the idea for this polo shirt was raised with our hospital’s First Nations Advisory Group (which is a new panel established last year at Murdoch, comprising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander caregivers and members of our local community), it was instantly welcomed with much excitement, and they are as proud as we are to be bringing the idea to life.

Wearing the polo shirt is just one opportunity for us to signal our respect and gratitude for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ culture and the Noongar country that our hospital stands on.

Our broader Reconciliation commitments are mapped out in St John of God Health Care’s Reconciliation Action Plan: bit.ly/our-reconciliation-action-plan.

If you are interested to learn more, please do reach out.

When will I get my polo shirt?

We estimate April 2026. You will be contacted to collect and pay for your polo shirt once it arrives.

If you are interested to learn more, please reach out to Jenni Ashton –jenni.ashton@sjog.org.au

Expression of Interest - Aboriginal Reconciliation Committee

We are looking for caregivers to join our Reconciliation Committee, a group committed to strengthening relationships, respect, and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This committee plays an important role in supporting our organisation’s commitment to reconciliation by:

• Promoting cultural safety and awareness

• Supporting the implementation of the SJGHC Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)

• Listening to the voices and perspectives of our First Nations Advisory group

• Helping embed reconciliation into everyday practice across our campus.

We welcome expressions of interest from caregivers across all roles, departments, and levels of experience.

If you are interested in being part of this committee or just pitching in and helping us organise some key events, please email Jenni.Ashton@sjog.org.au.

CDS corner Jan ‘26 SUPER DOC-U-MENTER Justine

Why did you want to beco me a do ctor?

Growing up, I witnessed my Grandparents struggle with chronic illnesses that brought fear and uncertainty into our family. the honesty, compassion and clear communication shown by their Doctors gave us both comfort and hope. Medicine is a calling that extends beyond the treatment of disease to a commitment for respect, compassion, and serviceadvocating for patients and their families during their most vulnerable moments while ensuring they feel heard, supported and cared for.

What is your favourite meal?

Kare-Kare

It’s a Filipino stew, known for its rich, savoury peanut sau ce!

‘26 SUPER

Why did you want to beco me a do ctor?

to help peo ple & I didn’t

What is your favourite me Steak frites

Fun fact?

despite being left handed, i play all sp orts right handed

Orthonova reaches "topping out" milestone

At the end of January, the Orthonova project reached an exciting construction milestone, officially “topping out” — marking the final concrete pour.

To celebrate the occasion, a breakfast was held for the workers to thank them for their hard work and dedication in bringing the project to this point.

It was a small way to recognise the effort happening behind the scenes as Orthonova continues to take shape.

Basil and Libby visit Murdoch

WA Leader of the Opposition Basil Zempilas and State Shadow Health Minister Libby Mettam paid a visit to Murdoch on 21 January.

During their visit, they toured our Emergency Department, CCC in Theatre, the Orthonova site and our Hospice. Basil and Libby spoke highly of the areas they saw and were particularly impressed by the pride and professionalism our caregivers show in their work.

Thank you to everyone who helped host the visit and for the kindness and hospitality you show every day — it truly makes a difference.

Wishing our new graduate nurses who started in February a warm Murdoch welcome!

11am - 12pm

@Murdoch Auditorium

Ready to launch your nursing career? The graduate program is opening soon!

Big things start with brave first steps - and applications for the August 2026 and February 2027 Graduate Program intakes are almost here.

If you’re a newly qualified Enrolled Nurse (EN) or Registered Nurse (RN) ready to grow your skills in a supportive, values-driven healthcare environment, this is your moment.

Our Graduate Program is designed to help you transition from student to confident clinician. You’ll be supported by experienced teams, exposed to diverse clinical experiences, and guided in building both your capability and

your confidence - all while making a real difference in the lives of patients and families.

Key dates to remember:

• Applications open: 23 February

• Applications close: 18 March

Late applications cannot be accepted.

As part of the application process, candidates will complete a 400word values-based statement, giving you the chance to share what matters most to you and how you bring compassion, professionalism, and teamwork into your practice.

If you, or someone you know, is ready to begin a meaningful and rewarding nursing career, we encourage you to apply and to share this opportunity with others who may be interested.

More information and application details will be available when applications open via GradConnect: https://www.health. wa.gov.au/GradConnect

Your career starts here - and we can’t wait to meet the next generation of nurses.

Applications for our graduate programs open 23 February

Patient Information Session

Empowering your shoulder treatment decisions: Shoulder arthritis and joint replacement surgery

Maybe baby: Empowering your pregnancy and birthing decisions (including St Mary ward tour)

Led by Dr Will Adams Saturday 9 May 2026, 10:00am to 11:30am

Empowering your joint replacement treatment decisions: Hips, knee, and surgery for athletes

Led by Associate Prof. Peter D’Alessandro Friday 23 October 2026, 2:00pm to 3:30pm

Led by Mr Satyen Gohil Friday 27 March 2026, 2:00pm to 3:30pm sjog.org.au/murdochseminars

Thank you and farewell, Natalia!

This month, we said farewell to Deputy Director Medical Services, Dr Natalia Magana, as she took a leave of absence to pursue further career opportunities in medical leadership.

Since joining us in mid-2022, Natalia was a valued and respected leader, known for her strong support of colleagues, medical trainees and patients. She made a meaningful impact across the hospital.

We will miss you, Natalia! Wishing you all the very best for the future.