March 2026 Murdoch Monthly

A message from the CEO, Ben Irish

Welcome to the March Murdoch Monthly.

Thank you for everything you continue to do for our patients, each other and our Murdoch community.

It’s been great to see so many caregivers getting on board as we travel greener at Murdoch. Thank you for embracing the initiative and the positive impact it’s having. There will be some fun activities happening throughout the year, so keep an eye out for ways you can

get involved and celebrate green travel (see page 15).

We’ve also had some wonderful achievements across our hospital recently. In February, Murdoch proudly hosted the National Graduate Ceremony, where our own Nadine Barmentlo received the Commitment to Hospitality Award. This achievement is a wonderful reflection of the care and compassion our graduates bring to patient care.

During our St John of God Day celebrations on 10 March, we were delighted to announce Lance Dionisio as our Caregiver of the Year for 2025. Congratulations, Lance, and thank you for the outstanding example you set for our community.

Our Footprints Day Centre team in Hospice Services was also recognised with a Patient Experience (Team) Award at the inaugural Professor Con Michael Clinical Excellence Awards. This

is a wonderful acknowledgment of the difference they make for patients and families every day.

I’m also pleased to share that 17 Murdoch caregivers have been awarded scholarships through St John of God Health Care this year. Congratulations to all recipients for your commitment to growing your skills and continuing to deliver exceptional care.

With Easter just around the corner, I hope many of you are able to take a well-earned break and spend time with family and loved ones. For those who will be working over the Easter period, thank you for your ongoing dedication and care.

Have a great month ahead, and please remember to take care of yourselves and each other.

Ben

Reflection

As we celebrate St John of God Day, we are reminded of his legacy and the way his care for others inspired the Sisters of St John of God and our organisation that bears his name.

St John of God teaches us that compassion is not an abstract idea, but a way of living that is expressed in ordinary moments. He saw the sick, the poor, and the forgotten, and responded,

not with grand gestures, but with attentive presence, practical care, and genuine empathy.

His life reminds us that doing good for others is rarely about having more time or greater resources. It is about choosing, again and again, to act with kindness in the moments we are given. A gentle word, a patient explanation, a willingness to listen, or an act of service offered with dignity can become a powerful expression of compassion.

In our own lives and work, the legacy of St John of God invites us to make every moment matter. Through compassionate, committed, and connected care, we have the opportunity to encourage, nurture, soothe and inspire.

Each interaction carries the possibility of hope, comfort,

and restoration. When we act with compassion, we transform routine tasks into meaningful encounters and ordinary days into opportunities for healing.

By doing all the good works we can, we not only serve those before us, but we also shape our own hearts, discovering that compassion and care for others enriches our own life experience and provides opportunities for fulfilment and purpose.

Thank you for the variety of ways you make a difference to others by following in the footsteps of St John of God and doing all the good you can.

Jenni Director Mission Integration

Music Therapist Guiseppe receives heartfelt thanks

Patient Experience Matters

Murdoch patients are saying:

Comment 1: St Catherine

So helpful and kind. Nothing was any trouble. A big thank you to the nurses and everyone on St Catherine ward. The care I received was top class! Thanks so much!

Comment 2: Emergency

I was attended to on time. Everyone showed genuine care. If there is any such score as 110 out of 100, that is how I rate my experience.

Comment 3: St Mary

Staff in St Mary’s ward were incredible. Every single staff member we encountered during our stay, and our visits to see baby girl afterwards while in the special care nursery, were exceptional people. Every person was kind, friendly, supportive, helpful and accommodating. My husband and I agree that we couldn’t have gotten through this journey without them. If we are blessed enough to have a second child, we will absolutely be back.

Caregiver of the Month

October: Georgia Wallis

Nominated by a patient (and caregiver)

“I was anxious about my surgery and the recovery as I felt quite vulnerable about my procedure. As soon as I heard Georgia’s voice, I knew I was in safe hands. As soon as I seemed uncomfortable in any way Georgia was so aware and on top of my needs -constantly switching out warm blankets and ensuring I had pain medication. She noticed straight away that I became itchy and treated me immediately for that as well. What I thought was going to be a scary time, was the most peaceful and comfortable time having Georgia there by my side. I have witnessed the way Georgia cares for her patients on a daily basis and becoming a patient myself has shown me from a different point of view how much Georgia cares and supports her patients. I hope she can be recognised for all she does.”

November: Moira Benn

Nominated by a patient

“I would like to nominate Moira for her outstanding care during my recent stay. From the very beginning, Moira was consistently kind, calm and caring. She paid great attention to detail and always made sure I understood what was happening, patiently answering all of my questions with clear and knowledgeable explanations. Having a baby, especially via C-section, can be very overwhelming, but every time I spoke with Moira I felt more reassured and at ease. She helped turn a stressful and emotional time into one where I felt supported and genuinely cared for. When I faced challenges with breastfeeding, Moira took extra time to guide me through it, offering practical tips and gentle encouragement that really helped. She made a real difference to our experience, and we would love for her wonderful care to be recognised.”

Celebrating our 2025 Caregivers of the Month

Lance Dionisio is our 2025 Caregiver of the Year

Compassion, professionalism and a genuine commitment to others have earned St John of God Murdoch Hospital Clinical Nurse Lance Dionisio the honour of being named our 2025 Caregiver of the Year.

Lance received the award during our St John of God Feast Day celebrations on 10 March, recognising the exceptional care he provides to patients and the generous support he offers colleagues and students.

Lance was nominated by a grateful day patient who wished to acknowledge the outstanding care they received during their visit.

In sharing the nomination at the awards ceremony, St John of God Murdoch Hospital Director of Mission Integration Jenni Ashton reflected on the profound impact Lance’s care had on the patient. “Having great nurses makes a

big difference, and I believe it’s important to recognise when someone has done a fabulous job,” the patient wrote.

“I would especially like to commend Lance. He was knowledgeable, attentive, kind, and straightforward. It was clear he loves his work and takes pride in sharing his knowledge, as I observed when he supported a student who was shadowing him.”

The patient also noted Lance’s professionalism and compassion, adding that he is “clearly a top-notch nurse” and that the hospital is very fortunate to have him.

Lance’s manager Charlotte said the recognition reflects the way he shows up every day for patients, colleagues and students alike.

“This is the second time Lance has been selected for the

Caregiver of the Month award, which is something that is almost unheard of, and it is not by coincidence,” she said. “Lance consistently delivers outstanding care with calm professionalism, genuine compassion, and a strong commitment to supporting others.

“He is especially generous with his knowledge and is a strong role model for students and junior staff in our department. This award is thoroughly deserved.”

Lance was one of 12 St John of God Murdoch Hospital Caregiver of the Month recipients in the running for Caregiver of the Year. Monthly winners are nominated by patients, patients’ families, hospital visitors and fellow caregivers via the Murdoch Caregiver of the Month nomination form.

Thomas Furlong receives the Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence Award

This month, Catering presented Thomas Furlong with the Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence award.

"We see many families walk through incredibly difficult moments as they say goodbye to someone they love. We hear their stories, share in their tears, and witness the deep love that surrounds them right to the very end.

Nan’s time here with her 32-year-old son is one we will always remember. She stayed by his side for six weeks, and as things became more fragile, it was clear just how much care and compassion surrounded them - not only from family, but from the staff as well. One nurse became emotional knowing she would be off for a few days and

might not see him again. That quiet compassion speaks volumes about the kind of people they are.

After he passed, one of our team spent some time with Nan as she reflected on her grief and the complex emotions that come with losing a child. Even in her heartbreak, she spoke about how much the kindness of the team had meant to her.

Moments like these happen every day for Thomas Furlong caregivers. They show up with empathy, patience, and genuine care, often carrying more than anyone realises.

We, in Ferns, feel they deserve something small but meaningful to remind them they are seen, valued, and truly appreciated. A simple gesture to brighten their day and acknowledge the

difference they make in the lives of families who will never forget them."

Congratulations to the Thomas Furlong team!

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.

February: Dr Jack Ayscough

This month, we are pleased to congratulate Dr Jack Ayscough as the JMO of the Month. Dr Ayscough is always super enthusiastic, highly engaged, highly supportive of the multidisciplinary team and his interns, as well as an excellent educator, and recognised for having a fantastic manner with his patients.

Well done, Jack! Thank you for your contributions to St John of God Murdoch Hospital!

Congratulations, A/Prof Ballal

Congratulations to Associate Professor Mo Ballal, who completed his first robotics surgery on Saturday 21 February.

Murdoch celebrates St John of God Day

We came together to mark St John of God Day on Tuesday 10 March, honouring the legacy of our patron saint and his enduring call to “do all the good works that you can.” It was a day of reflection, generosity and celebration, shared across our hospital.

Caregivers supported our Charity of the Year with lunch for a donation, helping raise funds to enable Aboriginal children

to access life-changing health care. Thank you to everyone who contributed — your kindness continues St John of God’s mission of compassion in action.

Many gathered in the Hospital Chapel for a special Mass, taking time to pause, reflect and celebrate the values that unite us in our work of care and service.

The afternoon saw us recognise the heart of our organisation at the Caregiver of the Year

presentation. This special event highlighted the dedication, excellence and humanity our caregivers bring to their roles every day.

St John of God Day is a wonderful reminder that our mission is lived not only in big moments, but in everyday acts of kindness, respect and compassion.

Every Moment Matters!

Healing throughout the hospital

There are many beautiful expressions of our FY26 formation theme, Healing, throughout the hospital. Here are some examples that made us stop and reflect this month.

Unveiling Walking on Boodja

On Wednesday 4 March, our friend and talented artist, Aunty Neta Knapp joined us to share the story behind 'Walking on Boodja', a painting she created to honour her sister, which now proudly hangs in the entrance foyer at St John of God Murdoch Community Hospice.

Aunty Neta shared how art was her avenue for expression during a time when if was difficult to find words.

Walking on Boodja depicts the river, the wildflowers, the

people coming together, and the footprints that are left by those who travel the land. It also represents the Noongar season of Djilba (season of conception). Djilba is a transitional season of mixed weather (really cold days, wamer rainy and windy days, and the occasional sunny day) before the new life of Kambarang (the season of birth).

Speaking at the event yesterday, St John of God Murdoch Hospital Director of Mission, Jenni Ashton reflected on the artwork's

powerful metaphor for the hospice journey, and thanked Aunty Neta for sharing her gift with us, which will provide comfort to patients, loved ones and caregivers for many years to come.

"While end-of-life-care can bring mixed emotions, this art beautifuly depicts the mark our loved ones leave with us, and how we move forward through the trying times and find sunnier days again."

Self-Care

Pastoral Pause

Caring for others can be deeply fulfilling, but one thing we know is that you can’t pour from an empty cup

If we were to ask you, what does your cup currently look like, what would you say?

Is it full and clean or perhaps cracked and stained with a few cold dregs?

We know the weight of caring for others, and we are all a little broken in some ways too. What we do with that brokenness is key

In Japan, there is an ancient art called, “Kintsug i” which translates to golden joinery It is an art form that repairs broken pottery by mending fractures with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum.

“The story of kintsug i, this style of pottery, may be the most perfect embodiment of all our trauma-shattered lives Instead of throwing away the broken beloved pottery, we’ll fix it in a way that doesn’t pretend it hasn’t been broken but honors the breaking, and more so, the surviving, by highlighting those repaired seams with gold lacquer Now the object is functional once again and dignified, not discarded. It’s strong er and even more valuable because of its reinforced, golden scars ” - (Wolf & Wolf, 2020, pp 90)

Our default as caregivers may be to ignore the cracks that appear in our pottery If left unattended these cracks will eventually lead to shattered cups.

So let’s reframe self-care: rather than seeing self-care as another thing on your to do list, might it actually be something beautiful and value adding Seen in this way, what self-care gold can you put into practice to keep your cup strong?

Remember we have our EAP through Converge on 1300 687 327 and Pastoral Services are available on 9438 9680

CARE CARE

The greenzone: Smartrider & sustainable starts

On Wednesday 4 March, we kicked off our 'Travel Greener @ Murdoch' campaign with free coffee for everyone who showed their SmartRiders at the Cuppa Cart in the Caregiver Dining Room.

In addition to free coffee, we were joined by Sibela from Transperth with some information on public transport, including some tips to plan your journey.

Thank you to everyone who popped by!

Celebrating an incredible careerFarewell to Mr Michael Anderson

On Friday 20 March, our theatres team came together to celebrate the retirement of Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Michael Anderson, marking the close of an extraordinary career in Western Australia.

It was a fitting send-off, complete with an impressive orthopaedicthemed cake and plenty of delicious treats, as colleagues paused between lists to thank Mr Anderson for his many years of dedication to patients and to the Murdoch community.

Mr Anderson began his career in orthopaedic surgery in 1986 and has been actively practising as a consultant in elective and trauma surgery across Western Australia ever since.

Over nearly four decades, he

has cared for countless patients, supported fellow clinicians and contributed greatly to the strength of orthopaedic services in our state.

He has also been a valued part of the Murdoch team since 1994, working closely with theatre staff, anaesthetists and surgical colleagues over many years. Many caregivers will know him for his steady expertise, commitment to patient care and the respect he shows to everyone in the operating theatre.

The celebration was a wonderful moment to reflect on the impact of a long and dedicated career, and to wish him all the very best for the next chapter.

Thank you, Mr Anderson, for your years of service, your skill and

your contribution to the Murdoch community. You will be warmly remembered.

Footprints wins Professor Con Michael Award for Patient Experience

The compassionate work of caregivers at St John of God Murdoch Hospital has been recognised at the inaugural St John of God Health Care Professor Con Michael Clinical Excellence Awards, held on Thursday 5 March. Among the recipients was the Footprints Day Centre, located in the Murdoch Community Hospice, which received the team award for Patient Experience.

The Footprints Day Centre provides holistic support to patients and families at one of life’s most significant stages. Supported by up to 50 dedicated volunteers, the service extends beyond hospice inpatients to individuals living in the community with life-limiting conditions, bereaved caregivers and patients across other wards.

The team fosters wellbeing and connection through companionship, creative arts, hairdressing and complementary therapies including breathwork, massage, meditation, reiki, reflexology and gentle yoga. These therapies help activate the body’s relaxation response, easing

pain, breathlessness, stress and anxiety, improving sleep and enhancing the effectiveness of medical treatment.

For Footprints Day Coordinator Hospice Services Ellen Ducrow, the service is defined by the generosity and compassion of its volunteers.

“Our volunteers come from all walks of life, and many have walked alongside loved ones through their end-of-life journey,” Ellen said.

“What is beautifully unique about Footprints is that we ask for nothing in return. In most health care interactions, patients are asked to do something - to move, to answer questions, to take medication. With our therapies, patients simply give consent and receive. Our volunteers have the time to sit, listen and create a safe space where patients and families can share their stories and feel valued and seen.”

Ellen said witnessing the impact of these moments was what made the work so meaningful.

“Every day we see how important this service is. It might be helping

someone relax so deeply they have the best sleep they’ve had in weeks, easing the worries of a family member, or simply bringing joy through something small like having their hair done or sharing a ‘wee dram’ from the Happy Hour trolley,” she said.

“It’s about creating comfort, connection and dignity - providing a sense of home when home is no longer an option.”

Receiving the Patient Experience Team Award is a proud moment for the Footprints team.

“This recognition means everything,” Ellen said.

“It celebrates the dedication and generosity of our volunteers and shines a light on how complementary therapies can work alongside traditional health care to truly optimise patient care. Programs like Footprints are rare around the world, and I’m incredibly proud of the difference our team makes for patients and families every day.”

Introducing Ralph, OHS Advisor

In February, we welcomed Ralph Liang to Murdoch, who is new to the Occupational Health and Safety Advisor role. To get to know him a little better, we asked him the tough questions!

Q: What do you love most about your role?

A: Engaging with people

Q: Something many of us may not know about you?

A: I love powerlifting

Q: Netflix or novel? Any recommendations?

A: Netflix - Suits (I've watched it like 30 times)

Q: Emoji that best represents you?

A:

Q: If you weren’t an OHS specialist, you would be…?

A: A soldier

Q: A motto you live by is…?

A: Work hard, play hard

Congratulations, Mark!

A big

CDS corner mar ‘26 SUPER DOC-U-MENTER lysette

Why did you want to beco me a do ctor?

because i love caring for peo ple & i am inspired by the co nstant learning & challenges that co mes with medicine, because no two days are ever the same

What is your favourite meal? Fun fact?

jollof rice with Grilled lamb & plaintain - always wins!

i am afraid of butterflies

Midwife Julie expands her care

Our St Mary’s team is celebrating one of our own, with midwife Julie Dawson recently stepping into a part-time position with Diabetes WA while continuing to work casually with us.

Julie has joined the organisation as a diabetes educator, supporting people living with diabetes across Western Australia.

A key part of her role is working with women diagnosed with gestational diabetes through a statewide Telehealth rural outreach clinic, helping ensure expectant mothers in regional and remote communities have access to specialist advice and support during pregnancy.

With more than a decade of experience as a midwife, Julie brings a deep understanding of pregnancy care and the unique challenges women can face when managing gestational diabetes.

Her work focuses on empowering women with the knowledge, confidence and practical tools they need to manage their blood glucose levels and support healthy outcomes for both mum and baby.

Julie said the role allows her to bring together two areas she is passionate about - midwifery and diabetes education - while extending care to women who might otherwise struggle to access specialist services.

We’re proud to see Julie sharing her expertise more broadly across WA, while still remaining part of the Murdoch family.

Nadine Barmentlo wins on National stage

Graduate nurse Nadine Barmentlo has been recognised with the Commitment to Hospitality Award at the recent St John of God Health Care National Graduate Ceremony on 25 February, celebrating the compassion and dedication she brings to every patient interaction.

Originally a graduate from St John of God Geraldton Hospital and now working in the Day Procedure Unit at St John of God Murdoch Hospital, Nadine was honoured for her ability to create a safe, welcoming and supportive environment for patients, families and caregivers alike.

Colleagues describe Nadine as a nurse who consistently receives positive feedback from patients who feel safe, supported and comforted in her care. Her calm,

reassuring presence and deep respect for patients’ cultural and ethnic backgrounds help make what can be an overwhelming hospital experience feel far more manageable.

For Nadine, the recognition is both humbling and meaningful.

“It is a wonderful feeling to be recognised by your team as a valuable caregiver and to be seen for the work you do and the effort you put in,” she said.

“Knowing that my passion for my work and endeavour to give this my very best has been noticed and appreciated means everything.”

One of Nadine’s most memorable moments from the graduate program came when a patient mentioned her by name in written

feedback.

“When you get to hear or read what a difference your care made to a patient and how much it helped during their hospital stay, it reminds you why you are doing the work you do,” she said.

“I became a nurse to make a difference in people’s lives, and it is so amazing to see that I am achieving this.”

As she continues her nursing journey, Nadine is keen to broaden her skills and explore areas such as recovery nursing, remaining open to the many opportunities ahead.

Congratulations to Nadine for this well-deserved recognition.

Congratulations to our graduates

Jodee gives back to the community

On Thursday 12 March, our CSSD Manager

Jodee Rudrum visited the Melville Ladies Probus Club to give members a fascinating insight into the vital work of our hospital's Central Sterilising Services Department.

Jodee spoke about the important role CSSD plays in patient safety, explaining how instruments and medical equipment are meticulously cleaned, disinfected and sterilised before being returned for use.

For many in the audience, it was a rare opportunity to learn what happens behind the scenes to support safe, high-quality care.

The visit was a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local community, raise awareness of the essential work carried out by CSSD and showcase the expertise within our hospital.

Well done, Jodee!

Congratulations to our 2026 scholarship recipients

"The capacity to learn is a gift; The ability to learn is a skill; The willingness to learn is a choice."

- Brian Herbert

At St John of God Murdoch Hospital, supporting caregivers to grow, lead and reach their potential is at the heart of our organisation’s People First priority.

One of the ways this commitment comes to life is through the organisation’s scholarship program, which empowers caregivers to expand their skills, pursue their passions, and continue building meaningful careers in healthcare.

This year, 87 scholarships have been awarded across St John of God Health Care, recognising caregivers who are committed to both professional development and delivering outstanding care to our patients and community. Among the recipients are 17 caregivers from Murdoch, whose dedication to learning and leadership reflects the thriving culture of growth across our hospital.

Sister Bridget Clancy Scholarship for the Empowerment of Women through Education

This scholarship supports female caregivers undertaking postgraduate study in leadership, healthcare professional education, women’s health and other key areas of need.

Murdoch recipients include:

• Candice Newing

• Charlotte Rose

• Heidi Keane

• Hemalini Govindan

• Katherine Gayler

• Louise Hutchinson

• Tash Clutterbuck

St John of God Health Care Scholarship

This scholarship supports caregivers pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate study in areas of clinical workforce need across nursing and allied health, as well as cultural immersion programs and other professional areas of study.

Murdoch recipients include:

• Caris Dunne

• Devon Callender

• Ginni Karwal

• Hannah Matthews

• Jodie Rogers

• Louisa Curtis

• Neethu George

• Rachael Fitzpatrick

• Raveesh Karanil John

St John of God Health Care Midwifery Scholarship

Supporting caregivers to advance their midwifery practice, this scholarship includes pathways such as midwifery diagnostics and prescribing, lactation consultant studies, and the RN/Student Midwife pathway.

Murdoch recipient:

• Gheezal Olomi

These scholarships are a celebration of our caregivers’ dedication to learning and their commitment to delivering exceptional care. By investing in professional and personal development opportunities, we continue to build a workforce that is empowered, skilled, and ready to meet the evolving needs of our community.

Congratulations to all recipients on this well-deserved achievement.