blah blah blah | 27 February

Dear colleagues,

A big congratulations to the Townsville Fire on their win against the Perth Lynx last night. It was great walking around yesterday and seeing people wearing orange to support our team. Hopefully, they can take home the win on Sunday when they take on the Lynx in Perth. Let’s get behind the team and cheer them on as they look to win their fifth WNBL title on Sunday.

Many of you would have noticed the carparks looking a little fuller around Townsville University Hospital lately. As part of work on the multi-storey carpark, the contractor has had to claim 35 parking spaces at carpark 3, which is an unfortunate but necessary move as work starts on the upgrade.

The multi-storey carpark is something the hospital needs if it is going to provide care to our growing community. While I know the extra walk isn’t always ideal, it is an exciting sign that we are taking a step towards our major expansion.

These works are the first steps towards stage 1A of the hospital expansion project, which will bring much-needed new intensive care and cardiac beds to our service, along with an expanded emergency department and 112 beds over on eastern campus. Thank you for your patience as we build the future of our facility.

While on the topic of our future, the strategic plan refresh is in full swing. I’ve been conducting faceto-face sessions and looking at the survey results, and I’m impressed with the engagement—more than 500 of you have already had your say. It is my personal goal that when we publish the new strategic plan, every person who participated can point to a section and recognise something from the session they were involved in.

This isn’t just a document for the executive; it’s a document for all of us. If you haven’t shared your thoughts yet, please take a moment to do so by clicking the link here. This is your chance to shape our vision and purpose for the years ahead.

The ieMR team is introducing a new automated safety net to ensure all medical imaging and pathology results are reviewed and actioned. Starting next week, ordering clinicians will receive a weekly email reminder for any unendorsed results older than seven days. This initiative aims to enhance patient safety and continuity of care by ensuring all clinical decisions are formally recorded within the patient’s digital record. For further support, there is a ‘digital endorsement of results’ spotlight on the ieMR home page.

We have some fantastic opportunities coming up to celebrate the people who make this health service great.

First, nominations close on Monday for our Staff Excellence Awards. We’ve extended the end date to allow for those of you intending to scribe your nominations over the weekend.

If you have a colleague or a team who consistently delivers for our patients or supports our workplace well-being, please take the time to recognise them. It’s these moments of acknowledgement that make our culture stronger.

We are also preparing for a wonderful International Women’s Day event on 11 March in the Robert Douglas Auditorium. We have the incredible Claire Grant KC as our guest speaker. Claire is a barrister and the first female King’s Counsel outside of Brisbane. She will also be part of a panel featuring our very own amazing leaders, including Dr Michelle Harfield, Dr Susannah Bond, and nurse unit manager Kylie Perry.

Whether you join us in person or via the stream, I look forward to celebrating the immense contribution women make to our service every day.

And lastly, to all the health service staff members in Las Vegas at the moment, enjoy your hard-earned break and let’s hope for a Cowboys win in the opening round of the NRL.

kk

Viva Las Vegas for hospital staff

As soon as it was announced the North Queensland Cowboys would be playing in Las Vegas, Townsville University Hospital’s Michelle Watson was booking her ticket to the home of Caesar’s Palace.

Director of occupational therapy Michelle Watson is one Townsville Hospital and Health Service staff member who has made the trek to the US to watch the NRL season opener at Allegiant Stadium this Sunday.

“I have been planning this since it was announced the Cowboys were going,” Michelle said.

“I am a rugby league tragic and a Cowboys fan, so it was something I knew I couldn’t miss.”

The Cowboys will play their opening game of the NRL season against the Newcastle Knights at the home of the Las Vegas Raiders NFL side.

Michelle, who is travelling with her niece, a devoted Cowboys supporter, expects the atmosphere to be unlike anything the sport has seen before.

“The atmosphere will be electric, and the stadium looks absolutely epic,” she said.

“This will be one of those ‘I was there’ moments.”

While it may seem like a long way to go for a game of footy, Michelle said she wouldn’t be surprised if she bumped into a few colleagues while in Vegas.

“It was surprising to hear so many from the health service have gone, but I expect to see plenty of familiar faces and hear lots of Aussie twang on the strip,” she said.

“What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but I am sure we will all have some great stories to share.

“While the game will definitely be the highlight, I am looking forward to also spending some time with my niece and seeing some of the sites like the Grand Canyon.”

Mentorship takes centre stage at International Women’s Day Event

On 11 March, the Townsville Hospital and Health Service (HHS) will proudly host its annual International Women’s Day celebration, an event dedicated to honouring the resilience, leadership, and extraordinary contributions of women across our health service.

This year’s theme ‘when we give, we gain’ will shine a spotlight on mentorship.

The special event will include a keynote address from guest speaker Claire Grant, one of Queensland’s most esteemed barristers and the state’s first female King’s Counsel outside of Brisbane.

Attendees will also hear from a panel consisting of three of our very own Townsville HHS staff, nurse unit manager Kylie Perry, North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service clinical director Dr Michelle Harfield, and psychiatrist and director of clinical training Dr Susannah Bond.

Kylie said this year’s theme aligned closely with women working in health.

“Mentorship to me is about giving new and emerging leaders the right support and guiding them so they can be confident in whatever they do,” Kylie said.

“Women are sometimes still regarded as meek little things, but we are strong, capable, and confident in our work, and we make up a predominantly female workforce.

“These conversations don’t always come easily, but we can keep chipping away at them and get better.”

Kylie said there were several leaders who shaped her professional journey.

“I’ve been very blessed to have amazing mentors who built me into a resilient and compassionate leader,” Kylie said.

“I’m now in a position to give back to the next people coming up, which is exciting.”

Michelle said it was important for women in health to champion each other’s success.

“Women should support women and when one of us climbs the ladder, we should celebrate that achievement,” Michelle said.

“It’s important to represent the diversity of women in a way that inspires others.”

The event will spark meaningful conversations within our Townsville HHHS community (plus there will be cookies, cupcakes, and lucky-door prizes), don’t miss out!

The Townsville HHS International Women’s Day event takes place on Wednesday March 11 from 10am-11.30am in the Robert Douglas Auditorium, followed by morning tea. No RSVP necessary.

A MS Team’s link for rural and remote sites is available via QHEPS here.

When we give, we gain.

Join us as we welcome criminal law barrister and King’s Counsel Claire Grant KC for a deep dive into how generosity, mentorship, and shared knowledge have shaped her career and life.

10am to 11:30am Wednesday 11 March

Robert Douglas Auditorium Followed by morning tea

Plus an inspiring panel discussion with Dr Susannah Bond, Dr Michelle Harfield, and NM Kylie Perry.

Lucky door prizes to be won!

WITH THANKS TO OUR EVENT SPONSOR

Health service couple gears up for Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride

A Townsville University Hospital (TUH) couple is preparing to hit the road for a cause close to their hearts, with registrations open soon for the 2026 Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride (TCBR).

Senior musculoskeletal physiotherapist Catherine Renton and intensive care unit nurse Patrick SilvaPayne will join hundreds of riders from 23–25 July to raise funds for the Children’s Cancer Institute.

“We’re involved to support a meaningful cause that is making real progress in the treatment of children’s cancer, while doing something we love –riding bikes,” Catherine said.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to know you’re contributing to something that makes such a huge difference in families’ lives, particularly when you meet families that have benefited from targeted cancer treatments for their children.”

Patrick said the event combined his passion for cycling with his commitment to healthcare.

“Supporting this charity means we can contribute to ongoing research that will have a positive impact on the lives of children with cancer,” he said.

Former TUH gastroenterologist Dr John Masson is again serving on the ride’s committee.

“The ride has supported the Children’s Cancer Institute for more than 25 years, raising more than $9 million for research,” he said.

“One of their major projects, ZERO, offers full genome assessment for all childhood cancers across Australia.”

John, Catherine and Patrick encouraged health service staff to get involved in this year’s event. Registrations for the 2026 Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride open on Saturday 7 March at www.tcbr.org.au

The dough also rises for nurses fundraising for cancer research

It’s cupcakes for a cause as two Townsville University Hospital clinical nurse consultants have turned to baking in the fight against two types of cancer.

Julie Martinez and Jauna Sargeant, who specialise in haematology and oncology, have joined forces through a bake sale to raise vital funds and awareness for Myeloma Australia and Melanoma Institute Australia/the Australian Melanoma Foundation.

Kicking off at 8:30 am on Tuesday, 3 March in the oncology day unit, the bake sale marks the start of a month-long fundraising blitz.

“March is considered an awareness month for both myeloma and melanoma, and because Jauna and I both care for these patient groups, we decided to combine our efforts,” Julie said.

“Myeloma is a type of blood cancer that develops from plasma cells in the bone marrow, while melanoma is a solid organ tumour.

“We see the impact of both every day in the cancer centre, treating patients from across north Queensland.”

Townsville University Hospital serves as a major hub for these conditions, providing numerous treatments including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplants and clinical trial options for myeloma patients to complex radiation and surgical treatments for those with melanoma.

Jauna said the fundraiser was about supporting the patients they saw walking through the clinic doors.

“We’ve created a fundraising page and have several activities planned throughout March to raise as much money and awareness as possible,” Jauna said.

“Last year we sold out of everything, so we’re encouraging people to get in early to get a treat and raise money for cancer research.

“The bake sale is a team effort, with the wider oncology and haematology staff chipping in to bake and donate.

“Local businesses have also jumped on board, donating prizes for raffles that will run alongside the stall.

“It’s a privilege to care for these patients, and this is our way of doing a little bit more for them.”

The bake sale will run from 8:30 am on Tuesday, 3 March, at the oncology day unit until all treats are sold.

Life-saving clot retrieval saves Cairns father after midnight emergency

A 49-year-old Cairns father is alive today thanks to an emergency clot retrieval procedure performed at Townsville University Hospital after he woke unable to breathe during a work trip.

Terry Buckley was staying in a Townsville hotel when he woke in the middle of the night drenched in sweat, dizzy and gasping for air.

Terry was experiencing a pulmonary embolism – a life-threatening condition where blood clots block the vessels supplying the lungs and placing the heart under severe strain.

“I woke up in real trouble. I was incredibly short of breath. I kept shifting positions trying to feel better, but nothing worked,” Terry said.

“I’ve never called triple zero in my life, but I knew I had to. It wasn’t about pain; I just couldn’t breathe.”

On arrival at Townsville University Hospital, a rapid multidisciplinary response was activated involving emergency, respiratory, cardiology, intensive care, anaesthetics and interventional radiology teams.

After assessing Terry’s scans and clinical condition, the team determined he would benefit from a mechanical thrombectomy – a minimally invasive procedure performed under X-ray guidance via a vein in the groin, which physically removes blood clots from the pulmonary arteries to restore blood flow.

Respiratory staff specialist Dr Pradeep Rajagopalan, who coordinated Terry’s care, said the first 24 to 48 hours was when patients with major pulmonary embolism were at the highest risk.

“The clots were placing enormous pressure on the right side of Terry’s heart. Without intervention, this can be rapidly fatal,” he said.

“While anticoagulation is the standard treatment for most pulmonary embolism, and clot-dissolving medications are an option in severe cases, mechanical thrombectomy offered the best risk–benefit balance for Terry.

“I worked closely with interventional radiology colleague Dr Dougal Brown and our intensive care team to plan the procedure; this kind of coordinated response is what saves lives.

“This outcome reflects the strength of our Pulmonary Embolism Response Team (PERT) — a truly multidisciplinary model that brings together emergency, cardiology, intensive care, anaesthetics and interventional radiology at a moment’s notice.

“I want to acknowledge John, who was instrumental in establishing this service, and our respiratory clinical director Dr Helen Whitford for her ongoing support of the program.

“Cases like Terry’s are a testament to what is possible when a hospital system works as one.”

Terry said the moment the clot was removed was unforgettable.

“I was awake the whole time, although quite sedated, and I could feel the catheter moving through my heart; it was the strangest sensation,” he said.

“When they removed the clot, the room just erupted. It felt like a stadium crowd cheering.”

Interventional radiology staff specialist Dr Dougal Brown said the clot retrieval service, which has treated more than 30 patients since launching three years ago, was a critical for the region.

“Having interventional radiology services here in north Queensland can be the difference between life and death in time-critical cases,” he said.

“In the interventional suite alone, around 20 clinicians were involved, and across Terry’s hospital stay, more than 50 staff contributed to his care.

“Outcomes like this happen because every part of the system works together.”

Now recovering at home in Cairns, Terry said the care he received was exceptional.

“I just want to thank the doctors, nurses, paramedics and emergency team. They were absolutely amazing,” he said.

“I’m incredibly grateful to be here today.”

Sounds like a celebration for TUH audiology team

The Townsville University Hospital audiology team marked International Cochlear Implant Day to recognise the transformative impact cochlear implants have had on children and adults with significant hearing loss.

Director of audiology Lisa Rainbow said the day was not only a celebration but also an opportunity to increase awareness in the community.

“International Cochlear Implant Awareness Day is a chance to celebrate the life-changing technology of cochlear implants and the incredible journeys of the people who use them,” Lisa said.

“There are many people who could benefit from cochlear implants who simply don’t know they’re eligible, so making people aware of the technology, and that it’s available publicly and privately in Australia, is crucial.”

Lisa said cochlear implants worked differently from hearing aids.

“Cochlear implants require a surgical procedure and work by converting sound into an electrical signal that directly stimulates the auditory nerve,” Lisa said.

Sarah and her daughter Abby have been attending TUH since Abby received her cochlear implants at just two-and-a-half years old.

“Abby is now almost 17, and the hospital and audiology team have been a huge part of her life,” Sarah said.

“The staff are beautiful and have always been so gentle with Abby, they give her all the time she needs and make sure she’s comfortable before we leave appointments.

“It honestly feels like a big family because we’ve been coming here for so long, and they’ve supported Abby through every stage.”

Sarah said over the years, Abby’s confidence and independence had continued to grow.

Mum Madison said the decision to choose a cochlear implant for her nine-month-old son Arlo had been straightforward.

“In the beginning we were here every week, then fortnightly, then monthly, and now it’s a six-monthly visit,” Madison said.

“Everyone here genuinely loves Arlo, it really does feel like family.”

Lisa said the families and patients were at the heart of the program.

“It’s a truly multidisciplinary program, bringing together audiology, speech pathology, psychology, social work and surgery, along with community early-intervention teams, working to care for patients every day.”

International Cochlear Implant Day takes place annually on 25 February.

NOMINATIONS EXTENDED

Please submit your nomination by 5pm Monday 2 March 2026.

Do you know a colleague or team exemplifying the Townsville Hospital and Health Service Values, Vision, and Purpose?

Recognise their contribution to healthcare in our region by nominating them in one of the awards categories of Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Engagement, Vision, Purpose, Excellence in Staff Wellbeing or Rural Health Worker of the Year.

For more information, please contact Public Affairs at tsv-public-affairs@health.qld.gov.au

Triple delight as Otto, Kit, and Fred entered the world at TUH

When Makala and Aaron Casella arrived for their eight-week pregnancy scan in early April last year, nothing could have prepared them for the news they were about to hear.

After a year of trying, and with a pregnancy loss, the Cairns couple was excited for the first pictures of their much-awaited firstborn only to be told there was not one but three babies on the way.

“There was a lot of profanity in the room, mostly from Makala,” Aaron laughed.

“She was shaking, and we were laughing and crying at the same time.”

Triplets Otto, Kit, and Fred were born at Townsville University Hospital on 20 August last year weighing 910g, 930g, and 915g respectively.

Otto and Fred are identical twins.

While Otto was the first to go home on 28 November followed a week later by Kit, the journey continues for Fred who has been through three surgeries and is still in hospital in the care of neonatal team.

Neonatologist Dr Sue Ireland said while the first two babies were ‘straightforward 26-weekers’, Fred was diagnosed with oesophageal atresia, a rare condition, where the oesophagus has a blind ending and isn’t connected the stomach.

“Fred went to surgery urgently that first night with Harry (paediatric surgeon Dr Harry Stalewski),” she said.

Further surgeries, including repair of a bowel perforation, followed for Fred some of which were harrowingly touch and go.

“Our surgeon Harry was incredible, and Freddy is a fighter,” Aaron said.

The triplets were naturally conceived, at odds of one in 8,000, after a Monash fertility specialist advised the couple to do ‘cycle tracking’.

“He told us he didn’t think we needed IVF and instead we should track my cycle which included ultrasounds of my ovaries,” Makala said.

Makala’s first two ultrasounds showed two follicles (round structures that become ova or eggs) on her ovaries.

“I joked with our doctor that it could be twins; he said, ‘oh no, no’ and we fell pregnant with the triplets during that cycle,” Makala said.

Aaron described the eight-week scan as ‘the moment when everything changed’.

“The look on the sonographer’s face convinced us something was wrong,” he said.

“Then she held up three fingers.”

Aaron, a plumber, and Makala, a nurse, are looking forward to being at home as a family of five which Sue said she hoped would be soon.

“It’s been a complete privilege to look after these babies; our staff have created a beautiful bond working with Aaron and Makala,” she said.

Aaron and Makala said they wanted to thank the neonatal team, paediatric surgeons, and Ronald McDonald House.

“We’ve had such wonderful care, and we are so grateful.”

Hub paving the way to better health for high-risk youths

A collaborative initiative between department of youth justice and the Townsville Hospital and Health Service is working to improve health outcomes for children and young people identified as highrisk vulnerable offenders.

The Integrated Youth Health Hub (IYHH) team is designed to improve health outcomes for children and young people identified as serious repeat offenders under Queensland’s Youth Justice Act 1992, and their families.

IYHH Clinical nurse consultant Georgina Hughes said many young people in contact with the youth justice system experienced complex and unmet health needs, including mental health concerns, neurodevelopmental disorders, substance use, and chronic physical conditions.

“Some individuals engage with health services for the first time while in detention, highlighting gaps in access and continuity of care when they return to the community,” Georgina said.

“The IYHH acts as a central point of care and aims to bridge the gap between youth justice and clinical care, recognising that the path away from reoffending is often paved by better health.

“The IYHH team responds through a patientcentred model delivered by nursing, allied health, and paediatric staff and provides integrated care ensuring access to assessment and treatment.”

The service is co-located within Townsville Youth Justice Service Centres, and works closely with Cleveland health staff, case workers, Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Health Service, Staying on Track providers, child safety, NGOs and other health servces to strengthen continuity of care and reduce the risk of disengagement while in community.

Georgina said key features of the model included assertive outreach to reduce barriers such as transport and distance, holistic and family-focused care, culturally safe practice, and strong partnerships across health, education, child safety, and justice sectors.

“Over the past 12 months the IYHH team have been able to offer timely, compassionate, and coordinated healthcare, to reduce health inequities and support safer, healthier futures for vulnerable young people,” Georgina said.

“Early indicators are tracking service uptake, referral outcomes, new diagnoses, and engagement with longer-term supports such as NDIS.

“The evidence shows that addressing unmet health needs through programs like the IYHH can improve health outcomes and reduce reoffending.”

For more information or to contact the team please email IYHH-Admin@health.qld.gov.au

Support network sparks strong start to 2026

The Townsville Hospital and Health Service (HHS) executive support network charged into 2026 with renewed momentum, following a successful meet-and-greet event in February.

Established in December 2023, the network was created to bridge the gap between Townsville HHS executive support staff to foster knowledge sharing and peer-driven connection.

To kickstart this year’s engagement, network leads arranged the event to encourage face-to-face connection with more than 30 executive support officers, specialist administrative officers, and workforce officers in attendance.

Network co-leads executive coordinator Briallen Moncrieff and administration support officer Amanda Trotter said the initiative grew from a recognised need for stronger peer relationships.

“Executive support roles are incredibly rewarding, but they can also be isolating,” Briallen said.

“We wanted to create a space where people could come together, share advice, learn from one another, and feel supported.”

Amanda said that with more than 80 executive and administrative professionals working across the health service, including rural and remote sites, maintaining a sense of unity was a logistical challenge.

“We have developed a dedicated MS Teams page which will serve as the network’s digital platform, allowing members to collaborate in real-time, seek advice on tasks, and share resources regardless of their physical location,” Amanda said.

Executive assistant and network co-lead Kat Dixon said the response to the network had been overwhelmingly positive.

“Seeing so many people come along and show genuine interest in what we’re building has been really energising,” Kat said.

“We’re really committed to building a community where everyone feels valued and supported.”

Throughout 2026, the network will deliver regular engagement opportunities focused on developing capability, strengthening cross-service relationships, and elevating the executive support profession.

The network remains open to AO3 and AO4 executive support professionals, including executive support officers, executive assistants, coordinators, management and clinical support officers, and workforce officers.

To learn more or join the network contact THHS_ ExecutiveSupportNetwork@health.qld.gov.au

Encouraged to do their best, allied health leadership’s Just 12 results say

Success celebrated and challenges shared are just two reasons the allied health services division leadership team posted strong results in the Just 12 engagement survey.

Directors of allied health Jo Stitt and Clarie Hession agreed communication was also key, with a team policy of ‘no surprises’ up and down the line.

“We meet weekly as a team, monthly for a formal performance meeting, and incorporate regular scheduled operational supervision in line with our people’s needs,” Jo said.

“We work together to develop our annual operational plan and review this quarterly to acknowledge progress, obstacles, and successes.

“If one of our directors or managers is working through an operational challenge, it’s likely that another member of our leadership team has encountered this and can help them to navigate the problem and find a workable solution.”

Claire said the team recognised individual and different strengths.

“We use our go-to people for help depending on the situation; Jo and I are proud of our leadership team and their dedication to solid governance processes, team development, and excellence in clinical care,” she said.

Jo said the response to ‘I have a best friend at work’ was varied.

“We’ve discussed the wording of the question and how this created some confusion with our teams,” she said.

“This conversation led to an acknowledgement that the more senior you become in the organisation, the lonelier it can be with a smaller group of colleagues that you can go to for peer support.

“This was valuable information and has informed one of our action plans.”

Claire said when the team was asked for their insights into the team’s dynamic and culture, words like ‘cohesive’, ‘trust’, ‘genuine respect’, and ‘no interpersonal judgement’ featured.

“The clear message was that we support people when they need a hand, and new members are naturally welcomed.”

The allied health services division incorporates the discipline departments of physiotherapy, prosthetics and orthotics, podiatry, audiology, occupational therapy, psychology, social work, speech pathology, and nutrition and dietetics, as well as the rural allied health, community allied health, and community falls teams.

“We’re supported by a small but dedicated patient services team, business support, and an admin support officer,” Jo said.

“Our team is committed to the health service, our people, and great patient care.”

Trust, communication yield positive engagement results

Recruitment and appointment services manager Adam Rowland wasn’t surprised at his team’s strong showing in last year’s Just 12 engagement survey, something he puts down to their genuine enjoyment working together.

“I wasn’t overly surprised, more just really pleased to see the data line up with what I feel day to day,” he said.

“The results validated the sense that the team is committed, engaged, and genuinely enjoys working together.”

Adam said there was ‘nothing fancy’ about their successful work model.

“It’s about good communication, being accessible, having a bit of fun where we can, and making sure everyone feels heard,” he said.

“We share a really strong sense of common purpose, and the team genuinely supports one another.

“We’re open and transparent with each other and that trust makes a huge difference; we’re also pretty values driven as a group, and that shared outlook helps keep us aligned and connected.”

The recruitment and appointment services team scored high on most questions including clarity of expectations and having opportunities to do great work.

“Those key areas really stood out as indicators of how connected and engaged the team is,” Adam said.

The team also had a strong response to ‘I have a best friend at work’.

“That one came back higher than I expected,” Adam said.

“It’s clear that people feel like they have someone they trust and can rely on, which I think really contributes to the overall culture of the team.”

The team manages recruitment and onboarding for all non-medical roles and coordinates recruitment for all medical streams, including junior and senior doctors.

“We support line managers, and teams both clinical and non-clinical who are bringing new staff on board and, indirectly, our work supports every patient cohort the organisation touches,” Adam said.

“The work volume is high, and the demands are high; however, the team is still positive and there’s a strong sense of purpose and a real feeling that we’re contributing to something bigger than ourselves.

“I’m proud of how we show up every day.”

New parking team driving positive change across campus

Townsville University Hospital (TUH) has welcomed a new parking services team to help staff, patients and visitors navigate a busy period of change across the campus.

Leading the charge is new car park manager John Wright, assisted by Ben Thomas.

John said the team’s priority was to ensure parking ran smoothly as construction across the campus ramped up.

“Our team will oversee the day-to-day operations of all public and staff, ensuring access for people with disabilities, supporting safety for shift workers, and ensuring everything is working as it should,” he said.

“As construction progresses on campus and temporary changes are introduced, there will naturally be challenges.

“But our focus is on working collaboratively, and consulting with staff and stakeholders to understand and manage those changes and achieve the best possible outcomes.”

John brings extensive experience managing parking and campus operations across large retail and commercial organisations, while Ben joins the team following service in the Australian Defence Force and experience in mechanical engineering and SAP Plant Maintenance, a module designed to track and optimise assets.

With major infrastructure projects reshaping the campus, Ben said it was an exciting time to be part of the TUH expansion project.

“There’s a lot happening, including the multi-storey car park project,” he said.

“It’s not just big for the hospital, it’s big for Townsville; we’re expanding and planning for a brighter future with more capability and opportunity for the region.”

Staff are encouraged to stay up to date on parking via QHEPS or reach out to the team with any parking queries or feedback. TUHCarParking@ health.qld.gov.au

Dental assistants recognised as smile makers at Townsville HHS

Behind every patient smile from Townsville Hospital and Health Service’s oral health service is a dental assistant, and their contributions will be celebrated next week for Dental Assistant Recognition Week.

Townsville HHS has 48 dental assistants who do everything from cleaning and preparing work areas to talking with patients to help them understand their procedure.

For dental assistant Chenice Sibley it was her first job out of school, and she couldn’t be happier with her career choice.

“I’ve always wanted to work in healthcare, and being a dental assistant allows me to combine my passion for talking to people with clinical work,” Chenice said.

“I love giving people their smiles back.

“A lot of people have a fear of the dentist and feel alienated or scared, and being able to get them into the chair and make them feel comfortable is so important.”

Chenice said she was proud of the work she did, and she recently achieved a major career goal by returning to her home community on Palm Island to provide dental services to her mob.

“It was a very humbling experience to go back to my old school and treat my community,” she said.

“It’s important that people see someone who is Indigenous in these environments because it makes them feel a lot more comfortable and less anxious.”

Principal dental assistant Libby McDonald said the service would be impossible to run without dental assistants.

“They provide essential services to the dentists, oral health therapists, and prosthetists,” Libby said.

“They make sure everything runs smoothly day to day, from sterilisation to patient support.

“More young people, including First Nations staff like Chenice, are beginning to enter the profession, and it’s great to see them come through and be so eager to learn and strive to make the experience better for the community.”

For Chenice, the upcoming recognition week is a chance to reflect on her growth and encourage other young people to consider the career.

“I didn’t think I was capable enough when I started, but I proved to myself that I could do it,” she said.

“The service wouldn’t run without us; we are here to make sure every patient’s needs are met.”

Dental Assistant Recognition Week is from Sunday, 1 March to Saturday, 7 March.

TOWARD 2030

A Strategic Plan for Our Shared Future

Click here or scan the QR code to complete the strategy refresh survey

“Thank you for all the help, guidance, and loving care you extended to Mum and our family during Mum’s VAD journey. Our family and my mother would not have coped nearly as well if not for your constant support.”

VOLUNTARY ASSISTED DYING SERVICE

“Your staff are exceptional. Simple things like explaining, asking the right questions, offering advice and portraying a warm attitude eased the anticipated tension of my stay in hospital. Please pass on my appreciation to your staff. I would recommend this hospital to others in the future. Thank you for making my stay as enjoyable as possible.

AYR HEALTH SERVICE

“The nurses have been incredible, not only have they attended to my medical needs but also have been a friendly face & a listening ear when I’ve been emotional. I honestly don’t think I could have gotten through the last few days without them. Truly incredible people.”

SURGICAL WARD 1

A Note...Brighter

Spider-’Mann’ swings into action for Brighter Lives

Medical student George Mann swapped textbooks for tights when he paid a special visit to the children’s ward at Townsville University Hosptial dressed as Spider-Man, bringing smiles and a welcome distraction to young patients in hospital.

Arriving to the children’s ward as Spider-Man, both staff and children were excited to see a real-life superhero.

Young patients were transported into the world of superheroes beyond the hospital walls for the morning as George spent time chatting with the children, posing for photos, sharing high-fives, and handing out toys.

Third-year medical student George said he hoped to organise similar visits in the future as the day reinforced an important lesson about the kind of doctor he hoped to become.

“Medicine isn’t just about treating symptoms,” George said.

“It’s about caring for the whole person.

“If we can make someone smile, even for a few minutes, that matters.”

Brighter Lives chief executive Stephanie Naunton said it was amazing to see volunteers and local community members like George give up their time to brighten patients’ days in hospital.

“Bringing moments of excitement, joy and happiness to children spending time in hospital makes a huge impact,” Stephanie said.

“A big thank you to George for taking time out of his busy schedule to be Spider-Man for the children in our hospital.”

Capital works update

Project: eHealth Infrastructure Maintenance Program

Work location: Various locations in TUH

Project: Charters Towers CT Scanner

Work location: Charters Towers Health Service

Project: Kirwan Health Communty Campus expansion

Work location: Kirwan Health Campus

Project: Ingham CT Scanner

Work location: Ingham Health Service

Works currently underway Works on the way

Project: Multi-storey car park

Work location: Townsville University Hospital

Have any questions?

Project: TUH Transit Lounge

Work location: DDU and Social Work Area

Plans are currently underway to support staff through the changes that will occur in the coming months.

To accommodate so much growth at TUH, some staff will be required to relocate to new office spaces and to support this, we have commenced a Business Case for Significant Change with those teams who will be impacted by works undertaken at TUH.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss any proposed changes, please contact the chief operating officer via email or THHS-InfrastructureOffice@health.qld.gov.au.

Recipe of the week Hidden vegetable pasta sauce

Laugh of the blah

Supplied by TUH dietitians

Ingredients

• 2 MEDIUM ONIONS

• 4 CLOVES OF GARLIC

• 1 LARGE LEEK

• 3 MEDIUM CARROTS

• 2 STICKS OF CELERY

• 2 TABLESPOONS OLIVE OIL

• 250G MUSHROOMS

• 2 MEDIUM ZUCCHINIS

• 2 MEDIUM EGGPLANTS

• 1 TABLESPOON DRIED OREGANO

• 4 TABLESPOONS TOMATO PURÉE

• 2 X 400G TINS OF CHOPPED TOMATOES

• 850ML VEGETABLE STOCK

• OPTIONAL: 1 FRESH BAY LEAF

Method

1. Peel and very roughly chop the onions, garlic and carrots, and trim the leek and celery, then blitz in a food processor until finely chopped (if you want your sauce a little chunkier, coarsely grate them instead, using a box grater).

2. Heat the oil in your largest heavy-based pan over a medium heat, then add the onion mixture and fry for 10 minutes, or until softened, stirring occasionally.

3. Finely chop the remaining vegetables, then add to the pan and fry over a low heat for a further 20 minutes, or until softened, stirring occasionally.

4. Stir in the oregano, tomato purée and bay leaf, fry for 2 to 3 minutes, then pour in the chopped tomatoes.

5. Add the vegetable stock, then cover and let it bubble away over a low heat for 30 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally – the longer you cook it, the more the flavour will develop as it reduces and thickens.

6. Divide the sauce between freezer-proof containers and leave to cool, then label and pop into the freezer for up to 3 months, to use whenever you like. This is great as a simple pasta sauce, lasagne sauce, or as a tasty base for pizza.

Classifieds

FOR RENT

3 Bedroom, 2 bathrooms, 3 car spaces, large front veranda with great city view in Wulguru. The house is located on a hill, every room has aircon, fan and wardrobe. House is unfurnished but includes dishwasher and oven. Close to the shops, schools and hospital. $650 per week. Contact Sev, 0414 479 589 (11/2)

OTHER NOTICES

Looking for someone to foster (6-12months) or adopt my beautiful female cat Penny whilst we do long term travel. She is around 3 years old, desexed and low maintenance. Unsure of breed but looks like a russian blue or similar. Please contact samantha.hunt@health.qld.gov. au if interested.

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