blah blah blah | July 3

Dear colleagues,

For those of you taking some time off during the school holidays, I hope you enjoy a safe and relaxing break. Whether you’re heading away, catching up with family and friends, heading to the Townsville Show, or simply taking a few days to recharge, please enjoy. To everyone else keeping our health service running, thank you for everything you do for our patients and our community.

As you’ve already seen on the front page, Dr Niall Small has concluded his time as our Chief Medical Officer after an extraordinary career with our health service. I’d like to personally thank Niall for his decades of service and his immense contribution to emergency medicine, medical leadership, and healthcare across north Queensland. His legacy will continue to shape our organisation for many years to come, and I wish him, Helen and their family all the best in the next chapter. I’d also like to warmly welcome Dr Kunwarjit Sangla as our new Chief Medical Officer. I know he will build on Niall’s outstanding work and continue to provide exceptional clinical leadership for our health service.

I’d also like to reiterate my congratulations to everyone who was successful in this year’s Study, Education and Research Trust Account grant funding round. More than $1.5 million has been awarded across 20 innovative research projects that have the potential to improve patient care and health outcomes across our region. It’s great to see our research culture continue to go from strength to strength, with another highly competitive funding round showcasing the innovation and expertise that exists across our health service. I look forward to seeing the impact these projects will have in the years ahead.

Just a reminder that NAIDOC Week is coming up (5 July to 12 July), with a range of events and activities taking place across our health service and in the community. I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Keep an eye the QHEPS page for event details and information on how you can get involved.

Also coming up is our annual Multicultural Day on Friday 28 August, which is another great opportunity to celebrate the rich diversity of our workforce. Expressions of interest are now open for staff who would like to perform, share traditional food or host a cultural display. If you’d like to help showcase the cultures that make our health service so special, I’d encourage you to get involved before expressions of interest close on Friday 31 July. Click here to get involved.

Some of you may be aware that the Reportable Conduct Scheme rolled out across Queensland Government organisations, including Townsville Hospital and Health Service, earlier this week. The scheme requires the health service to report and investigate concerns of harm and abuse to better identify risks to children. It impacts all of us and is part of new child safeguarding laws. I encourage everyone to take a moment to have a look through the QHEPS page to understand what their responsibilities are under the scheme.

Finally, over the coming weeks and months you’ll begin to see more updates about changes across the Townsville University Hospital campus as construction on our expansion project continues. This includes upcoming changes to staff parking, with Car Park 3 set to close from 5am on Monday 27 July and the Car Park 17 extension opening from 5am on Friday 24 July 2026.

It will be an exciting and busy period as we continue investing in facilities that will benefit our patients, staff and community for many years to come. Please keep an eye on staff emails, the blah blah blah, The Weekly Wrap and QHEPS for the latest information, including parking, pedestrian access and traffic updates as these changes roll out.

Have a great long weekend. kk

Titan of medicine calls it a day after stellar three-decade career

The clinical architect of Townsville University Hospital’s modern-day emergency department is calling it a day.

After more than three decades of delivering emergency care and medical leadership to the region, chief medical officer Dr Niall Small said he was proud to leave the place ‘a little better’ than he found it.

“The growth has been extraordinary since I arrived in 1997 from the Gold Coast with four mates, who continue to be great friends to this day, giving us the critical mass to create a medical specialist group in emergency,” he said.

“Up to that point there hadn’t been a consistent group of emergency medicine specialists until the four of us went up, so that was really the start of it all.”

Niall’s medical career began in his native Scotland in 1985 where, as a newly minted graduate of the University of Edinburgh, he started his surgery internship at Wishaw, southeast of Glasgow.

After 12 months, he moved to the Eastern General Hospital in Edinburgh followed by stints in the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh and global travels with Operation Raleigh as the expedition doctor where he ironically ended up in the Torres Strait Islands.

“As it turned out I didn’t have much doctoring to do so I did everything else,” he said.

Niall said a couple of epiphanies followed including realising that he wasn’t a good fit for general practice.

“In those days in Scotland, the GP would drive around the town with a pager telling you which house to go to next,” he said.

“I’d been going all day when I had a call to see a sick baby.

“I examined the baby who was smiling happily at me while the growling family Alsatian scratched on the door waiting to be unleased.

“I probably should have kept my mouth shut but I unwisely told the father that he hadn’t really needed to call me as the baby was really very well.

“He hung out the window as I left, unleashed a tirade of expletives, and questioned my qualifications in a very colourful way.

“I realised then that general practice probably wasn’t for me.”

At some point during 1989, Niall remembered the sun and sand of the Torres Strait and wondered if it might not be a good time to return to Australia.

“I got out the atlas and looked at Queensland and found Cairns,” he said.

“They didn’t have any jobs, so I moved my finger a bit further down the map.”

After 18 months in Townsville Niall moved back to Edinburgh where he married his Queensland partner, Helen Kanowski.

“We met at the Criterion Hotel, which was a very Townsville thing to do, and after 12 months in Scotland we went back to the Gold Coast and then to Townsville,” Niall said.

And it was in Townsville that his passion for emergency, rural, and retrieval medicine became his legacy - the modern, emergency service of today.

“We pushed hard for clinical coordination to stay local across north Queensland, and I get great satisfaction from the successful short-stay model of care in emergency,” he said.

Emergency department director Dr Deanne Crosbie described Niall as the founder of emergency medicine in Townsville.

“He was appointed ED director in his first year, an almost impossible thing to do, but he flourished and we flourished with him,” she said.

HSCE Kieran Keyes said Niall’s contribution to emergency medicine and medical leadership in the region was unparalleled.

“The emergency and medical care we provide rivals any health service in Australasia and much of that is due to Niall,” Kieran said.

Niall said he was grateful to his many colleagues and friends in the health service and around the world.

But his greatest thanks are reserved for Helen and their children Ewan, Angus, and Annie.

“They have always been my greatest supporters,” he said.

“I’m not sure what the next stage will bring but I’d like to keep my hand in with some advisory and college work, some travel, and more time with the family and our lovely dog Daisy.”

Kieran Keyes HSCE

Thank you!

Not too many people get to design an emergency department in a new hospital, and Niall did that not once, but twice.

Niall’s contribution, of course, goes much further than designing the department. He had a commitment to ensuring all patients in our community had access to excellent emergency care, and that’s been his legacy for our health service.

Dr Ben Close Sunshine Coast University Hospital Emergency Department Director

The Townsville ED wouldn’t be where it is today without Niall.

He was influential in the establishment of statewide retrieval networks and he’s had a particular focus on ensuring that patients in rural and regional areas had access to high-quality emergency care.

Dr Natalie Ly Townsville University Hospital Emergency Department Deputy Director

I’m so grateful for Niall’s support, mentoring, and inspiration.

I can’t thank him enough for what he’s done for the ED, and I can only hope that I can continue what he started.

Dave Eakin Nursing Director Patient Flow

Niall gave us the courage to speak up and make good decisions when it truly counted.

A day spent benefiting from Niall’s insight, leadership, calm authority, and sense of humour was a good day.

Dr Deanne Crosbie Townsville University Hospital Emergency Department Deputy Director

Niall has not only been a mentor and inspiration; he’s also been a wonderful friend and colleague to many of us in ED and beyond.

His greatest legacy is the culture of cohesiveness and teamwork he fostered that continues today.

Townsville Hospital and Health Service

Dr Jason Yates Medical Director Women’s and Children’s

Service Group

When I think about Niall’s legacy from a medical leadership standpoint, it’s that he’s not only been strong but that he’s surrounded himself with strong and diverse medical leaders.

Medical leadership is in a better place because of him.

Debbie McCarthy Clinical Nurse Consultant Clinical Improvement Officer Women’s and Children’s Service Group

What I respect most about Niall is his ability to lead a team and make everyone in the team important.

And for me Niall made nursing important, and he knew that making nurses part of that team made for a better ED and a healthier community.

Annie Small Occupational Therapist Allied Health

Congratulations on reaching retirement, I hope you enjoy your Better Homes and Gardens era.

Looking forward to you finding some more hobbies other than organising the Tupperware drawer, and remember you can always seek professional help to do things like pressure washing the outside of the house so you don’t trip the power.

Thank you, Niall!

Help us to celebrate your culture

Townsville University Hospital’s annual Multicultural Day returns on Thursday, 28 August with staff encouraged to share a snippet of their culture with their colleagues.

TUH obstetrics and gynaecology registrar Dr Tadiwa Mashavave (pictured middle) performed at the 2025 event and said the experience was exhilarating.

“What stood out to me most was the sense of connection and belonging the event created,” Tadiwa said.

“The warmth, curiosity, encouragement, questions afterwards, and expressions of gratitude all reinforced how meaningful it was for people to share something personal about themselves.

“It reminded me that while we come from different backgrounds, those differences enrich our workplace and strengthen the care we provide.”

Tadiwa said events like Multicultural Day carried real meaning for the clinical environment.

“The diversity within our organisation mirrors the diversity of the patients and families we care for,” Tadiwa said.

“In obstetrics and gynaecology particularly, we care for women and families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds so developing cultural awareness and appreciation is incredibly important.”

Multicultural health liaison officer Raj Mudanzi said presenting his own culture had been a powerful experience and encouraged others to take part.

“Sharing my culture at the 2025 event wasn’t just about performance, it was about opening a window into who we are, where we come from, and the values that shape our communities,” Raj said.

“Every culture adds something unique and, when people share their traditions, it creates an environment where everyone feels seen and valued.

“It was powerful to see staff engaging with different traditions, stories, and expressions of identity, and it reminded me how much richness diversity brings to our workplace.”

Whether you’d like to perform, set up a stall, or deliver a presentation, there’s a place for you at this year’s event.

Expressions of interest for performers, stallholders and presenters close Thursday, 31 July.

Multicultural Day is back, and we want YOU to be part of it!

Multicultural Day is a Townsville University Hospital staff event celebrating the diversity that makes our hospital community extraordinary.

Whether you’re from Townsville or the other side of the world, your culture has a place at our table.

WANT TO GET INVOLVED?

Expressions of interest are now open for staff who want to:

Perform

Music, dance, song, spoken word, present flags

Share food

Traditional dishes and home-made favourites

Host a stall

When is it?

Friday 28 August 2026

RobertAuditoriumDouglas 12-2pm

Cultural displays, art, craft, clothing, or demonstrations

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSE FRIDAY 31 JULY

To host a stall or present on the day, scan the QR code to complete the EOI form. Contact tsv-public-affairs@ health.qld.gov.au with any questions.

PICU, ICU teams rally around Chelsea

Nurses, doctors, and support services staff from across Townsville’s paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and intensive care unit (ICU) donned beanies recently to show their support for a colleague who is battling an aggressive brain cancer.

Registered nurse Chelsea Smith was diagnosed with a high-grade glioma last year during her graduate year at Townsville University Hospital.

Despite the diagnosis, the 22-year-old said she wanted to continue working in the PICU to help those patients who were ‘doing it tougher’ than she was.

“I get to come to work and care for some really vulnerable patients, while also working alongside some of my best friends,” Chelsea said.

“Coming into work and doing my job has helped to keep me grounded.

“It gives me a sense of fulfilment and keeps me from dwelling on my own situation.”

The PICU and ICU staff wore the winter headgear ahead of the NRL’s Beanie for Brain Cancer round last weekend, where Chelsea was invited to toss the coin ahead of the Cowboys vs. Panthers game in Townsville.

PICU nurse unit manager Michelle Clark said Chelsea had a larger-than-life presence on the unit.

“She is bubbly, courageous, and determined, and everyone can’t help but smile when they’re around her,” Michelle said.

“She lights up a room, and we wanted to show her how much we support her and how much we care for her.”

After completing 33 rounds of radiation, Chelsea is currently being managed with oral chemotherapy and surveillance imaging.

Chelsea said she will probably never be able to get rid of the cancer, but she was happy living with it.

“As long as it’s chilling and not impacting my life too much, then I am ok with it,” she said.

“This diagnosis has taught me that no one is guaranteed tomorrow, so that’s why I am trying to live today and live in the now.

“I have been given this gift knowing that my life on this earth isn’t as long as I thought it would be, so I will take those opportunities to go have coffee with my friends, or I will go take that trip to Bali and get Bali belly, or say yes to something crazy because it’s worth it in the end.”

Ingham birthing service celebrates decade of deliveries

The Ingham Health Service has marked a major milestone as nurses, midwives, doctors, and local mums came together last week to celebrate 10 years of providing birthing services to the community.

Locals were given the chance to reflect on the service which has helped to deliver 490 babies since it reopened in Ingham a decade ago.

Ingham mum Jessica Gilmour used the service for her second child and said the event was a great opportunity to reconnect with the team that supported her through the birth of her children.

“I went through the birth centre for Ayla, my middle child, and I have to say I had the best birthing experience here in Ingham,” Jessica said.

“The midwives were so caring and nurturing; it felt like home.

“And even though I had to give birth in Townsville for my oldest and youngest, the Ingham midwives supported me all the way through with all my children.

“Having that continuous, one-on-one care locally takes away a lot of stress.”

Midwife Kierra Faulkner said the 10-year anniversary represented a major milestone for regional healthcare.

“It’s amazing to see this service thriving and keeping women close to care at home,” Kierra said.

“We offer everything from water births to epidurals and caesarean sections, and parents don’t need a GP referral to come chat with us.

“Nearly one baby a week has been born at the service since it reopened its doors 10 years ago.

“It is an incredible achievement and something we are all very proud of.”

Medical superintendent Dr Carmel Cockburn said the event was also about acknowledging the incredible amount of passion and teamwork needed for a service like this to operate.

“Sustaining a rural birthing service takes a lot of hard work, perseverance, and commitment from a very dedicated core group of staff,” Carmel said.

“Rural birthing services are truly some of the best places to have babies.

“Managing multiple births back to back with a small, cohesive team is where the real magic happens.

“In 2026, women deserve appropriate, local healthcare, and it’s a privilege to see our community thrive.”

Dear colleagues

In just a few days, we will come together to celebrate NAIDOC Week - a time to recognise, celebrate and honour the histories, cultures, achievements, and continuing strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Amanda Cooms

Executive Director Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health

Noonuccal woman

This year’s theme, 50 Years Deadly, is more than a celebration of a milestone. It is a celebration of generations of people who refused to let culture be lost, who stood strong in the face of adversity, who fought for justice and equality, and who continue to shape a better future for our children, families and communities. It reminds us that every gain we celebrate today has been built on the courage, resilience and determination of those who came before us.

Every day across the Townsville Hospital and Health Service, I have the privilege of seeing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff making a difference. I see trainees finding their confidence, health workers walking beside patients, clinicians delivering exceptional care, researchers driving innovation, leaders creating opportunities, and cultural knowledge strengthening the way we care for people. I also see non-Indigenous colleagues who are choosing to learn, to listen, to challenge themselves and to walk alongside us with respect and humility. That matters. Health equity will only be achieved

Being deadly is not simply about celebrating success. It is about having the courage to lead, to speak up when something isn’t right, to stand beside one another, and to leave our health service better than we found it. I am incredibly proud of how far Townsville HHS has come on its health equity journey; however, there is more work ahead. The journey towards equity, truthtelling, and culturally safe healthcare continues.

Throughout NAIDOC Week, I encourage everyone to get involved in the celebrations taking place across our health service and community, including our NAIDOC Week Awards. Take the opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of our staff and communities and reflect on the role each of us plays in improving health outcomes.

I also encourage everyone to visit the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health pages on QHEPS. Take some time to revisit our Humans in Health initiative and explore the growing range of culturally safe care resources available, including the Deadly Decisions conversation guides, the C.A.R.E. Everyday Response Guide, the Invisible Dillybag, the Yarning Journey, and other practical tools designed to support culturally safe care for our patients, families and each other. These are more than resources they represent our collective commitment to learning, growing, and providing care that honours culture, connection

and

Paralpi by Zaachariaha Fielding

Paralpi extends Zaachariaha’s acclaimed Inma series and reflects a deeply cultural and immersive narrative grounded in Country. The artwork depicts the sounds of Paralpi, a significant place just outside Mimili on the eastern APY Lands in South Australia. As Zaachariaha describes, Paralpi is a place where people come to embrace and celebrate children, where they are taught by Elders to move and mimic their Clan emblem — for Mimili, this being the maku (witchetty grub).

Townsville HHS NAIDOC Week celebrates 50 years of Deadly

The Townsville Hospital and Health Service will be celebrating 50 years of Deadly with celebrations held across the health service for NAIDOC Week.

The national celebration starts this Sunday and continues through to 12 July.

Indigenous health service director Salli-Ann Buttigieg said the week was about highlighting and celebrating the rich history, achievements, and enduring culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“Our health service has a lot it can celebrate in the steps that have been made towards health equity, as well as a lot of reflection for the challenges that still need to be overcome,” Salli-Ann said.

“As an organisation, we have a lot to celebrate through initiatives like Deadly Start, First Nations Cadetships, Humans in Health, the yarning templates, and much more.

“From flag raisings at Kirwan to barbecues in Richmond, a cultural showcase in Charters Towers, and an awards event at Townsville University Hospital, there’s plenty going on across the health service to celebrate First Nations people and their contributions.”

Salli-Ann said this year some of the staff will also be sharing their reflections on the stories, marches, languages, art, and leadership that have been shaped over the past five decades.

“It’s to tie in with the 50 years of deadly theme for this year’s NAIDOC Week,” she said.

“Some staff will choose a NAIDOC Week poster from the past 50 years, and we will be sharing it across the organisation, about what that poster means to them.

“Through QHEPS, we have also set up a space where staff can send in their reflections with a prize pack up for offer for those who take part.”

NAIDOC Week runs from 5 July to 12 July. Visit QHEPS for more information about the week, staff engagement activities, and upcoming events.

Warm ‘welkam’ for PNG healthcare professionals to TUH

Leaders in healthcare from across Papua New Guinea (PNG) have spent time touring Townsville University Hospital (TUH) as part of an inititiave to highlight alternative healthcare models.

A delegation of 20 doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals were in Townsville as part of the PNG Future Leaders Development Program.

As part of the program, the group toured TUH to learn about the hospital’s emergency department, paediatric intensive care unit, and the preadmission and planned procedure unit.

PNG’s Department of Health human resources and organisational development specialist Peter Baran said the cohort would take what they’d learned from their visit to Townsville and apply it in their respective health services.

“The program is designed to show local clinicians the possibilities of where they can take their current systems compared to the level of the Townsville system,” Peter said.

“A lot of what we teach in PNG is akin to what is happening in Australia.

“The program has been an incredible success with funding already secured for the next seven years, with plans to double the delegation size from next year.

“We are even looking to re-establish a twinning service next year where we can swap staff between PNG and Townsville to work on both sides and build that healthcare capacity even further.”

The program is in its fourth year, and Townsville HHS chief executive Kieran Keyes said the health service was proud to host the delegation and share clinical and operational expertise.

“It is a privilege to welcome these future leaders to our hospital and contribute to the growth of health infrastructure within PNG,” Kieran said.

“Our health services share many unique regional and geographical challenges, and strengthening this partnership allows for an exchange of knowledge that benefits patient care across the broader Asia-Pacific region.”

Rod’s table turning trolley for workplace safety

A little bit of innovation and creative thinking was all it took for one of Townsville University Hospital’s BEMS tradies to create a safer workplace for the medical imaging team.

CT team leader Sue Hannah said she had noticed the unit’s bariatric tabletop had become unwieldy for staff operating the computed tomography (CT) scanner.

“This tabletop required changing regularly when bariatric patients came in; it’s a two-person job and it was just parked on top of a cabinet bench,” Sue said.

“We were constantly jamming our fingers, trying to swing it around to get it into the correct position to use the scanner.

“I reached out to Rod to see if he had any ideas and he said, ‘let me think on it.’”

Rod Stewart, who is a carpenter by trade, said the tabletop was about 30 or 40 kilos and the team struggled to lift it.

“I thought if we could slide it onto the scanner it would be easier, so we did a bit of brainstorming and drew up a design,” Rod said.

What he came up with was a custom-built trolley which could fit the entire tabletop in a cradle and wheeled up to the CT scanner to allow it to be slid right onto the scanner.

“We needed it to be as ergonomic and as easy as possible for us to swap the tables out and what Rod has created has enabled us to do all of that safely,” Sue said.

“That’s just part of my trade,” Rod said.

“There’s no reason for it to be that hard, it was pretty simple and I just looked at it, and how it could be simpler and safer for the team to use.”

Give

booze the boot this July

Could you go alcohol-free for 31 days?

Townsville University Hospital’s drug and alcohol brief intervention team (DABIT) is encouraging staff and the community to sign up for Dry July, a national campaign that challenges Australians to go alcohol-free throughout July while raising funds for people affected by cancer.

DABIT clinical nurse consultant Amanda Ah Chee said the campaign wasn’t about telling people to never drink again.

“Dry July is about giving yourself an opportunity to pause, reflect, and see what changes when alcohol is no longer part of your daily routine,” Amanda said.

“Many people don’t realise how much alcohol can affect their sleep, mood, and energy levels until they take a break from it.

“Common benefits include better quality sleep, increased energy, improved concentration, better hydration, improved mood, and more money in their pocket.

“For some, Dry July confirms that alcohol plays only a small role in their lives but for others, it highlights that drinking has become more routine than they realised.”

Funds raised through the campaign support practical services for people affected by cancer, including transport to treatment, specialist nursing, counselling, and family support.

“Whether you’re doing it for your health, to support someone affected by cancer, to save money, or simply to challenge yourself, we encourage you to give it a go,” Amanda said.

Sign up at dryjuly.com and challenge yourself to 31 alcohol-free days this July.

If you’re concerned about your own alcohol use or someone else’s, support is available:

Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS): 1800 177 833 (24 hours)

Townsville ATODS: (07) 4433 9600

Speak with your GP or healthcare provider

New app-etite for speech tech

The Townsville University Hospital speech pathology department was abuzz with excitement when one of the world’s leading speech pathologists and swallowing rehabilitation researchers dropped by for a seminar and training session last week.

Co-founder of Swallowing Technologies Professor Maggie-Lee Huckabee is renowned across the world for pioneering the use of surface electromyography (sEMG) in swallowing recovery and made the trip to Townsville to share their new product called BiSSkApp.

“BiSSkApp is an approach for swallowing rehabilitation which, at one level, provides a structure for rehabilitation in the home which is connected digitally to the clinician,” Maggie-Lee said.

“The device itself is focussed on the use of sEMG to measure muscle activity and display that on a screen, in this case a tablet, via a specialised app where the clinician sets up the treatment plan.

“The patient essentially learns to control their swallowing movement by controlling the line, as seen on the screen, to strengthen their swallowing muscles.”

While muscle strengthening has been common practice for decades, Maggie-Lee said this approach gave patients a visual representation to learn how to precision control their movements more efficiently.

“It will ultimately allow clinicians to set up a patient to do rehabilitation in the home independently, saves them from having to come into the hospital, and can be monitored carefully to ensure it’s appropriate,” Maggie-Lee said.

The BiSSkApp has currently been in use at TUH as an inpatient rehabilitation device because of its convenience as an accessible biofeedback option, without having to set up big, clunky monitors and wires.

Director speech pathology Wendy Comben said the department was fortunate to have someone of Maggie-Lee’s calibre visit.

“Clinicians travel from all over the world to attend one of Maggie-Lee’s seminars in New Zealand so it’s a real privilege to have her in Townsville with us,” Wendy said.

“I know our speechies will find so much value in what Maggie-Lee has to share, she has such a wonderful way of teaching and will enhance our skills and optimise our use of BiSSkApp.”

Infection Prevention and Control Award

Med 1 takes inaugural crown for new infection prevention and control award

The infection prevention and control team recently introduced a monthly award initiative to celebrate departments and teams that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to infection prevention and control practices, patient safety, and commitment to reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections across the hospital and health service.

The inaugural winner of this monthly award was medical ward 1 for consistently demonstrating high standards of cleanliness, organisation, and safe clinical practice.

Infection prevention and control clinical nurse Jessica Jude said medical ward 1 stood out because of their attention to detail and ongoing efforts to uphold infection prevention and control standards.

“The collective efforts of medical ward 1 have made a significant contribution to the safety and wellbeing of patients, visitors, and staff members and have set a benchmark for excellence across the hospital,” Jessica said.

“Congratulations to medical ward 1 and we thank the team for their continued commitment to patient safety, quality care, and excellence in infection prevention and control.

“We look forward to recognising future recipients who continue to champion these important principles throughout the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.”

Silvia’s royal recognition for lifetime of community care

Ingham Health Service’s Silvia Brown has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her almost four decades of service in community healthcare.

The registered nurse was named in the King’s Birthday Honours, recognised for her services to nursing over the past 38 years.

Silvia said it wasn’t often that she was left speechless but when she was told she was going to receive an OAM, she was lost for words.

“I received an email months before and actually thought it must be a scam,” Silvia said.

“I read it probably about three or four times before it finally sank in, when I received the official email informing I was receiving OAM I was lost for words.

“It is just such an incredible distinction and honour, and I feel very privileged and humbled for my work to be acknowledged in this way.”

Silvia’s role as a nurse navigator often has her travelling as far as Cardwell to coordinate complex care, facilitate telehealth in the home for palliative care clients, and support oncology and hematology patients.

“I ensure regional patients are fully linked with service providers and My Aged Care services, GPs, and specialists to ensure ongoing support, I help guide them through their healthcare journeys, providing information and education in a way that people can understand, so they feel more confident navigating the healthcare system” she said.

“My work goes far beyond basic medical care; it is about building trust and understanding for the clients that come onto the Nurse Navigator program.

“It’s not just about their health journey; I have learned that every person has a story, and taking the time to listen is one of the most important things we can do.

“My work has been shaped by the many patients, families, colleagues and mentors I have encountered throughout my nursing career and this is what makes my work deeply rewarding.”

Silvia said her deep-rooted passion for community service was thanks to her late mum.

“She was an avid local volunteer, and she really has been an inspiration for me,” she said.

“Although mum was not the only one who has inspired me to do what I do, I feel this award doesn’t belong to me alone as it reflects the tremendous support given to me from my family, work colleagues, and mentors who have helped me throughout my nursing journey.

“I love my community and I love that I am able to make a difference in my client’s life, however small it may be.”

King’s birthday honours for Chris

For 40 years social worker Chris Fox has supported patients and families across north Queensland, helping them through some of the toughest times in their lives.

Earlier this month, Chris was recognised with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours.

The award, though, nearly didn’t happen.

“The Governor-General’s office sends an email to you when you’re under consideration for an award and asks you to register on their portal by clicking a link and my initial reaction was that it was a scam,” Chris said.

“I did a bit of research into it, it was very elaborate, and after emailing them, I was assured that it was the real deal and not a scam.”

Social work wasn’t even on Chris’s radar when she was younger, having commenced nursing training but then decided to pursue other opportunities.

When she moved to Townsville, she caught up with an old acquaintance who was a social worker at the time who suggested the profession to her.

Chris was accepted into James Cook University as a mature age student.

“I was already working as an assistant in nursing at The Good Shepherd Home and continued there during nights and holidays while I completed my degree,” she said.

“When I graduated, I worked in social work roles in Townsville and Tasmania where my family and I moved for a while.

“By chance I was offered a position in Townsville so we moved back and, once I came to the hospital, I knew this was where I belonged.”

Chris said she felt honoured to receive an OAM.

“In health, we often don’t get feedback about whether the work we did was effective so when I encounter patients or clients in the community who express their gratitude, it’s very validating,” she said.

“I’m just an ordinary person doing my job to the best of my ability; however, none of us achieve anything without having great people to work with.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with many great people and this award is as much theirs as it is mine.”

World-class expertise coming to TUH Grand Rounds

Two internationally recognised researchers will present at Townsville University Hospital’s Grand Rounds on Tuesday, 21 July bringing cutting-edge insights on childhood cancer and addiction medicine.

Professor Michelle Haber is a Member of the Order of Australia and Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and has spent 25 years leading the Children’s Cancer Institute through research that has dramatically improved childhood cancer survival rates worldwide.

Professor Paul Haber, conjoint Professor at the University of Sydney and Foundation Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians Chapter of Addiction Medicine, brings decades of research experience and a depth of expertise rarely accessible outside major metropolitan centres.

Consultant neurologist and physician training unit co-director Dr Craig Costello said the opportunity to welcome the guest speakers came about through a connection close to many TUH staff.

“The Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, which many of our TUH staff have participated in over the years, is the biggest community-based fundraiser for the Children’s Cancer Institute,” Craig said.

“Michelle Haber has led research at the institute for 25 years, so when I extended the invitation both Michelle and Paul were happy to come.”

Craig said the upcoming session offered a lot of value for staff across the organisation.

“Michelle Haber will present on ZERO Childhood Cancer, a national precision medicine program tailoring cancer therapy to each child’s tumour,” Craig said.

“Paul Haber will present on the clinical management of hospitalised patients with substance use disorders.

“These are two really high-quality presentations on topics that are both common and significantchildren’s cancer and its treatment, and managing addiction in the hospital setting.”

Craig said it was the sort of expertise that TUH trainees and clinical staff should take the opportunity to access.

“Grand Rounds are designed to be an engaging chance to hear about high-end clinical developments and what’s possible, so if people come along, they’re going to get that,” he said.

All clinical staff are encouraged to attend with catering available from noon and presentations commencing at 12.30pm in the Robert Douglas Auditorium. No RSVP required.

Title Title

Patient expressed their gratitude to Dr Habib who recently treated patient in ED. Patient was very impressed with the treatment provided Dr Habib.

He was very thorough and so compassionate to both patient and their spouse.

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

My little baby was admitted to the Children’s Ward for three nights, and I absolutely cannot fault the staff. Every single nurse was incredibly kind, caring, and gentle with him.

The overnight nurses were especially thoughtful completing their obs as quietly as possible to avoid disturbing his sleep. Nurses also regularly checked in on me, making sure I was okay and asking if there was anything I needed or anything they could do to help. Everyone was incredibly reassuring and professional and gave us so much love.

PAEDIATRIC WARD

I accompanied a person who was understandably anxious about their visit and I could not fault both the reception, administration, and medical staff that we came across.

All were very professional but also friendly and reassuring. Well done. I know you guys are under a lot of strain, but I could not be anything but impressed. Thank you again.

CENTRAL ADMISSION AND MEDICAL CLINIC STAFF

A Note...Brighter

Giving Day helps patients like Lisa

After a routine blood test in 2021, Lisa Thomson was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and needed an urgent stem cell transplant. Despite having willing family members to donate, the Townsville local unfortunately wasn’t a match and needed to rely on donor stem cells for treatment.

But, to have this life-saving treatment, the mum of four had to move to Brisbane for four months.

This presented a huge challenge as Lisa needed to have someone take care of her children and home while she received the treatment in Brisbane, as well as taking a support person with her.

“I’m grateful for the local support I had here who stepped up but, in an ideal world, I wouldn’t have needed to move from Townsville to have treatment.”

This Brighter Day on 30 July, Brighter Lives is fundraising to bring a donor stem cell transplant service to Townsville.

CEO Brighter Lives Stephanie Naunton said north Queensland patients need the treatment in Townsville, close to home.

“It’s a big goal at $355,000, but we know our north Queensland community will get behind us this Brighter Day to ensure we have this important treatment for cancer here in Townsville,” Stephanie said.

“The fundraising will support the purchase of total body irradiation equipment for Townsville University Hospital, allowing the healthcare team to be able to complete donor stem cell transplants locally.

“We’re asking our incredible staff to get behind this initiative and help fundraise or donate.”

The team that fundraises the most will be awarded a trophy as well as a $100 VISA gift voucher.

To donate or sign up as a team, visit brighterday. brighterlives.org.au

Capital works update

Works currently underway

Project: eHealth Infrastructure Maintenance Program

Work location: Various locations in TUH

Project: Kirwan Health Communty Campus expansion

Work location: Kirwan Health Campus

Project: Ingham CT Scanner

Work location: Ingham Health Service

Works on the way

Project: Multi-storey car park

Work location: Townsville University Hospital

Project: TUH Transit Lounge

Work location: DDU and Social Work Area

Project: Charters Towers Staff Accommodation

Work location: Charters Towers Health Service

Project: Palm Island Staff Accommodation

Work location: Palm Island Health Service

Have any questions?

Project: Carpark 17 expansion

Work location: Adjacent TecNQ

Project: Ingham Staff Accommodation

Work location: Ingham Health Service

Project: Ayr CT Scanner

Work location: Ayr Health Service

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 Easy Dumpling Soup

Laugh of the blah

Ingredients

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil

• ¼ tsp fish sauce

• 1 green onion (thinly sliced, (white and green parts separated)

• 10 frozen dumplings

• ½ cup fresh spinach

Garnishes, optional

• ½ tsp sesame seeds

• 1 tbsp sichuan chili crisp

Method

1. Combine the vegetable broth, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and the white parts of a sliced green onion in a medium-sized pot. (If using, also add the fish sauce, pre-cooked proteins or tofu, and any fresh or frozen vegetables that need time to soften.)

2. Bring the broth up to a boil on medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the dumplings.

3. Cover the pot and allow the soup to come back up to a boil. Boil the dumplings for about 2 minutes or until they are cooked through. (Consult package directions.)

4. Turn off the heat and stir in the green parts of the sliced green onion and a handful of spinach.

5. Split the soup into 2 serving bowls and top with any desired condiments.

Classifieds

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STAFF BUSINESS DEAL

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