The North West Hospital and Health Service respectfully acknowledges the Elders past and present and the Traditional Owners of the land, sea and waterways which we service and declare the North West Hospital and Health Service’s commitment to reducing inequalities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous health outcomes in line with the National Indigenous Reform Agreement (Closing the Gap).
Acknowledgement of Australian South Sea Islanders
North West Hospital and Health Service formally recognises the Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group within our geographical boundaries. The Northwest Hospital and Health Service is committed to fulfilling the Queensland Government Recognition Statement for Australian South Sea Islander Community to ensure that present and future generations of Australian South Sea Islanders have equality of opportunity to participate in and contribute to the economic, social, political and cultural life of the State
Vision, Purpose, Values
Our Vision
To lead the delivery of safe, sustainable healthcare in our unique region with our diverse partners and communities.
Our Purpose Partner with our communities to improve health outcomes by delivering valued, high-quality and sustainable health services that are close to home.
Our Values
Our values will guide our decision making and actions as we commit to respecting, protecting, and promoting human rights in our decision making and actions. These values include Innovation, Respect, Engagement, Accountability, Caring, and Honesty.
This newsletter is produced by the North West Hospital and Health Service All feedback and contributions are welcome to NWHHS Communication@health qld gov au All published material has been approved by the Health Service Chief Executive
From the Board Chair From the Health Service Chief
Consumers
North West HHS Consumer Engagement
Consumer Opportunities
Quality and Safety Quarterly Report
From the Consumer Liaison Officer
Outreach Services
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health
Orange Sky Mobile Laundry
Close the Gap Day
Health Equity Implementation Plan
Colour My Culture
13YARN
Collaborations for Health
First Minutes Matter
Wellbeing
Embrace Autumn for a Healthier You
Book your FREE Flu vaccination
Dietitians Corner
Mosquito Awareness
Support is available
Careers
NWHHS Balance
From the Board Chair Cheryl Vardon AO
Dear North West,
Autumn in the North West is a beautiful time of year, offering cooler weather and a much-needed respite from the summer heat. The harsh extremes of nature during the summer months highlight the strength and resilience of our staff, and we deeply appreciate their unwavering dedication and hard work
In February, Board and Executive Leadership Team members gathered for a strategic planning review meeting This collaborative session allowed leadership
to align on key priorities and address emerging challenges and opportunities Through trusted, open dialogue and the exchange of diverse perspectives, the teams worked together to ensure the strategic direction remains focused, adaptable, and responsive to the evolving needs of both the community and the health service
Board members continue building relationships with staff and stakeholders across the North West. Some highlights include:
·Visiting various departments across Mount Isa Hospital as part of the Board’s ‘Service Spotlight’ program
·Welcoming staff members to the Language Badge Program
Connecting with Consumer Groups via their scheduled meetings and individual check-ins with the Chairs of these essential groups
·Completing 'First Minutes Matter' Emergency Trauma Training with LifeFlight
Hosting Mount Isa Mayor Cr Peta MacRae at a recent Board Meeting to discuss the Mount Isa Future Ready Economy Roadmap
Meeting with Local Member, Robbie Katter MP
Hosting an engagement luncheon with the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Catherine McDougall and NWHHS Prevocational Doctors
·Attending the:
Hospital and Health Board Chairs Forum
Hospital and Health Board Finance and Audit Committee Forum
Mount Isa Lead Health Management Committee Meeting
Tropical Australian Academic Health Centre Limited (TAAHC) Meeting
Western Queensland Primary Health Network (WQPHN) Meet and Greet
I would like to thank all staff for their continued passion and dedication to supporting our communities. I look forward to our continued collaboration for the betterment of North West Hospital and Health Service.
Kind regards,
Cheryl Vardon AO Health Service Board Chair
From the Health Service Chief Executive Sean Birgan
I am pleased to share the autumn edition and our twelfth edition of Balance with you This publication highlights the achievements of our staff and community, reflecting a strong start to 2025 for North West Hospital and Health Service
The year so far has been filled with milestones and meaningful moments that showcase our commitment to inclusivity, growth, and high-quality healthcare.
Together, we have celebrated Australia Day, International Women’s Day, Close the Gap Day, and Harmony Week, each reinforcing the values of diversity and unity within our workforce and communities.
We also welcomed four new Medical Interns and our new cohort of First Year Practicing Nurses and Midwives to our North West Hospital and Health Service team, whose fresh perspectives and dedication will strengthen our services
Looking ahead, there is much to be excited about The completion of the new Normanton Hospital is fast approaching, ensuring continued high-quality care for our communities, while planning and development for the new Doomadgee Hospital are well underway
In this edition, you will find a Quality and Safety Report from October – December 2024, covering key measures that drive continuous improvement in patient care This includes data on medication safety, incident monitoring, and surgical outcomes, providing valuable insights into our commitment to excellence.
As we transition into autumn, I want to acknowledge the dedication of our staff, the support of our healthcare partners, and the trust of our consumers Together, we continue to make a meaningful impact, and I look forward to the opportunities the coming months will bring I hope this season brings a sense of renewal and progress for all.
With appreciation,
Sean
Strategic Plan 2024-2028
Australia Day Snow Cones
Australia Day 2025 is a time to recognise the resilience of all Australians and to focus on what we can achieve when we move forward as a community Australia Day is when we can all come together and pay tribute to our diversity, promote reconciliation and celebrate our progress as a dynamic, modern society
Australia Day is when we acknowledge and celebrate the contribution that every Australian makes. To those that have lived here for generations and to those that have come more recently to call our country home
It is a time to reflect on the pivotal day in the history of our ancient continent and to acknowledge past wrongs while we show respect and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ survival, resilience and enduring culture
To celebrate our diverse community, the executive team held a little get together in the Mount Isa Hospital Foyer where staff and community members enjoyed an ice-cold flavoured snow cone and a catch up with one another.
International Women’s Day
Mount Isa Hospital had the privilege of celebrating International Women's Day with a special event featuring guest speakers and, of course, lots of delicious cake
It was a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community and reflect on the contributions women have made, not just in healthcare, but across our vast North West community
We were reminded of the dedication, compassion, and resilience that women bring to their roles every day A big thank you to all the women who continue to inspire and make a difference, not only within the hospital but in the lives of the people they care for.
Here's to celebrating and empowering women everyday!
A huge thank you to Cookies on Crystal for supplying the delicious goodies and DREAM Creation House for the incredible decorations
Random Acts of Kindness
Kindness has a way of brightening our day and lifting our spirits, but did you know that it’s actually good for our physical and mental health too? Monday 17th February was Random Acts of Kindness Day, a day where we celebrate the power of small gestures that can make a big difference in someone’s life and in our own wellbeing
When we perform acts of kindness, our brain releases endorphins, that improves our mood and leaves us feeling good Also, being kind increases the production of oxytocin, a hormone that not only helps us feel more connected to others but can also reduce stress, lower blood pressure and help protect our hearts Even simply witnessing acts of kindness can trigger these benefits, proving just how contagious generosity can be
So, not only does being kind benefit those around us, but it can also improve our own physical health and emotional wellbeing
We wanted to take the opportunity to spread a little extra positivity We set up a Kindness Box in the foyer, encouraging everyone to leave notes of appreciation and gratitude for their colleagues. These notes were then presented to the staff and teams they were intended for, creating a ripple effect of kindness that was felt throughout our workplace
While this was meaningful way to recognise our colleagues, there are countless other ways to show kindness, both big and small
Whether it’s smiling at someone during your commute, helping a neighbour, donating food to a local food bank or paying for the person behind you in line, every act of kindness counts Even the smallest gesture can have a lasting impact
As we continue to spread kindness, let’s inspire others by sharing our experiences and together we can create a community that thrives on compassion and connection
The New Normanton Hospital
The new Normanton Hospital is beginning to take shape as construction progresses Over half of the prefabricated modular buildings have arrived and placed into their final positions.
Manufactured by Hutchinson Builders in Toowoomba, these partially prebuilt structures were transported more than two thousand kilometres by road to the hospital site, where they are carefully lifted into position by crane
This project and marks a major step towards improving healthcare access for the evolving needs of the Normanton community We have worked very closely with the Normanton community to ensure that all elements which would enhance their hospital experience have been identified and we are thrilled to see this vision becoming a reality.
Recognising the challenges of working in remote locations, the new hospital will play a critical role in supporting staff retention and recruitment, as modern facilities provide more sustainable work environments
Once all the buildings are in place, the next phase will focus on interior fit outs, including the installation of essential utilities such as water, electricity, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure the facility is fully operational With each unit installed, we are one step closer to providing a modern healthcare facility that meets the needs of our community for years to come We are committed to ensuring this new hospital is fully equipped to provide the highest quality of care to all who need it
After the buildings are in place, additional structures will be built to expand the hospital’s capabilities, while landscaping efforts will enhance the overall environment This will include creating pathways, installing ramps and stairs for improved accessibility, and adding final touches to the surrounding grounds.
The modular design promises not only efficiency and a quicker build time but also a modern, functional healthcare facility to meet the needs of the community and staff for many years to come
Julian’s Key
Queensland Health has recently launched an updated version of Julian’s Key Health Passport, a hand-held, consumercontrolled communication tool specifically designed for Queenslanders, particularly those with intellectual disability who may need assistance when communicating with healthcare staff
The Health Passport is a valuable tool for both users and healthcare professionals It empowers users and involves them in their care and helps healthcare staff understand a person’s care requirements, minimises misunderstandings, and ensures optimal outcomes
It allows individuals to update their health information as needed, especially when there are changes to their care needs It solely serves as a communication tool and does not request nor contain any financial details. It is not meant to replace routine clinical care or treatment
The Health Passport comes in printed and print-at-home PDF formats and contains essential information about a person’s disability, health needs, communication and treatment preferences, feelings when unwell, and their interests and hobbies.
Currently, users may download the digital version from the Julian’s Key Health Passport website Alternatively, they may request a printed copy by emailing Queensland Health at JuliansKey@health.qld.gov.au or by calling
Queensland Open Hospitals Website
North West Hospital and Health Service is now putting real-time data at your fingertips
The new Open Hospitals website, developed by Queensland Health, gives you valuable information about how major public hospitals’ Emergency departments are performing This means you can see things like the number of permanent treatment spaces, how many patients are waiting and median wait times The website offers realtime data updates that are refreshed every 15-30 minutes
The Open Hospitals website currently reports data for 25 major public emergency departments including Mount Isa Hospital, and 7 minor injury and illness clinics throughout Queensland Being open about hospital performance ensures patients, families, and healthcare providers can see how the system is performing This accountability helps drive continuous quality improvements in care
All patients who present to the emergency department requiring emergency care are seen as soon as possible People with less serious conditions may have a longer wait than those who are seriously ill
To ensure you can get the right healthcare, the website provides information and links to guide you This includes contact details for 13 HEALTH and a link to the healthdirect online Symptom Checker, which asks a few simple questions about your condition before directing you to the closest service that is right for your condition Recommended services may include going to your nearest emergency department, local GP or the Virtual Emergency Care Service
You can access the website on your smartphone, tablet, or computer, so whether you are at home, on the go, or in a waiting room, you can stay informed
Visit Queensland Health Open Hospitals: https://openhospitals health qld gov au
It is important to remember that in an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000)
Australia Day Mayor’s Award
Congratulations Corrine
The Australia Day Mayor’s Award, presented by the Carpentaria Shire Mayor, aims to recognise and celebrate those quiet achievers who consistently make a difference in our community Normanton EN Corrine Long is a shining example of this spirit
With a career spanning over five decades, Corrine’s journey began at the original Normanton Hospital, where she started as a nursing assistant more than 50 years ago Often working solo and covering both day and night shifts, she took on significant responsibilities at a young age, a testament to her dedication and resilience. About 20 years ago, Corrine achieved her Enrolled Nursing certificate, further solidifying her expertise in healthcare
Corrine has always been the person others can rely on, particularly during times of staff shortages and emergencies Her commitment was especially evident during the Covid Pandemic, when she continued to show up despite the unknown risks and dangers, demonstrating an extraordinary sense of duty to her community.
Beyond her professional roles, Corrine is a vital member of the hospital auxiliary, helping raise funds to enhance the comfort and well-being of patients during their stay Her selflessness and dedication to improving the patient experience have made a lasting impact
In a remarkable career, Corrine stands out as one of the few people who can say they have worked through three different hospital builds in the same town Now, she looks forward to transitioning into the new hospital being constructed this year, another milestone in her longstanding commitment to healthcare in our community
Congratulations Corrine! Thank you for your unwavering service to the Normanton Community and the NWHHS! Your legacy is one of dedication, compassion, and community spirit
Want your story told?
The North West Public Relations team is always eager to share stories celebrating our outstanding staff and community.
If you know someone who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Give us a call at 07 4744 4871.
NWHHS welcomes New Medical Interns
North West Hospital and Health Service recently welcomed four new medical interns to Mount Isa Hospital, providing them with valuable hands-on experience in a rural setting.
After completing a comprehensive oneweek orientation, the interns began rotations across various departments, including medical, surgical, obstetrics, and paediatrics.
The intern program plays a crucial role in developing the region’s medical workforce, equipping early-career doctors with diverse clinical skills while exposing them to the unique challenges of rural healthcare.
Some interns had previously completed placements at Mount Isa Hospital, highlighting the program’s strong reputation for professional growth.
At the end of their one-year internship, the doctors will have the option to complete their second year with North West HHS or transfer to another health service.
North West HHS remains committed to supporting these young doctors as they transition from university into their medical careers, ensuring they feel welcomed and valued within the community.
Medical Students Welcomed
To The North West
Mount Isa's health service has received a boost thanks to the allocation of James Cook University medical students, who have embarked upon their rural placement in the north west city
A cohort of JCU medical students visited Mount Isa on Tuesday, February 4, to kick off their rural placement journeys and help them settle into their new home for the year They were joined by senior academics, including the head of Townsville Clinical School, Professor Tarun Sen Gupta, Professor Clare Heal and Associate Professor Zaf Smith
Beyond the clinical experience, students were looking forward to the social side of living in a regional centre, with diverse students, musical bingo nights, the rodeo
and friendly locals a drawcard for Mount Isa's newest residents. Students also engaged with local health leaders such as Dr Erica West, director of Medical Services at Mount Isa Hospital
Dr West spoke about the hospital's efforts to build clinical training capacity in nearby rural and remote hospitals like Karumba and Burketown, ensuring more opportunities for future students
Catrina Felton-Busch, Director of the Murtupuni Centre for Rural and Remote Health, welcomed the visit and highlighted plans to enhance medical education through greater use of the Centre's clinical skills lab
The visit was facilitated by Lisa Fanning from NQRTH, who helped bring together key players in rural medical education.
SOURCE: North West Star
Congratulations to our First Year Practitioners
We had the honour of celebrating this significant milestone on the 29th of January, with the cohort officially completing their first year on the 17th of February 2025
This achievement marks not only the culmination of hard work, dedication, and growth, but also the exciting beginning of a promising nursing career journey
Our first-year practitioners have navigated various challenges, gained invaluable experience, and made meaningful contributions to NWHHS.
As they continue to evolve in their practice, we remind them that each year builds upon the last, and we look forward to the many accomplishments yet to come.
We are immensely proud of all they have achieved, and we are eager to see where the next chapter of their careers will take them.
We would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the continued support, mentorship, and leadership provided by NWHHS staff.
Their dedication has played a crucial role in nurturing and guiding our novice nurses as they begin their journey into practice
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to their professional development
NWHHS Welcomes First Year
Nurses and Midwives
North West Hospital and Health Service (HHS) has welcomed its first wave of nursing graduates for 2025 this February, as 20 eager new grads gear up for a year of hands-on learning
Out of the 20 graduates, 17 are Registered Nurses, 5 of which will be transitioned to the North West HHS remote sites of Mornington Island, Doomadgee, Julia Creek, and Cloncurry, and 3 graduates will bolster the midwifery team
With the Transition Support Team watching over them, the new nurses will get a taste for variety as they take up placements across the hospital, from medical and surgical wards to outpatient departments and specialty units including ED, ICU, and Paediatrics
Nurse educator Kim Pigram says the Transition Support team, Nurse Unit Managers, educators, and all North West HHS nurses and midwives are ready to guide the new graduates as they settle into life in the North West
“We’re very excited to have the 2025 cohort join us, it’s going to be an interesting year for them,” said Kim “Our goal is to support the graduate nurses through our program over the next 12 months, set them up for a long and successful nursing career, and hopefully retain them as permanent and capable members of the North West HHS nursing tribe ”
We wish all the new nurses a successful graduate year as they launch their rural and remote nursing careers.
Staff Spotlight | Patient Travel
Rising to the Challenge During Cyclone Alfred
When Cyclone Alfred disrupted travel plans across Queensland, the Patient Travel team stepped up to ensure patients, escorts, and staff could reach their destinations safely
The team worked tirelessly to manage the sudden changes, rebooking approximately 25 patient and escort flights and accommodations This required not only cancelling existing travel plans but also quickly securing alternative flights to bring patients and escorts home before they became stranded
When Qantas flights from Brisbane to Mount Isa were cancelled on short notice, the team successfully rerouted patients and escorts through Townsville to ensure they could return home safely
The team also coordinated flights and accommodations for 15-20 staff members Their efforts ensured that staff could arrive in Mount Isa before the airport closure and allowed others to return home to Brisbane to be with their families during the severe weather event
A huge thank you to the Patient Travel team for their resilience, problem-solving, and hard work in ensuring that everyone reached their destinations safely during Cyclone Alfred.
Making these urgent travel adjustments required the team to work under immense pressure Calls to the booking agent during the cyclone led to hold times of 20 minutes to an hour While waiting, the team simultaneously managed urgent emails and coordinated with Mount Isa Hospital’s nurse managers, who oversee patient travel after hours
Despite being one team member down, the remaining staff ensured that all critical travel changes were completed efficiently. Their exceptional teamwork and dedication during this challenging time exemplify their commitment to patient and staff well-being
North West HHS
Consumer Engagement
At North West Hospital and Health Service we believe that health consumers are more than participants in our healthcare system, they are our partners in health. By empowering individuals to actively contribute to decisions that shape our healthcare services, we ensure that the voices of our diverse communities are heard, valued, and acted upon.
There has been plenty of engagement activity occurring around the North West for several building projects such as the new Normanton Hospital, new Doomadgee Hospital, expansion of dialysis care for remote communities such as Mornington Island, and we are steadily moving forward with plans for a new mental health facility in Mount Isa. These engagement efforts have been about more than just consultation; they have been about partnership. We’ve listened to the community’s concerns, ideas, and aspirations for their healthcare services, and this feedback has shaped every aspect of our planning. From community forums and workshops to one-on-one discussions with local leaders and residents, North West HHS has made sure to include everyone in the conversation. This approach has allowed us to better understand the unique needs of each community and to design facilities that will provide culturally appropriate, effective healthcare.
Mikayla Kuskopf Acting Manager Public Relations
CAG & CAN Update
So far, we have held 5 Consumer Advisory Group (CAG) and Consumer Advisory Network (CAN) meetings across the region this year, with current groups including Mount Isa, Cloncurry, Julia Creek, Normanton, Karumba, and Burketown, and Health Councils in Doomadgee and on Mornington Island. These meetings give all of our community representatives the opportunity to speak with North West HHS executive members and senior staff about current health issues, services and priorities in each community and work together to ensure the most appropriate services are provided, as close to home as possible for all of our consumers.
We are incredibly grateful for all of the health consumers that engage with us to help shape the future of health delivery in our region. Your contributions to your community and our health service are incredibly important and we couldn’t do our job without you!
For more information about becoming a registered health consumer in the North West, please visit: https://www.northwest.health.qld.gov.au/ opportunities/join-a-consumer-advisorygroup/ or email nwhhs.engagement@health.qld.gov.au
Quality and Safety Quarterly Report
October - December 2024
At North West Hospital and Health Service, we work hard to make sure our patients receive safe, effective, and high-quality care. We check the quality of our care by looking at patient outcomes, healthcare processes, and patient satisfaction.
Our quality management systems help us keep our care consistent and thorough across all hospitals. This means we regularly track and report on:
Medication safety
Safety incidents
Readmission rates
Patient feedback
These checks are part of our everyday work. By paying close attention to these areas, we aim to keep improving and providing the best possible care and health outcomes for our community.
Medication Safety
Medication Safety October - December 2025 Total:118
Medication mistakes can affect a person’s health and may cause harm. NWHHS has safety systems to help prevent these mistakes. Our staff are trained to use medicines safely and correctly.
Medication mistakes can happen when: A medicine is prescribed incorrectly
The wrong amount or type is given
Consumers can play an active role in preventing medication errors by speaking up about concerns if something feels wrong such as a different looking pill or unexpected side effects, checking prescriptions, clarifying instructions and understanding how and when to take medication.
NWHHS Balance
Slips and Falls
NWHHS reduces slips and falls through risk assessments, patient education, and tailored care plans. We promote safe mobility with assistive devices, regular monitoring, and environmental safety measures. Staff receive ongoing training, and we involve patients and families in fall prevention strategies.
Consumers can help prevent falls by being aware of your surroundings, using walking aids if needed, wearing safe shoes, keep floors clear, use handrails, and let staff know if you feel unsteady or dizzy. Working together with NWHHS staff, you and your family can help make sure you stay safe and avoid falls.
Pressure Injuries
Total Inpatients 4514
NWHHS helps prevent pressure injuries by checking skin regularly, creating personalised care plans, and using specialised equipment. We encourage early action with support for movement, changing positions often, and staying hydrated and wellnourished. Our staff are trained to prevent pressure injuries, and we work with patients and families to keep skin healthy and improve recovery.
Consumers can help prevent pressure injuries by moving regularly, changing positions often, and using cushions or special mattresses if needed. Keeping skin clean and dry, drinking plenty of water, and eating nutritious meals also help protect the skin. Let staff know if you feel discomfort, notice redness, or have any concerns about your skin. Working together with your care team can help keep your skin healthy and prevent pressure injuries.
Total Patients Admitted to NWHHS
SOURCE: Healthcare Standards Unit
Total Fall or Slips
NWHHS Balance
Unexpected return to theatre
If a patient needs unexpected surgery within a month of leaving the hospital, it is called an Unexpected Return to Theatre. This means they have to go under anaesthesia again, which comes with risks and can be stressful and worrying for both the patient and their family.
SOURCE: Healthcare Standards Unit
Emergency Department wait time by triage category
Emergency Department (ED) wait times show how quickly patients receive treatment after arriving. Patients are grouped into five categories based on how urgent their condition is. Category 1 is the most serious, needing help immediately, while Category 5 is for less serious issues.
The graph below compares the target wait times with the actual performance of the North West Hospital and Health Service from October to December 2024. For the most urgent cases (CAT 1), the target is to see 100% of patients within 2 minutes. For less urgent cases (CAT 2 to 5), the targets range from 10 to 120 minutes, and NWHHS met or exceeded all of these targets.
SOURCE: SPIRR Team
From the Consumer Liaison Officer
We are committed to continuously improving our services. If you or your family have visited any of our facilities in the North West we would love to hear from you! Your feedback is invaluable to us!
Consumer Compliment
Paediatric Ward:
“I would like to thank every single person who helped and supported me during the two most difficult days of my life
Everyone was so nice and helped me to understand the situation This includes nurses, and doctors. I would like to thank each person in the operating theatre who were there I am sure I might have snored when I was sleeping!
Once again thank you everyone for your support I may not remember your names, but I will remember your supporting comments and smiling faces ”
Quarterly Feedback Review
Oct–Dec 2024
This quarter we received 157 feedback submissions, with 129 compliments highlighting great service and positive experiences
While 28 complaints were recorded, they provide valuable insights for improvement The strong ratio of compliments to complaints reflects our commitment to excellence and continuous growth.
How to share your feedback
Email us: nwhhsclo@health qld gov au
Call us: (07) 4744 7115
Website: North West Hospital and Health Service
Natasha Dew
Outreach Services
Interested to know when outreach services will be visiting your community? Visit the dedicated Outreach Service page on the North West HHS website to stay up to date.
VIEW THE CALENDAR
Orange Sky Mobile Laundry
Decreasing RHD in the North West
Free mobile laundries are helping reduce rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in remote Queensland communities, where the preventable illness has long affected young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people Since laundry services began in Mornington Island, Doomadgee, and Mt Isa through a partnership between Orange Sky and North West Hospital and Health Service, new RHD cases have dropped from 30 in 2023 to 17 in 2024, and rheumatic fever cases from 27 to 18
The laundries, staffed by local workers, provide free access to industrial washers and dryers Health workers often use the opportunity to offer check-ups
In Mornington Island, local grandmother Lulu Juhel runs the laundry, where many residents lack access to washing machines. RHD stems from untreated strep infections and is linked to overcrowding and poverty Coroner Nerida Wilson’s 2023 report highlighted its devastating impact in Doomadgee, where three Aboriginal people died from the disease between 2019 and 2020
Health Service Chief Executive Sean Birgan emphasises that while laundries improve hygiene, eliminating RHD requires broader efforts, including health education and early detection training The initiative also fosters important community conversations about health and wellbeing
SOURCE: The Australian
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health
Close The Gap Day
On Thursday 20 March, NWHHS observed National Close the Gap Day that is a day of action and advocacy to address the disparities in health and life expectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and nonIndigenous Australians
This day serves as a powerful reminder that while progress has been made, there is still much work to do to ensure all Australians have equal access to healthcare, education, and social support.
To mark the day, we enjoyed a sausage sizzle and also a delicious cake generously provided by First Nations business - Cookies on Crystal, bringing everyone together in a spirit of unity We were also fortunate to have NWHHS Mental Health Services and Gidgee Healing on site, who engaged with the community and shared valuable information while giving away merchandise to raise awareness.
Our deepest appreciation goes out to Mob FM for their live broadcast from the hospital, as well as the Queensland Police Service for their incredible support and collaboration
Your dedication to strengthening our shared efforts plays a vital role in building healthier, more connected communities.
The event was organised by NWHHS Office of Indigenous Health staff, with a thoughtful speech provided by Executive Director First Nations Health Christine Mann highlighting the importance of continued efforts towards achieving health equity
We also extend our gratitude to the Elders who attended and Roslyn Von Senden for her heartfelt Welcome to Country and insightful speech, reminding us of the significance of genuine partnerships with our First Nations communities
Together, we continue to listen, learn, and walk alongside our First Nations communities, working toward meaningful and lasting change Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making this day impactful
Let's keep the conversation going and remain united in our journey toward true health equity.
Have you viewed the Health Equity Implementation Plan 2022-2025?
The plan is available to read on the North West Hospital and Health Service website.
Goals of the First Nations Health Equity reform agenda include:
Actively eliminate racial discrimination and institutional racism
Visit the website and familiarise yourself with the plan today
Increasing access to healthcare services
Influencing the social, cultural and economic determinants of health
Delivering sustainable, culturally safe and responsive healthcare service
Work with First Nations people, communities and organisations to design, deliver, monitor and review health services
ATODS
Suite 6, Mount Isa House
119 Camooweal Street, Mount Isa Corner of Mary and Miles Street
LifeFlight’s First Minutes Matter is a FREE emergency trauma training program to equip you with practical skills for timecritical emergency situations, while professional help is on the way
Scan the QR code to register for the FREE upcoming in-person and online workshops in the North West
FREE Community Emergency
Trauma Training Program
First Minutes Matter was developed by LifeFlight’s aeromedical specialists who saw the need to equip the community with lifesaving skills that can help make a difference before emergency responders arrive Gain practical skills at in-person workshops or through the online course
In-Person Workshops
For a hands-on learning experience, LifeFlight offers in-person workshops Guided by experienced Medical Educators, gain practical knowledge and skills that could make all the difference in a critical moment
Online Course
Complete the program as a self-paced online course and learn critical emergency response skills. While it only takes a few hours, the knowledge you gain lasts a life-time
First Minutes Matter equips participants with practical skills for time-critical emergency situations
The program covers topics such as:
Personal, road and aircraft safety
Burns
Bleeding
Snake bites
Choking and anaphylaxis
Seizures, strokes and febrile convulsions
CPR and AEDs
Emergency equipment
Wellbeing
Completing a workshop
First Minutes Matter is not accredited, however, on completion of this program, you will receive a Certificate of Participation (CoP)
Wellbeing
Wellbeing Tips
Embrace Autumn for a healthier you
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, autumn is the perfect time to slow down, reset and focus on your wellbeing.
Here are some simple ways to stay healthy and happy as we transition into the cooler months
Boost Your Immunity
With flu season approaching, support your immune system by eating nutrient-rich foods like citrus fruits, leafy greens, and nuts
Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep will also help keep your body strong
Stay Active Outdoors
Make the most of the cooler temperatures by taking walks, hiking, or enjoying outdoor activities The fresh air and movement can improve mood and boost energy levels
Enjoy
Seasonal Comfort Foods (Mindfully!)
Autumn is the season for warming soups, roasted vegetables, and herbal teas. Nourish your body with hearty, whole foods while keeping indulgences balanced
Prioritise
Rest & Relaxation
Shorter days are a great reminder to slow down. Set a bedtime routine, limit screen time before bed, and embrace cozy moments with a book or meditation
Stay Connected
Groups to look for in your community
As the weather cools, social activities may slow down Keep in touch with friends and family to maintain a sense of connection and support
By embracing the season and making small, mindful changes, you can stay well and enjoy everything autumn has to offer
Dietitians Corner
Cheesy Baked Bean Potatoes
Ingredients
12 medium washed white potatoes
3 420g cans of baked beans
1 5 cups frozen corn kernels
1 5 cups frozen green peas
120g grated light tasty cheese
Green salad to serve
Method
1
Pre-heat oven to 220°C fan forced Halve potatoes lengthways and place on a baking tray, cut-side up Bake potatoes for 40 minutes or until soft enough to scoop out centre
2.
Combine baked beans, corn and peas in a bowl. Scoop a little of the potato out of the centre of each half, chop and add to the baked bean mix
One-Pot Beans and Rice
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 brown onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp smoked paprika
10g salt-reduced vegetable stock cube, crushed
1 cup brown rice
2 cups water
420g can of 3/4/5-bean mix, rinsed and drained
400g can diced tomatoes
1 cup diced carrot and/or mushrooms
Method
3
4
Overfill each potato with mixture and top with a sprinkling of cheese
Place under a hot grill for 10 minutes or until mixture has warmed through and cheese has melted and started to brown.
Serve warm. Serves 12. 5.
Variations
Make ahead and reheat to serve
You can pre-prepare the bean and vegetable mixture in the morning and keep refrigerated until needed
Heat oil in a heavy-based saucepan Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent 1
Add garlic and paprika and sauté a further 1 minute 2
Add rice and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently until well coated 3
4.
Add stock cube, 2 cups of water, beans and tomatoes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 40 minutes or until liquid has absorbed and rice is tender, stirring occasionally
Remove from heat and serve Serves 6 5
Variations
Instead of a bean mix, use canned black or red kidney beans.
Freeze into portions and reheat as required 45
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