MURDOCH Monthly
Celebrating Bill page 8
CAREGIVER NEWS FROM ST JOHN OF GOD MURDOCH HOSPITAL THIS YEAR'S BALL THEME ANNOUNCED! page 2 NAIDOC WEEK AT MURDOCH pages 10-11 A SPOTLIGHT ON OUR SOCIAL WORKERS pages 14-15 July 2025
A message from the CEO, Ben Irish
Welcome to the July Murdoch Monthly.
I want to start by extending a huge thank you to one and all for everything you did that resulted in our outstanding accreditation result. It was an incredible team effort. Thank you!
Now that accreditation is over, it's only fitting that we celebrate.
Tickets are now selling for our Murdoch Ball (via the QR code, below). I haven't yet landed on which shade of neon I'll wear, but I look forward to seeing you all there!
You'll read more in this edition about the incredible milestone our Charity of the Year, Djaalinj Waakinj has reached - 100 surgeries!
I am so immensely proud of the way our hospital community has poured its hearts and expertise into this program, which is unlocking a bright new world of potential for hundreds of children and their families. Congratulations and thank you one and all!
2025 Murdoch Ball
We’re turning up the glow for this year’s Murdoch Ball – Neon Nights, a party under the lights!
Think all the colours of an electric rainbow, high energy and radiant vibes that will leave you shining after the lights go down.
Be there on Saturday 30 August, 6pm – 12pm at Crown Perth. Tickets are now selling ($130).
Scan here for tickets and discounted accommodation:
Thank you for all that you do, every day.
Take care, and have a great month ahead.
Ben
Tables are limited, so get in as quickly as possible to secure your ticket.
When you purchase your ticket, you need to provide your table number. Each ward and department will need to arrange a table coordinator.
Any queries? Contact Andrea.Hegney@sjog.org.au
We look forward to rolling out the hot pink carpet for you!
See you on the dancefloor!
Reflection
NAIDOC Week is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. It began as a movement for recognition and rights, sparked by Indigenous communities who saw a future built on justice and equality.
Over the decades, it has grown into a powerful national celebration - a testament to the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Many Australians are often unaware of the deep and diverse
cultural history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, which dates back over 65,000 years. By promoting cultural activities, storytelling, and educational events, NAIDOC Week helps bridge knowledge gaps, corrects historical misconceptions, and encourages a more inclusive society.
The theme for NAIDOC week this year is “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy”, and it focuses on the contributions of the younger generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their role in shaping the future.
One of the ways we support the next generation of Aboriginal people is through our commitment to the Djaalinj Waakinj Ear Health Program where Aboriginal children can access timely ENT surgery at Murdoch.
In total since our collaboration with Djaalinj Waakinj began
in 2019, our amazing Murdoch caregivers have raised over $140,000 which has enabled over 100 children to undergo surgery and participate in life in ways that many of us take for granted.
As part of our celebration and to continue this fantastic work, we are donating $1 from every meal purchased in the caregiver dining room during NAIDOC Week to the Charity of the Year fund.
We are also supporting local Indigenous catering organisations by distributing NAIDOC Week themed cookies, and have also sourced several lovely gift hampers, which we will raffle throughout the week. Proceeds will go to our Charity of the Year.
We thank you for your participation in this special week of celebration and recognition.
Jenni
Patient Experience Matters
Murdoch patients are saying:
Comment 1: Thomas Furlong
My experience at the hospital was exceptional. The medical staff demonstrated outstanding professionalism, compassion, and care throughout my stay. The calm and reassuring environment significantly contributed to my comfort and recovery. I am truly grateful for the excellent level of service provided.
Comment 2: Day Procedure
Admin and nursing staff were attentive and empathetic; it was evident they had compassion and cared about how they treat their patients.
Comment 3: Cancer Centre
The nurses are not only helpful and caring to their patients, but I also note that they help each other out with or without being asked. That is a quality that makes for very good teamwork and a good atmosphere in the Cancer Centre.
Sing it to the world!
To the Social Workers of the Thomas Furlong Ward
Thank you so much for the kindness you showed to our mum, Cynthia Stabler, and to our family while mum was a patient in Room 33.
We know that helping came with its challenges, and it did not go unnoticed how compassionate and helpful you remained regardless.
Your support, particularly in helping us find a respite place for mum, was phenomenal and we would have been lost without you.
Thank you again.
With sincere thanks and gratitude
Gemma & Jane (Cynthia's daughters)
NPS team rewards
St Francis celebrated their >80 NPS score with dining room vouchers for the team. One patient said, “The care and attention I received was outstanding, the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff was above and beyond. I thoroughly enjoyed my time and would recommend St John of God Murdoch Hospital to anyone. I highly recommended - beautiful hospital.”
Incredible job, St Francis!
St Luke celebrated their >80 NPS with dining room vouchers for the team. “My sincere gratitude for the hospitality and personal care by all the staff, nurses, and doctors attending to my wellness and comfort during my stay. l owe everyone at every level who looked after me. l would have no hesitation to recommend St John of God Murdoch Hospital to any person I know needing hospital care,” one patient said.
Wonderful work, St Luke!
St Rose chose to celebrate their >80 NPS with a team raffle. “Awesome staff. The care provided was consistently brilliant throughout my stay, from everyone I encountered. The staff at Murdoch are awesome!! Even if they were not caring for me directly, the level of care and professionalism was outstanding,” one patient said.
Fantastic, St Rose!
Caregiver of the Month
April: Yuka Suzuki
Nominated by a patient
“Although my admission was for 2 days only, the care and compassion shown by all staff I interacted with was exceptional. One staff member in particularYuka - was an exceptional nurse and her dedication and empathy towards her patients especially myself was above and beyond what is expected as normal. Yuka demonstrated deep care for her patients, her nursing profession and her colleagues at St John of God Hospital Murdoch. Please pass on my thanks to her.”
Values awards
Tanya De La Cruz for a Compassion award
Nominated by a patient
“I would just like to provide some positive feedback on one of the nurses who looked after me on the St Francis Ward. I don't know her last name, but I hope you can pass onto her supervisor that I can't speak highly enough of the care provided by Tanya. Tanya was very attentive and caring in the time she was on shift, noticed little details about my care and went the extra mile to make sure I was comfortable during my stay. Again, I can't speak highly enough of her, she is a credit to your hospital.”
Celebrating Bill's retirement
On Tuesday 3 June, we gathered to celebrate our beloved volunteer Bill's outstanding contribution to St John of God Murdoch Hospital over the last 26 years.
Starting here in 1999, Bill's dedication, leadership, and contributions have undeniably enriched the lives of countless individuals within the Murdoch community and beyond.
As he retires from formal volunteering, we look forward to seeing him when he pops in for a cuppa every now and then.
Congratulations and heartfelt thanks to you, Bill. We will miss you!
Volunteer Education Session
On Wednesday 18 June, our volunteers had the opportunity to tour the Emergency Department and St Mary ward.
It was an interesting and engaging session, with caregivers explaining the patient journey and fun facts about the areas.
Extending a big thank you to Cheryl and Siobhan for running the sessions.
Stay tuned for more education opportunites to come!
Rainbows of Hope
There are many beautiful expressions of our FY25 formation theme, Hope, throughout our hospital. These two bright rainbows made us stop and reflect this month.
St Joseph ward
Allied Health
Murdoch celebrates NAIDOC Week
NAIDOC Week is 6 - 13 July. This year, the theme “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy” focuses on the contributions of the younger generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their role in shaping the future, and acknowledges the strength, vision, and legacy of past generations.
Caregivers on Tuesday were treated to delicious vanilla NAIDOC cookies, made by First Nations supplier, Just Because Cookies.
Hospice, Pastoral Services, and Social Work caregivers were also given the opportunity to attend a yarn with Reconciliation Program Manager Shirley Newell as she shared her insights into caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and their families, receiving end of life care.
Make sure you get your tickets for the raffle, where you could win an incredible hamper with First Nations
supplier goods, with all proceeds going to our Charity of the Year.
In addition, this NAIDOC Week, $1 from every meal purchased in the caregiver dining room will be donated to our Charity of the Year.
Thank you to all caregivers for your support – and Happy NAIDOC Week!
Celebrate NAIDOC Week
Family Coming Together
Join us for a vibrant community event celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
Wednesday 16 July 11am–2pm Len Packham Hall and the Coolbellup Community Hub
Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony
Dance performances by local school kids
Sausage sizzle, coffee van and food trucks
Raffle prizes – drawn at 12.30pm
Stallholders
Plenty of fun and activities for all ages.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME, no registration required!
2025 National NAIDOC Week Poster
Week celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the
Poster title: Ancestral Lines
Artist: Jeremy Morgan Worrall
Ancestral Lines is a visual representation of the lines and ties that follow a generation and the songs that come with it.
When I think of the next generation I think towards my Ancestor Lucy Wright, Enoch Wright, Nonie Wright, all the way from my Nanna Audrie to my Mother Vanessa.
When I look back at my mob it helps me see towards the future, it gives me hope and strength knowing what my mob have survived through and accomplished amid adversity.
Each person in the painting depicts a series of lines akin to songlines, that represent what they know, who they were and what they have passed on, the first being that of lore (interpretive), hunting, protecting, and tracking, the second of care, weaving, fishing, and love.
The third is when we see the two combine into one, and the last two take unfinished elements of them all, to show the passing down of knowledge and care.
Above them is the essence of the land they live and protect/care for. It is a depiction of my home the cold skies of Tenterfield with the swirling clouds and giant moon, a place around the fire is where the next Generation find their strength, vision and legacy.
See what is happening in Cockburn for NAIDOC Week www.cockburn.wa.gov.au/NAIDOC25
NAIDOC
legacy of our ancestors.
Free, life-changing ear surgery gives 100 children a new lease on life
Painful ear infections and muffled sounds are a thing of the past for 100 Aboriginal children who have received free grommet surgery thanks to the Djaalinj Waakinj (listening and hearing) Ear Health program.
A partnership involving St John of God Murdoch Hospital, Paediatric Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon Associate Professor George Sim, the Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, based at The Kids Research Institute Australia, and Cockburn Integrated Health, the program recently celebrated their milestone 100th surgery.
Launched in 2018, Djaalinj Waakinj connects ear health researchers with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families living in Perth’s South Metropolitan area, visiting babies from just two months of age to check for early signs of middle ear infections, known as otitis media (OM), and hearing loss.
With 50 per cent of Aboriginal children suffering debilitating OM by six to eight months, Djaalinj Waakinj has been life changing for over 430 families who have been able to access free, fasttracked access to urgent specialist treatment and grommet surgery.
Associate Professor Val Swift, CoDirector for the Djaalinj Waakinj Centre for Ear and Hearing Health and Aboriginal Cultural Guidance Advisor at the Wesfarmers Centre, said the ability to avoid a long waitlist for treatment has an immeasurable impact on these children.
“OM can cause permanent hearing loss if not caught and treated early, but unfortunately, many children are living with untreated ear disease over a long period of time,
which causes long-term issues with language, behavioural and educational development,” A/Prof Swift said.
“Seeking help for recurrent infections and understanding the treatment and surgery process can be very overwhelming, so the families participating in Djaalinj Waakinj are very grateful to the partners involved for walking alongside them throughout this journey.”
After consulting with over 350 children through the program over the last seven years, A/Prof George Sim performed the 100th grommet procedure at St John of God Murdoch Hospital.
Staff from the hospital have also helped to fund the no-cost surgeries and support the Djaalinj Waakinj families by raising over $140,000 through cake stalls, book sales, raffles and more. This, combined with contributions from St John of God Health Care, takes the
total amount raised to just under $220,000.
Ben Irish, St John of God Murdoch Hospital CEO, said countless possibilities have now been unlocked for these kids, including the opportunity to start school with the ability to hear and learn.
“We are so proud and humbled to have played a vital part in this program and would like to recognise the efforts of St John of God Murdoch Hospital staff and A/Prof George Sim who have generously given their money, time and expertise to make these surgeries possible for 100 children and counting!”
45
children had surgery in FY25 as part of the program
9 children are scheduled for surgery over the next 2 months
Facts about otitis media (OM)
The Djaalinj Waakinj Ear Health program investigated the prevalence of middle ear disease in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children living in Western Australia’s South Metropolitan area. They discovered:
• Over 40% of children had OM at 2 months of age
• 50% at 6 months of age and
• 60% at 12 months of age, with 45% having noticeable hearing loss.
The current wait time for specialist treatment for OM can be up to two-and-a-half years. With approximately half of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children affected by OM, the lengthy delay for treatment can result in significant long-term consequences.
Allied Health spotlight - Social work
This month we are shining a light on our Social Workers at St John of God Murdoch Hospital.
Rachel
What is a fun fact about you?:
I come from an Italian background and really enjoy cooking authentic rustic Italian dishes with my family.
Why do you love being a Social Worker?:
It gives me the opportunity to walk into people’s lives and make a difference for the better!
Emily
What is a fun fact about you?:
I learnt the piano in my 40’s and I write and play reflective pieces for the St John of God Murdoch remembrance services.
Why do you love being a Social Worker?:
I love being a Social Worker in the hospital because I get to witness the strength and resilience of patients and their families in their most vulnerable moments. It’s a privilege to hold space for truth, advocate for dignity, and be part of someone’s healing. I love being able to combine my passion for Social Work and my passion for musical creativity at St John of God Murdoch Hospital.
Linda
What is a fun fact about you?:
My first job was working as a petrol pump assistant when I was 15.
Why do you love being a Social Worker?:
I love being a social worker as I am passionate about social justice and will always pursue the best outcome for my patients.
L-R: Rachel, Emily, Linda, Vicki
Karly
What is a fun fact about you?:
When I have the time, I enjoy furniture upcycling. Why do you love being a Social Worker?:
I love working with and providing support to our community's most vulnerable families. It's rewarding to see families gain confidence and achieve something that they previously thought would not happen.
Antoinette
What is a fun fact about you?:
I always dreamed of performing in a musical, and got the opportunity at the end of year concert in year 12. I impersonated Diana Ross – glitz, glamour, hair, and all. I surprised everyone, as it didn't line up with the image of a nerdy girl from the other side of the tracks. I scooped several prizes at the award ceremony the next day!
Why do you love working at Murdoch?:
Everybody is happy to come to work. Also, the autonomy in a team environment, trust, respect and willingness to engage in dialogue around challenging situations.
Laura
What is a fun fact about you?:
I have lived in Dubai.
Why do you love being a Social Worker?:
I find it fulfilling to build meaningful relationships and make a difference with my patients and families in times of difficulty.
Jasmine
What is a fun fact about you?:
I love to travel! My first international flight wasn’t until I was 16, but I flew there solo and loved every minute
Why do you love being a Social Worker?:
I love learning about the extraordinary lives our patients have lived, and hearing what’s important to them and their families when being cared for at Murdoch.
L-R: Karly, Antoinette, Laura
Full circle Murdoch moment for Dr Sheldon Moniz
When high school student, Sheldon Moniz landed a casual cleaning job at St John of God Murdoch Hospital, performing surgery in the same building 20 years later was not on his radar!
As Dr Sheldon Moniz, now an Orthopaedic surgeon with Orthopaedics WA, joins us this month, he describes this next chapter of his career as a full circle moment, “I grew up locally, have worked here at Murdoch from a young age, and now I have this wonderful opportunity to grow a practice and serve the local community.”
Since those early days in housekeeping, Dr Moniz has seen and experienced the hospital from a range of vantage points.
While studying medicine, he went on to become:
• A theatre orderly
• An orderly for joint replacement patients with SKG
• A self-titled ‘lunch orders guy’ in theatres (“We wrote down orders manually back then!” he says)
• Weekend shift cleaner and PCA on the wards
• An orthopaedic technician; and
• Surgical assistant
Dr Moniz says he is grateful for the inspiration, guidance and support that fellow caregivers and orthopaedic surgeons have shown him along the way, and he hopes to be able to give back in the same way for others finding their way at Murdoch.
Welcome (though you never really left!), Dr Moniz. We are proud of your unique journey with us, and excited for your future at Murdoch.
CDS corner
Why did you want to beco me a do ctor?
I became a do ctor due to my deep interest in human bi ologyhow our body systems work together in harm o ny& how even a single change can have a profound impact. medicine feels like detective work, where i get to investigate, diagnose & find soluti o ns to improve peo ple’s health. The o pp ortunity to help others is a huge m otivating factor.
What is your favourite meal?
a bowl of any no odles: laksa, pho or ramen
Time off?
co o king, playing badminto n or going for a nice hike
You can take home an additional $60 each fortnight (before tax)
How?
Sign up for the Travel Green Allowance via the ‘Murdoch Parking’ page on Cora
Cancer Centre receive Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence Award
This month, Pastoral Services presented Cancer Centre with the Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence award.
"Theirs is a ward where smiles and laughter mingle with tears and fears daily; holding jubilation and utter desolation concurrently. They offer a truly caring vibe, excellent care and compassionate hope to their patients, fully embodying the mission and values of this organisation. This team has worked with us on crafting a pastoral model of care for day oncology that is now being used at other divisions as well. We are delighted to pass on the Heart of Murdoch to the Cancer Centre," they said.
Congratulations to the Cancer Centre team!
GP Education in action
Earlier this year, St John of God Murdoch Hospital hosted a GP Education session featuring Dr Mayank Bhandari, who presented on the early warning signs and diagnostic tests for liver cancer.
Following the session, one local GP shared a powerful outcome. After recognising subtle symptoms discussed during the talk, she referred a patient for further investigation, and her proactive approach led to the early detection of liver cancer.
She credited the education session for equipping her with the insight to act quickly and said she was grateful for the opportunity to apply new knowledge to better support her patients.
St John of God Murdoch Hospital
This real-life impact is a testament to the value of continued professional development and the importance of knowledge-sharing between specialists and general practitioners.
offers free education for GPs frequently through the year, to empower local GPs to better support the community.
Crazysocks4docs Day
Friday 6 June was Crazysocks4docs Day.
At Murdoch Hospital, we donned our crazy socks to raise awareness for the mental health of doctors and all health care workers.
By wearing crazy socks, we hope to normalise conversations about, and break down stigma attached to, mental health.
OSH Update - Welcome, Bryley
In June, our OSH and HR departments welcomed Bryley Williams as Administration Assistant, covering Michelle Rushe-Casey's maternity leave. Get to know a little more about Bryley with our little Q&A.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in your role?
A: Being able to bring my skills and experiences to the position, while offering support to others and learning new skills along the way.
Q: Something many of us may not know about you?
A: I am an identical twin and I love anything Disney.
Q: Emoji that best represents you?
A: Ruby slippers.
Q: A motto you live by?
A: Don’t sweat the small stuff.
Making Murdoch greener, together
The Environmental Sustainability Committee (ESC) at Murdoch is back in action, driving our commitment to a healthier, more sustainable future.
With our five-year Environmental Sustainability Strategy in place, the committee meets every two months to champion best-practice environmental initiatives and identify opportunities to reduce our impact.
Some exciting ideas are already on the table, including a Blister Pack Recycling initiative, aimed at reducing clinical waste.
Committee members represent a wide range of departments, from Nursing to Housekeeping, working together to promote green practices and environmental stewardship across the hospital.
The ESC covers everything from improving recycling and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, to cutting water use and growing caregiver awareness of our environmental footprint. Progress is measured through clear KPIs, with regular reporting to keep our sustainability journey on track.
To learn more or get involved, check out Environmental Sustainability on Cora.
Foundation Update - Layers of impact A letter from a caregiver
My name is Sam, and I am a proud member of the fundraising team at St John of God Foundation. You may have seen some of my posts on Cora, a screensaver on your computer, or on social media, introducing the 2025 Cancer Care Appeal - alongside a little of my own cancer journey.
Recently, I was reading messages from donors who have also been impacted by cancer - some were patients at the Murdoch Cancer Centre, and many more from family members and loved ones. What struck me was how deeply the experience affects not just the person receiving treatment, but everyone who loves them.
When someone you love is diagnosed with cancer, the emotional and practical impact can be enormous. For some, it leads to action - organising a fundraiser, signing up for an event, or giving in whatever way they can. Often, they are doing this while carrying an already heavy load: managing a loved one’s care, picking up work or parenting responsibilities, or even navigating grief. And yet they still choose to give.
My husband, for example, decided to run his first ever marathon just three weeks before the actual event - during my second week of treatment. For him, action felt more possible than words. It was a way to help, to regain a little control, and to show love.
That’s what drives so many of our supporters - and it’s what drives our work at the Foundation too.
Through all our work, such as the 2025 Cancer Care Appeal, we aim to ease some of the burden - not only for the patient, but also for their families. And in doing so, to support you - the caregivers - in your vital work.
The impact of philanthropy is visible across our hospitals and services in many ways. We’re here to make your job a little easier by helping provide the resources, equipment, and services that enhance the care you deliver every day.
If you come across a patient or family who wants to give back, whether in Oncology, Hospice or another area, we can help them to give in a way that is most meaningful to them. We love nothing more than helping people turn their gratitude into support for
the place and people that cared for them or their loved one.
Together, we can make sure more families - like mine - receive the support they need. Whether it's a major gift that helps fund treatment via a Gift of Hope, or a marathon fundraiser in someone’s honour, every action counts.
Thank you for being part of a community that sees the whole person — and the people who love them.
Warmly,
Sam Starr
Community Engagement SpecialistSt John of God Foundation
PS: If you missed the 2025 Cancer Care Appeal you can still check it out here: https://www.sjogfoundation. org.au/our-projects/2025-mid-yearappeal
My husband Wade, me, and my daughter Ruby, after my Ivor Lewis surgery.