A message from the CEO, Ben Irish
Welcome to the November Murdoch Monthly.
As we approach the festive season, I know how busy this time of year can be, and will continue to be right up until Christmas. Between the bustle, I encourage everyone to take a moment to celebrate and reflect on what makes our Murdoch community special and unique.
This is a time to recognise and thank each and every person who contributes to the care and spirit of our hospital — our caregivers, volunteers, night teams, doctors, practice staff, and all those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Your dedication and compassion are what make Murdoch such a wonderful place to work and receive care.
We also have some special opportunities to celebrate and connect this month, including Light up the Lake with Love - a beautiful event to reflect, remember, and celebrate the lives of our departed loved ones (see your invitation on page 11).
We’ll also honour our colleagues through the Length of Service Awards, celebrating the impressive milestones achieved by those who have dedicated so many years to St John of God Murdoch and St
John of God Health Care.
From Monday 17 November, I encourage you to help make the hospital sparkle with festive decorations (see below for the theme), and uplift the cheer by wearing festive t-shirts, scrubs, and scrub caps.
Don’t forget to share your appreciation through our Attitude of Gratitude postbox in the hospital foyer. It’s a lovely way to send thanks and holiday cheer to fellow caregivers and departments.
Thank you for everything you do each and every day. Wishing you all a joyful and restorative festive season.
Enjoy your month ahead, Ben
This year's Christmas decorating theme is 'Christmas in the sun!'
Calling all creative caregivers!
This year, we’re inviting you to slip on those festive sunnies as we embrace a “Christmas in the sun” theme for our festive decorations.
Judging panel visit:
The judging panel will be visiting on Monday 8 December to assess your decorations based on the following criteria:
• Mission and Values: Ensure your decorations align with our core principles.
• Visual appeal and joy: Create a visually stunning display that evokes the spirit of Christmas.
• Teamwork and creativity: Showcase the collaborative efforts of your team in bringing your unique vision to life.
• Sustainability: Incorporate elements of reuse, recycling, and repurposing to minimise environmental impact.
Let your imagination flow! Draw inspiration from relaxing corals, turquoise, sunny yellow, lime green, and vivid reds.
Think surfing Santa, palm trees, beachy reindeer, and elf lifeguards.
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and spread the Christmas cheer!
Reflection - Every Moment Matters
In the rhythm of life within a hospital or hospice, time can feel both urgent and suspended. We see minutes measured in vital signs, test results, treatments, and visiting hours. Yet beyond the clinical markers, there is a deeper truth we are reminded of daily: every moment matters.
For our patients, a moment might be as profound as receiving good news after a long wait, or as simple as sharing a quiet smile with a loved one at the bedside. For families, a moment might be the reassurance of a nurse’s
gentle touch, a doctor’s patient explanation, or the chance to sit together in silence. For caregivers, a moment may be the pause we take to listen fully, to notice a detail, to offer encouragement, or to show kindness even in the busiest of shifts.
We are reminded that every moment matters, when we consider the St John of God Sisters heritage of service and the various ways they made a positive difference to the lives of others. Our new SJGHC strategy underlines this sentiment by adopting this as the aspiration statement for the future.
It links beautifully with our broader formation theme of healing which is the context for the moments that matter.
In healing—whether it is recovery in the hospital or the tender journey of hospice—moments become the building blocks of hope and dignity. We cannot always change outcomes, but we can shape experiences. A
few thoughtful minutes can ease anxiety, strengthen trust, and create memories that families carry long after their loved one’s stay.
As caregivers, it’s easy to become focused on what lies ahead—the next meeting, the next procedure, the next task. Yet the work of healing calls us to remain present, to honour the moment that is unfolding now. In doing so, we recognise that healing is not only measured by cures or by time gained, but by meaning created.
May we continue to hold fast to this truth: in every breath, every word, every act of compassion, we are shaping experiences that matter deeply. Because here, in our hospital and hospice, every moment is sacred, and every moment matters.
Jenni
What healing means to me...
by our Hospital Management Committee
• "Bringing repair and restoration where there was weariness or damage."
• "The feeling that a problem is now behind you."
• "Accepting what I cannot change, letting go when I need to, creating emotional and physical space where myself and others can flourish, to help and be helped."
• "Having your heart and soul touched by the kindness and compassion of others so that you can return to being the best version of yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually."
• "Restoration of organs/body parts, tissue and cellular function, multisystem restoration of mind/body/soul, restoration in a complex multisystem/multifaceted manner."
• "Creating the time and space to reflect on how I am travelling and then create opportunities to care for my mind and body. Healing is also about how we support others to have this space and enable them time to reflect and heal their mind, body, and soul."
• "I experience healing as a feeling: integrity, wholeness, okayness, peace, sanctuary, connection. Being whole or as whole as I can be in the midst of holes. Acceptance of all that is unresolved in my life."
Patient Experience Matters
Murdoch patients are saying:
Comment 1: Cancer Centre
I cannot put into words how much it means to have the support of such a wonderful, tight unit as the Cancer Centre. They are so caring, courteous, kind, and professional. I feel like a much loved family member each time I come.
Comment 2: Emergency Department
Staff were great! They were respectful and clear in instructions and explaining the process of what was going on. Plus, the speed at which I was seen was a huge relief to me and my family. Thanks for taking care of me.
Comment 3: St Joseph ward
Highly skilled attentive staff. Although under high pressure, they give compassionate care, paying attention to even small details of a patient's wellbeing. I would not go anywhere else.
Caregiver of the Month
September: Steph Rayner
Nominated by a patient
“I woke up in a lot of pain after my surgery, and while the nurses were arranging medication, Steph noticed I was there and came over to me. She held my hand and comforted me, making me feel less alone and scared. She saw me as a person and made such an impact that I will never forget the kindness, compassion, respect, and care she showed me in a moment of vulnerability. Thank you, Steph. You are beautiful.”
JMO of the Month
The Junior Medical Officer (JMO) of the month award recognises an outstanding intern or resident who exemplifies excellence in clinical care, teamwork, professionalism, and a commitment to learning. Nominated by their peers and supervisors, this award celebrates those who go above and beyond in supporting their colleagues and delivering compassionate, high-quality care to patients.
October: Dr Emma Wardle
This month, we are thrilled to celebrate one of our own RMOs - Dr Emma Wardle, who has been recognised as JMO of the Month for October 2025. Emma’s nomination comes as no surprise. Emma consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication, is ultra hard working and has an unwavering commitment to delivering the highest standard of patient care. A friend to all, her calm, conscientious and polite approach is appreciated by colleagues and patients alike. Emma also embodies the professionalism, compassion and kindness that define the very best of our JMOs.
Congratulations, Emma. This award is well deserved! Thank you for your contributions to St John of God Murdoch Hospital!
Finance receives the Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence Award
This month, Theatre presented our Finance team with the Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence award.
"This team doesn’t wear scrubs. They don’t wield scalpels. You won’t find them in theatre, that is unless they’ve taken a wrong turn looking for coffee. But make no mistake: without them, we’d be in trouble. Big trouble.
They’re the ones behind the scenes, juggling resources like circus performers, responding to urgent requests with the speed of a trauma team, and having the tough conversations that somehow still end with us getting what we need. They go into bat for us, and they rarely strike out.
When we need equipment urgently, they move mountains
to find resources. When we ask for data to help manage our departments more efficiently, they don’t just deliver, they refine, improve, and somehow make spreadsheets feel like a gift.
They never say, “too hard.” They say, “how can we help?”
And they’ve taken the time to understand the wonderfully complex world of Perioperative Services… which, let’s be honest, is no small feat.
Their impact is felt in every theatre, every ward, and every patient outcome… even if you don’t always see them.
So today, we shine a light on the support squad that makes it all happen. The quiet achievers. They are not only good with words they are spreadsheet whisperers.
Please join me in congratulating the incredible Finance Team — this month’s worthy recipient of the Heart of Murdoch," they said.
Congratulations to the Finance team!
Christmas by the Coast Christmas by the Coast
SUN 23 NOV
Decorations up
FRI 5 DEC
Doctors’ celebration
SUN 7 DEC
Light up the Lake with Love
MON 8 DEC
Decoration judging
MON 8 DEC
Length of Ser vice Awards
TUE 9 DEC
Practice staff breakfast
WED 10 DEC
Caregiver and Vollie party
MON 15 DEC
Gifts delivered
WED 17 DEC
Night staff breakfast
THU 25 DEC
Christmas Day Mass
Choirs singing throughout the festive season
La dolce Ch r istm as La dolce Ch r istm as
Caregiver and Vollie
Christmas party Caregiver and Vollie
Christmas party
Wednesday 1 0 December
2:3 0pm to 7:0 0pm
Marquee by the Lake
RSVP via QR code by Wed 26 Nov 2 02 5
Christmas with a of lemon
Thank a Volunteer Day is coming!
Thank a Volunteer Day is coming up on Friday 5 December, and we are taking the opportunity to celebrate our amazing volunteers who give their time and hearts to St John of God Murdoch Hospital. Their kindness and dedication make a real difference to our patients, visitors, and caregivers every day - and for that, we are truly grateful.
On Tuesday 2 December, we will thank and celebrate the wonderful work of our volunteers with a special pancake breakfast.
Let's show them some extra love - on Thank a Volunteer Day, and every day!
Pastoral Care Week
Every day, our Pastoral Services caregivers offer compassion, presence, and spiritual support to our patients, families, and caregivers.
During Pastoral Care Week this year (19-25 October), they extended their care through creative mindfulness sessions — shaping clay, threading beads, and reflecting on the tools that help us nurture our spiritual wellbeing.
We’re so grateful for the beautiful work they do and the calm they bring to our hospital community.
National Carers Day Morning Tea
To recognise, celebrate, and raise awareness for National Carers Day, our Social Workers in partnership with Pastoral Care, our Hospice and Footprints Day Centre held a morning tea with special guest speakers Dr Joel Tate, and Beverly Jenkins (McCusker Nurse).
The day was attended by carers, family, and loved ones to acknowledge the integral role they have in our health system.
Light up the Lake with
An evening of love and remembrance, with live music by string quartet Aquila and the symbolic lighting of the Lake and trees – creating a beautiful tribute to lost loved ones that will shine throughout the Christmas season.
Date: Sunday 7 December 2025
Time: 7:00pm to 8:30pm
Location: St John of God Murdoch Hospital, marquee by the Lake
Commemorate the evening
Memorial candles can be pre-purchased online and collected on the night (batteries provided). Smaller LED candles can also be purchased for $2 on the night. Proceeds from both help to support families in end-of-life care at St John of God Murdoch Hospital and Hospice.
We look forward to sharing this evening with you.
Any queries? Contact Candice McLean on 0417 878 355
Celebrating Orthopaedic Nurses Day
On Thursday 20 October, St Francis and St Rose wards celebrated Orthopaedic Nurses Day!
Our incredible orthopaedic nurses are the steady hands and compassionate hearts who help patients on their journey to recovery.
From broken bones to joint replacements, their expertise, patience, and care make all the difference!
Brierley wins 'No Falls' competition!
St Francis Clinical Nurse Brierley Sanford is the winner of the Falls Management WA 'No Falls November Poster Design competition' for 2025.
Brierley created the winning poster that highlights the five key days and the risks promoted during Stay on Your Feet No Falls November.
The poster was shared far and wide as a resource to health care workers.
Congratulations, Brierley!
Introducing Dr Amanda Smith
Get to know our new Director of Anaesthetics and Pain Medicine, Dr Amanda Smith with a little Q&A.
• Born in: Osborne Park Hospital not long after it was built. Mum and Dad lived in Cloverdale at the time. Mum would have wanted to go there because it was new and fancy!
• Interests away from work: Horses, horses, horses. I have six and, if you get me started talking about them, you will find yourself looking through pony videos even if you don't want to. Also I really enjoy my kids. I love watching them find their way through life and enjoying the things they enjoy.
• Professionally, most proud of: Finishing a Bachelor of Laws with Distinction as a "mature aged" (kind of like wine) student working full-time with two kids, six horses, two dogs, three jobs and ageing parents. Looking back, I'm not sure how I did it, but I am very glad I did. I loved every minute of studying law.
• Philosophy I live by: A lot of things are important to me, but the opposite of what I want might be important to someone else. I am happy to let people have their way most of the time so that when I say "No, I won't do that" they don't argue - they know I am serious.
Grand Rounds with Dr Andrew Wesseldine
WA State Stroke Director, Dr Andrew Wesseldine, was a guest speaker for the latest Grand Rounds as he presented his research on "Stroke Management in 2025: What's new?"
Doctors, nurses and allied health caregivers attended for an information packed session, with a light lunch and coffee included.
Stay tuned for more Grand Rounds opportunities in the future!
Leanne awarded Certificate of Excellence
Congratulations to St Rose Enrolled Nurse Specialist Leanne Campion, who was recognised with a Certificate of Excellence at the Orthopaedic Nurses Association of WA Education Evening on Thursday, 30 October.
Leanne received the award for demonstrating outstanding commitment to orthopaedic patients and excellence in orthopaedic care.
We’re so proud of you, Leanne — you’re an inspiration and a valued member of the Murdoch team!
Allied Health Professionals Day
Books, baked goods, and big hearts!
On Wednesday 22 October, our incredible Allied Health team came together to celebrate Allied Health Professionals Day with a books and baked goods sale, raising $876 for our Charity of the Year and celebrating the power of teamwork!
Their efforts remind us that multidisciplinary team care is central to health and wellbeing in Australia — and that we’re always stronger together.
International Chefs Day!
Monday 20 October was International Chefs Day!
We love our chefs - they are the creative hearts behind every delicious meal that nourishes our patients, caregivers and visitors.
Here's to our incredible chefs!
Did you know? Our catering team has rolled out its NEW 'Family and Friends' menu across all inpatient areas.
Celebrating our newly endorsed Nurse Practitioner - Ashleigh Murray
We are delighted to celebrate Ashleigh Murray, who has recently achieved endorsement as a Nurse Practitioner (NP).
Ashleigh runs her own clinic with Dr Abraham Jacob at WA Colorectal Surgeons, where she sees post-operative patients, supports cancer surveillance, and manages functional bowel issues. She also welcomes self-referrals for stoma management and bowel concerns.
Ashleigh continues to share her expertise at St John of God Murdoch Hospital as Colorectal CNS and Stomal Therapist, job sharing with Louisa Curtis.
1. What inspired you to become a Nurse Practitioner?
Becoming a Nurse Practitioner was a natural progression for me after working closely with patients in colorectal and stomal therapy. I was drawn to the idea of having a more direct impact on patient care by diagnosing, treating, and providing holistic care. In my work with colorectal cancer patients and those dealing with functional bowel issues, I saw how much the right care and knowledge could change someone’s life, and that fuelled my desire to expand my role as a healthcare provider. I wanted to have the skills and authority to offer a more comprehensive approach to my patients’ care, not just as a nurse, but as a provider who could diagnose and manage complex issues within my specialty.
2. What does being a Nurse Practitioner mean to you personally and professionally?
Personally, being a Nurse Practitioner means having the privilege to deeply engage with patients in a way that builds trust, encourages open communication, and fosters long-term care plans. It's about empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. Professionally, it allows me to combine my clinical knowledge and passion for patient care while expanding my scope of practice. In my specialty of colorectal and stomal therapy, I’m able to address the physical and emotional challenges patients face and provide them with tailored treatment options. It feels rewarding knowing I can play an integral part in their healing process, from diagnosis to rehabilitation.
3. Who or what kept you motivated along the way?
Throughout my journey, my support system has been a constant source of motivation. Having a strong network of colleagues, family, and friends who believed in me gave me the strength to keep going, even when things got tough. My study buddy, Yang, was especially important. Having someone to share the ups and downs of the NP journey made all the difference. Yang’s dedication and passion for the same path inspired me to push through the hard days and stay focused on our shared goal. Knowing I had someone who truly understood the challenges and could celebrate the victories with me was invaluable.
4. What advice would you give to other nurses who might be thinking about following this path?
Lean into your passion and remain persistent. The path to becoming a Nurse Practitioner is not easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Specialising in an area that excites you, will make the hard work feel worth it. Find a study buddy and the right mentors who can support you—Yang and I often leaned on each other, and that camaraderie was essential for staying motivated. Be patient with yourself through the learning curve, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek help from others who have been through it. Most importantly, trust that every step of the journey is an investment in your ability to make a real difference in your patients' lives.
CDS corner
NOV 25 SUPER DOC-U-MENTER Aidan
Why did you want to become a doctor?
I had a great incentive to learn m ore about human biology after my grandmother became ill with vascualr dementia in my late teens. i did an undergraduate degree in biomedical science but it wasn’t fulfilLing enough for me to be in a lab so i opted for a career in medicine & have never looked back!
What is your favourite meal?
a large burrito bowl from zambRero with corn chips
Fun fact?
I was an extra in a friend's film about a ficti onal fo ot ball team set in ireland called “love lane united”. it was a 2025 paladino d’or film festival finalist in palerm o, italy
Will the drug kill the bug?
The Clinical Documentation Specialists' October monthly focus was "will the drug kill the bug" (proudly represented by Dr Bart De Keulenaer).
This means, when changing antibiotics, documenting the microorganism/s involved and the antibiotic sensitivities and any antibiotic resistances (which can often add significant coding complexity).
New hip has Glenda, 96, now stopping to smell the roses
Age is just a number for Glenda Greaves, 96, who is enjoying the things she loves, thanks to a successful left total hip replacement, performed by Professor Piers Yates at St John of God Murdoch Hospital, two months ago.
Having endured discomfort in the two years leading up to her surgery, Mrs Greaves said she was determined to get back on her feet, comfortably – to prune the roses in her garden, and to enjoy the company of her beloved six-year-old Tenterfield Terrier, Archie.
“In life, you must stop and smell the roses, so that’s what I am doing,” Mrs Greaves said, in the days following her surgery.
“My garden and Archie are waiting for me, so I am looking forward to getting back to them.”
Prof Piers Yates said Mrs Greaves’ experience was a great example of advanced age not always being a barrier to full recovery.
“Glenda is an otherwise fit and spritely woman, so surgery was absolutely a viable option,” Prof Yates said.
Mrs Greaves underwent the total left hip replacement in early Spring, and is now at home, comfortable and in good spirits, tending to her all-time favourite rose, Pierre De Ronsard (pictured below, with Archie).
Kelly celebrates 25 years of service
Our long-time Murdoch colleague, Kelly Chatterton, recently celebrated 25 years of service - on the other side of the country while in her new post as Acting Senior Manager Clinical Governance.
Kelly was a much loved and respected nurse at Murdoch, and the entire hospital was sad to see her make the move east.
Congratulations, Kelly!
