A message from the CEO, Ben Irish
Welcome to the October Murdoch Monthly.
This week, we celebrated Foundation Day, a day where we take a moment to reflect on the Sisters who founded St John of God Health Care. The Sisters of St John of God embodied courage, compassion and faith — qualities that continue to inspire how we care for others today. Their legacy reminds us that healing goes beyond treatment; it’s about
restoring hope, dignity and humanity in every interaction. As we honour their story, I’m reminded of how each of you carries that mission forward through your work, your kindness and your commitment to others. Thank you for continuing the journey they began.
Our formation module for this year is healing, and you will see a short video on page 10 of caregivers throughout the hospital saying what healing means to them.
To me, healing is a shared journey. It's about supporting one another - whether it's in our families, our teams, or our community - and creating an environment where people feel safe, valued, and understood.
I’m proud to share that through the incredible generosity and spirit of our caregivers, this
year’s Cancer Awareness Week in September raised more than $5000 for cancer organisations supporting awareness, education and research. Across Murdoch, departments came together in a display of colour, creativity and compassion — each contribution helping to make a real difference for those affected by cancer. Thank you, Murdoch.
Wishing you all a wonderful month. Keep looking after yourselves and each other, and stay tuned for more information about our Christmas celebrations, coming soon.
Ben
Reflection
With Healing at Our Heart, We Can Work Together as One
As we celebrate Foundation Day, this year’s theme is a powerful reminder of the way in which our collective and collaborative work supports each other.
‘With healing at our heart, we work together as one’ is both an affirmation and a challenge. Healing is what brings us to work each day and what connects us to the people we care for. But healing isn’t just about medicine, treatment, or procedures. It’s
also about the way we treat each other and where our values are often most evident. When we keep healing at the centre of all we do, it shapes the way we work together as a team and fulfils our mission and vision.
The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 12:20, “as it is, there are many parts, yet one body.” A perfect picture of hospital life! We all have different roles — doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, support services, administration — and each role is vital. Just like the human body can’t function without every part working together, a hospital can only run well when every person’s contribution is valued.
What makes this even more powerful is when we remember to approach our work with healing in our hearts. Healing in this sense means compassion for our patients, understanding for our colleagues, and gentleness for ourselves when the work feels heavy. It means looking out for one another and remembering we’re stronger when we pull together.
PASTORAL CARE WEEK
Have you ever wondered what the Pastoral Services team actually does in a patient's room?
Pastoral Practitioners are qualified, specialised caregivers who hold space in deep engagement through patient led interactions. Pastoral care is an integral part of holistic person-centered care and is inclusive of all cultures and beliefs.
This Pastoral Care Week, we are giving all caregivers the opportunity to experience the work of Pastoral Services in a fun and creative way. Find out more by attending one of our activity sessions below, held in the Pastoral Services Meeting room.
Be quick to register as places are limited. We look forward to being Here With You.
MONDAY 20th
11:15am - 11:35am 1:30pm - 1:50pm //
FRIDAY 24th 10:00am - 10:20am // 2:00pm - 2:20pm
Make a beaded keyring to keep while exploring a spiritual assessment tool
TUESDAY 21st
THURSDAY 23rd 11:15am - 11:35am 1:30pm - 1:50pm //
Mindfulness activity with clay as an example of a patient encounter 10:00am - 10:20am // 2:00pm - 2:20pm
WEDNESDAY 22nd 12:00pm - 12:30pm
Ask Us Anything Session - Meet some of the team and find out more about what we do
Working as one doesn’t mean we all do the same thing. It means that, with our unique skills and experiences, we move in the same direction, towards the same goal — the health and wellbeing of those we serve. When we do this, we create not just a workplace, but a community built on care, trust, and unity. The kind of community that the Sisters of St John of God established and nurtured and now entrust to each of us.
So, as we go about our daily routines this Foundation Day, let’s hold onto the truth that with healing at our heart, we can work together as one so that hospitality, compassion, respect, justice and excellence are evident and made real. Let us remember that every role matters. Every person matters and every moment matters. As together, we make a positive difference far greater than any of us could achieve on our own.
20-24th October 2025 Here With You
Secure your place by phoning Pastoral Services M-F 8:30am -4:30pm on 9438 9680 or 89680 or email us at pastoral.murdoch@sjog.org.au
Patient Experience Matters
Murdoch patients are saying:
Comment 1: North Wing 2nd Floor
Great, friendly staff and well organised. I felt comfortable and looked after the entire stay.
Comment 2: St Francis
Caring and sincere staff. Nothing was too much to ask. I am very thankful for the way I was treated during my stay.
Comment 3: Endoscopy
Every staff member that I had contact with was helpful and professional. I felt at ease and trusted in my treatment, which I did feel a bit apprehensive about leading up to the actual day.
Patient Michael J Guerin pens poem of appreciation for Murdoch 'angels'
Murdoch's 'ANGELS' (St John of God Murdoch Hospital) © Michael J Guerin.
We – the patients – are blessed indeed, With heart-warming smiles and gentle hands, Your 'Caring Angels' administer to our every needs,
Whether it be a warm blanket, or some pain relief, One could not ask for more, it's comforting to know That an 'Angel' will cheerfully deal with our moments of grief.
Your modern-day Florence Nightingale's should be justly proud, Of the comfort they readily provide, whatever the time of day, Such devoted dedication to their calling should be acknowledged out loud.
Consider for a moment of where would we be, Without our Medical Fraternity, From Surgeons, Doctors, & Nurses, And the entire Administrative Staff, To them all I extend my deepest appreciation, You justly deserve the utmost respect from us all, And without reservation; from a most grateful Nation.
Theatre receive Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence Award
This month, our St Mary ward presented Theatre with the Heart of Murdoch: Team Excellence award.
"Recently, during a major neonatal resuscitation, this department showed us exactly what it means to embody the Heart of Murdoch. In one of the most vulnerable and highpressure moments, both teams worked seamlessly together - calm, skilled and united in their focus. Each person played their part with precision, communication, and trust, ensuring the best possible care at a time when every second mattered.
Because of their commitment and teamwork, a family in crisis received the urgent and lifesaving care they needed. What
stood out was not just the clinical excellence, but the way the team supported not only their own team but ours as well. With clear communication, trust, and empathy their actions embody the hospital values of respect, excellence, and compassion, and for this we are deeply grateful.
On behalf of St Mary's Ward, it is our great honour to nominate the Theatre Team for the Heart of Murdoch Award.
This moment reminded us why the theatre team is such an integral part of maternity care. Their dedication, quick thinking, and collaborative spirit truly embody the heart of Murdoch." they said.
Congratulations to the Theatre team!
Caregiver of the Month
July: Kelzang Thinley
Nominated by a patient
“What I wanted to let you know is that I went to the ED on Sunday and a nurse named Kelzang looked after me. Every nurse and doctor is amazing but Kelzang is EXTRA EXTRA amazing!
Never in over 6 years have I been looked after so well right from the moment I lay down on the bed. Kelzang brought me a hot blanket (that has never happened ever before for me). Then he brought me another blanket, tucked me in, moved the trolley close so I could access my phone, put the call bell close and even asked if I would like the curtain fully closed or half open.
He didn’t know this, but I am claustrophobic, so I asked for half open. No nurse has ever done this for me before. His care and attention were wonderful. Honestly, I am so blown away, that is why I am writing this.”
August: Jenna Miles
Nominated by a patient
“Your hospital is perfect in every way, spotlessly clean, very well run and organised, and every one of your staff I have always found to be friendly, warm, careful and skilled at whatever they do. However, I must say that during my recent stay I found myself in the care of the most excellent, caring, helpful nurse I have ever met. Jenna, who looked after me when I was in considerable pain, could not have been more skilful at looking after me.
This young lady is a credit to herself, and your hospital and you are extremely fortunate to have her
amongst your staff. Nothing was too much bother and the skilful way she helped me I will always remember.”
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.
September: Dr Dennis Nixon
Dennis has been nominated for this award in recognition of his consistent embodiment of our values. His concern, care, and compassion towards his patients and peers is widely recognised by patients and caregivers alike. Dennis is a diligent, hardworking JMO who is always willing to lend a helping hand, with a friendly smile on his face. Dennis has been remarkable during his term here, and his commitment to excellence has made a real difference.
Well done, Dennis, and thank you for your contributions to St John of God Murdoch Hospital!
Empowering your joint health treatment decisions
FREE
Patient Information Seminar at St John of God Murdoch Hospital
Knee and ankle treatment options with Dr Dror Maor
Dr Maor is an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in knee, foot & ankle with extensive experience in the paediatric, adult and the athlete population. Dr Maor was raised in Perth and graduated from medical school at the University of Western Australia.
Date: Friday 24 October with Dror Maor
Time: 2.00 - 3.30pm Where: MURTEC Auditorium
Light refreshments included plus question and discussion after the presentation.
Registration essential via QR code
Questions via murdoch.events@sjog.org.au or call (08) 9428 8648
Celebrating Foundation Day
We celebrated Foundation Day at Murdoch on Tuesday 7 October.
On this day, caregivers were encouraged to reflect, recognise, and celebrate the foundation of the Order of St John of God, established in 1871, and honour the bravery, courage, commitment, and innovation of the founding Sisters.
This year, the theme was "With healing at our heart, together as one". Hear from our caregivers about what healing means to them (https://bit.ly/MurdochHealing-2025 – see below).
We also celebrated with FREE coffee and a lunch in the caregiver dining room for a donation to our Charity of the Year, and caregivers in Angiography and Day Procedure gathered for a blessing of their newly designed area.
The day was complete with a Mass and Commissioning Ceremony in the Hospital Chapel to welcome our new managers.
DPU and Angiography Blessing
As part of our Foundation Day celebrations on Tuesday 7 October, our Angiography and Day Procedure caregivers, together with some special guests, gathered to celebrate the completion of its recent expansion works with a Blessing of the area.
Caregivers were recognised for their patience, hard work, and contribution to ensure the success of the refurbishment, and extended a special thank you for their cooperation and graceful display of our values throughout the project.
During the ceremony, prayers were extended to caregivers, doctors, and the medical teams in the department as they continue to care for patients and their families with their healing presence, reassurance, and hope.
Congratulations and thank you to Angiography and DPU caregivers!
Head warming feedback
My mum, who is 87, had her head beanie accidentally collected when the bed linen was changed. She has stage 4 cancer and would not be able to sleep without her beanie.
I am in Canberra and not able to go and just easily get a new beanie for her. It was upsetting her immensely.
I called the chemist and they were not able to help as they had no adult sizes. I called the front reception and spoke to Lindi who was supportive, understanding and absolutely amazing. Lindi put me through to the Cancer Centre to see if they could help us get a beanie for mum..
The Cancer Centre were sensational and so supportive. Amy said she would deliver a beanie to my mum. My mum and I were so grateful and appreciative. Amy gave my mum two red ones :)
Thank you to your amazing team at St John of God Murdoch for the care and effort to support the individual needs of one patient.
Thank you again.
- Kate
Cancer Awareness Week
Our hospital came alive with colour as caregivers embraced Cancer Awareness Week, a Murdoch-born initiative dedicated to shining a light on all types of cancer.
Caregivers proudly wore the colours of their chosen cancer, creating vibrant displays throughout the hospital to spark conversations and highlight the importance of awareness, early detection and support.
Alongside raising awareness, caregivers and visitors also contributed generously to fundraising efforts, with proceeds supporting vital cancer research.
The week concluded with a Trade Awareness Fair on Friday, where visiting cancer organisations joined us to share information and educate our caregivers about the latest resources, treatments and supports available to patients and their families.
The energy, compassion and commitment shown throughout the week remind us that, together, we are making a difference in the fight against cancer.
Here's to the fundraising heroes
Thank you to the wards and areas who raised funds for important cancer research. Your contributions make a huge difference! Some of our top fundraisers were:
• Cancer Centre - $500 for AMAA Asbestosis and Mesothelioma Association of Australia
• Catering - $1900 for Breast Cancer Care WA
• DPU/DOSA - $200 for Australian Thyroid Foundation
• Hospice - $309.65 for Ambulance Wish
• Hospital Executive - $515 raised for Hero Hunter Foundation (paediatric cancer)
• North Wing Second Floor - $1789 raised for PANCARE Foundation
• Quality & Risk - $78 for the Rare Cancer Foundation
• St Emilie ward - $135 for the Lung Foundation
Million dollar milestone for Ortho Sistas
Back in 2014, St John of God Murdoch Hospital nurse Suzanne Philpot brought together a small group of orthopaedic colleagues to take on the 200km ride for cancer research.
“I wanted to do something to give back to others and helping raise funds for cancer research seemed like a good cause for the benefit of all,” Suzanne said.
“The very first year I rode, I will never forget 10 days before the ride when I heard the news my dad had stage IV melanoma. This made the cause all the more important.”
From those first pedals, Suzanne’s passion and leadership have grown her team, the Ortho Sistas, into a team of more than 30 riders — including nurses from across Perth, family, friends and supporters — all united behind one cause: fighting cancer.
This year, the team celebrates an extraordinary milestone: raising over $1 million for cancer research at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.
“We couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of our families, friends, and donations from local small businesses within the community,” Suzanne said.
Suzanne and the Ortho Sistas team participated in the 2025 MACA Cancer 200 Ride for Perkins on 4-5 October.
Spotlight on Housekeeping
At St John of God Murdoch Hospital, our Housekeeping team are the quiet achievers working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our hospital clean, safe and welcoming for patients, visitors and caregivers.
With just 23 permanent caregivers and 7 casuals, the team puts in an incredible 800 hours of work every week. Their commitment is unmatched – always willing to support each other and step in to help other departments whenever needed.
Leading the way are our two Coordinators, Jacqueline and Lynne, who not only manage daily operations but also oversee uniform fittings, waste, linen, window cleaning, hygiene services, floor cleaning, loan equipment, and training. The team also audits all clinical areas every month, providing valuable feedback and support across both clinical and non-clinical areas.
Our shifts are busy and diverse:
• AM shift – more visible to the public, managing spills, departmental cleaning requests and wayfinding, on top of their regular duties. During winter, they’re constantly called upon to tackle water leaks, wet floors and an abundance of leaves throughout the hospital.
• PM shift – working closely with our procedural teams until areas close, particularly in Theatres, CSSD, Endoscopy, Cancer Centre, Angiography, Day Procedure, Pathology and both EPIC Pharmacies.
And then there’s our Hygiene crew, who clock up an incredible 80km per day just completing routine waste collections. In one recent month, their work included:
• 4,264 bins collected (a massive 8,528 transports once emptied and returned),
• 1,304 soiled linen trolley transfers – all requiring careful, heavy manual handling.
It’s a huge effort that makes a world of difference.
Despite constant changes and the challenges that come with a busy hospital environment, our Housekeeping team consistently pulls together, showing resilience, teamwork and pride in their work.
A heartfelt thank you to every member of the Housekeeping team – your hard work does not go unnoticed. You truly are the unsung heroes of our hospital.
St Rose ward's Father's Day raffle
St Rose ward organised an epic Father's Day raffle in September, with proceeds going to our Charity of the Year, Djaalinj Waakinj.
A heartfelt congratulations to registered nurse
Mandy Brennan who won!
Amazing job, St Rose ward!
Welcome to the Orthonova team, Sam!
Sam Hunter, who has been an orthopaedic clinical nurse at Murdoch since 2001, has recently stepped into a new project role with Orthonova.
In this role, Sam will help design their operating theatre processes, including surgical trays, surgeon preference standardisation, procurement of clinical equipment, theatre fit-out and workflow design.
Sam said she's most looking forward to creating a different type of health care and having firsthand input. She is also looking forward to creating an amazing environment to work in.
Congratulations, Sam, on this fantastic opportunity — we look forward to seeing the impact of your work with Orthonova.
Sam's motto: "Early to bed, early to rise." Emoji that best represents her: Fun fact: Sam played the flute as a child
National Carers Day
CDS corner oct 25 SUPER DOC-U-MENTER soondus
Why did you want to beco me a do ctor?
Growing up I saw family members, friends & myself having medical issues & was inspired by the do ctors around me (especially my family g.p) who brought ease into our lives & made a profound differen ce. being able to share that part of our life journey with others is preci ous & so mething I truly value.
What is your favourite meal?
anything pasta!
Fun fact?
I do n’t know how to ride a bicycle
Operation: Keep Sunny safe!
You may have noticed there is a new sign in the caregiver courtyard to keep the outside gate closed to keep Sunny safe. We thank you for playing your part in 'Operation: Keep Sunny safe'!
Welcome, Luke - Acting Allied Health Manager
In September, we welcomed Luke Heard-Stone to the role of Acting Allied Health Manager. Luke joins us from St John of God Mt Lawley, where he has held the same position since January 2025.
Luke is a physiotherapist, and is passionate about assisting people to achieve their health goals using evidence-based physiotherapy and leadership skills.
We sat down with Luke for a little Q&A to get to know him a little better.
1. How long have you worked for St John of God Health Care?
I have been a caregiver with SJOG for the last 18 months. Initially as a senior physiotherapist and transitioning into the allied health manager role in January this year.
2. What are you most looking forward to in your current role?
The opportunity to learn from experienced health clinicians, to continue supporting the allied health team as they strive for excellence and to find opportunities for growth within the organisation for allied health caregivers.
3. What's something many of us may not know about you?
Random fact: I didn’t lose my last baby tooth until I was 17.
4. What emoji best represents you?
Just enjoying the world from a different point of view.
5. What is a motto you live by?
“Finché c'è vita c'è Speranza” – While there’s life, there’s hope.
Celebrating our newly endorsed Nurse Practitioners - Yang and Fortunate
We are delighted to celebrate two of our caregivers who have recently achieved endorsement as Nurse Practitioners (NPs) – Yang Sun and Fortunate Mavhondo.
Both Yang and Fortunate will be stepping into their new roles at Murdoch, transitioning from their current positions as Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS).
Congratulations, Yang and Fortunate, on this significant professional achievement!
Yang Sun, one of our highly regarded Acute Pain Nurses, will continue to provide advanced clinical expertise and leadership in supporting patients experiencing complex pain management needs. Her endorsement as a Nurse Practitioner recognises her commitment, skill and compassion in delivering outstanding care.
1. What inspired you to become a Nurse Practitioner?
I wanted to take on an advanced role where I could make a greater impact on patient care, particularly in pain management. The ability to combine clinical expertise, prescribing rights, and leadership in service development motivated me to pursue this pathway.
2. What does being a Nurse Practitioner mean to you personally and professionally?
Personally, becoming a Nurse Practitioner is the achievement of a long-term goal and something I am very proud of. It proves to myself that as a mum and wife, I can still be true to who I am and that I can chase and achieve my own goals. I also hope to be a good role model for my daughter by demonstrating the values of hard work and independence. Professionally, it means stepping into an advanced role where I can contribute more to patient care, practise with greater independence, and help shape services that make a real difference.
3. Who or what kept you motivated along the way?
The support from St John of God Murdoch Hospital, especially through the scholarship program that made this journey possible. I was also deeply encouraged by my mentor, Del Dukamp, whose dedication and guidance were invaluable, and by my good friend and study buddy, Ash Murray, who kept me motivated through the ups and downs of the study. Most importantly, I couldn’t have done this without the unwavering support of my husband, who helped me balance home life and study, and supported me through clinical pharmacology and OSCE preparation. I was also inspired and kept going by my friends, colleagues, and the Acute Pain Services team, who always encouraged me to keep striving.
4. What advice would you give to other nurses who might be thinking about following this path?
Be kind to yourself along the way — it’s a demanding journey and there will be ups and downs. Do your best to stay organised and committed, but also give yourself grace when things get tough. Most importantly, be brave when facing challenges; each hurdle is an opportunity to learn and grow. Surround yourself with supportive mentors, colleagues, friends, and family, and take advantage of opportunities such as hospital scholarships. The journey is hard work, but it is also incredibly rewarding both personally and professionally.
Fortunate Mavhondo, currently a CNS in our Emergency Department, will soon begin working as a Nurse Practitioner within the newly established acute care NP role under the leadership of Natalia and the Hospital Medical Team. During October, Fortunate will also support the After-Hours Medical Team as she transitions into this exciting position.
This new role is designed to enhance patient care after hours by:
• Providing clinical reviews and triage for escalation
• Supporting airway management alongside the MET call team
• Assisting with difficult cannulation
• Responding to clinical deterioration
• Acting as a vital conduit between nursing and medical teams
The introduction of this NP position strengthens our after-hours coverage and ensures timely, coordinated care for patients across the hospital.
1. What inspired you to become a Nurse Practitioner?
As an RN in my second year of study, I was at Broome Hospital for my theater placements. Unfortunately, the pediatrician was unable to attend to the baby after a cesarean section delivery. The nurse practitioner was called right away, took the baby, and performed all necessary evaluations. When the patient experienced complications, the NP assisted in stabilising and managing them. This NP was my lecturer from Notre Dame University. I went to look for him after because the spark to become an NP was ignited. I felt it deep inside me that this is what I want - a nurse with advanced skills, able to jump and provide nursing care to patients more effectively. That was the beginning, and ever since, I have put a lot of effort into acquiring those skills.
2. What does being a nurse practitioner mean to you personally and professionally?
Personally, it evaluates your readiness to assume more responsibility for care planning and decision-making, as well as your commitment to ongoing development and higher education. This has allowed me to combine compassion and expertise, thus giving me a sense of purpose in improving outcomes and advocating for patients and families.
Professionally, a nurse practitioner practices at advanced level—diagnosing, prescribing, and managing complex cases, while still maintaining a holistic approach. It also acts as a bridge between nursing and medicine, bringing a distinct patient-centered nursing perspective and working well with medical staff.
3. Who, or what kept you motivated along the way?
As a nurse in the Emergency Department, I often felt limited by the boundaries of my role. I didn’t have the autonomy or prescribing rights to initiate certain treatments, even though I was continuously working with patients and could clearly see what they needed. That gap became my motivation during my NP studies — I knew that by gaining advanced skills and endorsement, I could bridge that space, act decisively, and provide more comprehensive care to my patients.
I also want to thank the following for supporting me through this journey: Sarah-Jayne - she is such a great supporter and assisted me through my endorsement, Natalia, Del Dukamp, the medical team in ED, Jess Hawke, and the AH Duty Managers. Thank you all for the support, I greatly appreciate it.
4. What advice would you give to other nurses who might be thinking about following this path?
My advice is to have dedication and commitment to what you truly want. The NP journey is challenging, but if you stay focused and never give up,the reward of making a greater impact on patient care is worth it.
