Welcome LISA NORMAN General Manager, South East Melbourne Hospitals
This year, across our South East Melbourne hospitals, we have cared for 35,085 patients – each one representing a life touched by our commitment to compassionate care. Alongside this, we’ve served 237,363 meals, ensuring that every patient and visitor feels supported and nourished during their time with us.
Berwick highlights
• 891 births
• 18,788 procedures
• Over 33,000 admissions
• Outpatient Rehab moved to Stephenson House, improving accessibility and patient experience.
• Day Oncology celebrated 10 years of outstanding care.
• We marked a major milestone by celebrating our 1000th Da Vinci robotic case, showcasing innovation in patient care.
• Biggest day in theatre – 5168 minutes on Thursday, 20th November
Frankston highlights
• 1122 admissions
• 33, 213 outpatients
• We successfully passed accreditation, reaffirming our commitment to excellence.
• Four FN caregivers reached 25 years of service, a remarkable achievement and testament to their dedication
• Catering won the Fantastic Food Safety Award by the Frankston City Council after our recent audits
• We even had a little fun with a bedmaking competition!
Langmore highlights
• 861 admissions
• 2107 SD admissions
• The Emergency Services and Defence Trauma Unit opened, a dedicated unit for emergency services and defence personnel
suffering from PTSD.
• Day programs increased, expanding support for our community
• Hit our full capacity of 60 inpatients
Highlights across SEM
• Total of 4467 maintenance helpdesk jobs closed
• We celebrated our wonderful volunteers, whose generosity is the heart of our care.
• We hosted a Graduation Ceremony, recognising professional growth.
• We honoured length of service through St John of God Day and Foundation Day, celebrating the people who make our mission possible.
• We launched the SJGHC Strategy – Every Moment Matters, setting a clear vision for the future.
The Year ahead
As we look to the year ahead, our focus remains on delivering exceptional care, embracing innovation, and living our values every day.
Thank you to every caregiver and volunteer for making this year extraordinary.
Lisa Norman
Project Starfish: Life-Changing Surgery for Chien and Khon at St John of God Berwick Hospital Giving back
At St John of God Berwick Hospital, the belief that small acts can create powerful change is at the heart of a special initiative known as Project Starfish. Inspired by the well-loved story of a boy throwing stranded starfish back into the sea—making a difference, one life at a time—Project Starfish is bringing this message to life by supporting disadvantaged children to access lifechanging surgery.
Through a long-standing partnership with the Children First Foundation (CFF) and the leadership of orthopaedic surgeon Professor Ton Tran, Project Starfish continues to transform the lives of children in need. Since 2019, St John of God Berwick Hospital has opened its doors, operating theatres, and hearts to young patients from overseas who would otherwise have no access to specialist orthopaedic care.
The first child helped through this collaboration was Chien, a seven-year-old from Vietnam who had never taken a step due to severe bilateral foot deformities and a dislocated right hip. In November 2019, he became Project Starfish’s first patient, undergoing major reconstructive surgery at Berwick. Just a few weeks later, in December, Chien took his first steps—an unforgettable moment for all involved.
Though further surgery was planned, the COVID-19 pandemic and his schooling postponed his return until this year. Now 13 and thriving academically, musically and socially, Chien returned to Melbourne with his adopted mother to undergo complex surgery on his right hip. The procedure was again led by Prof Tran, with the generous support of Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr Lucas Annabell, and Chien is recovering well. His travel
and accommodation have been fully sponsored by CFF. Joining him on this trip is Ro Cham Khon, an eight-yearold girl from a remote village in Central Vietnam. Khon was born with severe deformities in both feet with bilateral talipes and was unable to walk properly. On the same day as Chien’s surgery, Khon underwent her own reconstructive operation, and she too is recovering strongly.
This special humanitarian work is only possible thanks to the generosity of many. All doctors involved kindly volunteer their time and expertise, and all hospital procedures and admission costs are fully supported by St John of God Health Care. Together with CFF, this collaboration ensures that children like Chien and Khon receive the life-changing care they need—at no cost to their families or to Australian tax-payers.
Both children returned home on 30 July 2025, with a brighter, more mobile future ahead of them.
Project Starfish is a testament to what can happen when skill, compassion, and community come together. Just like the boy in the story, St John of God Berwick Hospital knows it may not be possible to help every child—but for Chien and Khon, the difference is immeasurable. It’s a reminder that every starfish matters.
Above: Left, Khon at home in Vietnam before her surgery and right,, after surgery at St John of God Berwick Hospital
Above: Khonand her father, Chien and his mother with Prof Ton Tran
Event Sponsors:
2025: A reflection
We asked our Hospital Management Committee (HMC) for their highlights from 2025
Rhonda O’Connor Director of Mission Integration
1. Our NPS feedback (patient comments) is exceptional!
2. Our Caregivers are regularly commented on by name: from the moment they arrive until the moment they leave.
3. I had the privilege on going on the Australian Pilgrimage for 10 days in June in the footsteps of the St John of God Sisters – listening to their stories, resilience, tenacity and fortitude to lay the foundation their legacy in Australia for St John of God Health Care. I see their legacy lived here every day in our values and patient care.
4. I have had the privilege of meeting many of our new Caregivers in Orientation, and I am so thrilled when they talk about our Culture, and the welcome they have received!
5. This year I was a patient! I had a total knee replacement, so I was in 4 East and then Rehab at Berwick. Some people knew who I was, most didn’t, but the care I received was exceptional! The catering team, environmental team, all the nurses, allied health and VMO’s – amazing! I got to witness first hand the care you all deliver EVERY Day! THANK YOU!
Karen Ward Director of Clinical Services, Frankston
1. Accreditation – Accreditors stated they have not gone to a hospital and not given a recommendation beforethis is the first! They said they would bring family here.
2. Caregiver survey – highest result in whole organisation
3. Speech Pathology published a research article alongside Dr Nelson Low.
4. DVA Volunteer Kaye retires at 97 after many years of service.
5. 3 caregivers reached 25 years of service- Julie, Ellie and Khong
Sara Crees Corporate Services Manager
As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on what the Corporate Services teams have achieved.
• Implementing Theatre food improvements,
• SEM Environmental Sustainability Committee continues to focus on continuous improvement and performance,
• Continuing to maintain our infrastructure and capital items,
• Implementing new food ideas and our commitment to food safety and quality,
• Frankston Catering team winning Frankston food safety award,
• Continuing to keep our hospitals a clean, safe and welcoming environment.
None of these achievements would have been possible without all our dedicated caregivers. Your compassion, professionalism, and team work will continue to provide great healthcare to our patients.
I wish you and your families a safe and restful Christmas period and I look forward to another successful year ahead.
Allison Merrigan Director of Nursing, Berwick
1. Outstanding Patient Experience. Achieved an exceptional average Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 84.7 in 2025, reflecting our commitment to delivering high-quality care and patient satisfaction.
2. Expansion of Rehabilitation Services.
Expanded the Outpatient Rehabilitation program by re-locating to Stephenson House and launched the Rehabilitation in the Home (RITH) program, ensuring patients receive comprehensive rehabilitation at the location and time that best meets their needs.
3. Oncology Patient Support App. Collaborated in the development of a dedicated oncology app to provide patients with easy, real-time access to information and resources throughout their cancer journey.
4. Paediatric Education Program. Implemented a comprehensive paediatric education initiative to continuously upskill clinical caregivers in delivering safe, highquality care for children.
5. Collaboration with Monash Health Casey.
Partnered with Monash Health Casey to improve the timely admission of patients via their Emergency Department, enhancing patient flow and reducing delays.
Danny Antonopoulos Director of Finance
The 2024-25 financial year now over we finished with the below statistics.
Berwick’s statistics were:
• Separations for the year were 33,102 up 10% on FY24
• Patient days for the year were 66,778 up 6% on FY24
• Procedures for the year were 18,788 up 7% on FY24
• Births for the year were 891 down 8 births on FY24
• Hospital revenue was up 4% on FY24 at $102.6m
Frankston’s statistics were:
• Overnight separations for the year were 1,122 down 8% on FY24
• Overnight patient days for the year were 12,738 down 9% on FY24
• Same day separations for the year were 5,001 up 33% on FY24
• Hospital revenue was up 4% on FY24 at $14.1m
Langmore statistics were:
• Overnight Separations for the year were 861 down 1% on FY24
• Same day separations for the year were 2,107 down 8% on FY24
• Hospital revenue was up 2% on FY24 at $14.2m
Lisa Norman General Manager, SEM Hospitals
1. Opening of the Wexford Unit at Langmore – This dedicated unit for Emergency Services and Defence members allows us to care for the people who protect us every day. We have also opened dedicated Day programs and Carer support programs to enable this group of important people to live life well
2. Outstanding Patient Experience
Results at all 3 sites – Our results continue to climb as we listen to the feedback and enhance the patent experience and at the end of the day nothing is more important than our patients
3. Further Enhancements to our Room Service at Berwick – Our patients love Room Service at Berwick. They get to chose what they feel like when they feel like it and in an acute hospital with the unpredictable nature of fasting, tests and procedures this means better nourishment and healing.
4. Outstanding Caregiver Survey
Results - Overall 52% of our 1279 Caregivers responded to this survey. SEM sites scored in the highest results in the SJGHC family. Thanks to everyone for making it a great place to work.
5. Network Transformation upgrade at all 3 SEM sites – Although this has been challenging at times we do have a more stable base for the future.
2025: A reflection
Eveline Soon Clinical Governance Manager
1. Frankston achieving short notice assessment in May 2025. All SEM hospitals have now successfully complete their short notice assessments.
2. Continuing to embed the Statutory Duty of Candour process across SEM hospitals. This is enhanced open and honest communication with patients and their families, ensuring their experiences are embedded into all reviews.
3. Embedding clinical handover processes to ensure all patients and families have an opportunity to ask questions and able to voice what matters most to them.
4. Embedding an audit schedule, with ongoing monitoring of compliance with completing audits and ensuring improvement activities are implemented to improve the quality of care provided.
5. Reviewing and updating our pre-admission clinical assessment processes across SEM hospitals to ensure all relevant assessments are completed and documented in the patient’s medical record.
Suzanne Hallifax, Director of Business & Service Development
1. Implementing a new role of Theatre Access Coordinator to improve VMO access to theatre time and support VMO rooms with finding anaesthetists or removing other barriers so that we can care for more patients needing surgery.
2. Conducting our first two all day Saturday GP symposiums offering CPD points and education to more than 150 GPs. These were run in addition to regular CPD dinners and GP practice lunches to introduce our VMOs to our GP community and share news of our services.
3. Promoting our VMOs and services to our community through social media with daily posts reaching hundreds of thousands of people who have clicked through to our website for more information. Sharing weekly newsletters to our GP community with updates of medical information from our VMOs
4. Evolving our consulting suite services to add new services such as ophthalmology and increasing our cardiac diagnostics including echo by 14% on the year prior. Our sessional consulting across three sites supports the practices of more than 130 specialists in their services to our community and fosters stronger connections with the hospitals at all sites.
5. Mentoring and stepping away as Erinn Vogt flourishes in the Acting Business Development Manager role, seeing her add energy and new initiatives to HMC and the BD role in SEM and at a group level, as I wind down to retirement.
Shelley Cooper Director of Clinical Services Mental Health,
St John of God
Langmore Centre
1. Opening of the Emergency Services and Trauma recovery inpatient and day patient services further supporting our community.
2. Excellent caregiver satisfaction survey results.
3. Commencement of the ADHD inpatient and day patient service.
4. Recruitment of skilled and experienced clinicians as our service grows.
5. The preparation for the nurse practitioner clinic.
ADHD Inpatient and Day Programs: Meeting the Growing Need For Care
By Dr Muhammad Usman Riaz, Psychiatrist and Director of Medical Services, St John of God Langmore Centre
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is increasingly recognised in adults, affecting an estimated 3–5% of Australians, with up to 80% remaining undiagnosed or untreated. Many individuals present with complex comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, substance-use disorders, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms, significantly impacting their functioning and quality of life. To address this need, St John of God Langmore Centre in Berwick has developed both inpatient and outpatient ADHD programs to provide structured, evidencebased care for individuals whose mental health is significantly affected by ADHD.
About the Programs
The inpatient Adult ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment Program offers comprehensive assessment and management through a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, nurses, and allied health clinicians. Treatment is individualised and multimodal, incorporating behavioural strategies, psychoeducation, skill-building groups, and where appropriate pharmacological interventions. Medication is considered as part of a broader therapeutic approach rather than a stand-alone treatment. The program includes three admission streams:
1. Diagnostic Assessment – for patients requiring formal evaluation and confirmation of ADHD.
2. Treatment Optimisation – for those already diagnosed, seeking structured review and stabilisation.
3. Integrated Management – for patients in the AOD or Adult Mental Health (AMH) programs who also present with ADHD-related difficulties. Complementing this, the outpatient Thriving with ADHD day program provides ongoing group-based
therapy and behavioural support for patients transitioning from inpatient care or for those who may not require hospital admission.
Referral Pathway
Referrals are welcome for patients requiring either inpatient assessment or outpatient support. Following participation in the program, patients are often more aware of their ADHD symptoms and better equipped to manage them through the therapeutic approaches and behavioural strategies they have learnt during their admission.
Programs may be funded by private health insurance or may be self-funded.
Referral Email: Langmore-Intake@sjog.org.au
CEO Awards 2025
Berwick Winners
CLINICAL WINNER:
Midwife (ANUM) Annie Collison
Nomination 1 from Patient
Annie has been so attentive to my needs and has gone above and beyond to ensure that my medications and treatment was carefully monitored and that I was as comfortable as I could be. She always ensured that she listened to me and my needs. Nothing was too much trouble.
Nomination 2 from Patient
“Annie was truly amazing while I was giving birth to my first child. I experienced intense contractions for nearly 9-10 hours before ultimately having a C-section. Throughout the entire process, she provided unwavering emotional and physical support.
This meant so much to me, especially since I hadn’t expected to have a C-section and felt unprepared and scared. With her support, I made it through and finally got to meet our son! Thank you so much, Annie. My husband, our son, and I are incredibly grateful for everything you did.”
NON-CLINICAL WINNER:
Sally Wright Volunteer/President of Hospital Auxiliary
Nomination 1 from caregiver
"Sally is the whole package. SJOG’s values in action. She constantly goes above and beyond. She is someone that demonstrates compassion, respect and hospitality when dealing with visitors, patients and caregivers. Thank for your fund raising efforts.
We are very fortunate to have Sally as one the many inspiring volunteers. "
Nomination 2 from caregiver
Sally dedicates a huge portion of her time in raising funds for SJOG. She is a beautiful soul, gentle and respectful of all. She goes about her business quietly and politely. She is evidently very committed to the hospital.
Nomination 3 from caregiver
"Sally arrives very early each day to accompany our elective surgical patients to the ward. She provides a warm welcome to all and offers great comfort and reassurance to our patients who are often very anxious about what lies ahead. I look forward to seeing Sally as her smile brightens my day. She offers encouragement and support to every caregiver she meets. Her enthusiasm in her role with the Hospital Auxiliary is inspiring. We are so blessed to have her as part of our SJOG family."
Nomination 4 from caregiver
"Sally walks into St John of God as though she is walking into her home with a sense of care, pride and responsibility. Sally provides a warm, caring and sensitive hospitality. She never presumes someone wants help she always asks.
Sally is a conscientious and supportive mentor to new volunteers. Taking extra time to mak3 introductions to share her volunteer role with new volunteers to help their learning and sense of belonging. Sally is caring of the hospital environment not only the people - visitors, caregivers, fellow volunteers but also the physical environment. If Sally sees a spec of paper on the ground she will pick it up as though it was her own home.
Sally has been a wonderful support to me as I settle into the hospital environment. Being a listening ear, showing gratitude, being an encourager.
I often reflect on Sally and think what if everyone walked into work with this level of care for one another and our physical environment.
Langmore Winner
WINNER: Andrew Pereira (Chef)
Nomination 1 from Patient
I am on a very particular diet that is difficult to cater for. I was cooked individual meals according to my request. They were delicious. Even though it created extra work and took some coordination, it was done with a generous friendly attitude and feedback was constantly sought.
Nomination 2 from caregiver (shortened)
He respects everyone & his calm nature of saying “ Yes will do” to whoever comes across , or anything expected to do out of the job scope , whether any catering request comes last minute or running across the wet road on raining day to serve volunteers for their events or accommodating any patient requests put on him last minute . Andrew respects every single moment of service as a matter of pride to his job.
Nomination 3 from caregiver
Andrew has been exceptional this month talking to the board members thinking of ideas on how to improve the service and innovative ideas. Well done Andrew you are an asset to the team
Nomination 4 from caregiver (shortened)
As Chef Supervisor, Andrew consistently goes above and beyond in meeting the diverse dietary needs of patients, ensuring that every meal delivered is not only of high quality but tailored with care and sensitivity to individual health requirements. He maintains a strong focus on patient safety and wellbeing, and is proactive in identifying opportunities for innovation and efficiency within the catering department. Andrew is a motivated leader who works collaboratively with all members at Langmore Centre, fostering a supportive and positive environment. He embraces change with a forward thinking mindset and is continually seeking new ways to enhance the dining experience for our consumers.
Nomination 5 from Patient
“Andrew goes out of his way to help carry my tray as I am on crutches, he even clears my dishes! Andrew knows me by name and remembers little things like what salad dressing I like. He goes above and beyond and I am very grateful.”
Frankston Winner
WINNER: Paula Millar (Enrolled Nurse, Granada Ward)
Nominated by caregivers
Paula is a Caregiver who consistently goes above and beyond. She pulls the rest of the team up in the way she goes about her work, and keeps everyone calm in busy and pressured situations.
She has a lovely spirit and is always smiling and looking for the best way to care for her patients and fellow Caregivers.
“This is evident in the care that they provide everyday but on Thursday when the tearful wife of one of our palliative care patients asked if she could have the cuddle bed that she had heard about, in her husband’s room so that she could lie with him. The girls sensing her distress and how much this would mean too her, quickly devised a plan of action and made it happen. The cuddle bed was currently being used by another client and neither client is mobilising so there were some logistical issues to work through but no challenge is too great.”
Swagging On Country
In a powerful step towards deepening cultural understanding and building stronger relationships with Aboriginal communities, St John of God Health Care held its inaugural Swagging on Country experience in August 2025.
Over two nights and three days, twelve caregivers from across Australia came together On Country in Yandeyarra, a small community an hour and a half from Port Hedland, to immerse themselves in Aboriginal culture, history and traditions. The experience provided a unique opportunity to listen, learn and reflect on the health care and employment needs of Aboriginal people, while gaining a richer appreciation of the deep connection between land, culture and wellbeing.
Hosted by respected Traditional Owner Margie Stewart, her son Gaston, and their extended family, the group was welcomed with open arms and warm smiles. Participants sat together around the crackling camp fire, under a canopy of glittering stars, listening to stories of family, wisdom, bush medicine and an enduring bond with the land.
Days were filled with guided walks across red earth and bushland alive with birdsong, where every footstep stirred the dust and carried with it a sense of history. Cultural activities invited participants to fully immerse themselves– being fully present in the moment, making damper over the fire, and tasting freshly caught bush turkey prepared by their hosts. One morning, the group split for a deeply cultural experience – the men heading out on men’s business and hunting On Country, while the women journeyed to Jilya, a sacred healing site. There, the women learnt about the profound role of the ancestors and spirits in helping women to conceive. They watched as a ritual was undertaken, and the Country seemed to answer – a sudden, powerful gust of wind sweeping through the site. There wasn’t a dry eye, particularly among the midwives in the group, moved by the deep cultural and spiritual connection to birth and new life.
That afternoon, the group swam in the cool waters of a nearby waterhole, sharing rich conversations beneath the shade of gum trees before experiencing rock healing – a grounding and restorative practice that left participants feeling deeply connected to the land, each other and themselves. The days also included moments of stillness and self-care, with heartled meditation, gentle yoga at sunrise, and even a movie under the stars – laughter and conversation carrying into the night.
For many, sleeping in swags beneath the vast, open sky was not just a physical experience, but a moment of connection –with the land, with each other, and with the purpose of their work.
Above: Lisa Carman, SEM Marketing & Communications Manager at Jilya, WA
“It’s been… enlightening. I didn’t really understand what being On Country meant, and now I do. You feel it, you smell it, you see it,” said Kimberley Lewis, Clinical Nurse, St John of God Bunbury Hospital. “It’s such a giving, sharing experience with the family that I will take with me into my work, into my life and into my family.”
“To experience the wisdom, the growth and the contentment of Aboriginal people when they are in their environment and able to live their way, connected to culture, connected to community and connected to their spiritual side is really important,” reflected Shirley Newell, Reconciliation Program Manager, St John of God Health Care.
The Swagging on Country initiative forms part of St John of God Health Care’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation, cultural safety and the creation of meaningful employment pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. By strengthening relationships, fostering understanding and ensuring that the voices of Aboriginal communities are heard,
the organisation is working to create a more inclusive and responsive health care network.
This inaugural event was made possible through the generous financial support and sponsorship of Bank First and HESTA, whose contribution ensured that caregivers from across the country could take part in this unique and transformative experience.
“Experiences like this immersion create the opportunity for caregivers to gain a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture and perspectives, moving from head to heart knowledge and building relationships that are fundamental to meaningful reconciliation. The Swagging On Country participants were chosen for their demonstrated commitment to reconciliation in their local hospitals and services. We look forward to seeing the fruits of this experience shared across the organisation,” said Tara Peters, Chief Mission Integration Officer, St John of God Health Care.
While the journey has come to a close, its impact will endure. Participants have returned to their hospitals and services carrying not only new knowledge, but also a renewed sense of responsibility – to share what they have learned, to challenge assumptions, and to advocate for lasting change. As the final sunset washed the land in shades of muted gold, rose and lavender, the group reflected quietly on the journey they had taken. The swags may have been rolled away, but the sights, sounds, and lessons of Swagging on Country will remain – shaping the way they care for others and strengthening the bonds between St John of God Health Care and the communities it serves.
NEW Speech Pathology Service Provides Specialist Facial Therapy For People With Facial
Facial palsy can have a profound impact on a person’s comfort, function, and confidence. Beyond visible facial droop, patients often experience difficulty with speech, eating, drinking, and eye protection. The psychosocial effects can be equally significant, affecting emotional expression and self-esteem.
Early, specialised intervention from a facial therapist can make a substantial difference to both physical recovery and quality of life. A national wide shortage of facial therapists means accessing appropriate treatment is extremely difficult. To help address this gap in service provision St John of God Frankston Rehabillitation Hospital is proud to have 3 of their Speech Pathologists trained as facial therapists.
A facial therapist has advanced training in facial rehabilitation and specialises in assessing and treating facial nerve disorders.
At St John of God Frankston Rehabillitation Hospital, our facial therapists have particular expertise in working with individuals affected by facial palsy, including Bell’s palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, acoustic neuroma, trauma, and post-surgical nerve injury.
Therapy begins with a comprehensive assessment of facial symmetry, muscle tone, coordination, and movement patterns at rest and during expression. The therapist also identifies synkinesis—unwanted linked movements, such as eye closure during smiling—that can develop as nerves recover.
An individualised treatment plan is then developed, tailored to the type and stage of palsy. Education plays a key role, helping patients understand recovery timelines, prevent overuse, and manage daily function effectively.
Treatment may include facial retraining and neuromuscular re-education to improve precision and control, massage and stretching to relieve tightness, and relaxation or breathing techniques to reduce muscle tension. It is important to note that muscle strengthening programs are contraindicated and not appropriate. Eye and oral care are essential aspects of therapy. Strategies are provided to manage incomplete eye closure, drooling, or speech difficulties, and to promote safe eating and drinking. As recovery progresses, therapy focuses on refining symmetry, enhancing expression, and reducing abnormal movement patterns.
Equally important is the psychological support that accompanies rehabilitation. Visible facial changes can cause distress or social withdrawal. The therapist helps patients rebuild confidence, providing reassurance and guidance throughout the recovery journey.
Facial therapy is delivered in consultation with a wider multidisciplinary team, accessing the patient’s neurologists, ENT specialists, plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, and psychologists. This ensures holistic
Palsy
care addressing the medical, functional, and emotional dimensions of facial palsy.
The goals of facial therapy are to restore facial symmetry and voluntary movement, reduce synkinesis, improve facial comfort and expression, and help patients regain confidence in communication and social interaction.
Key information
Bells Palsy is the most common cause of facial nerve dysfunction and around 29% of patients never regain full facial symmetry
Prompt medical management (e.g. steriods, antivirals, eyecare) improve facial palsy outcomes
Treatment options (surgical and non-surgical) exist for patients with facial palsy
Early referral to a facial therapist is key:
1. Timely assessment - ideally within weeks of onsetcan help prevent maladaptive movement patterns and optimise recovery outcomes
2. Long-standing facial palsy can also benefit from targeted therapy and education despite the length of time post-onset.
Referrals and Contact Information
Referrals can be made to the Speech Pathology Department at St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital via email or phone. For further information or to discuss a potential referral, please contact the team directly.
Phone: (03) 9788 3396
Email: FN.SPreferral@sjog.org.au
Environmental Sustainability Committee
Dear Caregivers,
I am pleased to share an update on the outstanding work achieved by our Environmental Sustainability Committee over the past 12 months. Their commitment and collaboration have driven meaningful progress across our hospitals, strengthening both our environmental footprint and our reputation as a responsible healthcare organisation.
Over the past year, the committee has delivered several impactful initiatives, including:
• Improved Waste Management: Enhancing recycling streams, reducing contamination, introducing food waste program at Berwick and increasing education across departments, resulting in measurable reductions in general waste.
• Waste Mapping project: Currently in progress a waste map to showcase all waste streams at each site to help caregivers make better decisions in the moment. (Thank you Miq)
• Energy Efficiency Gains: Supporting upgrades such as LED lighting, improved controls, and equipment optimisation, contributing to lower energy use and cost savings.
• Water Conservation Efforts: South East Water IOTA water smart program at Langmore introducing practical changes in facilities and processes that have helped reduce water consumption hospital-wide.
• Sustainable Procurement: Partnering with suppliers to prioritise environmentally responsible products such as our coffee cups and reduce single-use items where clinically safe.
• Staff Engagement & Awareness: Social media awareness around Global recycling day and Earth Hour and more to come!
These achievements not only reflect the dedication of the committee members but also highlight the positive impact we can make when we work together toward a common goal.
Expression of interest
If you would like to join the committee please send your expression of interest or any questions to myself sara.crees@sjog.org.au by 31st December 2025
Sara Crees
Director of Corporate Services
St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals
Berwick Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising
A heartfelt thank you to the St John of God Berwick Hospital Auxiliary team for their magnificent fundraising efforts throughout the year. We have enjoyed vibrant craft stalls at both Berwick Hospital and the Langmore Centre, along with wonderful fundraising lunches and raffles galore.
The combined dedication of the committee and its supporters is truly remarkable. We are deeply grateful for your hard work, commitment, and generosity.
The legacy that began with the Ladies Auxiliary in May 1952 continues to grow from strength to strength, and your ongoing efforts ensure that this proud tradition lives on.
Thank you for all that you do.
Do a Little “Reverse Shopping” This Christmas
As we head into the festive season, many of us find ourselves browsing stores more often than usual. This year, why not turn a regular Christmas shopping trip into a chance to give back to the environment?
Plenty of retailers now offer convenient recycling and “reverse gifting” programs, making it easier than ever to responsibly dispose of items that can be reused, repurposed or recycled. Next time you’re out picking up presents, consider dropping off a few items that might otherwise end up in landfill.
Where you can recycle while you shop:
-Pens, markers and stationery: Officeworks
-Electrical items (leads, phones, printers and small tech): Officeworks
-Make-up containers and empty tubes: Mecca
-Old pots and pans: Kitchen Warehouse (near The Good Guys, Fountain Gate)
-Runners and sports shoes: Rebel Sport
-Clothing, textiles and even sleeping bags: Kathmandu
-Light bulbs: Beacon Lighting
-Batteries: Most major supermarkets
It’s a simple way to tidy up at home, reduce waste, and support retailers doing the right thing.
So this year, while you’re shopping for loved ones, consider making a loop of “reverse shopping” stops. Small actions add up, and together we can make a meaningful impact on our community and environment.
If you would like to join the SEM Environmental Sustainability Committee please send your expression of interest or any questions to sara.crees@sjog.org.au by 31st December 2025
Volunteer Kaye Retires
Recently, St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital had the great pleasure of farewelling and thanking Kaye, their dedicated Veteran Affairs volunteer, for her many years of outstanding service.
Kaye always dreamed of becoming a nurse, commencing her training at Sale Hospital in 1946, graduating at 19 years of age. She loved her nursing career, cherishing the teamwork, friendships, and the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives.
After retiring at the age of 61, Kaye found that bowls was fun but “not useful,” and so she began visiting veterans in local nursing homes — a volunteer calling she has continued ever since. She also continued as an RSL Women’s bowler. Kaye enjoys an active and connected life.
For the past 30 years, Kaye has brought warmth, compassion, and cheerful companionship to the veterans at St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation. Her kindness and dedication have touched the hearts of countless patients and caregivers alike.
Thank you, Kaye, for your extraordinary service and for brightening the lives of so many. We will miss you dearly, but please know that you will always have many friends here at Frankston.
St John of God Berwick Hospital Celebrates 1,000th da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgery
In 2025 St John of God Berwick Hospital reached an exciting milestone, performing its 1,000th robotic-assisted procedure using the da Vinci Xi Surgical System. The landmark case, a gynaecological surgery performed by Dr Saj Rathnayake, obstetrician and gynaecologist, highlights not only his expertise but also the hospital’s commitment to offering cutting-edge surgical care closer to home for the south-east Melbourne community.
Since the arrival of the da Vinci Xi in 2019, the hospital has used the system across a wide range of specialties, including urology, gynaecology, colorectal, and general surgery. This versatility means more patients can benefit from minimally invasive procedures that combine advanced surgical precision with faster recovery times. Robotic-assisted surgery with the da Vinci Xi may provide significant advantages over traditional open surgery, including:
• Smaller incisions that reduce scarring and lower the risk of infection.
• Greater surgical precision through high-definition 3D vision and enhanced dexterity for surgeons.
• Reduced blood loss and pain, helping patients feel better sooner.
• Shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery, allowing patients to return to daily life more rapidly.
The impact for patients has been remarkable. For many, robotic surgery has meant a shorter time in hospital— sometimes just one or two nights—alongside smoother recoveries and fewer complications. Importantly, the technology has allowed the hospital’s surgeons to carry
out complex procedures with greater accuracy, improving both clinical outcomes and patient experience and allowing patients to access complex surgery closer to home, avoiding the need to travel into Melbourne’s inner suburbs and CBD.
Reaching 1,000 robotic surgeries is a testament to the hospital’s surgical teams and their embrace of innovation. With the da Vinci Xi now firmly embedded across multiple specialties, St John of God Berwick Hospital continues to lead the way in advanced, minimally invasive care— ensuring patients receive the very best outcomes, right here in their local community.
A Decade of Compassionate Care: St John of God Berwick Hospital Celebrates 10 Years of Day Oncology Service
In 2025 St John of God Berwick Hospital is celebrating 10 years of its Day Oncology service at Kangan Drive - marking a decade of delivering compassionate, expert cancer care to the local community.
Since opening in 2015, the Day Oncology Unit has supported thousands of patients across Melbourne’s south-east, providing high-quality, personalised treatment close to home. What began as a small, specialised service at the old Gibb Street hospital has grown into a cornerstone of cancer care in the region.
Located within St John of God Berwick Hospital, the purpose-built Day Oncology Unit offers chemotherapy, immunotherapy and supportive care in a calm, patient-centred environment. The service has continued to expand in line with community need and advances in cancer treatment.
Key achievements over the past decade include:
• Caring for 3,308 patients since opening, with an average of 18 patients a day over the past 10 years. That number is now sitting at 22 patients a day, demonstrating the increasing demand for this vital service.
• 45,953 patient admissions.
• Opening the Community Wig Service, funded entirely through generous community donations and operated by specially trained volunteers, offering patients comfort, confidence and dignity during treatment.
• Introducing the Skye Oncology Patient App, enabling patients to track appointments, access educational resources and communicate easily with their care team.
• Implementing the CHARM Oncology Medical Record System in August 2024, enhancing clinical documentation, patient safety, and the seamless coordination of care across the oncology team.
• Launching Dream a Little Dream, a program granting small wishes to palliative patients, including those receiving oncology care, helping to bring moments of joy and comfort.
• Supporting annual fundraising and cancer awareness initiatives, including participation in the Biggest Morning Tea and the Casey Relay for Life, helping raise vital funds and awareness in the local community.
• Hosting the annual Mini Field service — a moving tribute
honouring those affected by breast cancer. Hundreds of pink lady silhouettes are placed in the hospital gardens to symbolise the courage, hope and memory of women and families touched by the disease. The service also acknowledges men who experience breast cancer, represented by blue and white figures, ensuring all affected are recognised and remembered.
• Introducing a dedicated Cancer Care Co Ordinator, who provides personalised guidance, support and continuity of care for patients throughout their treatment journey.
• Receiving generous donations from the community that have allowed investment in new technology and in the professional growth of caregivers, including:
-Cold Caps to help patients reduce hair loss due to chemotherapy.
-SOZO technology for improved management and monitoring of lymphoedema.
-An education fund that has supported oncology caregivers to develop new skills and enhance their professional expertise.
• Building strong partnerships with local oncologists, GPs and allied health providers to deliver seamless, multidisciplinary cancer care.
• Receiving ongoing support over the decade from local donors and community groups, whose generosity has been crucial in sustaining services and programs for patients.
Integral to this decade of service has been the hospital’s McGrath Breast Care Nurses, who provide free, specialised support to individuals diagnosed with breast cancer and their families. From diagnosis through treatment and beyond, the McGrath Breast Care Nurses offer guidance, education and emotional support, ensuring patients never feel alone during their cancer journey. Their compassionate, expert care has been instrumental in improving the experience and outcomes of countless local families.
Spiritual and emotional wellbeing are also at the heart of care at St John of God Berwick Hospital. The hospital’s Pastoral Care team plays a vital role in supporting patients, families and caregivers through every stage of their treatment.
St John of God Berwick Hospital Chief Executive Officer Lisa Norman said the milestone reflects the hospital’s deep connection to the local community and its commitment to excellence in care.
“Our Day Oncology service has become an essential part of the Berwick community,” Ms Norman said. “Over the past decade, we’ve seen the service grow and evolve, but what has remained constant is our commitment to compassionate, person-centred care. We’re incredibly proud of our team and the hope and healing they bring to so many local families.”
Day Oncology Nurse Unit Manager Lisa Marchetti said the past 10 years have seen incredible progress, both in cancer treatment and in patient support.
“For many patients, receiving treatment in a familiar, supportive setting makes an enormous difference,”
Ms Marchetti said. “The addition of initiatives like the Community Wig Service, the Skye Oncology Patient App, the CHARM Oncology Medical Record System and Dream a Little Dream — along with the dedicated support of our Cancer Care Coordinator, McGrath Breast Care Nurses, Pastoral Care team and community donors — show how we continually listen to our patients and strive to improve their experience every day.”
As the Day Oncology service celebrates its 10-year anniversary, St John of God Berwick Hospital remains committed to expanding access to high-quality cancer care and continuing its mission of providing exceptional, person-centred support for every patient, every day.
St John of God Health Care