It’s hard to believe this is my second-last column; the time really is flying by.
I want to once again say a huge thank you to everyone who took part in the Townsville HHS Just 12 staff survey. We had more than 3,000 responses (around 38 per cent of our workforce), which is an outstanding result. Your feedback helps shape how we work together to keep improving our workplace. Over the coming weeks, Gallup will analyse the results and share insights with the executive team, the Board and leaders across our service, before teams meet to discuss ways to strengthen culture, safety and engagement.
Today, I had the pleasure of attending the Townsville HHS Multicultural Day in the Robert Douglas Auditorium at TUH. It was a fantastic celebration of food, music and performances that showcased the incredible diversity of our workforce. The cultural richness of our staff truly makes the Townsville Hospital and Health Service a special place to work. Well done to all involved in today’s event!
This month we have also celebrated several important occasions that highlight the dedication of our teams across the region. Rural Appreciation Month recognises our rural staff for keeping care close to home for communities across North Queensland. Allied Health Professionals Day celebrated the innovative care models that improve outcomes for our patients. And throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s been inspiring to see the many initiatives across TUH promoting screening, early detection, and patient support.
Last week I attended my first Board meeting since joining Townsville HHS and I want to acknowledge the leadership of Chair Tony Mooney, Deputy Chair Michelle Morton and all members. It was a great opportunity to highlight the work happening across our service, including our urology response, capital expansion program, financial performance and emergency department activity. We also met as a senior leadership team this week, discussing topics like strengthening orientation and induction, ensuring new staff have the support they need, and reinforcing work health and safety to keep our people protected.
Next week I’ll be in Brisbane meeting with fellow Chief Executives and the Executive Leadership Team, as we continue to advocate for equitable funding and resources so our region gets the support it deserves.
It’s been a busy few weeks, and I just want to thank you again for everything you do. The dedication, kindness, and professionalism you show every day make this an extraordinary health service.
Warm regards,
Rex
20+ years’ event
Wednesday 29 October - 10am Western Terrace, Level 1, The Townsville University Hospital
See all staff receiving a length-of-service award here.
Please contact townsvillehhs-engagement@health.qld.gov.au if you haven’t received your invite.
A song, a dance, and then we feast for Multicultural Day
It was a display of colour, music, dance, and of course food as Townsville University Hospital (TUH) celebrated Multicultural Day.
The Robert Douglas Auditorium came alive with performances from Indian, Filipino, Congolese, and Columbian cultures.
Multicultural Day organiser Dr Sandhya Menon said it was such a wonderful celebration of all the diverse cultural backgrounds that make up the TUH workforce.
“Reflecting on today’s event, we saw not only our cultural differences, but also our profound similarities,” Sandhya said.
“All of these wonderful cultures are threads in a single, magnificent tapestry, interwoven and inseparable.
“Hopefully we continue to build a community where every accent is welcomed, every tradition is respected, and every person feels seen.”
Of course, once all the singing and dancing had concluded, the crowd of around 250 people flooded out into the foyer to feast on some of the delicacies of the cultures celebrated.
From Indian samosas, African Mandazis, Filipino pancit, and even humble Aussie party pies and sausage rolls, it was a trip around the world for the tastebuds.
The pièce de résistance was the entire spit-roasted pig (lechon) supplied and cooked by the Filipino community.
Enjoy some of the highlights on the following photo spread.
Dr Poonam Kumar, Rajabu Mudanzi, Michael Illin, Ethel Quilala, Cindy Cruz, Dr Zain Khan
Tadiwa Mashavave, Siphesihle Mabizela and Tracey Pfumayaramba
Jesus Roa, Cindy Cruz and Betty Flores
Jesus Roa and Cindy Cruz
Lucyna Sloma-Maslowski and Jodi Flowers
Eden Dela Cruz and Pastor James Dela Cruz
Over 200 people attended the celebration
Some of TUH’s Filipino community
Mike Utsiwegota
Kathryne Pagulayan, Ethel Quilala and Everleen Lansangan
Siphesihle Mabizela
Dr Poonam Kumar, Dr Sandhya Menon, Dr Kavita Dandu
THANK YOU
Join us to celebrate Townsville Hospital and Health Service’s outstanding performance in the 2024/2025 financial year.
Home Hill Health Service | 10 September | 2.30pm
Ingham Health Service | 11 September | 12noon
Richmond Health Service | 12 September | 9.30am
Hughenden Health Service | 12 September | 12.30pm
North Ward Health Campus | 16 September | 12noon
Townsville Correctional Centre | 23 September | 11.30am
Ayr Health Service | 24 September | 12noon
Cleveland Youth Detention Centre | 24 September | 12noon
Magnetic Island Health Service | 26 September | 12noon
Charters Towers Health Service + Eventide Aged Care Facility + Charters Towers
Rehabilitation Unit (joint event) | 8 October | 12noon
Parklands Aged Care Facility | 9 October | 10.00am
Vincent Cambridge Health Campus | 15 October | 11am-12noon
Vincent Palmerston Health Campus | 15 October | 12noon-1.00pm
Kirwan Health Campus | 16 October | 12.00pm
Public Health Unit | 17 October | 12noon
Joyce Palmer Health Service | 26 November | 10.00am
Isabelle face of local neuropsychology success
After two years of intensive training, clinical neuropsychology registrar Isabelle Frisken is set to be the first graduate of Townsville University Hospital’s (TUH) designated neuropsychology registrar position.
Originally from Sydney, Isabelle said she chose neuropsychology after making a choice between research or clinical work.
“I did my undergraduate training in Sydney, with honours in psychophysics and following that I took a year off study and worked full time in a dementia research clinic and a psychophysics lab,” Isabelle said.
“There were a lot of neuropsychologists there, so I had valuable exposure to neuropsychology.
“So, I completed my master’s and moved up to Townsville.”
TUH’s neuropsychology registrar training position was established in response to a national shortage of neuropsychologists, particularly in rural and remote areas, offering broad clinical exposure and regular supervision from experienced neuropsychologists, clinical psychologists, and additional guidance from a clinical educator.
Director of psychology Vidula Garde said the program gave registrars a unique experience, not on offer anywhere else in Queensland.
“To become a qualified neuropsychologist, individuals must complete six years of psychology training, including specialisation in clinical neuropsychology, followed by two years of supervised practice,” Vidula said.
“Given the shortage, we came up with the idea of establishing a registrar training position and we became the first hospital and health service in Queensland to provide this opportunity to prospective neuropsychologists.
“Not surprisingly, most people stay where they train and that’s usually in the capital cities; having the program in Townsville hopefully means our registrars stay here.”
Which seems to be Isabelle’s immediate plan.
“I should finish my registrar program by the end of October to early November and I’m hoping to stay,” she said.
“It is quite hard to recruit up here, and neuropsychology is such a small profession… we could start developing a little bit more of a neuropsychology team within the hospital.”
Neuropsychology registrar Isabelle Frisken
Deanne finalist in Townsville Business Women of the Year Awards
Townsville University Hospital’s emergency department (ED) director Dr Deanne Crosbie joins a stellar field of local businesswomen and leaders tonight as a finalist in the Townsville Business Women of the Year Awards.
The awards will be held at the Ville-Resort Casino.
Deanne said she was both ‘surprised and delighted’ to be nominated in the category of Corporate Business Woman.
“As clinicians we don’t necessarily see ourselves as business leaders and yet we’re often performing many business and leadership roles and functions as we go,” she said.
“I was nominated by someone outside our health service, and outside Queensland Health, who reminded me that being a doctor didn’t preclude me from having a whole other set of skills.
“It was really nice to be acknowledged in that way and I hope more clinicians are recognised for this type of work.”
Deanne said she believed all leaders brought a different perspective to leadership.
“Women are often perceived differently as leaders, but I think that’s changing,” she said.
“I’ve noticed over time that the perception of what women are capable of, and how we should lead, is changing.
“The younger generations respond a little differently to women in leadership and I’ve enjoyed seeing that.
“I’ve been very fortunate in ED because it’s always been an even playing field for women and men both as clinicians and in recognising their potential to be leaders.
“It’s a speciality where we’re equally acknowledged for the work we do.”
Deanne said she was very fortune to lead Townsville University Hospital’s emergency department.
“The team in ED enjoys turning up to work, doing a good job, and working really well together across many different streams; as the director, I’m blessed in that regard.
“There are a lot of hard things about working in the ED, but my team is the best part of the job.”
Deanne said while she was thrilled with her nomination, she confessed to feeling ‘a bit embarrassed’.
“It’s really not what we do as clinicians, putting ourselves out there,” she said.
“But I’m excited; I’m going tonight with a great group of people from work and supportive friends, including one I’ve known since I was an intern in the Gold Coast ED.
‘”I think it will be exciting.
“There are some great nominees across the categories and I’ll get to learn a little bit more about what they do.”
Good luck, Deanne!
Dr Deanne Crosbie
Supporting support services support us
This week Townsville University Hospital’s operational support officers celebrated Operational Services Recognition (OSO) Week.
It also saw the awarding of the 2025 Golden Cart award to the cleaning team with the highest audit score for the year.
The scores were so tight this year, there was just one tenth of a percent separating eventual winners, the infectious diseases ward clean team, from second place.
Randyll Aramento and George Kora represented the team at the presentation lunch and were overjoyed to win the Golden Cart for the year.
“I was totally not expecting to win,” Randyll said.
“I’m on the early shift and George does the afternoon shift, so he continues on my work from the morning and I do the same when I come in the next day and take over from the night shift.”
George said it was a testament to their teamwork to achieve the win.
“We never see each other, being on different shifts, but after four years on the same team, I know what he wants and he knows what I want,” George said.
Support services manager Amanda Douglas said OSO Week was important to highlight the achievements of the team who often went about their work in the background.
“The work our team does sometimes goes unrecognised, but they’re out there transporting patients, keeping the hospital clean and sanitary, and doing those jobs that keep the place running,” Amanda said.
“Being able to show our appreciation for our staff and what they do is special.
“We had some pizzas donated for the day shift and more coming later for the night-shift team, doughnuts, and prizes donated from suppliers just to show some appreciation.”
Randyll Aramento and George Kora with the Golden Cart
Food services team
Just 12 survey closes; results crunching underway
The numbers are in, and more than 3,000 Townsville HHS staff, or 38 per cent, completed the Just 12 survey in the past three weeks.
Just 12 was powered by global analytics firm Gallup to gauge the satisfaction, commitment, and morale of staff at work.
Acting health service chief executive Rex O’Rouke said he was pleased with the participation rate and thanked everyone who completed the survey.
“Congratulations and thank you to everyone who did the survey and provided their honest feedback; the results are currently being worked through, and managers will receive an understanding of their staff engagement mean score, including individual question results, to share with their teams across November,” Rex said.
Women’s and children’s took service group line honours with 52 per cent participation while Indigenous health took out the division prize with a staggering 80 per cent of staff completing the survey.
The medical service group had the highest individual participation rate with more than 500 staff completing the survey, achieving a 30 per cent participation rate overall.
Women’s and children’s service group director Vicki Carson said she was delighted with her service group’s response rate.
“I really want to thank our staff for their participation,” she said.
“I strongly believe that having our voices heard by team leaders, executive leadership, and the Board is empowering.”
Acting medical director, women, newborn, and community Dr Greet Hoet said the success of surveys often came down to team leaders and managers being able to explain the value.
“There has been a lot of survey fatigue lately; often we’re not sure where a survey is going and what it’s going to achieve,” she said.
“I’ve always made an effort with these because I believed it was my duty as a line manager to set the right example, but with this survey, Just 12, I really liked it.
“The questions were simple and asked about how coming to work every day, and working with your team, made you feel.
“I’d like to make meaningful change for my team, and I’d like the people above me in the hierarchy to do the same.”
Dr Greet Hoet
Forum for change – eliminating racism in the health service
First Nations staff members came together for the annual Indigenous all-staff forum, to mark the beginning of change and the movement to eliminate racism from the health service.
Indigenous health principal project officer, clinical psychologist and Mandandanji woman Tegan Ely said the forum was an opportunity for the Indigenous health workforce to look at the results of the “Two Worlds, One Healthcare system: Eliminating Racism” project and help shape the future actions of the health service to tackle racism.
“What we are trying to do is identify and really understand what racism looks and feels like,” Tegan said.
“When we can capture it, we can measure it and then we can put in effects to change it.
“This then helps us identify focus areas for the next health equity strategy and implementation plan, specifically around implementing and embedding anti-racism practices across all practices and processes.”
The day was broken up into three, practical and culturally grounded modules: Humans in Health – a First Nations storytelling series centred around live experience and connection; Deadly Decisions – a behaviour change campaign using clear language; and the C.A.R.E Framework – a guide to help people respond in real time to racism or cultural harm.
Just under 100 First Nations staff attended the forum; Tegan said she was proud to see so many people show up, listen, engage and be heard.
“We’re really grateful to our wider health service community for lending their staff members to come together and connect in the way we have today,” she said.
“It’s not just rare, but unique, as we’re the only hospital and health service in Queensland that has this event and it’s supported by our executive leadership which is pretty special.”
The Indigenous all staff forum in the RDA
Graham Homer and Helen Hadgraft
Shaniqua Ahmat and Bevan Kepa
Tom Hegarty takes part in an engagement activity
Joy Dempsey and Trevor Prior
Jesse-Lee Richards and Sterling Wedel
Danielle Hornsby engaging with staff
Layla’s roadside stall turning profits into comforting gifts for TUH cancer patients
An 11-year-old’s desire to spread a little kindness has brought smiles and comfort to patients at Townsville University Hospital’s oncology ward.
Layla Stanier, driven by a wish to help others, recently gave away 18 gift packs to cancer patients after raising hundreds of dollars to buy the items.
Each pack contained warm socks, moisturiser, tea, handmade earrings, a bracelet, and lip balm.
Layla said the idea came from wanting to offer a small moment of happiness during a difficult time.
“I just wanted to do something that might make someone smile and feel a bit better,” Layla said.
“I had started making my own body scrubs and earrings, which I would sell on the side of the road every time I went to visit my grandparents in Cardwell.
“My mum is a breast care nurse at the hospital, and after talking to her I wanted to do something to help people who were receiving cancer treatment.
“With the money I raised I was able to purchase some items and, together with my mum and younger brother Xavier, I put together these packs to give to patients.
“It was fun making everything, and I hope the patients enjoyed their gift packs and that it made their day a little brighter.”
Layla’s mum, Talina, said she was very proud of her daughter and her thoughtfulness towards others.
“Layla has always been empathetic and is always looking to help people less fortunate than herself,” Talina said.
“She knows how tough treatment can be for patients, and she just wanted to do something to make them feel cared for.
“To see her idea come to life and bring genuine happiness to people was really special.”
Ambulatory oncology nurse unit manager Briana Fidoe said the gesture had a profound impact on patients and staff alike.
“It was just so heartwarming to see a patient’s face light up because of the kindness of a girl they had never met,” Briana said.
“It gave them such an emotional lift during what is a very challenging time. We were all so touched by her generosity.”
Xavier Stanier, Talina Stanier, Layla Stanier, cancer patient Donavan Power, and Briana Fidoe
Consumers lead Eat Walk Engage forum
Townsville University Hospital’s Eat Walk Engage (EWE) team has welcomed two consumers into their ranks, who will provide ongoing feedback on the program to ensure it continued to meet the needs of older people in hospital.
Senior allied health clinician and EWE facilitator Rachel McMahon said it was essential for consumers to be part of the EWE Leadership Forum as it helped inform their decisions on continuously improving care of older people in hospital.
“The forum was started to provide governance and ongoing support to the implementation and sustainability of the EWE program after expanding to five wards,” Rachel said.
“The aim of the program is to improve the care of older persons when they come into hospital, so we conduct annual measures of practice to identify areas of improvement, and a key measure is the patient voice.
“Bringing consumers into the forum provides us with those lived experiences of what it’s like to be in hospital, particularly as an older person.”
Eileen McGrath and Robyn Moore attended their first EWE Leadership Forum and were excited to share their experiences and ideas with key clinical and administrative stakeholders.
“I think it’s exciting that consumers are invited to have their say on what goes on in the hospital and across all aspects of the health service,” Eileen said.
“I really enjoy being involved and being able to put forward not only my ideas, but the ideas of other people I know in the community.
“Often, when older people are in hospital, they think they just have to stay in bed but the idea that their diet is being looked after, they’re being encouraged to get out of bed and walk around and get some gentle exercise, and also that they’re encouraged to socially interact with other people, these are great skills that older people don’t use in hospital and could then perhaps take home with them.”
Robyn said she had not previously heard about EWE but was keen to help promote and contribute to the program.
“There needs to be a way of preparing older people for when they are discharged from hospital and back into the community,” she said.
“The two experiences I’ve had with the hospital were worlds apart; the second time was more positive, and I wonder now if EWE had something to do with that.”
Eileen McGrath, Rachel McMahon, and Robyn Moore
New ultrasound a ‘game changer’ for north Queensland IBD patients
Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are receiving faster and less invasive care thanks to a new specialist ultrasound machine at Townsville University Hospital.
The dedicated machine provides rapid and accurate disease assessment for patients experiencing flareups of chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, dramatically reducing waiting times for diagnosis and treatment.
For Crohn’s patient Ty Lawler, who has lived with the condition for 14 years, the new technology was a game changer.
“When I have had a flare-up in the past I would need to get blood test and stool samples to confirm my bowel was inflamed; meanwhile with this ultrasound the team can see within minutes what the issue is and we could start treatment within no time,” he said
Ty, 35, has undergone more than 30 colonoscopies since being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 21 years old and said the new machine provided immense relief by reducing the need for frequent invasive procedures.
“Thankfully it means less procedures like colonoscopies, which carry their own risk,” he said.
“Colonoscopies also require bowel prep ahead of the procedure, which for many people and myself included is the worst part of the procedure.”
Gastroenterologist Dr Desmond Patrick said the dedicated ultrasound machine was a major advancement in IBD care for the region.
“Because IBD is a chronic condition, patients need frequent re-assessment of disease which is easy and quick to do with bowel ultrasound,” Desmond said.
“It allows for rapid disease assessment and change in management, if required, and significantly reduces the number of colonoscopies and traditional imaging procedures and is a major advance in care particularly for our regional and remote patients.
“This is a significant investment into IBD care in the north Queensland region and while we have only had the machine for a short time, we have already directly seen an improvement with the patient experience which has led to better health outcomes.
“While this technology won’t eliminate the need for colonoscopies or traditional imaging scans such as CT and MRI entirely, it is a powerful new tool for our teams. It’s a win for our patients and for the quality and efficiency of our service.”
Dr Ei Swe, Crohn’s disease patient Ty Lawler, and Dr Desmond Patrick
Survivor makes passionate plea for women to prioritise breast screening
A Townsville breast cancer survivor has encouraged north Queensland women to prioritise 30 minutes of their time to save their life.
Lynette Kim Sing was the guest speaker at Thursday’s BreastScreen Queensland’s Pink Ribbon morning tea at Domain Central, recounting her own cancer journey after being prompted by her GP to book a mammogram in 2020.
“I didn’t have any of the usual signs like lumps or pain in my left breast, so I wasn’t expecting anything to be wrong,” Lynette said.
“I’m so thankful an amazing radiographer detected a tiny speck which turned out to be a tumour.
“Because it was found at such an early stage, my surgeon was able to successfully remove it without me needing a mastectomy.
“It is quite frightening to discover you have a cancer tumour when you have no symptoms, which is why screening is so important.”
Lynette said she was now passionate about encouraging other women to get checked regularly.
“I know the screening might involve some momentary discomfort but for the sake of finding out that you’re okay, it is a top priority for all women,” she said.
“I’m especially passionate about promoting screening to our First Nations ladies. We need them to understand the importance of having those scans done just to check and make sure they’re okay.”
Townsville Hospital and Health Service surgeon Dr April Miu said Lynette’s story was a perfect example of why screening was critical.
“Finding a cancer when it is small, like Lynette’s, often allows for more treatment options and leads to better long-term outcomes,” April said.
“It’s great that Townsville leads the state in screening rate, and we want to build on that success because we know it saves lives.”
April said the accessibility of the service meant there was no reason to delay.
“We understand that life is busy, but a 30-minute appointment every two years is an investment in your future,” she said.
“There’s no need for a doctor’s referral, and BreastScreen Queensland’s mobile service travels extensively across the region to make it as convenient as possible. “
Women aged 40 and over can book a free breast screen by calling 13 20 50 or by visiting breastscreen.qld.gov.au.
Townsville Hospital and Health Service
Dr April Miu and breast cancer survivor Lynette Kim Sing
Alisha takes the lead putting people front and centre in care
The health service has strengthened its focus on putting people at the centre of care with the appointment of Alisha Dicton as the organisation’s new person-centred care coordinator.
Alisha takes on the role after more than a decade working across clinical and project roles at the health service.
She said her new position would focus on helping staff continue to deliver the kind, compassionate and individualised care the organisation is known for.
“Our staff already deliver person-centred care every day, and the feedback we receive from patients is overwhelmingly positive,” Alisha said.
“My role is about supporting the system and our staff so they can keep doing that consistently, especially when workloads are heavy, or pressures are high.”
The person-centred care role, which now sits within clinical governance, reflects a shift in focus from running stand-alone patient initiatives to making person-centred care part of the health service’s core business.
Having worked in the organisation for almost 11 years, Alisha brings extensive experience and a range of perspectives to the position.
“I started as a speech pathologist, then moved into project management, including leading the brain and spinal cord injury project,” she said.
“That work led to new services like the concussion service, multidisciplinary brain injury clinics and the north Queensland spinal cord injury service.
“The big lesson from that time was how powerful collaboration can be when allied health, nursing, medicine and management come together.”
Alisha said the biggest challenges for person-centred care today stemmed from the high demand on the health system and the increasingly diverse needs of patients.
“We see people from refugee backgrounds, First Nations communities and people going through grief or trauma; each needs a different approach.
“At the same time, patients today are more informed and want to be actively involved in their care. Balancing all that can be tricky, but it comes back to one thing every time: communication.
“If staff have solutions for making things better in their area, I want them to reach out to me; my door is always open.”
Alisha Dicton
Ping pong with a purpose returns to TUH
Get ready to rally – Talkin’ Table Tennis is back!
Townsville Hospital and Health Service staff will soon have an opportunity to show off their ping pong prowess as registrations open for the annual Talkin’ Table Tennis event.
It’s back for another year with players and teams encouraged to put their names forward to take part in the friendly competition which helps to raise awareness of men’s health issues.
Year on year, the competition has continued to grow in importance and relevance, and director of health, safety and wellbeing Catherine Duffy said she expected this year’s competition to be the biggest yet.
“The continued growth and interest in the event highlight the importance of informal support networks in high-pressure workplaces like hospitals,” Catherine said.
“This event is much more than just table tennis. It’s a catalyst for conversation.
“Men can often be too stoic and hesitant to talk about their health or discuss healthcare issues with their friends or family.
“This table tennis event creates a relaxed space where men can connect with other people, build friendships, and feel more comfortable about checking in with one another.
“It’s just a fun and easy way to break down some of those barriers to discussing important issues.”
While the competition is aimed at raising awareness about men’s health issues, Catherine said that although the heats are only open to men, it was not just for men.
“I would love to see women getting involved and supporting the event by cheering the players on,” she said.
“It’s an inclusive event for everyone, and a great opportunity to take a break from our often stressful days to have a bit of fun and unwind with our colleagues.”
The competition starts on Tuesday 11 November and will run for two weeks, with the grand final to be played on Thursday 27 November. Join us in the RDA foyer.
Registrations close on Friday, 24 October
Click the link to go to QHEPS to register and for more information.
For more information reach out to the Health Safety and Wellbeing team on 4433 1752 or email WellbeingTHHS@health.qld.gov.au.
Adam Stringini, Glenn Jackson, Catherine Duffy, Mark Enders, Nigel Devlin, Jason Wilson
Three-day digital blitz coming to TUH
Tech relief is coming for Townsville University Hospital (TUH) staff as the digital health and knowledge teams in partnership with eHealth Queensland will set aside three full days to help resolve digital issues.
The team is hosting an ‘Digital Blitz’ and making themselves available to discuss technology issues with hospital staff.
They will set up a help desk and job registration kiosk at the Wenlock Room on the ground floor near oncology from 14 to 16 October.
Information technology services director Michael Barber said the aim was for the digital teams to proactively engage and connect with colleagues across the hospital.
“Most of us are very busy and often don’t have time to sit down and figure out those little digital issues we experience; often people just find a work around for them, which is less efficient,” Michael said.
“The Digital Blitz is an opportunity to talk face to face with one of our digital experts to discuss your technology problems and come up with a solution.
“It will be a one-stop shop for hospital staff to resolve tech issues, from hardware queries to software glitches, in a face-to-face setting.
“Our goal is to ensure technology is an asset, not a barrier, for staff.
“The Digital Blitz is an opportunity for us to listen to feedback and provide on-the-spot solutions, making it easier for our teams to do their vital work.”
As part of the blitz, teams will also be walking through all areas of TUH (Douglas campus) to discuss any technology-related issues, including devices connected with ieMR.
Digital services nursing director Robyn Copley said it was an opportunity for staff to ask some of the ieMR team members about functionality questions related to it.
“This is a chance for clinical teams to take advantage of the direct access to ICT and ieMR teams and I encourage people to take the opportunity,” Robyn said.
“Watch out for posters to find out when we will be walking through your areas.”
The Digital Blitz is on from 14 to 16 October at the Wenlock Room near the entrance to oncology.
For more information, visit QHEPS or contact the Digital Blitz hotline on 1800 959 429.
Michael Barber and Robyn Copley
Dr Helen Fraser Meet
What is your role as a clinician?
I’ve just moved into the role of director of medical services rural hospitals service group. Rural communities are the heart of Australia and Townsville Hospital and Health Service is just that, a health service, not just the university hospital. We have a responsibility to ensure that our rural sites with the HHS are supported and we look to identify ways in which there is a greater collaboration and investment to improve the outcomes for all people in our region.
What inspired you to join the Clinical Council?
What feedback/suggestions would you like to hear from your peers for the Clinical Council?
Let us know if there are recurrent issues that have been raised with your managers that you are not getting feedback about that affects staff, or when clinicians are not being involved or engaged in decisions that are affecting them.
I wanted to better understand the actions of the HHS and supporting keeping clinicians involved in decision-making. I have 12 months remaining on the council as part of a second term after stepping back from the chair position, but am proud of the work I was able to achieve as chair and, most importantly, the review and revamp of the Clinician Engagement Strategy.
Meet
James
Slade
What inspired you to join the Clinical Council?
What is your role as a clinician?
I am a non-clinical member of the council and work as the senior coordinator and loading dock manager within support services. I am responsible for overseeing the management of waste, linen, and medical gasses, as well as coordinating all daily deliveries in and out of the hospital dock. I enjoy collaborating with infrastructure on new developments, ensuring the needs of non-clinical cleaning services are met, which is both engaging and professionally fulfilling.
I was motivated to join the Clinical Council to gain greater involvement in the activities and decision-making processes within the HHS. I aim to contribute the knowledge and insights I have developed from a non-clinical perspective, adding value through my experience in support services and operational management.
What is something you feel passionately about that you’ve brought to the Clinical Council?
Through my involvement in waste management, I would like to bring forward the topic of recycling to the Clinical Council. My goal is to explore opportunities to enhance our environmental sustainability practices and identify ways to improve the green footprint of the HHS.
A BrighterNote...
Brighter Lives and Beach Hotel go pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This October, Brighter Lives is teaming up with the Beach Hotel to fundraise for equipment to help support women with breast cancer in north Queensland.
Throughout the month, the Beach Hotel will be pink themed, even swapping their tips for donations. A signature pink drink has been specially concocted and available for October only, with proceeds going directly to Brighter Lives.
The month will finish with a fundraising event on 25 October, the Century 21 Brighter Brunch - a three-hour bottomless brunch featuring live entertainment, unlimited canapes and auctions.
Funds raised will go towards purchasing a SCOUT surgical guidance system, an innovative piece of equipment, that helps provide precise, less invasive treatment for women with breast cancer.
Breast care clinical nurse consultant Claire Smith said the SCOUT would revolutionise breast cancer treatment and reduce time to surgery for local women.
“Having a SCOUT will be a first for north Queensland,” Claire said.
“The equipment uses wire-free radar localisation to help make detecting and removing breast tumours less invasive, as well as helping surgeons optimise breast conservation strategies.”
Beach Hotel owner Bart Furst said the team was proud to get behind Brighter Lives.
“This is a cause that is close to my heart,” Bart said.
“We are inviting everyone to be part of something special that will make a real difference for women and those close to them in our region.
“One hundred percent of funds raised via the website and at the Brighter Brunch will stay here in north Queensland and help make a difference locally.”
Tickets to the Brighter Brunch are available on the Brighter Lives website.
Claire Smith, Karen Groves, Dr April Miu, Dr Alec Winder, and Sarah Vidmar
After seven weeks of treatment both chemo and radiation, we truly couldn’t have had better care. Our cancer co-ordinator was fantastic. Well done & thank you.
RADIATION THERAPY
The TUH Eye clinic is a credit to the staff that work there. It is an extremely busy clinic but staff always take care and are empathetic to each patient they treat. The TUH should be very proud of them.
I found my meal delicious, flavourful and nutritious. It was also the right type of food following my surgery.
Capital works update
Project: North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service
Work location: South Block Level 3 Cold Shell
Project: eHealth Infrastructure Maintenance Program
Work location: Various locations in TUH
Project: Hybrid Theatre
Work location: TUH Acute building Level 2 Operating Theatres Complex
Project: North Queensland Persistent Pain Management Service (NQPPMS) upgrade
Work location: Medilink building Level 2 current NQPMMS suite
Project: Charters Towers CT Scanner
Work location: Charters Towers Health Service
Works currently underway Works on the way
Project: Ingham CT Scanner
Work location: Ingham Health Service
Have any questions?
Project: Kirwan Health Communty Campus expansion
Work location: Kirwan Health Campus
Project: Multi-storey car park
Work location: Townsville University Hospital
Plans are currently underway to support staff through the changes that will occur in the coming months.
To accommodate so much growth at TUH, some staff will be required to relocate to new office spaces and to support this, we have commenced a Business Case for Significant Change with those teams who will be impacted by works undertaken at TUH.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss any proposed changes, please contact the chief operating officer via email or THHS-InfrastructureOffice@health.qld.gov.au.
Recipe of the blah Creamy goat’s cheese and capsicum risoni
Laugh of the blah
Supplied by TUH dietitians
Ingredients
• 250g risoni pasta (orzo)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 310g jar chargrilled red capsicum roughly chopped
• 2 cups tomato passata
• 1/2 cup sliced
Method
Kalamata olives
• Salt and pepper
• 120g goat’s cheese
• 1 tightly packed cup basil leaves or 1 tbsp roughly chopped parsley, plus extra for garnish
1. Boil risoni – Bring a small pot or large saucepan of water to the boil. Add salt and cook risoni until just under al dente (ie still a bit firm inside) as it will cook more in the sauce. 8 minutes for me.
2. Drain & rinse – Just before draining, scoop out 1/2 cup pasta cooking water and set aside. Drain, rinse briefly under the tap then leave the risoni in the colander while you finish the sauce.
3. Sauté – Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes until starting to soften. Add garlic and capsicum strips. Cook for 2 minutes until the onion is softened.
4. Simmer – Add tomato and olives. Bring to a simmer, lower heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring every now and then.
5. Melt goat cheese – Add cooked risoni, salt, pepper and the pasta cooking water. Stir to combine. Add most of the goat’s cheese (reserve some for garnish), stir so it melts.
6. Basil & serve – Stir through basil or parsley just before serving. Divide between bowls. Crumble over reserved goat’s cheese, sprinkle with extra basil. Dig in with a spoon!
Classifieds
FOR SALE
2009 Toyota Prado GX Turbo Diesel Auto long range fuel tank. 341000km. Well taken care of with heaps of extras - spot lights, bulbar, tow ball, rhino roof racks, awning, cargo barrier, new tyres, UHF radio, + more $21000 ONOContact Nic 0402 254 551 (10/10)
FOR RENT
Newly built house, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom and 1 garage for rent $550 per week in Condon. No pets allowed. Spacious bedrooms and outdoor area. Shed included and fully fenced. Available for moving in from November, Please contact Margaret on 0403 733 929 if interested. (10/10)
South Townsville, modern 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment in the secure Abode Apartments. $500 per week. Ideal for a professional couple, featuring open plan living, air-conditioning, and a large patio with park and city views. Includes ensuite, dishwasher, dryer, secure parking with storage, and lifts. Walking distance to the Stadium, CBD, and The Strand. (10/10)
3 bedroom house available now in Wulguru. Close to the hospital. Fully furnished. $400 per week. Phone Karen for further information 0450 476 798 (10/10)
Lodgings urgently needed before end of October; short to medium term; safe and suitable for single quiet lady; does not need to be furnished. Granny flat, unit, house sitting with secure/off street car parking would be great. Previous homeowner recently relocated to Townsville. Clean and tidy. Contact Rebecca 0428633843 or email Rebecca.Schaffer@health. qld.gov.au (10/10)
Email classifieds to tsv-public-affairs@health.qld.gov.au with subject ‘Classifieds’. Do not send classifieds as attachments.
Photos will not be included. Submissions for classifieds should be no longer than 50 word in a plain-text email. Classifieds longer than this will not be included.
Classifieds will stay current for two issues of the blah. If you would like your ad to be continued after this time please resend the ad. We do not advertise services in the blah.
