Mark your calendars! We’ve set the date for our much-loved Staff Thank You BBQ at Townsville University Hospital for Friday, 19 September. The executive team and service directors will be firing up the barbie to serve you a free lunch as a small token of our appreciation for the extraordinary work you do every day to care for our community. We’re also finalising dates for Thank You events at our other HHS locations, so stay tuned for those announcements. I look forward to these events every year and getting the opportunity to thank many of you face to face for everything you do in caring for the community.
Last Friday, we marked a momentous occasion with the official launch of the North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service at Townsville University Hospital by the Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young. This is a truly significant achievement, making us one of only two health services in Queensland to offer this vital service. It has been years in the making, and this will have a very positive impact on the lives of many people in north Queensland. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this to reality. From Stephen Eaton who led our bid for this service, Billy Bragg who led all of the planning and business case submission work, to Dr Michelle Harfield and her dedicated team for their hard work in commissioning this service.
This week, we were excited to formally launch a partnership between Townsville University Hospital’s DataLab and the Queensland Digital Health Centre (QDHeC) at UQ. This collaboration will be instrumental in translating digital patient records into better, safer, and more efficient care, enabling data-driven decision-making and real-time improvements in clinical practice.
Congratulations to Professor Andrew Mallett and everyone involved from our research team.
Recruitment has opened for appointments to all 16 Queensland hospital and health boards, including Townsville’s. The board has a crucial role in shaping the direction of healthcare within our HHS, and I encourage anyone interested in applying to visit careers.health.qld.gov.au for more information.
The Townsville Hospital and Health Service will once again thank staff for continued service at annual length-of-service award presentations at facilities across the HHS from October. This year, 592 staff will celebrate a combined 9,683 years of continuous service.
The length-of-service awards are presented for milestone years of continuous service, starting at 10 years. Staff must have completed the milestone year in the 2024-2025 financial year without a break in service in excess of three months. If you reach your milestone year after 30 June 2025, you will be recognised in next year’s awards.
If you have reached a milestone year of service, please take the opportunity to visit the lengthof-service QHEPS page to make sure your name appears in the correct milestone year of service.
Please let the engagement team know as soon as possible if there any errors by emailing townsvillehhs-engagement @health.qld.gov.au.
For Townsville staff celebrating a milestone of 20plus years of continuous service, an event will be held at TUH in late October.
Kieran Keyes Health Service Chief Executive
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.
History made as North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service officially launches
A new era of healthcare began in the north when Queensland Governor Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM officially launched the North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service (NQKTS).
The Governor opened the new service at Townsville University Hospital (TUH), establishing regional Australia’s first kidney transplant service, and the first in Queensland outside the south-east corner.
Townsville Hospital and Health Board Chair Tony Mooney said the milestone would be life-changing for Queenslanders with end-stage renal failure.
“This is a historic moment for healthcare in our state, particularly for communities across northern Queensland,” he said.
“For the first time, people across this vast region, including Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, Mount Isa, Cape York, and the Torres Strait, will be able to access life-saving kidney transplants closer to home and, for First Nations peoples, to Country.”
Among the first patients activated onto the local transplant list is 23-year-old Julie Hogben from Townsville.
“This transplant service gives me real hope of a bright future,” Julie said.
Julie was diagnosed with kidney failure just before her 22nd birthday when she was struck down with Goodpasture syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition.
“I went straight into intensive treatment including plasmapheresis, chemo, and dialysis,” she said.
“I was so close to not making it, but dialysis gave me a second chance at life.
“As soon as I found out there was a kidney transplant service opening in Townsville, I said ‘sign me up!’
“Having a locally-based service means I can stay close to my family and recover in my own home; it would be mind-blowing to get my kidney transplant here.”
The North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service team with the Governor and Professor Graeme Nimmo
Townsville Hospital and Health Service Chief
Executive Kieran Keyes said TUH was uniquely placed to deliver transplant care across the region.
“This service will ensure Queenslanders in rural and remote communities aren’t unfairly disadvantaged by distance and isolation,” he said.
“This is especially important for First Nations peoples, who are disproportionately affected by kidney disease.”
NQKTS Director Dr Michelle Harfield said the service was designed with patients like Julie Hogben in mind.
“For many, travelling to Brisbane for surgery and months of follow-up care simply isn’t viable,” Michelle said.
“Under our model of care, transplant surgeries will be performed at Townsville University Hospital, while pre-and-post transplant care will be delivered through hospitals and facilities across the region, close to where patients live.
“This helps reduce both the financial and emotional burden on patients and families.”
Michelle said the service would also work closely with existing renal dialysis networks.
“We’ve built strong relationships with our dialysis patients throughout their treatment journey, and we’ll continue that connection through the kidney transplant service,” she said.
“Launching this service could not have been achieved without the extraordinary collaboration of teams across multiple areas, including pathology, cardiology, renal dialysis, and medical imaging.”
“We are also indebted to DonateLife and to every Australian who agrees to be an organ donor.”
The NQKTS is expected to perform around 30 kidney transplants in its first year.
Townsville Hospital and Health Service h Serv
Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM
Dr Michelle Harfield and Julie Hogben
Jordan Davey, Mike Utsiweogta, Kat Fisher, Lauren Stitt, Mary Leech, Kim Hughes, Dr Aasim Khan, Grace Duarte, Dr Michelle Harfield, Hayley Rosadi, and Dr Nikhil Mahajan
Nerissa Reynolds, the Governor, and Professor Nimmo
The Governor, Kieran Keyes, and Michael Wilhelm
Professor Nimmo, the Governor, and Andrew Cross
Professor Nimmo, Nerissa Reynolds, and the Governor
Dr Michelle Harfield, Professor Nimmo, the Governor, Kieran Keyes, and Dr Nikhil Mahajan
The Governor, Professor Nimmo, Dr Soniah Moloi, and Gary Kershaw
Professor Nimmo, Dr Adeola Ayoola, the Governor, and Annette Cotter
Dr Michelle Harfield, Julie Hogben, Professor Nimmo, the Governor, and Jo Mcardle
Kieran Keyes, Poonam Kumar, Professor Nimmo, and the Governor
Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland
A bright future ahead for organ recipient and nurse, Maddy
For Townsville University Hospital enrolled nurse Maddy Harland, life finally began when she received a long-awaited liver transplant at the age of 25.
Four years on, Maddy hopes her story will encourage others to have the conversation and consider registering for organ donation this DonateLife Week.
Maddy fell into a coma at three-days-old and at three-years-old was diagnosed with carbamoyl phosphate synthetase I (CPS1) deficiency, a one in 100,000 inherited metabolic disorder that affects the body’s ability to remove ammonia from the bloodstream.
Maddy said her diagnosis meant years of managing symptoms and putting hobbies on the shelf.
“I’ve always loved horse-riding and wanted to be a jockey, but I wasn’t able to fully commit due to my illness,” Maddy said.
“I was lucky to have a fairly normal childhood, beyond the medications and intensely controlled diets.
“However, as a teenager I began getting very sick repeatedly.”
Maddy said in the years leading up to her transplant she was in hospital on average every six weeks, including stints in the intensive care unit (ICU).
In 2021, Maddy received the call to move to Brisbane in preparation for a vital liver transplant and after just three weeks she received her transplant.
“The call shocked me; I didn’t realise it was the real thing until I hung up the phone,” she said.
“I received a split graft, meaning the liver was split in half with the smaller half able to be given to a child in need.”
Maddy said the transplant not only kept her alive, but was transformative.
Maddy Harland
“In the years following my surgery, I have gone from strength to strength,” she said.
“I’ve been able to return to horse riding, and my partner Dyan and I moved to Esperance in Western Australia to experience rural life, and I didn’t have to spend every moment worrying about my health.
“I am also getting married next year and will graduate from my Bachelor of Nursing at the end of this year.”
Maddy said she chose to pursue nursing due to her own experience and the experience of her other siblings also afflicted with CPS1 deficiency.
“My goal is to join the Royal Flying Doctor Service as a flight nurse, to bring critical care to remote communities across Australia,” she said.
“Growing up in the country with this condition, alongside my siblings, I saw firsthand how important access to healthcare is.
“I also hope to start a family which was an impossible thought prior to my transplant because of the risk to my health.”
Maddy said she encouraged everyone to have the conversation with their loved ones this DonateLife Week.
“You never know what tomorrow has in store and if your family is faced with the choice, they can at least have an idea of your wishes,” Maddy said.
“If I could say anything to my donor’s family, it would be thank you.
“Their choice at a time that is full of so much grief has given me a second chance and the option of a future that I would never have had.
“It’s hard to put into words how grateful I am.”
TUH donation specialist nurse Meagan Baldwin said DonateLife Week (Sunday 27 July to Sunday 3 August) was Australia’s major public awareness week to encourage more Australians to sign up and support organ and tissue donation.
“Sadly, around 50 people die each year waiting for a transplant,” Meagan said.
“In Australia, your family is always asked to agree to donation; they are much more likely to agree if they know you want to be a donor.
“One organ donor can save the lives of up to seven people and change the lives of many more through eye and tissue donation.
“It only takes one minute to register as an organ and tissue donor at donatelife.gov.au or through your Medicare account.”
Maddy at the Townsville Running Festival
Around the world in 31 days for Active August
The wonders of the world are all within walking distance at Townsville University Hospital (TUH) during August.
The physiotherapy team has set up exhibits and posters of world famous landmarks across TUH as part of its Active August initiative to encourage patients to get out of bed and get moving.
Physiotherapist Jordan Rycen said the goal was to get patients to stay active while they’re staying in the hospital.
“We have been running Active August for more than seven years now,” Jordan said.
“This year, we have gone a bit worldly with our theme and have put up exhibits and information posters all over the hospital of the different wonders of the world.
“It means patients can walk down the corridor if they want to do some sightseeing at Machu Picchu, the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum, or more.
“It creates a point of interest to encourage patients to walk to exhibits, learn a bit about the site, and get some valuable movement in.”
Jordan said active patients tend to have fewer complications and go home sooner.
“Even doing the smallest amount of exercise can have a positive impact in terms of recovery and lowering the risk of complications like blood clots, muscle weakness, bedsores, and pneumonia,” he said.
“While the push is to get patients moving, the initiative is also aimed at raising awareness among staff.
“We all can play a role in encouraging those patients we are caring for to be as active as they can and to promote the benefits of movement to them.
“While we do get a lot of participation in August, we tend to see a bit of a drop-off in the months following.
“We want to see the enthusiasm to get patients out of bed and moving continue throughout the year.
“If anyone needs any help doing that, then the physiotherapy team is just a phone call away.”
Kaylah Holloway, Jordan Rycen, and Ash Bowater
SERTA-fied projects share in $1.4m funding
The Townsville Hospital and Health Service has allocated more than $1.4m to 18 research initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare in north Queensland.
The health service recently announced the winning projects that will share in the funding as part of its Study, Education and Research Trust Account (SERTA) grant program.
The SERTA grants are annual funding opportunities for Townsville HHS staff to support their research, education, and professional development.
Director of clinical research Professor Andrew Mallett said grants like these were crucial to advancing healthcare.
“Clinical excellence goes hand in hand with research excellence; you can’t have one without the other,” Andrew said.
“The advances we have in clinical care for patients are due to research. It is a tool that helps us to do what we do better and more efficiently.
“The funded projects tackle local needs, with potential benefits extending across Australia and globally.
“We aspire to be a leader in health research, and no other health service does as much as we do in this space.”
The funded projects address issues related to digital health, First Nations-led research, and capacity building in rural and regional healthcare settings.
Manager of research governance Trudie Harris said there were a lot of strong and competitive applicants for this year’s funding round.
“We received 33 applications, and the judging panel had a difficult time selecting the 18 winning entries,” Trudie said.
“Every year, the calibre of entries for the program is higher, and it becomes more difficult for the judges to choose.
“Some of this year’s successful projects are making high-tech pregnancy care rural-ready, improving diagnostic testing accuracy in resource-limited settings, and investigating ways to review high-risk patients to reduce hospital admissions.
“Some of these projects have the potential to transform lives.
“Through reading the submissions, you can see the passion and dedication the applicants have in tackling unique healthcare challenges.
“The SERTA grants are not just funding research but helping to improve healthcare delivery for our region.”
Professor Andrew Mallett and Trudie Harris
Deadly Start to healthcare career for high school students
Pride filled Townsville University Hospital’s Robert Douglas Auditorium this week as 11 high school students were draped in their sashes and handed their graduation certificates after completing their Deadly Start traineeships.
Deadly Start is run in collaboration with Queensland Health, Townsville University Hospital, Connect n’ Grow, and the Seed Foundation Australia to give healthcare training and qualification opportunities to high-school aged First Nations Australians.
Indigenous workforce coordinator Alisha Kyle said the program had been successful in getting the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders interested in a career in healthcare.
“This was the second cohort of graduates, and the level of interest that has grown in the program is really encouraging,” Alisha said.
“Over a 12-month period, the kids spent one day a week within the health service learning about all aspects of healthcare while also gaining a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance.
“They got to learn some practical hands-on experience across a wide range of healthcare
fields to give them the knowledge, support, and confidence to pursue a healthcare career.
“Each of these kids put in a lot of hard work to get here and I am very proud of them all.
“We need more First Nations people working in healthcare and programs like this are helping to open the door to that possibility.”
Kirwan State High School student Baylee Gray was one of the 11 students to graduate from the program.
The 18-year-old said she was very proud to have finished the traineeship.
“I learnt so much about healthcare, from simple things like how important something like smiling can be to making a patient feel comfortable to learning health terminology and being able to communicate that to patients,” Baylee said.
“This has been a really good learning experience, and I feel like it has set me up for a career in healthcare.
“It has piqued my interest in pharmacy, and I am now looking at career options of doing something like becoming a pharmacy assistant or a pharmacist.
“I would recommend this program to any First Nations high school student.”
Back row: Yanche – Ka Neal, Peyton Wedel, Lykira Nona, Baylee Gray, Jayden Ah Chee Front row: Sophie Johnson, Taraleah Finta Burton, Clarese Edwards, Kalina Zaro, Jayla Curtis, Skilah Cochrane
Elevating international doctors for success
Accelerated action for gender equality was the theme at the biennial Australian Medical Association (AMA) Women in Medicine breakfast two weeks ago, with international medical graduates (IMG) given the spotlight during the panel discussion section of the morning.
Townsville University Hospital’s director of clinical training NQ IMG Prep Program Associate Professor Rebecca Stewart used her opportunity on the panel to raise awareness of the adversity IMGs, especially females, faced when trying to enter the Australian healthcare workforce.
“These women represent more than half of our internationally trained doctors in Australia, yet they navigate a complex intersection of gender, race, migration, and systemic bias,” she said, during the discussion.
“Meaningful support starts with demystifying institutional processes, mentoring across cultural and language boundaries, and advocating for transparent accreditation pathways.”
Rebecca also said those barriers became more profound in regional and rural settings, where IMGs were more likely to find employment compared to locally trained doctors.
“These women carry a triple burden: complex credentialing, cultural adaptation, and intensified caregiving duties where support services are sparse,’ she said.
“A study showed that female rural generalists are more likely to work part-time, often out of necessity rather than choice.
“By removing the barriers, we support not just individual careers, but the entire backbone of regional health delivery.”
Watching on was a cohort of female IMGs currently undertaking the NQ IMG Prep Program alongside Dr Madhu Senarath Arachchige, who completed the program earlier this year and was successful in gaining her first medical job in Australia at TUH.
Bolstered by an inspirational keynote speech from AMA Queensland vice president, and fellow IMG, Dr Emilia Dauway, the breakfast provided the perfect opportunity for the international doctors to network with other members of the North Queensland medical community.
“A big thank you to (director of medical services rural hospitals service group and Indigenous health services) Dr Helen Fraser for donating the tickets to our program doctors,” Rebecca said.
“It was a wonderful opportunity for them to network and discuss with other female doctors the enablers and barriers for female clinicians, particularly in leadership.”
Townsville
Dr Madhu Senarath Arachchige, Dr Daisy Khaing, Dr Umma Akhi, Dr Udaya Pilutla, A/Prof Rebecca Stewart, Dr Susannah Bond, Dr Carolina Gancia, Dr Ruqsar Unnisa
Family ties lead to Hughenden
Nurses in rural towns are worth their weight in gold and the Hughenden Multipurpose Health Service has been quietly counting its blessings when not just one, but two nurses from the same family came knocking at its doors.
Registered nurse Harvey Ligsay had just finished up a contract in rural New South Wales and was looking around for his next rural adventure when he saw a position advertised for Hughenden.
“I had been working in Canberra for a while and when I saw that Queensland Health were offering good incentives to work rurally so I applied and got the job,” Harvey said.
“I love working in rural towns and I can’t see myself going back to a busy, big hospital anymore.
“All the stress and traffic; everything here in Hughenden is so calm and relaxed.”
Harvey’s daughter, Stephanie, on the other hand, did not have the same initial attraction to the outback.
“I was already working full time in Canberra but I missed my family, so I came here just to visit at first,” Stephanie said.
“I occasionally do some agency work, so sometimes I’ll take a break and work elsewhere, but because I missed my sister especially, I came here and ended up staying.”
The father-daughter team have been enjoying the outback experience together.
“Hughenden is such a beautiful area, the sunsets are beautiful, and the lake is good to walk around and get some exercise,” Harvey said.
“It’s really nice to see Stephanie at work as well, working together as a family.”
“Rural has its charms,” Stephanie said.
“I also love the staff we get to work with here; Karen, the DON (director of nursing) is amazing and has created a great workplace.
“I also love to travel, which can be quite expensive, and it’s a lot easier to save money here than it is in the city.”
Father and daughter Harvey and Stephanie Ligsay
Midwife Kieri delivers performance of a lifetime in Townsville production
Kieri Darrigan is no stranger to caring for others, whether it’s welcoming new life as a midwife at Townsville University Hospital (TUH) or bringing joy to theatre audiences.
This August, she’ll be doing just that as she takes the stage in the Townsville Choral Society’s vibrant new musical production of &Juliet.
Running from August 14 to 23 at the Townsville Civic Theatre, &Juliet flips the script on Shakespeare’s classic tragedy.
Instead of following Romeo in death, Juliet chooses to rewrite her own story, embarking on a journey of self-discovery set to a soundtrack of pop anthems by Max Martin, including hits like “Roar,” “It’s My Life,” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling.”
Kieri has worked at TUH across the maternity birth suite and emergency department for the past eight years and very fittingly will be playing the lead role of Angelique, Juliet’s nurse, in the August production.
Kieri said it had been fun leaning into the role of Angelique, a sharp-tongued and spirited nurse who leads Juliet through her journey.
“I think my real-life nursing experience helps me to bring a nurturing quality to the character,” Kieri said.
“Though there aren’t any technical medical skills required for the role, I still feel like it’s helped me hone the role and add an extra layer to her story.”
Kieri said she had been involved with the musical theatre community in Townsville for about ten years, participating in countless shows.
“I’ve performed on stage, worked backstage, and even played French horn in the band,” Kieri said.
“Some of my favourite shows have been Les Misérables, Legally Blonde, Spring Awakening, 9 to 5, Heathers, and Alice by Heart.
“Theatre is a great hobby and a stress-reliever from my everyday life and what can be a very demanding job.
“It also offers a sense of community, creativity, and joy, and on top of all of that I have met some of my closest friends through my involvement in shows.
“&Juliet will definitely be one of the highlights of Townsville’s theatre calendar and I encourage everyone to get their tickets.”
Townsville HHS public affairs officer Louise Hayes will also be taking the stage in the production.
Tickets are available now via TicketShop (townsville. qld.gov.au).
Kieri Darrigan
Soup-er fundraiser warming bellies and raising money
The comforting aroma of soup wafted through the corridors of Townsville University Hospital as someone exclaimed, “Soup day is the best day of the year!” marking the fifth time Townsville University Hospital (TUH) dietitians and speech pathologists hosted their Soup for the Soul fundraiser.
Combining her passions of food and caring for head and neck cancer patients, senior oncology dietitian Sarah Deacon recalled how the annual event came to fruition.
“Soup for the Soul is an initiative from Head and Neck Cancer Australia and another colleague and I worked together to bring it to TUH in 2020,” Sarah said.
“We were wanting to do a fundraiser for head and neck cancer because there’s not a lot of funding for research, support, and education like some of the other cancers.
“I’m really passionate about head and neck cancer and looking after those patients; it doesn’t receive a lot of attention on a national stage and I think it’s really important.”
Support for the yearly collaboration between dietetics and speech pathology has been steadily growing, with more cooks in the kitchen and more staff happily digging deep for their bowl of soup.
“We’ve recruited more people to make more soup, the response has been overwhelmingly positive and they’re always asking us to do it more than once a year, but it’s a lot of effort for that,” Sarah said.
“We’ve even had pre-orders this year from people who knew their lunch breaks wouldn’t happen at the right time but wanted specific soups.
“People have been so incredibly generous and this year we’ve managed to raise $1,624.55, beating last year’s total.”
With 5,300 new head and neck cancer diagnoses every year and more than 17,000 Australians living with the long-term impacts of treatment, money raised from the event goes directly toward education and support programs for the community.
Get the recipe for Sarah’s white bean, bacon and thyme soup on page 23
Courtney Fisher, Monique St Clair, Narissa Gracia, Sarah Deacon, Kate Lovell, and Karlie Aldridge
Model of care bringing comfort to mums and bubs
“Naturally when you’re pregnant you have a lot of questions.
“Having Johanna and Teena involved every step of the way meant I didn’t have to wait for scheduled appointments or tell different people my history each time.”
Kirsten experienced a miscarriage prior to falling pregnant with Meila and said Teena’s support made a profound difference as she began another pregnancy.
“She was there for me through my miscarriage and knew my past experiences, which made everything so much easier,” Kirsten said.
“Having that one person who knows your background and can give you personalised advice and comfort is so valuable.
The midwifery group practice (MGP) model at Townsville University Hospital (TUH) has long been a valuable service for many families seeking connection and comfort during and after pregnancy.
None more so than TUH enrolled nurse Kirsten Ing and her husband, operational services officer Brendon Baker, who have used the MGP model for all three of their children.
The TUH MGP model of care entails a known midwife who works to provide care to families from early in pregnancy, throughout labour and birth, and for up to six weeks after birth.
MGP midwives work closely with obstetricians and other health care professionals, allowing them to care for pregnant women regardless of their pregnancy risk or the complexity of their care.
Kirsten said her experience as part of the MGP model, specifically with her midwives Johanna Quigley and Teena Nuss, felt like having a friend by her side.
“Johanna was our midwife for our first baby and Teena was our midwife for our second, and recently our third Meila who was born in May this year,” Kirsten said.
“Every step from pregnancy to birth to postnatal care was seamless and I was never left guessing.”
Teena has worked as a nurse at TUH for 24 years with 12 of those as part of the MGP model, which she said was an incredible service for north Queensland families.
“The MGP model allows me and other midwives to build deep relationships with women and their families, many of whom return for subsequent pregnancies,” Teena said.
“This familiarity helps with trust and results in better outcomes for mums and bubs.
“Watching women grow from being first-time mums into confident parents is special.”
As a TUH nurse herself, Kirsten said midwives like Teena made her feel proud to work in health.
“I know healthcare workers can have hard days, but everyone from admin to antenatal care, birth suite, and maternity were amazing,” Kirsten said.
“From a patient perspective, I felt proud of the teamwork and professionalism of the staff and won’t forget everything they did for our family.
“I hope to see the MGP service grow to ensure more families can experience the great care that my family and I did.”
Kirsten Ing, her daughter Meila, and Teena Nuss
Towers health workers best in the west
Across the vast, dry, and sometimes desolate backdrop of outback Queensland, two dedicated Townsville Hospital and Health Service staff members are making a big difference in the lives of First Nations Australians.
From their base at Charters Towers Health Service, health worker Wendy Allan and Aboriginal health practitioner trainee Daisha Johnson help to spread crucial and relevant health information to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents in rural communities.
Their work has been highlighted ahead of the National Day of Recognition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners on 7 August.
Wendy said their health advocacy work extended from Charters Towers, to Richmond, and everywhere in between.
“Sometimes we travel hundreds of kilometres in a day to visit First Nations communities,” Wendy said.
“We act as a link between the health service and rural and remote communities to help spread important health information and build trust with First Nations Australians in the health care system.
“Daisha and I are ever-present in the community, from attending significant community events like the NAIDOC march in Charters Towers through to talking to kids at kindergartens.
“Our roles are more than just relaying information; they’re about providing culturally sensitive support, advocating for patients, and helping to navigate what can often be a complex healthcare journey.”
Daisha said a crucial part of their role was listening to people in the community and taking on board their concerns.
“We often tailor our approach, as something that works in one community may not work in another,” Daisha said.
“The role demands being agile as well as sympathetic and available.
“Wendy and I do everything from promoting preventative health measures and chronic disease management to assisting with clinic attendance and explaining complex medical terminology in an accessible way.
“We have built trust in the communities we visit, and I would like to think we helped to break down barriers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in how they view the healthcare system.”
The National Day of Recognition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners recognise the vital contributions of First Nations health workers to improving the health and wellbeing of Indigenous communities. For more information, visit www.naatsihwp.org.
au.
Daisha Johnson and Wendy Allan
New partnership to drive digital health innovation in north Queensland
A new partnership between the Townsville Institute of Health Research and Innovation (TIHRI) and the Queensland Digital Health Centre (QDHeC) is set to transform how health services are delivered across north Queensland.
Through the partnership, the nationally recognised QDHeC, which is based at the University of Queensland, will provide digital health expertise and services to the Townsville HHS.
Townsville Hospital and Health Service director of clinical research and adult nephrologist Professor Andrew Mallett said the collaboration would help unlock new ways to deliver high-quality, data-driven care.
“This partnership will allow the health service to turn its digital health system into a powerful tool for discovering better ways to deliver care, not just for today, but for the future of healthcare in the community.”
Andrew said the digitisation of clinical records had opened up new opportunities to improve health outcomes, provided data was used safely, ethically and with the right systems in place.
“What began as a shift from paper to digital records, has become a much larger transformation,” he said.
“With the right protections and analytics, this information can help us continuously refine how we deliver care and better understand the needs of our patients and communities.”
QDHeC director Professor Clair Sullivan said the centre’s goal was to use digital technologies to improve outcomes, efficiency, and equity in healthcare.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Townsville Hospital and Health Service to build a strong, digitally enabled healthcare team,” she said.
“North Queensland has a broad and diverse health landscape, and by working together, we can deliver better outcomes for the people here.”
Professor Sullivan said the collaboration would also aim to transform healthcare from a reactive model to one focused on prevention.
“Chronic disease is now the major burden, so we need to move away from the old ‘break-fix’ model and instead safely use data to intervene earlier and, where possible, avoid disease altogether.”
Rudolf Schnetler, Professor Andrew Mallett, Marina Daly, Dr Erin Waters, Luke Guazzo, Professor Clair Sullivan, Dr Jodi Austin, and Melanie Kam
A little chamber music for TUH
“They’re building their professional networks, gaining knowledge through masterclasses, coaching and mentoring, and gaining live performance experience at community concerts like this one.”
TUH consumer and community engagement advisor Melissa Gebert said it was wonderful to see so many patients and staff enjoying the free concert.
“AFCM brings world-class entertainment to Townsville, and it was a real privilege to host the Orpheus Wind Quintet and Infront Brass Quintet in our Federation Gardens,” Melissa said.
Townsville University Hospital (TUH) was alive with the sound of classical music when ensembles from the Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM) played a free concert in Federation Gardens for staff and patients.
Philanthropy manager for AFCM Angela Timbs said the collaboration with the Queensland Health: Arts in Health initiative was a natural fit for the organisation.
“Classical music, and music in general, is really known for its effects on wellbeing,” she said.
“We experience this for ourselves as people who work closely with music and we want to share that with the community as much as possible.”
For 90 minutes, staff, patients, and children from the Townsville Hospital School enjoyed performances from the Infront Brass Quintet and the Orpheus Wind Quintet, ensembles whose members are currently participating in AFCM’s Pathways international masterclasses and outreach program.
“These programs are for emerging musicians who get the opportunity to network with experienced, professional musicians taking part in the 10-day festival,” Angela said.
“For the staff and patients who attended, it gave them a great opportunity to take a break from their treatments or busy workday and enjoy some music.”
The Orpheus Wind Quintet
The Infront Brass Quintet showing their instruments to Townsville Hospital School children
I cannot express how much we were looked after. Each and every one that was involved in looking after our son was amazing. Thank you to the Doctors, nurses and Social worker.
PICU
Best service ever. We were wanting to visit a very sick person in surgical ward while travelling via Townsville with caravan. The gentleman I had the pleasure to talk to went over and above with the best outcome for us. Thanks.
HEALTH SECURITY
Whilst visiting today for ultrasounds at medical imaging, the lady booking in was really caring and she made us and the other patients feel comfortable.
MEDICAL IMAGING
A Note...Brighter
Townsville Rotary club’s $150,000 donation towards state-of-the-art medical
A life-changing piece of medical equipment for Townsville became one step closer this week with $150,000 donated by the Rotary Club of Townsville Inc. Community Foundation.
The donation went towards Brighter Lives’ Brighter Day fundraiser with a goal to raise $200,000 to buy a Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) machine for Townsville University Hospital.
Brighter Lives CEO Stephanie Naunton said the NGS tests for different types of cancers as well as bacterial infections including further opportunities for locally led melioidosis research.
“Currently all samples are sent to Brisbane for testing and due to demand the turnaround time is up to eight weeks,” Stephanie said.
“Having the machine here in Townsville means that wait times will be significantly reduced to as little as 24 hours.”
Rotary Club of Townsville’s Tim McKee OAM said the club was committed to making a lasting impact in the community.
equipment
“Supporting the NGS machine is an investment in the future of healthcare for north Queensland,” Tim said.
“Rotary is proud to make this donation to Brighter Lives Brighter Day fundraiser and help keep healthcare close to home.”
Stephanie said they were grateful to Rotary for their generous donation.
“This donation reflects Rotary Townsville’s strong commitment to helping better the health of north Queenslanders,” she said.
“With Rotary’s donation we are now significantly closer to our $200,000 goal and appreciate north Queensland business and community support to help us achieve the final remaining funds for this Brighter Day.”
The fundraiser has been strongly supported by local media, with the Townsville Bulletin, Paradise Outdoor Advertising, Hit 103.1, and Triple M all supporting the cause.
To make a donation, visit www.charidy.com/ brighterlives
Guy Raffe, Tim McKee, Dr Hock-Choong Lai, and Stephanie Naunton
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 White bean, bacon and thyme soup
Laugh of the blah
Supplied by TUH dietitians
Ingredients
• 225g dried white beans, soaked overnight in cold water
• 100g smoked bacon, cut into lardons
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 thyme sprigs, plus extra to serve
• 2 tbs vegetable or extra virgin olive oil
• 30g unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 large leek, trimmed, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
• 150ml milk
• Handful of flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
Method
1. Drain soaked beans and transfer to a large saucepan with 6 cups (1.5L) cold water, smoked bacon, bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Place over high heat and bring to the boil, skimming off foam that rises to the surface. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are partially cooked.
2. Meanwhile, heat the oil and butter in a large frypan over medium-low heat and add the onion, leek, celery and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until softened. Add vegetables to the partially cooked beans with 1 cup (250ml) water and continue to cook for a further 1 hour-1 hour 15 minutes until the beans are tender.
3. Spoon one-third of the beans and some of the liquid into a blender and whiz until smooth. Transfer back into pan, add the milk, then stir to combine and warm through. Season to taste. Scatter over parsley and extra thyme leaves to serve.
Classifieds
Room to rent in modern fully furnished 3 br unit including queen bed. Sharing with two other females in quiet, secure complex with a pool. Non-smoker/vaper, no pets, employed, clean and tidy. On street parking or walking distance to public transport. $235 per week including Wi-Fi. Call Kodee 0429 376 676 or message Sandi 0409 756 487 if interested.
WANTED TO RENT: Looking for Private Rental: 1-2 Bedroom Unit/Apartment in Townsville. Do not require to be Furnished. Prefer Own Private Access Parking and enclosed courtyard. Safe and suitable for a single quiet lady with no pets, clean and tidy. Can produce references. Around or in the $400 per week range. Please contact Bianca on 0422 255 192 or Bianca. Miller@Health.qld.gov.au
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.
