This morning held a special significance for many of us here at Townsville University Hospital as we honoured and paid tribute to military personnel on Anzac Day. I had the honour of emceeing our dawn service and it was great to see so many familiar faces at it. It was genuinely striking to see the level of support for our small service held within the hospital grounds. We hold this event each year, understanding that many of our staff are rostered on shift, and numerous patients, due to their health conditions, are unable to attend the larger public services held across the city.
One of the highlights of the service was hearing from one of our own, veteran and TUH enrolled nurse Liam Orphin who delivered a deeply personal commemorative address. His words reminded us of the human stories behind the uniform and the sacrifices made. Liam is just one of many ex-service members who now work in our health service. To Liam, and to all our staff who have previously served in the ADF, I thank you for your service to our country. Anzac Day serves as a solemn reminder for all of us to pause, reflect, and pay our respects to every serviceman and servicewoman, past and present.
This morning, with the permission of his family, I spoke of the service of 100-year-old World War II veteran Dawson Reimers who is currently in TUH. I was honoured to speak his name at our service.
This week saw the release of the Health Capital Review or the ‘Sangster Report’ after its author, Sam Sangster. You can find the report here and the government’s response here. As I have said on a few occasions, I had the opportunity to meet with the author as part of his research and I was then, and am still, impressed by his grasp of the challenges we face and his understanding of the steps required to address them. The report notes that our expansion was delivering 70 per cent of the previously planned scope. The government’s response to commit an additional 22 extra beds is welcome. We have
TownsvilleHospitalandHealthService
been asked to revisit our clinical service plan and subsequent master plan. As it happens, we were preparing to re-visit the clinical service plan so we will adjust that plan to ensure we focus on the questions being asked in the report and meet the expectation of delivering a revised business case to the Department of Health. When I know more about those time-lines I will let you know, suffice to say though we will get our skates on.
The passing of Pope Francis and the widespread acknowledgement from across the world and many faiths of his contribution is a reminder of how important faith is to many of us. I am pleased that in this edition of the blah we introduce the new coordinator of the multi-faith pastoral care team, Michael Bridgefoot. It is timely reminder of the significant role that faith, spirituality, and pastoral support play for many within the healthcare setting for patients, their families, and our own staff members. Healthcare journeys can often involve moments of deep reflection, uncertainty, or distress, and the presence of compassionate spiritual care can be incredibly grounding and comforting for people from all walks of life and belief systems. We are fortunate to have their service available and I encourage staff to utilise it for themselves if they need to and to ensure patients are aware of their option to access a faith service.
The Townsville HHS has been invited to be part of the Corruption Perceptions Survey 2025 that is being conducted across Queensland by the Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC). This is your opportunity to contribute to knowledge about corruption risks, resistance, and integrity within our organisation and beyond. The survey is completely voluntary and anonymous, and the results will be analysed by independent market research agency EY Sweeney. The survey closes COB Friday, 9 May 2025, click here to find out more.
Until next time. kk
Soldier turned nurse shares Anzac message
You leave it, it never leaves you.
Those are the words of enrolled nurse Liam Orphin reflecting on his time in the Australian Defence Force.
Liam served more than six years with the 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment which saw him spend time in Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore.
It’s a period of his life the 27 year old was very proud of and shared while he delivered the commemorative address at this year’s Anzac Day Dawn Service at Townsville University Hospital today.
The address focused briefly on his time in and out of the military, and also on the importance of honouring Australia’s service men and women for their sacrifice.
“It’s the sacrifices of those past generations of soldiers that have helped pave the way for our current freedoms, and that’s worth remembering and honouring,” Liam said.
“I was very proud to get the tap on the shoulder and be asked to deliver the commemorative address for this year.
“I come from a family that has a long association with the defence force. I had relatives who served in Korea and Vietnam, and my dad served in the 3rd Battalion as well.
“It was very special to be given the opportunity to address everyone, share my experience, and pay my respects to past and present service people.”
Liam left the defence force three years ago following the birth of his son, Hudson, to spend more time at home being a dad.
Despite the change, Liam said there were many similarities between the two jobs.
“When I was a soldier, I never wanted to let my mates down. I would give everything to make sure I was supporting them,” he said.
“While working in healthcare might be different, that same feeling of not wanting to let my mates down has stayed with me.”
Enrolled nurse Liam Orphin
This Anzac Day, we reflect on 110 years since the Gallipoli campaign and commemorate all Australians who have served in times of peace and war.
Lest We Forget
Service group director women’s and children’s Vicki Carson, HSCE Kieran Keyes, and Dr Kunwarjit Sangla
Benjamin Cornish and occupational therapist Jonathan Grigg
ADF chaplain David Kelly, enrolled nurse Liam Orphin, and HSCE Kieran Keyes
Enrolled nurse Liam Orphin
National Servicemen’s Association of Australia Townsvile secretary Ian Kuhl
Townsville Brass Band bugler Roy Hosking
Townsville Hospital and Health Service
HSCE Kieran Keyes and occupational therapist Jonathan Grigg
Harwell Home Care’s Tamika Perkins
Health security officer Jason Cipollino
TUH staff at Thuringowa Anzac Day march
Open Arms’ Denis Devantier
Enrolled nurse ‘JJ’ Jarrott and HSCE Kieran Keyes
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.
Lest We Forget
Rhys uses lived experienced to advocate for staff safety
The Townsville Hospital and Health Service has welcomed Rhys Studders as its new occupational violence prevention advisor, a role dedicated to improving staff safety and reducing workplace violence.
With 14 years’ experience in policing across the Northern Territory and Queensland, Rhys brings a unique perspective to the role.
Rhys said he decided to take on a role with the health service to turn difficult experiences into meaningful prevention work.
“Throughout my policing career, I worked closely with people experiencing mental illness, intoxication, or cognitive impairments,” he said.
“Unfortunately, during my time as a police officer, I was also regularly exposed to violence and aggression at work, so I understand what it’s like to be on the receiving end of this behaviour.”
Rhys said his lived experience had helped him connect with health service staff on a personal level.
“When I speak with staff affected by violence, I share a bit of my story; I think that builds trust and shows them I genuinely understand what they’re going through,” he said.
Rhys said his role with the health service involved reviewing reported incidents of occupational violence, following up with affected staff and managers, and conducting investigations into more serious incidents.
“My investigations aren’t about blaming individuals, they’re about understanding how we, as an organisation, can support our workers and keep them safe,” he said.
“It’s also about identifying what else we can put in place to stop these incidents from happening again.”
Rhys encouraged staff to report all incidents of workplace violence, including verbal aggression, through Riskman.
“Even if something feels minor, it’s important to report it, not only for individual safety, but because we need data to understand where violence is happening.”
Rhys said the most rewarding part of the job so far was the feedback he’d received from staff.
“It’s been wonderful to hear from staff who say they feel supported and safer after dealing with our team, because ultimately that is the goal we’re trying to achieve.”
Occupational violence prevention advisor
Rhys Studders
Sophie’s a finalist for Queensland trainee award
Ingham Health Service’s Deadly Start trainee
Sophie Johnson has stood out against more than 750 applicants to be named as a finalist in the Queensland Training Awards.
The 17 year old was one of five people in the running for the north Queensland region School-based Apprenticeship or Trainee of the Year Award.
Sophie was the first rural-based participant in the Deadly Start trainee program, an initiative to help young First Nations Australians gain experience and certification for a career in healthcare.
She is in the final few months of the program and said she had enjoyed the experience.
“It has helped me to define what I want to do when I leave school, and that is work in healthcare and help out my community,” Sophie said.
“The most rewarding part of the traineeship has been supporting others.
“As part of the program I have also been able work across all areas of the health service, which has given me a great understanding of the complexities and interconnectedness of healthcare.
“Having that understanding has helped me in being able to communicate with patients, particularly First Nations people in the community.”
Senior Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health worker Diana Friday was one of the many staff members to work alongside Sophie during her traineeship and said the Gilroy Santa Maria College student had quickly become a favourite.
“Sophie has thrived in the healthcare environment and has shown a real passion for helping people and becoming an emerging leader in the community,” Diana said.
“Her passion for helping others has been evident since day one.
“As part of the traineeship she works with us one day a week; however, on school holidays she is always asking to work more.
“Sophie has been a great role model for other people in the community and her deep connection to her community has not only shone through in how she has interacted with patients, but also through her involvement with Vinnie Youth and her efforts in organising yarning circles.
“She has been a valuable addition to the Ingham Health Service for both staff and patients.”
The north Queensland region winners will be announced in July, with those winners to competing for the Queensland award in September.
Volunteer’s leap of faith to become Townsville HHS’s new pastoral care coordinator
Sometimes a quiet presence and a listening ear is the greatest support for patients at Townsville University Hospital.
It’s something volunteers like Michael Bridgefoot dedicate their time to providing through the pastoral care service.
Michael just isn’t a pastoral care visitor; he is also the new coordinator for the multi-faith pastoral care team at the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.
He said his dual volunteer roles see him split between visiting patients on the surgical wards as well as organising and keeping an eye on the whole multi-faith team.
“I’ve been a pastoral care visitor for a few years, but the coordination of the service is new to me,” Michael said.
“The role involves managing team administration, ensuring training is up to date, organising the meetings, and liaising between the volunteer team and the hospital. However, the core focus is always on the patients.
“The service is about offering support to patients during vulnerable moments no matter what faith they are.
“At the end of the day it isn’t about growing a faith, it’s about supporting a patient who is going through a really rough time.”
Michael said in his role as coordinator he wanted to ensure his diverse team, which represented various faiths, worked together towards a common goal.
“We all want the same outcome, so we’re there to support people that are sick, and the team is really good at doing that,” he said.
“Unfortunately, our team of volunteers isn’t here all the time but they are always accessible.
“I have my mobile on me all the time, and if I don’t answer I will ring back.
“If someone needs pastoral care then we try our hardest to come along and visit as soon as we can.”
For more information on pastoral care email chaplains_service@health.qld.gov.au or call Michael on 0447 880 993.
New pastoral care coordinator Michael Bridgefoot
Back: Therese Reid, Sophie Johnson, and Holly Backo
Front: Diana Friday
Roll up your sleeves: Townsville HHS staff urged
to
get protected against the ‘flu
The Townsville’s Public Health Unit has urged health service staff to lead by example and get vaccinated agaisnt influenza.
It comes as messaging in the community ramps up ahead of what could be a busy ‘flu season in north Queensland.
Director Dr Steven Donohue said it was important for doctors, nurses, allied health and support staff to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated as well.
“A lot of us are at the frontline of healthcare in the community and it is important we are not only leading by example but also limiting our exposure to the virus,” Steven said.
“Anyone who has had influenza will tell you how horrible a disease it is.
“Some of our patients are highly vulnerable and we need to ensure we are doing everything possible to protect them from influenza.
“Getting vaccinated isn’t just about personal health; it’s a professional responsibility to safeguard those we care for.”
Steven said there was a chance the ‘flu season could place significant pressure on the health system.
“Widespread vaccination among staff is a critical step in maintaining our capacity to provide care,” he said.
“Getting a ‘flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the ‘flu and its complications for almost everyone.
“I encourage staff to take advantage of the Townsville HHS Vaccination Fiesta which has been in Townsville and will be travelling to other areas in the HHS over the coming weeks.
“You can also get your vaccination from a GP, pharmacy, community clinic, or other vaccination providers.
“It is free for all Queenslanders aged six months or older.”
Visit QHEPS for more information on the Townsville HHS Vaccination Fiesta.
Record month in emergency for Ayr Health Service
Staff at Ayr Health Service’s emergency department are taking a moment to collect themselves, having attended to a recordbreaking number of patients in March.
Medical superintendent Dr Ben Lawry said it was one of the busiest he’d seen for many years.
“On a normal day-to-day basis, we’re hitting averages of 50 to 51 patients a day, which is up from 38 to 40 a day,” Ben said.
Director of nursing Tracey Gabiola praised staff for their dedication to serve the community.
“Particularly because we’re a rural town, we see a large variety of presentations via our ED such as multi-trauma, aged persons who require high-level care, cardiac presentations, as well as the usual runof-the-mill coughs and colds,” Tracey said.
“Fortunately, our staff are resilient and highly skilled to meet the increasing demands of the community.”
Ben said the community was what made working at the Ayr Health Service so rewarding.
“One of the easiest things for us is we know a lot of our patients,” he said.
“Taking their history, doing an examination, and doing follow up is a lot easier because we’re in this community as well.
“We’re also able to bring them back through a clinic, so when we’re seeing more than 1,300 patients through ED and another 800 outpatients on top of that.”
Tracey said the experience was also beneficial for future planning for the health service.
“We’ve looked at our operating levels over the past six years and it gives us a real indication of where we’re heading,” she said.
“It’s not going to be like it was before, so as managers we know what is needed for the future and what we need to do to best support our staff, who support the community of the Burdekin.”
Dr Ben Lawry
Townsville Public Health Unit director
Dr Steven Donohue has encouraged Townsville HHS to lead by example and get their ‘flu shot.
Title Title
“Thank you to all the staff for the great effort they put in. I appreciate all the care given to not only my dad but also my mum.”
“I want to express my gratitude to the team of wonderful people helping those in need at a time that is so full of emotion and upheaval in their lives.”
“I spent seven weeks in hospital and wanted to thank everybody for their care. The physiotherapy staff were always bright and happy. All were wonderful.”
A Brighter Note...
Charity auction to win a VIP Cowboys experience
A local law firm has thrown its support behind Brighter Lives by donating a luxury corporate box experience at the Cowboys home game on 17 May, to be auctioned to fundraise for the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.
Donated by Maurice Blackburn Lawyers, the exclusive 10-seat corporate box for the Cowboys vs Sea Eagles game on Friday 17 May.
Maurice Blackburn Townsville’s senior associate Tamara Splatt said they would be some of the best seats in the house for the round 11 clash.
“As locals who live and work in North Queensland, we know how important it is to support local charities like Brighter Lives, where every dollar stays here,” Tamara said.
“It’s important to us that our donation helps people in our own backyard where it’s needed, whether that’s state-of-the-art hospital equipment or projects that help make staying in hospital a bit more comfortable.”
Brighter Lives CEO Stephanie Naunton said the generous donation was a unique opportunity for Cowboys fans to enjoy game day in style, while also supporting healthcare in their own community.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Maurice Blackburn Lawyers for this donation. It’s a great way for local businesses and fans to get behind our mission to brighten the lives of patients, families, and staff across our hospitals,” Stephanie said.
Funds raised through the auction will help fund projects, equipment and research in Townsville Hospital and Health Service.
Want a chance to bid? The auction is live now: www.32auctions.com/brighterbox
Local law firm Maurice Blackburn Townsville has donated their Cowboys’ corporate box to help raise money for Brighter LIves.
Recipe of the blah Anzac biscuits
Capital works update
Works currently underway
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
Works on the way
Project: Ingham CT Scanner
Work location: Ingham Health Service
Project: Charters Towers CT Scanner
Work location: Charters Towers Health Service
Project: Kirwan Health Communty Campus expansion - $40 million
• Combine the flour, oats, coconut and sugar in a large bowl. In a saucepan, melt the butter and then add the golden syrup. Bring it to the boil before removing it from the stove.
• Mix the hot water and bicarb soda and add it to the butter and syrup – it should froth up. Pour this into the dry ingredients and stir together. If the mixture is a little dry, add some water.
• Take spoonfuls of the mixture, roll them into balls and place them on a greased baking tray, about 5cm apart. Use a fork to flatten them and then put them in the oven for 15 minutes* or until they’re golden brown.
Have any questions?
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 email THHSInfrastructureOffice@health.qld.gov.au.
• Once they’re removed from the oven, let the biscuits cool on the baking tray for about a minute, and then move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
*Please note, cooking temperature and time may vary depending on your oven.
Laugh of the blah
Classifieds
FOR SALE
2022 Hyundai Tucson Highlander N Line 2.0 Diesel Auto. $40,990 ONO. 2 years manufacturer warranty remaining. Top trim model, single owner, servicing up to date. Panoramic sunroof, remote start, air conditioned and heated seats, driver seat memory, 360 camera, ability to move vehicle forward and reverse remotely using key. Contact Vanessa 0487689718. (28/3)
Amarok Dual Cab Ute TDI420 with aluminium lockable canopy, 170k KMs, great uteonly selling due to upgrading. Service just completed, service history available and road worthy included. Includes snorkel, UHF, lift kit & more. Located in Annandale. Contact 0414599049 for photos and all details.(28/3)
Grey 2019 ASX Exceed. Regos expires July. Petrol. 73500km Mileage. Sunroof and leather seats. 2 dash cams. Nudge bar and alloy wheels.RCW Certificate valid for 2 months. First owner. No history of flood or repairs. Price: $22,000. Contact Allan on 0474881279. (11/4)
Stilford electric adjustable sit/stand desk. Only 1 year old in very good condition $200 ono. Please call Deb on 0437988541 for enquiries. (11/4)
Household and garden items: Various household and garden items for sale including beds, bed side tables, sofas, recliners, blankets, crockery, bowels, pie maker, cake tins/trays, Tupperware, electric hedgetrimmer, garden tools, outdoor furniture and more. Contact Jill on 0409 778 723. (25/4)
FOR RENT
Self-contained one bedroom unit, inner city Townsville. $525 p/w, lease arrangement flexible. Available now. Contact Marie mariesimmonds828@gmail.com Images: https://www.realestate.com.au/property/27stanton-tce-north-ward-qld-4810/ (28/3)
2-bedroom 2-bathroom semi-detached unit, Rossmead Estate available from 20th April. Electricity included. Contact Diana on 0408000138 for more details. (11/4)
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 may 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.
