What makes a health service truly great is its people –and from the moment I arrived at Townsville Hospital and Health Service, I’ve seen the skill, dedication, and care that you bring to your work every day. It’s a privilege to be stepping into the role of Acting Chief Executive for the next five weeks. The warmth and generosity of this team has already stood out, and I’m looking forward to working alongside you, celebrating your achievements, and helping set us up for success together.
A little about me: I currently serve as Chief Executive of Torres and Cape HHS, leading a team that delivers care across one of Queensland’s most remote and complex regions. My career has taken me across Queensland, WA, the NT, the ACT and even to Washington D.C., and throughout I’ve held roles as a lawyer, General Counsel, and senior health executive. I’ve also been fortunate to contribute to national reforms such as the Affordable Care Act in the United States and the NDIS here in Australia – experiences that reinforced my commitment to governance, reform, and equity in building sustainable health systems
Outside of work, I live in Cairns with my partner Tara, my 11-year-old stepdaughter Ella, and our two dogs – Panda, a lively French Bulldog, and Pearl, a spirited Miniature Dachshund. Family life is very important to me, and Tara and Ella keep me grounded and connected to what matters most. They remind me every day of the joy and strength that comes from family and community.
I like to cut through complexity and help teams focus on what really matters. I value open communication, collaboration, and creating an environment where people feel supported and empowered to do their best work. Over the next five weeks, my priority is to back you – the people who make the Townsville HHS what it is – and to ensure we are aligned, clear on our priorities, and set up for success.
I know the past few years have brought significant challenges across health care, and I want to acknowledge the resilience, adaptability, and commitment you’ve shown. It is clear to me that the Townsville HHS is powered not only by talented clinicians, but also by the extraordinary contributions of our support staff, administrators, and managers. Together, you make a real difference for communities across north Queensland.
Last Friday’s staff thank you BBQ at Townsville University Hospital was a fantastic reminder of the strength and spirit of this workforce. It was a pleasure to meet so many of you, to hear your stories, and to see first-hand the pride you take in your work. Thank you to everyone involved in organising such a positive event, and to those who joined in – it was a wonderful way to begin my time here.
I’m excited for what we can achieve together over the next five weeks, and I look forward to building on the strong foundations you’ve already created. Please don’t hesitate to say hello – I’d love to hear your ideas and how I can support you in the important work you do. R
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Tennille Jones, Chloe Austin, Melissa Lewis, and Hannah Klip
Dr David Huynh
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Heidi Martin and Airlie Coleman
Stephen Buttigieg and Wayne Knapp
Sofia Burrows and Abby Webb
Mandy Smith and Michelle Beaumont
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Lorissa Dunne and Chloe Bail
Paul Beadle and Russell Presbury
Esther Li and Kloe Li
Michelle Mccabe and Ann Burbidge
Melissa Gebert and Louise Hayes
Kieran Keyes
Adam Woodward
Desmond McKeown, Katie Cobden, Robert Bergin, and Shane Jenkin
Amy Wilson and Myles Dawson
Arrin Wislang and Alice Almeida-Crasto
Zachary Park, Meg Jones, and Angela Maloney
Sara O’Reilly and Annabel Costello
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.
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
Second annual multicultural day to bring hospital diversity to life
Townsville University Hospital (TUH) is once again set to come alive with colour, rhythm, and flavour as we celebrate Multicultural Day, a vibrant showcase of the rich cultural diversity that makes our hospital community so special.
Now in its second year, the event brings together staff from all backgrounds to share their heritage through music, dance, art, and food as a chance to connect, learn, and grow together.
TUH radiologist staff specialist Dr Sandhya Menon said she was grateful to be part of the event for another year.
“This year promises to build on the success of the inaugural event,” Sandhya said.
“Sharing culture through a platform like this helps people understand each other better.
“While the final program for the day is still being shaped, the energy and enthusiasm are already palpable.”
For TUH director medical oncology Dr Abhishek Joshi, the event is deeply meaningful.
“TUH has people from so many diverse backgrounds,” Abhishek said.
“Some of these cultures are thousands of years old and have shaped humanity, and it is so important to showcase them in our place of work where we spend so much of our time.
“It’s about getting to know each other beyond our professional roles, where we come from, what we celebrate, and what connects us.”
Sandhya said Multicultural Day was for everyone.
“We want staff to come along, bring their culture, curiosity, and appetite, and help to celebrate what makes the health service so special, our people,” Sandhya said.
The Townsville Hospital and Health Service Multicultural Day Event will take place on Friday 10 October from noon-2pm in the Robert Douglas Auditorium, with performances and presentations starting from 12.30pm.
To get involved, please contact tsv-public-affairs@ health.qld.gov.au
The event is open to everyone, no need to register.
TUH breast cancer patients receive chemo comfort donation
Two Townsville support groups have teamed up to provide a touch of comfort and style to breast cancer patients at Townsville University Hospital.
Dragons Abreast Townsville and Breast Cancer Peer Support Group have donated more than 20 handmade turbans for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Breast cancer survivor and Breast Cancer Peer Support Group member Josie Burke said the donation was inspired by conversations with people in the hospital.
“It’s quite a vulnerable feeling for people when they lose their hair because of their treatment,” Josie said.
“After talking with patients and the breast care nurses at the hospital, we decided to make something for them to cover their heads.
“It’s important to have something to wear when you’re out in public, not just for their health and protecting them from the sun but also for appearances as well.
“These turbans were made to be comfortable and go with just about anything you are wearing.”
Josie said the turbans were one of many ways groups like hers help cancer patients.
“As survivors, we all want to give back,” she said.
“We want to show people there’s life after breast cancer. You always need support, and it never leaves your thoughts.”
Each turban comes in a pack that includes a flyer with contacts to the peer support group, offering patients a way to connect with others who understand what they’re going through.
Townsville University Hospital’s breast care nurse Claire Smith said it was a welcome donation before the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“Raising awareness about breast cancer is more than just spreading information about what breast cancer is or the research that is being done to try to find a cure,” Claire said.
“It is also about highlighting the different ways we can all help to improve the lives of people with breast cancer.
“On Wednesday next week (1 October), we will be holding an information stall along the main corridor of Townsville University Hospital.
“It will be to talk with staff and the community about breast cancer and the support out there. We will be selling some merchandise and Galactic donuts, with proceeds to go towards making chemotherapy support packs.
Diane Stringer, Josie Burke, Sue Ramsey, Lillian Lanarus, BCN Claire Smith
Light shone on quiet achiever
A nurse who prefers to work behind the scenes has been recognised for her contributions to healthcare governance and clinical projects.
Nurse manager Cat Dutton has been crowned the Townsville HHS winner of the QSuper International Nurses Day and Day of the Midwife Award.
Cat said she was surprised and humbled when she heard she had won.
“Being front and centre isn’t usually my style, as I’m happy to be working hard in the background with the team,” Cat said.
Nurses from across the HHS were invited to nominate someone they thought was deserving of the award.
“It honestly came as a shock, and it is nice to receive the recognition from my colleagues,” Cat said.
“My focus is always on delivering great work, supporting the team and ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.
“It’s incredible what this small team accomplishes together, and I’m grateful to be part of it. It truly is a team effort.
“My role is focused on supporting clinical practice through guidelines, governance and projects. It’s incredibly humbling to see that work acknowledged.”
QSuper’s north Queensland regional manager Mark Haines said the awards were an important way to recognise some of the amazing work our nurses and midwives did.
“We feel that they’re really unsung heroes in our community,” Mark said.
“We really appreciate the work that Cat and her team do.
“We feel that they play an important role in our community and probably go a little bit unrecognised, so it’s great to be able to put the spotlight on her and show her how much everyone appreciates her.”
This year, the awards received close to 60 nominations from Townsville HHS alone, with the judging panel highly commending all nominees.
Mark Haines and Cat Dutton
Sharing the many faces of malnutrition
Townsville University Hospital dietitians marked Malnutrition Awareness Week by inviting healthcare professionals from across the health service to witness “The many faces of malnutrition.”
Organised by dietitians Anastasia Freeman and Melissa Lewis, the malnutrition awareness event put the spotlight on the dietetics department and how malnutrition is managed in the hospital.
“We wanted to showcase the ways dieticians manage and rectify malnutrition in our patients,” Anastasia said.
“In particular, we organised a few lived experience speakers to talk about their malnutrition journey and how our teams have helped them overcome the roadblocks during their treatment.
“We also invited the resident medical officers along as well to the event as part of their ongoing learning.”
Melissa said the theme was poignant as malnutrition didn’t discriminate between patients, but it was also easily rectified through teamwork across disciplines.
“Malnutrition is really prevalent across patient populations and it’s extremely valuable to ensure that all clinicians who care for patients understand how a dietitian can help,” she said.
“Since the theme is “The many faces of malnutrition” we thought it would be powerful to incorporate people with lived experiences, the multidisciplinary teams, and representatives from companies like our sponsor Fresenius Kabi, to discuss how they’ve been affected by malnutrition.”
Dietitians Anastasia Freeman and Melissa Lewis
Allies screen for better patient outcomes
The emergency department allied health team has been hard at work perfecting a screening tool that has improved representation rates and enhanced patient experience in the ED.
The ED Allied Health Frailty Screen project focussed on patients over the age of 75 years, or 55 years for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, who are community dwelling and not from residential aged care facilities.
Led by senior physiotherapist Liam Phelps, in consultation with the wider ED allied health team, the screening tool has addressed several key pain points experienced by clinicians and patients alike.
“As an allied health team, each of us would go in and do an individual assessment, meaning there was a lot of duplication of notes in ieMR,” Liam said.
“Patients and their carers were also having to repeat information to multiple health professionals during their ED stay.
“The idea was to streamline that by having one document in ieMR, allowing us to make better referrals for nurses and medical staff about which allied health disciplines should be involved in the patient’s care.”
Having one consolidated record has been a huge help for ED senior pharmacist Alyscia Kunst who said it was much easier to make more informed and earlier interventions in the patient’s hospital journey.
“Previously we would have to screen the patient ourselves, trying to identify issues through selfreferral, or from ad-hoc information from medical officers or other clinicians,” Alyscia said.
“If we can see their whole screening much earlier in their admission, we can make any necessary interventions earlier and have everything sorted out faster for the patient.”
Patient satisfaction with their allied health care has been overwhelmingly positive since the screening tool was introduced as has the impact on staff and the ED.
“Based on the surveys we provided patients during and after their care, we had more than 90 per cent satisfaction about the care they received from the allied health team in ED,” Liam said.
“Although this wasn’t a formal research project, the data we collected showed a 2.28 per cent reduction in re-presentation to the ED, which represents about 130 presentations across the month.
“Eventually, it’s something we’d like to see integrated into the triaging process when someone comes through ED.”
Enrolled nurse Jeffrey “JJ” Jarrott’s infamous “can clan” has once again raised enough money from can collections to purchase more than ten copies of Facing the Tiger written by Professor Suzanne Chambers, a guide to navigating life after surviving prostate cancer treatment.
“It’s been quite a few years now that we’ve been doing this, and it was very important to us to contribute to the healing process for men who are struggling with prostate cancer,” JJ said.
“We get a lot of the cans from our staff rooms; people have actually seen me traipsing through the amenities taking the cans, so I really want people to know this is what those cans are going towards.”
Prostate cancer patient Andrew Paton began treatment in July 2022 and said the book was one of several resources he has been provided with over the course of his treatment.
“The book was easy to read, and each chapter deals with separate topics, and you don’t have to start at the start,” Andrew said.
“You could go to a chapter which covered something that concerned you more or read it front to back, it’s great to refer to.
“I received the book from my nurse Kathy, and I call her my angel because I don’t think I’d be here without her now and I want to emphasize that people like her are so important in the support and help they give to prostate cancer patients.”
Kathy Ashley and fellow prostate cancer specialist nurse Rebecca Harrigan said the books have been well received by patients.
“The stories in the book help patients manage their mental health impacts such as mood changes, anxiety, and depression from diagnosis onwards by addressing their diverse needs and promoting personal agency and improved well-being,” Kathy said.
Rebecca Harrigan, Andrew Paton, and Kathy Ashley with copies of Facing the Tiger
Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia and the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian men.
Approximately 72 Australian men are diagnosed each day with prostate cancer, and around 11 Australian men will die each day from the disease.
“Many patients and their partners have told us this book really helped them feel like they are not alone and helped them understand ways to manage stress and anxiety and improve their health and well-being.”
“Survivorship care is essential for men with prostate cancer, as a significant number of men treated for prostate cancer experience ongoing side effects of treatment that impact their quality of life,” Rebecca said.
As Prostate Cancer Awareness Month draws to a close, the books served as a timely reminder of the devastating effect prostate cancer has on the community.
For more information about prostate cancer visit www.pcfa.org.au
Sadly 1 in 5 men will develop anxiety or depression because of their diagnosis, yet 72% of men will not seek help for it.
Townsville Hospital and Health Service
Enrolled nurse Jeffrey “JJ” Jarrott
A Note...Brighter
Shining a light on the Rays of Sunshine Club
For Townsville University Hospital (TUH) supervising scientist in molecular microbiology and serology Fleur Francis, being part of the Brighter Lives Rays of Sunshine Club is about more than just making a donation - it’s about giving back to the community she’s proud to be part of.
The Rays of Sunshine Club is a payroll-giving program that allows staff to donate a small amount from their fortnightly pay to Brighter Lives, helping fund projects that support patients, families, and staff across TUH.
Fleur said she joined the Rays of Sunshine Club because she wanted her contribution to go beyond her day-to-day role.
“For just a few dollars from my pay I know I’m helping patients, families and my colleagues,” Fleur said.
Payroll donations made through the Rays of Sunshine Club go directly to Brighter Lives to help fund life-changing equipment, research, and support programs across the Townsville Hospital and Health Service.
Last year alone, staff donations added up to $15,000 to fund projects big and small - from activity packs for children in hospital, to medical equipment, and music for patients undergoing radiation treatment.
Fleur said being a member was about more than just giving.
Recently, she and her family enjoyed an NRLW Cowboys home game thanks to tickets provided exclusively to Rays of Sunshine members by Brighter Lives’ generous sponsors.
Every member of the Rays of Sunshine Club helps brighten the hospital experience in north Queensland.
“For just the cost of a coffee each pay, you’re helping to make a real difference and it’s great to know that stays 100 per cent local,” Fleur said.
To join the Rays of Sunshine Club, complete the payroll donation form at brighterlives.org. au/give/payroll and upload it to MyHR.
Fleur Francis and family
I recently had a replacement of my pacemaker. I was very impressed with the treatment I received. The team is a credit to all the people who care for the Townsville public.
CARDIAC INVESTIGATION UNIT
I would like to acknowledge the excellent care I received in the ED from the physiotherapist. His care and explanation of my diagnosis, treatment plan and education put me straight at ease and left me feeling very confident in managing until I was scheduled to see the Fracture Clinic.
The nurses were just fantastic. They went above and beyond to be caring and provide treatment for me. They reassured me.
ED
PHYSIOTHERAPY
SHORT STAY
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
Laugh of the blah
Tofu and vegetable rice paper rolls
A favourite of our dietitian Monique
Ingredients
SPRING ROLLS
• 1 1/2 cups julienned vegetables (such as carrots, red pepper, and cucumber
• 1 bunch fresh coriander
• 1 bunch fresh mint
• 8-10 whole spring roll rice papers.
CRISPY TOFU
• 8 ounces extra-firm tofu
• 4 Tbsp sesame oil
• 3 Tbsp cornstarch.
Method
PEANUT/ALMOND
BUTTER DIPPING SAUCE
• 1/3 cup salted creamy almond butter
• 1 Tbsp reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1-2 Tbsp brown sugar, agave, or honey
• 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1/2 tsp sweet chilli sauce.
1. Start by preparing rice noodles in boiling hot water for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cut pressed tofu into small rectangles. Toss in 3 Tbsp cornstarch and flash fry in ~3 Tbsp sesame oil
3. Prep veggies and prepare almond butter sauce by adding all sauce ingredients except water to a small mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Add enough hot water to thin until a pourable sauce is achieved.
4. To assemble spring rolls, pour hot water into a shallow dish or skillet and immerse rice paper to soften for about 10-15 seconds.
5. To the bottom third of the wrapper add layer carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, fresh herbs and 2-3 pieces of tofu on top (see photo). Gently fold over once, tuck in edges, and continue rolling until seam is sealed.
6. Place seam-side down on a serving platter and cover with damp warm towel to keep fresh. Repeat until all fillings are used up – about 8-10 spring rolls total.
7. Serve with almond butter sauce and sriracha or hot sauce of choice.
Classifieds
FOR SALE
2015 Captive LT, with Sun Roof, 119,000klm on the clock. Good condition, near new tires, new alternator. Automatic, has been a great car. Selling unregistered. Current Registered until 28/09/25. Asking $6500.00. Call Margaret –0417760704 (15/9)
FOR RENT
Private room in Aitkenvale. $300 per week inclusive of electricity and internet. Seeking a mature female, non-smoking tenant in fulltime employment. Sharing with owner, retired female professional. Private, spacious fully furnished master bedroom with ensuite, and a garage space for your car with internal access to the home. Large fully equipped kitchen and dining area, you have your own fridge and pantry in the kitchen, laundry, various lounging areas. Contact Terri on 0423810662. Sorry – no fulltime night shift workers or pets. (12/9)
Email classifieds to tsv-public-affairs@health.qld.gov.au with subject ‘Classifieds’. Do not send classifieds as attachments.
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