blah blah blah
22 NOVEMBER 2024
Special revamp brings joy
Palliative care staff specialist Dr Rachel O’Neil, graphic designer Rebekah Schalcher, and Townsville Chiefs member Daniel Squasonni enjoying the new kids play area at the Palliative Care Centre
Story on Page 3
Dear colleagues,
Today, we welcomed the new Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls to Townsville University Hospital and, while I couldn’t be there, I am sure he would have enjoyed the tour around our hospital. During his visit, he met our emergency department team and talked with them about the amazing work they do each day, went to the neonatal unit and met pre-term triplets Manawa, Mahana and Makaio, and had a look around the new diabetes and endocrinology outpatient’s unit which will open to consumers from next week. This was the first visit to the hospital by the new health minister and I am looking forward to working with him.
Last Monday was a very solemn day for our community as we all paused for Remembrance Day to pay our respects to our defence personnel and the work they do in keeping us safe. Right across our health service, we had people pause for a minute’s silence to honour our diggers and I would like to thank everyone who took part. At TUH a ceremony was held at the front garden and, from all reports, it was a very respectful event as staff who were available to come along gave thanks for our soldiers past and present. Townsville is a proud garrison city and the work the Australian Defence Force does in protecting our way of life cannot be understated.
To give you more light-hearted news, today was the final of the Talkin’ Table Tennis competition and what a big year it has been for the competition.
For those of you who don’t know, every year for the past five years there’s been a lunchtime table tennis competition held in November at TUH for men to take part in which has helped to raise awareness about men’s health issues. Each year the competition gets bigger and bigger, and this year more than 70 of our male health workers picked up a paddle and had a bit of a hit at the Robert Douglas Auditorium during their lunch break. Unfortunately, I couldn’t take part in the event this year as I have heard it was probably some of the toughest competition yet. I won’t spoil who won the grand final, you will have to read the full story in this edition of the blah!
Walking around each of the hospital and health service facilities you may have noticed things are getting a bit more festive as we are seeing more baubles, tinsel, and Christmas decorations hanging from the walls, halls, and doors.
I just want to remind everyone that nominations are still open for our Christmas decorations competition. Judges will be on the lookout for the best-wrapped wards or work areas with a $250 prize thanks to Brighter Lives up for grabs. There are still a couple of weeks left as entries need to be in by Friday, 13 December.
To find out more then go to the QHEPS homepage and click the Christmas decorations tiles. (https://qheps.health.qld. gov.au/tville/media-communications-engagement/events/ christmas-decoration-competition)
Until next time.
Kieran Keyes Health Service Chief Executive
Dr Andrew Birchley with Minister Tim Nicholls
Stuart Garantziotis, Adam Baillie MP, Minister Tim Nicholls, Natalie Marr MP, Dr Niall Small, Michelle Morton, Stephen Eaton
Special donation bringing comfort to families
The Palliative Care Centre at Townsville University Hospital (TUH) has unveiled a newly revamped kids’ play area, bringing further comfort to families spending time in the centre.
The revamp was made possible by a $4,300 donation by the Townsville Chiefs, a masters rugby league team of correctional services staff who have been deeply involved in charitable efforts across the community for years.
The fundraising effort was inspired by a former member of the Townsville Chiefs, Kim Lawton, who recently lost her battle with cancer.
Kim’s daughter and Townsville Chiefs supporter Brooke White praised the centre for its outstanding support especially for families with young children, and the Townsville Chiefs decided to honour Kim’s memory with the donation.
The donation went towards purchasing new items to enhance the children’s area including a specially designed wallpaper, toys, a tv, and a plaque dedicated to Kim’s family and her life.
Townsville Chiefs’ member Russ Longson said he understood the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for families in clinical environments, especially palliative care.
“As a parent myself I know the experience of taking kids to palliative care, when they may not understand the seriousness of it, can be hard,” Russ said.
“We know that something like this kids’ area makeover will help many families going forward, and lots of kids will make use of it.”
Hospital and Health Service graphic designer
Rebekah said the artwork took inspiration from the natural surrounds of the centre.
“The concept that I created is filled with playful and colourful illustrations of leaves and insects; as the wallpaper is very detailed, the more the children explore the space the more little critters they will find,” Rebekah said.
“The overall goal was to ensure the space was filled with happiness, to act as a space that kids and families can go to take their mind off where they are for even just a moment.”
Palliative medicine staff specialist Dr Rachel O’Neil said the team at the Palliative Care Centre was incredibly grateful for the new kids’ area.
“The space has been thoughtfully designed to provide a safe haven for children to play, relax, and find comfort during what can be a challenging time for families,” Rachel said.
“For the unit, it fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that families can stay connected while accessing care for a life-limiting illness.”
Townsville
Rebekah Schalcher worked with the Townsville Chiefs and centre staff on the artwork for the kids’ area.
Artwork designed by Rebekah Schalcher
Kim Lawton’s family and the Townsville Chiefs
Faster pathway to care improves odds for lung cancer patients
A new lung cancer clinic at Townsville University Hospital (TUH) has slashed treatment times for north Queensland patients fighting the deadly disease by up to 80 per cent.
Clinical director of medical oncology Dr Abhishek Joshi said the rapid access lung cancer clinic had reduced the wait, from diagnosis to treatment, by two weeks.
“If a patient’s diagnosis is discussed at our clinic meeting on Thursday, their specialist consult and treatment planning starts in three days on Monday,” Abhishek said.
“Before the rapid access clinic, this wait was up to two weeks.”
Mackay resident Allan Morrison was struggling to keep weight on, and his hacking cough was getting worse when he booked into his local GP.
An x-ray confirmed a mass on his right lung, and he was referred to TUH for urgent treatment.
Mr Morrison is one of the first patients treated in the new rapid access lung cancer clinic.
“I first met Dr Joshi in a phone consultation when I was first diagnosed three months ago and then came up to Townsville and I’ve been here ever since,” he said.
Abhishek said Mr Morrison was diagnosed in Mackay with a Stage 3 lung cancer and referred to TUH.
“We knew from our meeting with the Mackay team via telehealth that the best approach for Mr Morrison would be chemotherapy and radiotherapy,” he said.
“Through the rapid access clinic, we were able to fast-track him to Townsville and reduce the time from diagnosis to treatment considerably.
“It’s not just about improving the prognosis, it’s improving the whole patient experience by reducing the time spent waiting anxiously to start treatment, the time away from family, and the impact of side-effects.”
Abhishek said the benefits of the clinic for rural patients were particularly significant.
“We know rural patients are on the lower end of the health equity spectrum so cutting down treatment time means they can be treated earlier with better outcomes.”
Abhishek said lung cancer was one of the highest causes of mortality in Australian men.
“We are also seeing more cases in women because of the smoking take-up in the 70s and 80s,” he said.
Abhishek said the rapid access clinic involved medical and radiation oncologists, respiratory specialists, cardio-thoracic surgeons, clinical nurses, and cancer care coordinators led by his colleague Dr Zulifquer Otty.
“Dr Otty, who is the chair of this multidisciplinary group, played a pivotal role in establishing this clinic,” Abhishek said.
“This coordinated team led by Dr Otty is reducing bottlenecks and streamlining the care of patients with lung cancer in our region.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the team’s dedication.”
Tanya Chong, Allan Morrison, Dr Abhishek Joshi, Rebecca Harrigan and Kim Beale
Boy oh boy oh
boy!
Triplets melting hearts
Three tiny baby boys whose Maori names mean ‘heart’, ‘sunshine’, and ‘gift’ sleep peacefully in Townsville University Hospital’s (TUH) neonatal unit blissfully unaware that they have completed a family.
Manawa (heart), Mahana (sunshine), and Makaio (gift) were born preterm at 32 weeks, on 25 October, and have been melting hearts ever since.
After years of infertility, Mount Isa couple Casey and Reagan Thatcher, originally from Auckland, are ‘over the moon’ with their new additions who join big brother three-year-old Hauiti.
“Hauiti was born after four years of fertility treatment and three miscarriages,” Mrs Thatcher said.
“Hauiti is so special to us, we wanted to add to our family and give him siblings to grow up with.
“When Hauiti turned two, we knew we wanted to start trying for another baby.
“I understood how difficult and long it could possibly take to fall pregnant again so we turned to our doctor and started the process of the IUI (intrauterine insemination).”
After just one cycle of IUI, where sperm are inserted into the uterus at the time of ovulation, Mrs Thatcher fell pregnant with the triplets.
“Of course, at first, we were worried about cost-of-living pressures and how we’d cope with a kindergartener and three babies,” she said.
“Now we couldn’t imagine anything but our family of four precious boys.”
Maternal fetal medicine (MFM) fellow Dr Natasha Frost said triplet pregnancies were not common and accounted for around 100 births in Australia each year.
“Managing Casey’s high-risk pregnancy and safe delivery of her babies was a real team effort, and it has been an absolute privilege to be able to be part of this team and get to know Casey and her family through this special journey,” Natasha said.
“Watching
her babies
doing well and getting closer to going home brings so much joy to the whole MFM team and is the reason we love what we do.”
Neonatologist Dr Natalee Williamson said it was a privilege to look after the babies and families who needed the hospital’s care.
“Triplets are always memorable and we’re fortunate to have the opportunity to help parents in caring for the health of their babies, until they are ready to go safely home,” she said.
“For every family, taking their newborn home is a big day and I can only imagine how life-changing taking three new babies home at once must be.
“We wish Casey, Reagan, and Hauiti all the best as the babies continue to get stronger and closer to being home.”
Dr Natalee Williamson, Chloe Summerton, Dr David Watson, Ann Varghese and Natasha Connery with Casey Thatcher and her triplets
Townsville University Hospital pauses for Remembrance Day
On Remembrance Day we paused to honour the brave men and women who have served our country in times of war and peace.
We remembered their sacrifices and acknowledged the profound impact conflict has had on individuals, families, and communities.
At Townsville Hospital and Health Service, we are proud to care for many veterans and their families.
Thank you to those who were a part of the service including health security officer Luke Colebrook, veterans’ liaison officer Anita Busuttil, enrolled nurse Jeffrey “JJ” Jarrott, Roy Hosking from the Townsville Brass Band, health security assistant manager Anthony Buttigieg, DVA Padre Louis Clun, and all those who laid wreaths.
Enrolled nurse Jeffrey “JJ” Jarrott, enrolled nurse Liam Orphin, Townsville HHS veterans’ liaison officer Anita Busuttil, Board Chair Tony Mooney
Townsville Hospital and Health Service blah blah blah
Gift of giving to make Christmas brighter
The child protection unit at Townsville University Hospital (TUH) has taken charge of a special Christmas gift appeal to give back to those who need it most this season.
Townsville University Hospital clinical nurse Chole Gage doubles as the team leader for the Townsville RizeUp Hub, the organisation leading the appeal.
RizeUp Australia is a national organisation dedicated to providing essential items and creating safe, personalised spaces to help victim survivors of domestic violence start fresh.
Chole said the Christmas appeal was one of the most important fundraisers of the year.
“Seeing people experience domestic violence at what is meant to be the happiest time of the year hits close to home for not only our team in the child protection unit, but across the community,” Chole said.
In 2024, 85 Australian women lost their lives to domestic violence.
“Most people know someone affected by domestic violence,” Chole said.
“It doesn’t discriminate, which is why it’s important for us to do something to help even in a small way.”
Chole said the team had put the call out for donations of Christmas presents for kids and parents escaping domestic and family violence and spending Christmas in shelters or out of home.
“It’s a way for us to bring a little bit of normalcy to Christmas for these families,” Chole said.
“We’re asking for gifts not only for children, but for the whole family so that parents are able to choose a gift for their children and the children can choose a gift for their parent.
“This gives them a little sense of ownership in the whole process which is a vital aspect of the appeal.
“We had an incredible response last year with the office full of presents, and we are hoping to see the same this year.”
Donations of new gifts can be dropped off at TUH’s child protection unit until Wednesday 18 December.
For more information on the Christmas appeal and other drop off locations contact donate@rizeup.com.au or for information on how to join the RizeUp team contact volunteer@rizeup. com.au.
Mara Mattocks, Alaina Cawdron, Chole Gage, Leone Lovegrove, Michelle Tipping
INR Circle takes out 2024 Talkin’ Table Tennis competition
It was a battle of the doctors in the Talkin’ Table Tennis grand final as the final two teams left standing took on each other at Townsville University Hospital’s Robert Douglas Auditorium.
INR Circle (Dr Rufus Corkill and Dr Usman Manzoor) was up against MH Champions (Dr Jason B Lee and Dr Omer Shareef) in today’s grand final as they traded point for point in an epic battle for bragging rights and to take home the Ian Meade Perpetual Shield.
While both teams gave it their all, INR Circle proved the better side on the day and claimed the win.
Talkin’ Table Tennis organiser and occupational therapist Jonathan Grigg said the game was a thrilling match-up and a fitting way to end the biggest Talkin’ Table Tennis competition.
“More than 70 men from across the Townsville HHS picked up a paddle to play ping pong and raise awareness of men’s health issues,” he said.
“We all work in the healthcare industry caring for other people and sometimes we overlook caring for ourselves and checking in with our colleagues.
“The purpose of something like Talkin’ Table Tennis is to create a supportive, fun, and engaging environment where the fellas can share a bit of friendly banter and connect over something more than work.
“By fostering the ability to have a conversation then we can have blokes start to open up a bit more to their friends, family, and themselves.”
Jonathan said planning will start soon on next year’s event which he expected to be even bigger.
“Year on year more and more people are taking part in the competition, which is encouraging to see,” he said.
“As you can imagine, organising more than 70 people around their busy work schedules to play a game of table tennis has been a big task so I am looking forward to taking a little bit of a break.
“There are a few people behind the scenes helping to put this event and we already have some exciting ideas for next year.”
Dr Rufus Corkill, Dr Usman Manzoor and occupational therapist Jonathan Grigg
Key opens further support for patients
The Townsville Hospital and Health Service is launching a game-changing tool for patients requiring additional support this Disability Action Week.
The Julian’s Key Health Passport is a consumer-controlled tool designed to improve healthcare for people with disabilities.
As part of the launch, the allied health team has worked with community groups to raise awareness of the tool and encourage consumers and/or their carers to begin using it.
Developed by West Moreton Hospital and Health Service in memory of Julian Klass, a man with physical and intellectual disabilities, Julian’s Key enables better self-advocacy and ensures healthcare providers are equipped to meet the unique needs of people with disabilities.
Information is categorised into key themes including ‘about my communication’, ‘about my disability’, ‘about my adjustments’, ‘my support network’, and ‘my medical history’.
Executive director allied health Danielle Hornsby said the tool was co-designed with consumers to raise awareness of the communication needs of people with disability to ensure individuals are seen, heard, and respected for who they are every time they access healthcare.
“People with disabilities, specifically those with communication challenges, can experience significant barriers in accessing safe and quality healthcare,” Danielle said.
“One in five Australians lives with disability, and one in three Queenslanders require high support.
“The value of Julian’s Key is how it can assist the communication of care needs, guide referral and handover, and better deliver informed person-centred care.”
The overall goal of Julian’s Key is to improve healthcare outcomes by fostering collaboration between patients and providers and ensuring that people with disabilities receive the necessary accommodations and adjustments.
Danielle said although the tool was co-designed with people with disability, Julian’s Key could be used by anyone requiring support to communicate with healthcare workers.
“Julian’s Key seeks to ensure more effective and responsive care, particularly in emergency settings, where clinicians can quickly access critical information that could influence immediate care decisions,” Danielle said.
“The theme for 2024 Disability Action Week is ‘accessible communication: connect, include and empower’.
“This tool will provide our health service staff with the continued ability to provide world-class service to patients of all care levels.”
To find out more about Julian’s Key head to the link – https:// www.health.qld.gov.au/public-health/groups/people-withdisability/julians-key
Disability Action Week runs from 24 November to 1 December. To find out more head to the link - https://www.qld.gov.au/ disability/community/awards-events/disability-action-week
Danielle Hornsby holding the Julian’s Key Health Passport
Townsville sites light up for tiniest fighters on World Prematurity Day
When Casey and Mic Di Nardo were awaiting the arrival of their first child, Micah, they had no clue they would end up spending more than 100 days in Townsville University Hospital’s (TUH) neonatal unit (NICU).
Casey began having complications with pre-eclampsia and blood pressure 23 weeks into her pregnancy, and the family was urgently transferred from their home in Moranbah to Townsville.
Micah Di Nardo was born via emergency caesarean section on February 21, 2023, at just 28 weeks and three days, weighing only 904 grams.
“In the first couple of weeks after his birth, we definitely felt like we were in a honeymoon period where everything would be okay until we were able to be discharged,” Casey said.
Unfortunately, the fight was nowhere near over for Micah.
“Micah went through a lot of complications including holes in his heart, collapsed lungs, sepsis, surgery for the secondbiggest hernias the NICU had ever seen, the development of a cow’s milk protein allergy, and viral infections,” Casey said.
“One day Micah jerked his breathing tube out and if it wasn’t for the incredible doctors and nurses who managed to keep him stable, we would have lost him.”
Beating all the odds, Micah will turn two in February and has hit all his milestones.
The TUH NICU celebrated World Prematurity Day on November 17 to highlight the 27,000 babies born prematurely each year in Australia alone.
Neonatal clinical nurse Bree Schipper has worked in the NICU for 13 years and organised special decorations and events to mark World Prematurity Day this year.
“The theme for 2024 is access to quality care everywhere,” Bree said.
“We are very proud of our unit as the largest and only tertiary hospital neonatal unit outside of a capital city in Australia.
“We have babies that are born as early as 23 weeks at TUH.
“With such a large geographical area to service, we see babies from the Torres Strait to Mount Isa and across Queensland.
“We focus on making sure that babies born outside of Townsville have access to the same quality care as local babies, so this year’s theme really resonates with us.
“We love finding opportunities like World Prematurity Day to reunite and celebrate with families, because their win is our win.”
Nurses and Families reuniting at QLD Country Bank Stadium
Neonatal registered nurse Meghan Altadonna was heavily involved in Micah’s care and formed a close connection with the Di Nardo family, with nurse Meghan now dubbed Aunty Meghan.
Meghan said working in the NICU was truly the most rewarding career.
“Every family who walks through those doors brings a unique kind of strength and resilience, and witnessing their journeys is both humbling and inspiring,” Meghan said.
“I’ve watched families grow in confidence as their little ones fight and thrive, reminding me every day why this is the best job in the world.”
Meghan said Micah holds a special place in her life as he was one of the first high-risk premature babies she looked after.
“I vividly remember being there for his birth, bringing him back to his bed space, and caring for him during most of my shifts,” Meghan said.
“He had the heart of a warrior and a fiery personality that captured us all; it quickly became clear that this was Micah’s world and we were just living in it.
“Seeing premature babies like Micah grow into the most gorgeous and clever little people is undoubtedly one of the highlights of my career.”
Country Bank stadium lit up purple in honour of World Prematurity Day on Sunday November 17, with neonatal unit staff and some of the families they cared for, including
Queensland
the Di Nardos, reuniting to see the lights.
Neonatal clinical nurse Bree Schipper with Mic, Micah and Casey Di Nardo
Di Nardo family in TUH neontal unit
Yule neve r gu es s what ’s c om ing ...
Deck-orate the halls with boughs of holly, ‘tis the season to be jolly. The festive season is upon us.
We’re looking for the best wrapped wards or work areas for the chance to win a $250 prize thanks to Brighter Lives.
Submit photos of your Christmas decorations and the details of your work area here.
Entries must be received before close of business on Friday 13 December. Judging will take place on Monday 16 December.
DABIT helps teams tackle tough talks
Townsville University Hospital’s (TUH) Drug and Alcohol Intervention Team (DABIT) has encouraged staff to brush up on the signs of dependency.
The team has taken a proactive approach to addressing dependency among consumers by helping to give nurses, doctors, allied health workers, and support staff the skills and knowledge they need to have open and supportive conversations about dependency.
DABIT clinical nurse consultant Amanda Ah Chee said it was about equipping staff with the tools to have confidence to have those difficult conversations.
“We’re finding a lot of consumers presenting to the emergency department have underlying issues with dependency which contribute to their injuries or illnesses,” Amanda said.
“By training staff to recognise the signs and initiate conversations, we aim to address the root cause of these health concerns and prevent future incidents.
“It’s about breaking the cycle through having those conversations in a non-judgmental way.
“We hope we can reduce the stigma associated with dependency and encourage consumers to seek help sooner.
“Part of that is by giving staff a greater ability to recognise dependency with their consumers and arming them with the information on how to get help.
“Through information campaigns, making information readily accessible, and being available for staff we have seen increased confidence among hospital employees to address dependency concerns with their consumers.”
Amanda said that while the team worked closely with staff from the emergency department, they were also available to assist other healthcare workers.
“Queensland Health has free, self-paced eLearning available on the Queensland Government’s website where staff can learn anything from how to understand their consumers to the effects alcohol and other drugs have on the brain and body,” she said.
“The website also has a range of resources available and toolkits to assist in direct practice.
“I encourage anyone who works with consumers to take some time to learn about the signs and symptoms of dependency and how to help people who are struggling with it.”
To learn more about alcohol and drug abuse visit www.insight. qld.gov.au.
Clinical nurse consultants Amanda Ah Chee, Hemaletha Kamala, Freedom Sikhosana, and Raksha Pageni
Townsville HHS says thank you to consumers
Codesign, arts in health, and patient information are just some of the consumer contributions celebrated at a thank-you morning team at Townsville University Hospital (TUH) this week.
Celebrating the contributions of consumers over the past year were members of the Health Literacy Committee, Lived Experience Reference Group, and Consumer Advisory Council (CAC).
Also attending were consumers involved in healthcare quality improvement, cultural safety, and community advocacy.
Health service chief Executive Kieran Keyes said consumer engagement was vital to a continuously improving health service.
“The days of doing to, instead of with, consumers are well and truly past and it’s been good to see the health service better engage with the people who receive care as well as the people who represent those who receive care from us,” he said.
Townsville Hospital and Health Board Chair Tony Mooney congratulated all the consumers and thanked them for their time and insight into improving patient care.
“It was only a few years ago that we had none of the structure that we now have,” Tony said.
“If you’re here today it’s because you’re a committed staff member working with consumers or you are, in fact, the consumer, one of the ones that we rely on to help guide us in what we do.
“Thank you to those of you here who are developing patient information free of jargon, helping us design the new health campus at Kirwan, supporting us with parking solutions and ensuring our facilities are culturally safe and welcoming.”
CAC chair Virginia Bendall-Harris said she was extremely proud of the way the health service’s two consumer councils were involved in decision-making at the health service.
“I think one of the things that’s really been of great assistance to me on this journey has been the willingness of people in the health service to work with the CAC and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Advisory Council,” she said.
“In the early days there might be a project happening, and we’d be invited to participate and just offer opinions and our experiences and that would be it.
“Now we’re doing more codesign work and getting involved in the early stages of decision-making.”
Thank you to all our consumers and to our staff who continue to engage to make our services safer, stronger, and better.
Virginia Bendall-Harris cuts the cake at the consumer thank you with Board Chair Tony Mooney, chief executive Kieran Keyes, Board member Nicole Hayes (left of Virginia) and consumers
Baby, it’s time - Cate ends stellar career in birth centre
After 15 years at Townsville University Hospital (TUH), 14 of them as an on-call, caseload midwife in the birth centre, Cate Pardoe will be switching the phone to “Do Not Disturb.”
Originally from the UK, Cate lived briefly in New Zealand before moving to Townsville in 1992. She worked for 17 years in the private obstetric field before joining TUH in 2009
Having practised midwifery for most of her career, Cate said the birth centre was a choice she made that enabled her to use her full range of skills.
“When you’re working in the birth centre, you provide full care to women,” she said.
“You do just about everything, and you are using all the skills you’ve trained for early in your midwifery career.
“We’re an on-call service, so the ladies can ring us at any time. I’ve basically been on call for the past 14 years.”
Cate’s colleagues described her as the matriarch of the birth centre.
Caseload midwife Penny Stone said Cate was one of the best resources the birth centre had.
“Cate’s somebody that you go to as a source of advice,” Penny said.
“She seems to have an incredible knowledge about absolutely everything, like an encyclopaedia.
“She can never do enough for everybody else, always the first to offer help and I think she keeps the team functioning well.”
Cate’s partner midwife, Emma Hills, said it would be a huge adjustment going to work without having Cate by her side.
“In the birth centre, all the midwives are paired off, so Cate and I have worked extremely closely for the past four years,” Emma said.
“I not only have an intimate knowledge of her clinical side but also her family life too.
“You get to know your partner on a personal level, not just at work but also what’s happening on the outside.”
Cate said she will miss the women she supported as much as she will miss her colleagues at the birth centre.
“The most rewarding thing has been the women who choose to come back to you,’ Cate said.
“I’ve had several women who’ve had three babies with me in the past 14 years, which makes you realise you must be doing something right.
“Then there are the other midwives here in the birth centre.
“You grow to become a good team; it’s providing support to each other and that collegial atmosphere of working together and knowing you’re all providing the best care possible to Townsville women having babies.”
Now that she won’t be at the beck and call of pregnant ladies anymore, Cate said she is looking forward to doing some travel, spending more time with her granddaughter, and volunteering.
Cate Pardoe
Bat
breeding season brings threat of rabieslike virus
Townsville Hospital and Health Service public health director Dr Steven Donohue has warned the community not to do something batty, like touch a flying-fox.
It’s breeding season for the protected animal and residents have been told any bat species could be carrying a potentially fatal disease to humans.
“Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV) is closely related to rabies and has led to a small number of deaths in Queensland,” Steven said.
“Clinics across north Queensland are seeing more people needing a series of painful injections to avoid getting ABLV.
“If you do get bitten or scratched, you will need medical attention. It’s the same treatment as for a bite by a rabid dog or monkey in Asia.”
The warning comes as flying-fox activity increases across Townsville, particularly in suburbs like Kirwan.
“There’s flying-fox activity close to homes and there’s the chance some residents living close to a roosting area may find a fallen baby bat or a one stuck on a wire fence or dead in their yard,” he said.
“Do not touch a bat – sick or well, adult or pup, dead or alive.
“You don’t know if it’s infected and you should call a trained and vaccinated bat carer who can safely rescue it.”
“Bats can bite or scratch through a towel or leather glove so the best thing to do is to stay clear and let a professional handle it.
“If you have been bitten or scratched by a flying-fox then immediately wash the wound, apply antiseptic, and seek medical advice.”
If you find an injured bat or flying-fox, contact the RSPCA (1300 ANIMAL) or your local wildlife care group, or the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (1300 130 372) for assistance. Do not attempt to assist the animal yourself.
For further information, phone 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).
Public health director Dr Steven Donohue has urged locals stay clear of flying-foxes
Pioneering palliative care nurse recognised in prestigious state-wide awards
Townsville Hospital and Health Service’s Jodi Ruddell has been recognised as an emerging leader at the prestigious Palliative Care Queensland Awards for her exceptional dedication and achievements in advancing equitable access to palliative care.
As the clinical nurse consultant for the Specialist Palliative Care Rural Telehealth Service (SPaRTa), Jodie has played a key role in shaping the service from inception to the highly respected and permanent team it is today.
Jodi’s colleagues praised her leadership in advancing palliative care services across the region.
“Jodi leads and inspires, not only nurses, but the wider multidisciplinary team, to do their best in the spirit of people receiving the best palliative care,” her colleagues said.
“This was evident recently when she took on a secondment to contribute to a much-needed palliative care team in Mackay.
“Jodi showed outstanding leadership, vision and resilience with a focus on all of those needing access to palliative care in the community.”
Jodi’s colleagues said she was extremely deserving of the Emerging Leader award because of the care, empathy and respect she showed for people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families and colleagues.
“The fact that SPaRTa Townsville reaches the remote areas it does is a strong testament to her genuine care and leadership abilities,” they said.
“Jodi has a unique ability to connect with all individuals, including those from rural and remote populations.”
One of her colleagues said Jodi’s passion for palliative care was evident even when she was working as a graduate nurse a decade ago.
“I acutely remember Jodi working in a cancer setting and speaking passionately about palliative care, patients in need, and her desire to work in this area to improve the care that patients received at such a vulnerable time in their lives.
“Jodi’s belief that palliative care needs to be accessible and equitable for all has been evident throughout her career; she has displayed this by regularly travelling to rural and remote areas to deliver education and support to staff who are inexperienced in palliative care.”
Jodi said she felt both humbled and inspired by the recognition.
“This award is not just about me, it’s a testament to the work of our entire team,” she said.
“Together, we’ve made significant strides in improving access to high-quality palliative care in rural and remote areas.
“I’m incredibly passionate about sharing knowledge and building capacity to improve end-of-life care and it’s so fulfilling to see the difference these efforts make for patients and their families.”
Jodi Ruddell
Feet first into World Diabetes Day
Townsville University Hospital’s (TUH) diabetes and endocrine teams had a big week with the inaugural Diabetes Feet Day and World Diabetes Day falling just days apart.
November 12 marked the first Diabetes Feet Day, an initiative by Diabetes Feet Australia, aimed at building awareness around diabetes-related foot disease (DFD), a condition the Medical Journal of Australia described as the ‘least known major health problem in the country.’
Director of podiatry Trent Johnston said DFD was a huge burden on the health system.
“Leg amputations caused by DFD are disproportionately 10-fold higher in regional areas, compared to metropolitan centres,’ he said.
“Additionally, First Nations people are 30 times more likely to have diabetes-related lower-limb amputations than non-First Nations people.
“Townsville HHS has subsequently invested heavily in podiatry-led high risk foot services to prevent complications.”
The diabetes podiatry team held a morning tea in the Robert Douglas Auditorium foyer to help raise awareness of the day.
World Diabetes Day followed just two days later, on November 14, with a theme of “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps.”
Advanced trainee endocrinology Dr Esha Kathpal said World Diabetes Day was a good day for the team to reflect on what they had achieved and look forward to the next chapter in the new Diabetes and Endocrine Centre.
“As health professionals we appreciate that living with diabetes comes with its challenges,” she said.
“With the new diabetes and endocrine centre, we are moving in the right to direction to provide the care our patients need and deserve.
“This year’s theme of ‘Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps’ is especially poignant for us as our local services are getting bigger and better to provide a brighter future for generations to come.”
Townsville University Hospital’s diabetes feet multidisciplinary team
Diabetes and endocrine team
A Brighter Note...
Fire truck visit spreads cheer to young patients
On Wednesday, a shiny red fire truck rolled into Townsville University Hospital (TUH) to spread cheer to the youngest patients.
Queensland Fire and Rescue (QFR) made a special visit this week, bringing one of their iconic fire trucks to the hospital.
Children spending time in hospital had an up-close and personal encounter with the impressive machine and met the heroes who put out fires for a living.
Brighter Lives fundraising and communications officer Kim Steele said it was a joy watching the young patients experience putting on the uniform, using a real-life fire hose in action, and jumping in the fire truck.
“The visit definitely brightens the hospital stay of our littlest patients here in Townsville,” she said.
“The children loved being able to have a short time away from their hospital beds, to see real-life fire fighters and fire truck.
“Thank you to Queensland Fire and Rescue for visiting.”
The joint initiative with Queensland Fire and Rescue and Brighter Lives also provided the opportunity to raise awareness of fire safety.
“Unfortunately, more than 200 children a year are brought to TUH to be treated for burns,” Kim said.
“Thanks to donations to Brighter Lives, we now have a laser here in Townsville to help treat burns and scarring but prevention is always much better than treatment.”
You can learn more about fire safety and prevention on the Queensland Fire Department’s website: www.fire.qld.gov.au
Brighter Lives - Andrew, Blazer (the QFR mascot), Liam (front) and Hunter and Zakoa (back)
“ I wanted to make you aware of the amazing service I am receiving from the Hyperbaric Team.
Without exception they are a dedicated service team.
Congratulations on this wonderful service.”
HYPERBARIC TEAM
“So thorough, extremely knowledgeable, they really just listened to me, very kind and supportive. I will be forever grateful to this team.
They have changed my daughter’s life, she will now get the help that she needed.”
CHILD DEVELOPMENT SERVICE
“I would like to thank the staff at Pathology services, I had blood drawn and the staff were amazing. The young man that drew my blood did a great job, got it first time and it was painless.”
PATHOLOGY
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 - $17 million
Work location: TUH Acute building Level 2 Operating Theatres Complex
Project: North Queensland Persistent Pain Management Service (NQPPMS) upgrade - $4 million
Work location: TUH Acute building Level 1 former Endoscopy Services / Medilink building Level 2 current NQPPMS suite
Project: Kirwan Health Community Campus expansion - $40 million
Work location: Kirwan Health Campus
Project: TUH Stage 1 expansion project - $530 million
Work location: helipad and surrounding areas including eastern campus for temporary helipad location
Works currently underway Works on the way
Project: Ingham CT Scanner
Work location: Ingham Health Service
Got 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 te ams who will be impacted by works undertaken at TUH.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss any proposed changes, please contact chief operating officer Stephen Eaton via email or THHS-InfrastructureOffice@health.qld.gov.au.
Capital works update
More carparks available at TUH
An additional 370 carparks (40 returned and 330 new parks) are now available for Townsville Hospital and Health Service staff at the eastern car park at Townsville University Hospital.
To ensure the health and safety of pedestrians, staff are not to park on the grassed verges, pathways, and concrete strip mediums.
The newly constructed carpark has security lighting, CCTV coverage, and duress points.
Access to the additional carparks is via the main entry and through the boom gates and NOT through the newly constructed access point for emergency vehicles.
Please be reminded additional parking for day-shift staff is available at the JCU veterinary sciences carpark until 30 June 2025
Staff can collect a permit to park at this location from the Health Security Department administration office at the hospital.
Visit QHEPS for more information accessing this carpark as well as maps to assist you. (James Cook University (JCU) veterinary sciences carpark | Townsville HHS | Car parking (health.qld.gov.au)
If you have any questions regarding parking, please contact TTHCampusOperations@health.qld.gov.au.
If you have any questions on the Townsville University Hospital expansion project, please contact THHSInfrastructure-Redevelopment@health.qld.gov.au.
Recipe of the blah
Apricot & Coconut Bliss Balls
supplied by TUH dietitians
Laugh of the blah
20 Serves
Ingredients:
• 3 cups dried apricots
• 1 cup almond meal
• 1⁄2 cup desiccated or shredded coconut
• 1⁄2 cup linseeds
• 2 tbsp orange juice
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 cup white sesame seeds, for rolling
Method:
1. Place all the ingredients except sesame seeds into a food processor. Blitz until combined and holding together.
2. Roll mixture into large walnut-sized balls, then roll in sesame seeds to coat.
3. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.
Tips:
• Can freeze for up to 2-3 months
• Great snacks for school lunches/post-workout
• Versatile recipe-can swap to other ingredients if you have any allergies/intolerances.
Classifieds
FOR SALE
2011 Holden Colorado LTR 3.0 litre manual 4x4 Dual cab with full-service history, colour silver, factory fitted tow pack with ARB canopy and Bull bar. I’m original owner, vehicle has been well cared for with minimal towing work done. Both paint and body in good condition. Plenty of rego fresh tyres and shock absorbers. Economical to run and service. $18000 negotiable. Call Rohan 0409139734 (8/11)
2013 Audi A6 C7 Sedan with only 109400 on the odometer. This A6 is in fantastic condition with plenty of features including cruise control, tinted windows, front and rear park sensors, 360-degree camera, LED day time running lights, 4 zone climate control, keyless entry/start, blind spot alert with auto dimming side mirrors, leather electric seats and plenty more. Open to all reasonable offers. Contact Dani 0412 133 890 (8/11)
2011 BT-50 Mazda Boss Utility. 159,170km, Gold, Diesel, Manual. One owner. $8,950 ono. Contact Alyn 0481 394 360 (19/11)
FOR RENT
2 Separate bedrooms for rent in Carthew St Kirwan. $250 per week per room (includes the internet and electricity). Newly renovated dwelling. Inground pool and 2 outdoor social settings are a highlight with a pool table in one area also. 2 large vegetable gardens and property is a very central position in Kirwan. Very close to Shops and buses etc. Car parking on property. Aircon and fans in rooms. 8 minutes drive to TUH. Professionals may apply. (NO SMOKERS/Vapes/ Drugs – ZERO tolerance). Contact Julie 0407 115 916 (18/11)
Ensuite fully furnished bedroom available now $250 including all bills, and a room fully furnished with a shared bathroom available from 2/2/25. Located in Douglas. Contact Vinod 0403 206 243 (11/11)
Join cozy, clean, and welcoming home in Burdell. Share with two friendly females (30s). House is 3-bed, 2-bath, fully-furnished, air-conditioned, with two friendly cats. $260/week incl. electricity & internet. Room partially furnished but can be cleared out. Walking distance to a cafe. If you’re easy-going and responsible, contact Sarah 0448 982 345 (08/11)
2 rooms available. Located on a hill with exceptional city view. 35 Glenlyon drive, Wulguru. Large balconies and a rose garden at the front. $260 per week, including high speed internet and bills. The rooms are fully furnished with aircon. One car parking spot. Two budgies, and can’t accept a tenant with a pet. Contact Sevinc 0414 479 589 or email Sevinc.Sevil@health.qld.gov.au (19/11)
LOST ITEM
Lost brooch at Townsville medical staff society ball (orange and green with bird). Contact Helen Kanowski 0431744176 (12/11)
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.