A BEACON OF KINDNESS Seamus MacMahon works as a gardener at Macquarie Hospital, but he is much more than just a green thumb. He is a friendly face, a companion and a helper to so many mental health patients, their families and staff who cross his path on the North Ryde campus. Seamus is always engaging in small acts of kindness across the campus with both staff and mental health patients, whether it be a chat with people as they walk through the vast grounds, bringing books in from his personal collection for someone to read or buying the occasional coffee or cake for patients that he sees at the café. These small acts of kindness earned Seamus one of five Emblems of Kindness awarded by NSLHD Chief Executive Anthony Schembri as part of the NSW Health initiative.
Staff and patients will often be seen talking with Seamus about the wildlife on the grounds. Sheila said he took the time out of his day to share his knowledge about birds and assist patients who were interested in growing plants. “It is small acts of kindness like this that go such a long way to our patients’ wellbeing, their recovery and experience while in our care,” Sheila said. “He makes a lasting impression on people through his acts of kindness, yet he never sets out to seek recognition or praise from anyone. Seamus always thinks of others and how he can help make their day more positive.”
NSLHD Mental Health Drug and Alcohol Acting Director Sheila Nicholson said Seamus was well known and liked all over the hospital campus for his endless kind nature. “Seamus makes a person feel seen by always remembering their name and what they last talked about,” she said. “His kind demeanour is so welcomed, especially in the mental health environment where many patients and families are vulnerable. He makes everyone smile when they meet him with his happy personality and kind thoughtful ways.”
Seamus MacMahon
A Day of Smiles at Royal North Shore Hospital Royal North Shore Hospital experienced a special atmosphere as team members of the Matildas, the Australian women’s national soccer team, joined Clown Doctors Australia to bring moments of joy and connection to patients, families and staff. Players Steph Catley, Alex Chidiac and Wini Heatley visited the Neonatal
with NSLHD and love to be able to bring these opportunities to your patients and to your staff,” she said.
Intensive Care Unit and paediatric wards, spending time with patients, families and staff. The visit included gift-giving, signed jerseys and light-hearted interaction, creating memorable moments across the hospital. The players were able to see the work that the clown doctors do to bring joy and lightness to wards. Clown Doctors Australia Chief Executive Emma Pollard said the partnership with NSLHD helped create meaningful experiences for patients and staff. “We are so grateful for our partnership
The Matildas gave gifts and autographs to staff and patients
NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 11| 19 JUNE 2026
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