Message from the chief executive Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM
Dear colleagues, I am excited to share that we have received more than 200 nominations for the Exceptional People Awards this year, including 159 individual and 44 team nominations across nine categories. This exceptional number highlights the dedication and commitment of our staff and volunteers. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the nominees. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony at the State Library of New South Wales on 29 April, and I look forward to celebrating their achievements with you. As we approach the official start to the flu season, now is the time for staff to be receiving their flu vaccinations. The district’s staff health team has begun its annual flu vaccination rollout with staff able to book through the intranet https://bit.ly/NSLHD- flu-vac-25. As healthcare workers, it is also important we remind our family and friends to get their flu vaccinations to protect themselves against severe complications this season. We held our first multi-faith council meeting with community religious leaders recently. As we care for multicultural communities, it is important we are providing them with appropriate spiritual care. The NSLHD Spirituality/Faith Council will provide advice and guidance on managing the spiritual needs within the health service. The council will ensure that our district services meet the diverse spiritual needs of our communities, enhancing inclusivity and reducing barriers to care. Due to the current pressures being experienced across the health system and the limited availability of staff during the recent industrial action we made the difficult decision to postpone the Innovation Pitch Program event that was originally scheduled for Thursday, 10 April.
We truly appreciate your understanding, and we will share a new date for the rescheduled event soon. Thank you for your continued dedication during this busy period. I am very pleased to announce the appointment of our new Deputy Director, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service, Braiden Abala, who has just started in the role. Braiden joins us with a distinguished career working in both state and commonwealth governments, public policy, social reform and healthcare for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. He has particular expertise in the field of health and workforce development, as well as experience in non-government and government organisations. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Tavia Bernsdorff who has been acting in the role. Tavia has done a wonderful job of managing the health service and ensuring a consistent high quality of service. I also want to extend my thanks to Adam Cryer and the rest of the team who have been working alongside Tavia in supporting our communities while Peter Shine remains on leave. As we approach Easter and other religious festivities, I want to take a moment to wish everyone a happy and safe break. To those of you working over the Easter period, a big thank you. Your efforts ensure we continue to provide exceptional care to our community.
Warm regards,
Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM Chief Executive
NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 6| 11 APRIL 2025
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