NORTHERN NORTHERN SYDNEY LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT
NSLHD launches new strategy to support carers
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Catching waves, building connections with Silver Surfers Page 6
menopause resource launched for World Menopause Day Page 5
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM
Dear colleagues, It was wonderful to see three NSLHD finalists recognised in this year’s NSW Health Awards, alongside an honourable mention. Congratulations to Anne Green from Royal North Shore Hospital, a finalist for Volunteer of the Year, Seamus McMahon from Macquarie Hospital, recognised in the Small Acts of Kindness category, and the team behind the Let’s Talk About Voices online toolkit, nominated for Excellence in the Provision of Mental Health Services. The No GA, No Delay: Skin Grafting the Sustainable Way initiative also received an honourable mention in the Environmental Sustainability category. These achievements are a wonderful reflection of the talent, innovation, compassion and commitment to delivering exceptional care across our district. Congratulations to everyone involved. It was a privilege to welcome the Vietnamese fellows participating in the 2026 Học Mãi Fellowship Program across our health services. The program provides an opportunity for the fellows to undertake clinical observation placements across our facilities, while strengthening professional relationships, sharing knowledge and fostering international collaboration between Australia and Vietnam. We are proud to support this important initiative and look forward to the exchange of knowledge and experiences that will benefit healthcare professionals and patients in both countries. The district recently launched the NSLHD Carer Support Strategy 2026–2031 at Royal North Shore Hospital as part of Carers Week. Behind many of the people who access our
health services is a carer providing support, advocacy and practical assistance every day. The strategy, which was developed alongside our carers, reaffirms our commitment to working in partnership with carers and ensuring they feel valued, respected, included and supported whenever they interact with our health services. My sincere thanks to all carers across our community, including the many members of our workforce who balance caring responsibilities alongside their professional roles. I encourage everyone to read the strategy and learn more about how we will continue to support our carers: https://bit.ly/4jvbnj1 It was great to bring many of our leaders from all over the district to take part in this year’s Leadership Forum, which was hosted by the district’s people and culture team. This year’s theme, ‘Stronger in Sync’, saw us explore themes around leading under pressure, creating psychologically safe teams and building stronger connections across the health system. I hope everyone who attended came away with some fresh ideas and a renewed commitment to looking after themselves and the people around them.
Warm regards,
Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM Chief Executive Northern Sydney Local Health District
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The Vietnamese fellows were welcomed at RNSH
NSLHD welcomes Vietnamese fellows through Hoc Mãi program
medicine, ophthalmology, infectious diseases, plastic surgery, aged care, haematology and endocrinology. One fellow will complete a placement within the nursing department at Royal North Shore Hospital. Two fellows will complete placements at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. NSLHD Chief Executive Anthony Schembri said the program highlighted the importance of international partnerships in healthcare. “Programs like Học Mãi provide invaluable opportunities to share knowledge, strengthen professional relationships and learn from one another,” he said. “We are delighted to welcome this year’s fellows and support their professional development.”
Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) has welcomed 17 healthcare professionals from Vietnam as part of the 2026 Học Mãi Fellowship Program. The fellows were officially welcomed at an afternoon tea attended by NSLHD Board Chair Mary Chiarella AM, NSLHD executives, clinicians and representatives from the Học Mãi Foundation. The program provides opportunities for international collaboration, professional development and knowledge sharing between Australia and Vietnam. Fourteen fellows will undertake clinical observation placements at Royal North Shore Hospital across specialties including oncology, obstetrics and gynaecology, renal
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The NSLHD Carer Support Strategy 2026–2031 was launched at RNSH during Carers Week with members of the NSLHD Board and senior leadership team in attendance
NSLHD launches new strategy to support carers Northern Sydney Local Health District’s Carers Support Service recently celebrated the launch of the NSLHD Carer Support Strategy 2026– 2031 during Carers Week at Royal North Shore Hospital.
premature birth through to his achievements in law, advocacy and community leadership. “It has been a lifelong journey with many challenges along the way but to watch Adam grow into the person he is has made me a very proud mum,” she said. “It can be a difficult balance but when healthcare professionals listen and work together with carers it can make a real difference.” Celebrations for Carers Week across the district included information and wellbeing hubs, live music, mindfulness and nature activities at Royal North Shore Hospital; creative sessions at Ryde Hospital and Graythwaite Rehabilitation Centre; and a creative morning tea and planting activity at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital. Carer Champion Certificates also recognised staff commitment to supporting carers. At Northern Beaches Hospital, the NSLHD Mental Health Drug and Alcohol Family and Carer Program hosted an information stall and the Caring Together: Mental Health Connection event, bringing people together to share experiences, learn about navigating the mental health system and explore support for families and carers. Carers Week activities were supported by the NSW Government through the Department of Communities and Justice National Carers Week Grants Program. Read more about the NSLHD Carer Support Strategy 2026–2031: https://bit.ly/4jvbnj1
Developed with carers, consumers, staff and community members, the strategy sets out a five-year commitment to ensuring carers feel valued, respected, included and supported when interacting with health services. More than 120,000 people across northern Sydney provide unpaid care to a family member or friend. The strategy recognises every carer’s contribution and sets out a clear plan to improve services and support for carers across our district. NSLHD Board Member Adam Johnston AM and his mother and carer, Sally Johnston, shared their experiences at the launch, highlighting the lifelong commitment of caring and the importance of listening to carers. Adam highlighted the strategy’s importance in supporting carers’ own health and wellbeing while they care for others. “Who takes care of a carer’s health? They are putting that on the backburner while they care for everyone else,” he said. “My mother has to find 48 hours every day. It’s the only way to meet my needs, her own needs, and have anything left for other family members, friends and other commitments. “My mother knows more about me than I know me. She’s been my mother and carer for 53 years.” Sally reflected on supporting Adam from his
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New menopause resource launched for World Menopause Day Northern Sydney Local Health District has marked World Menopause Day by sharing a
Sameer said severe symptoms could affect sleep, concentration, confidence and physical health, with the impacts extending to work, relationships, caring responsibilities and everyday life. “You do not have to simply endure symptoms. Effective, evidence-based treatments are available, and seeking help is an important investment in your present and future health,” he said. “Our goal is earlier recognition, better-informed decisions and fewer people feeling they must manage severe symptoms alone.” The new video provides an overview of menopause and the specialist support available through the Menopause Hub at Royal North Shore Hospital. The service provides multidisciplinary public care for people experiencing severe or complex menopause symptoms. This includes patients with a history of breast or other cancers, premature or medically induced menopause, complex medical conditions, or symptoms that have not improved with initial treatment. Watch the new video and access the website here: https://bit.ly/NSLHD-Menopause-Hub
new video and website to help patients, families and health professionals learn more about the specialist, multidisciplinary care available at Royal North Shore Hospital. This year’s theme, Chronic Pain at Midlife, highlights the importance of investigating and treating persistent pain within a multidisciplinary team, rather than dismissing it as a natural part of ageing. Menopause Hub Clinical Lead and specialist gynaecologist Dr Sameer Mathur said World Menopause Day helped place menopause firmly on the health agenda and encouraged more open conversations across the community. “Greater visibility helps people recognise symptoms earlier and seek reliable advice. It is about health empowerment,” he said. “Symptoms are still often minimised, misunderstood or attributed to stress or ageing, while the risks of treatment can be misunderstood and exaggerated.” “This can leave people suffering silently, delay treatment and make them feel their experience is not legitimate.”
Menopause Hub team at RNSH
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Top nursing honour for Professor Margaret Murphy Northern Sydney Local Health District’s Professor of Emergency and Critical Care,
Adjunct Professor Claire Harris described the honour as “a moment of immense pride for NSLHD and reflects a career dedicated to advancing excellence in emergency and critical care nursing.” Within NSLHD, Margaret has played a significant role in fostering a culture of inquiry and evidence-based practice, supporting clinicians to translate research into better care for
Professor Margaret Murphy, has received one of emergency nursing’s highest accolades, being named the 2026 Australasian Emergency Nurse of the Year by the College of Emergency Nursing Australasia (CENA). This prestigious award recognises excellence in emergency care and celebrates emergency nurses who have made an outstanding contribution to patient care, professional practice, quality improvement, education and leadership within the specialty. Margaret Murphy is widely respected across the nursing profession for her leadership, scholarship and dedication to advancing emergency nursing practice. In her role as Professor of Emergency and Critical Care, a conjoint appointment between Northern Sydney Local Health District and the University of Technology Sydney, she has built an impressive reputation as a researcher, clinician and mentor, helping shape the future of emergency and critical care nursing. Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery,
patients and communities. A well-deserved honour, this award celebrates Margaret’s exceptional leadership and the lasting difference she has made to patients, nurses and healthcare across our district.
Professor Margaret Murphy
Catching waves, building connections with Silver Surfers A group of Northern Beaches locals aged 55 and over are proving that you’re never too old to catch a wave, make new friends and embrace a healthy, active lifestyle with the Silver Surfers program. their lives,” he said. The program aims to support a range of health and wellbeing outcomes, including increased physical activity, improved mobility and
fitness, better mental wellbeing, greater ocean confidence and stronger social connections.
Funded by Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD), the popular community initiative brings together movement, ocean adventure and social connection in a fun and supportive environment. Delivered by MWP Care, Manly Surf School and Surfers for Climate, Silver Surfers is designed to help older people stay active, build confidence and improve their wellbeing through a unique mix of bodyboarding, beach-based exercise, breathwork and social engagement. Donning a pink rashie to launch the initiative was Simon Radmore, NSLHD executive director of strategy and office of the chief executive. “We know that good health is about more than treating illness or injury. It is also about creating opportunities for people to stay active, connected, and engaged in the things that enrich
L-R: NSLHD Executive members Thomas Opie, Simon Radmore and Sophie Whitaker
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Kolling refurbishment to transform learning spaces Work will begin within months on a multi-million dollar refurbishment program for the Kolling building, enhancing education infrastructure and the experience of students and staff across the Royal North Shore Hospital campus.
Armstrong said raising awareness of the importance of physical activity supported both healthier ageing and falls prevention. “Research has shown that regular exercise that includes both functional strength and balance challenges, can reduce falls by 23 per cent,” she said. Across the district, inpatient facilities and community health teams hosted displays and activities to encourage participation and start conversations about keeping active. “Importantly, the design will support research, teaching and mentoring, while promoting valuable collaboration,” he said. “The refurbishment will create a contemporary, professional and welcoming environment, while supporting student wellbeing through access to purpose-built facilities.” NSLHD CE Anthony Schembri welcomed the refurbishment. “I am delighted to see this upgrading program take shape, and realise the significant benefits for students and staff on campus, as well as the broader research and health community,” he said. “I would like to thank the University of Sydney for its generous investment which will deliver significant new infrastructure to the campus. “The works will support the strategic direction of the district, the university, and the Kolling Institute, who are all committed to high-quality healthcare, inclusive education, and impactful research.” The works are scheduled for completion by mid 2027.
More than $8.5 million is being invested in the upgrade to the Kolling building -the academic and translational research hub for hundreds of staff and students. The University of Sydney is contributing $7 million to the refurbishment, with NSLHD providing the balance of the funds. To commence in January, the works will include the multi-purpose Kolling Pavilion, contemporary learning spaces and modern library, improved outdoor spaces including new seating, and an upgraded entry and foyer. The Kolling Pavilion will provide a large meeting, event and education space, while the library upgrade will deliver a range of modern and accessible learning spaces. Professor John Prins, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney said the works will be purpose-built, providing modern, flexible and comfortable amenities.
Springing into action for healthier ageing A splash of yellow has brightened services across Northern Sydney Local Health District as staff and consumers take part in Spring into Action, promoting physical activity and falls prevention. Returning throughout September and October, the initiative encourages older adults to
become more active as the weather warms up, highlighting the role of movement in maintaining health and reducing falls. NSLHD Falls Prevention Coordinator Margaret
Spring into Action Display at the RNSH foyer
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2026/2027 Award Categories
e Healthy and Well Communities
• Safe and Connected Care
• Partnering with Consumers and Carers
• Research, Innovation and Digital Health
• Sustainability and Planetary Health
• Engaged and Supported People
• Leadership
• Youth Achievement
• CORE Values and Behaviours
Who will you nominate? Nominations are open to staff, volunteers, patients and consumers. Scan the QR code or click the link that applies to you.
CONSUMERS Patients, carers, families and community members Scan or click here to nominate
STAFF & VOLUNTEERS NSLHD staff, volunteers Scan or click here to nominate
Questions? Contact : People Experience and Capability Team NSLH D-peopleexperienceandcapability@health.nsw.gov.au
Northern Sydney NSW Local Health District GOVERNMENT
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