NEWS NORTHERN SYDNEY LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT NSLHD
Main story Short blurb Festive celebrations to celebrate 2024 NSLHD’s festive celebrations have been in full swing Page 4
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Partnership to drive innovation in genomic science Page 3
Eileen gordon honoured with plaque at mona vale hospital Page 11
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Message from the chief executive Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM
As the year draws to a close and many of us prepare for the Christmas and New Year break, it is important we take a moment to reflect on all we have achieved as a district this year. It has been an incredibly busy year filled with many accomplishments. These achievements are truly representative of the dedication and hard work our staff and volunteers show every day. Together, we have made a meaningful impact in 2024 and I want to express my heartfelt thanks for your outstanding contributions. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to take a look through our NSLHD 2024 Year in Review which features the many highlights and activities from throughout the year which are only a snippet of all the fantastic work across our district. You can read the Year in Review here: https://bit.ly/NSLHD-YIR-2024. Highlights include the start of building works for the $526.8 million Ryde Hospital redevelopment with the project moving ahead of schedule. This exciting redevelopment will see the Ryde community have a modern emergency department, intensive care unit, and advanced operating theatres to meet the growing needs of the community. I want to thank all our staff at Ryde for their teamwork and flexibility during this period of significant change. The district has also made great progress in research and clinical trials this year. We marked the opening of the North Sydney Trials and Research Van Norton Poche Centre, a game-changing clinical trials facility developed in partnership with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York. This centre will provide patients with access to global cancer treatments and further strengthen our district’s role in research and clinical trials.
Great progress was also made on the establishment of the Sydney North HealthCARE Precinct which is set to become a major hub for healthcare, research and education and play a key role in AI, digital health and musculoskeletal and cancer research. These are just a few of the many great achievements throughout the year that I look forward to seeing progress further in 2025. For those taking a well-deserved break, I hope you enjoy time to relax and recharge with loved ones. To our teams working through the holiday season, thank you for your commitment to providing excellent care to our community— it is deeply appreciated. Looking ahead, I am excited about the new opportunities 2025 will bring and the exciting things we have coming up in the new year. Last week we completed our last all staff town hall for the year, where I was lucky enough to be joined by Single Digital Patient Record (SDPR) Implementation Authority Chief Executive – Dr Teresa Anderson and the team from EPIC. EPIC ran us through the new SPDR system that will enhance the experience of patients across NSW. The presentation also detailed the considerable difference that SPDR will make to the experience of our workforce. I have really enjoyed taking part in these town halls throughout the year and I look forward to continuing them in 2025. I wish all of our patients, staff, volunteers and the wider community a safe and happy holiday period.
Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM Chief Executive Northern Sydney Local Health District
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AGRF Professor Simon Foote, Professor Robyn Ward, Michael Nugent, Adjunct Professor Anthony Schembri, Joe Baini and Professor James Elliott
Partnership to drive innovation in genomic science An exciting partnership between the
help address some of society’s biggest challenges. “As Australia’s premier provider of genomic solutions, AGRF is delighted to partner with the University of Sydney and the Kolling Institute, where our shared strengths and synergies can advance cutting edge translational research,” he said. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to enable genomic discoveries to drive innovation, improve lives and build awareness of the transformative potential of genomics.” NSLHD Chief Executive Anthony Schembri said it was an important step to establish the genomics facility within the institute adjoining Royal North Shore Hospital. “This specialised facility will help speed the translation of genomics research with direct input from leading clinicians and health providers,” he said. “The partnership will foster discovery science and a pathway to incorporate new knowledge and capabilities into clinical care. “We are excited to see the advancements in care by bringing together our collective strengths.” Professor James Elliott, the Kolling Institute’s Academic Director said a collection of researchers were already working with experts from AGRF. “We are looking forward to strengthening that relationship and the exciting opportunities and innovations to come from this strategic partnership,” he said.
Australian Genome Research Facility (AGRF) and the University of Sydney and the Kolling Institute will help strengthen genomic capabilities. The partnership will see a specialised team and cutting-edge technology located within the institute to progress research in this increasingly crucial field. As Australia’s largest provider of genomic services, AGRF supports researchers and organisations to drive discovery across clinical genomics, translational research, agriculture and environmental science. It partners with medical and scientific communities to provide high quality genomic data from single-gene analysis to whole genome sequencing and biomarker discovery. Professor Robyn Ward, Executive Dean and Pro-Vice Chancellor of the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney welcomed the announcement saying there is a growing awareness of the need for genomics in healthcare. “We are proud to partner with AGRF, and we are looking forward to exploring collaborative research and educational opportunities with this leading genomics provider,” she said. “By establishing a translational genomics facility within the Kolling Institute, we will be well placed to progress innovative research and directly improve health outcomes.” AGRF Chairman Professor Simon Foote said he was pleased the partnership had been forged, saying genomics will increasingly
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Santa makes a visit to the Manly AYAH
Staff enjoy a BBQ at RNSH
Spreading Festive Cheer Across NSLHD Holiday cheer spread across NSLHD as staff took part in end-of-year celebrations to mark another remarkable year. From festive barbecues at Ryde, Mona Vale, Hornsby, and Royal North Shore hospitals to a special visit from Santa and a fire truck at the Manly Adolescent and Youth Hospice, staff and patients alike were treated to moments of joy. These celebrations gave staff a chance to come together, reflect on their hard work, and appreciate each other’s contributions to the district’s success.
All smiles in Christmas scrubs at Mona Vale Hospital
Staff enjoy a BBQ at Ryde Hospital
Staff enjoying lunch at Hornsby Hospital
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Musicians added a burst of joy to the hospital foyer, filling each day of the festival with vibrant performances
festival of Music at Royal North SHore hospital From 9-13 December, Royal North Shore hosted a Festival of Music in the hospital foyer. The event featured a range of musical performances, songs, dancing, and more, showcasing local musicians and talented hospital staff. Supported by Hudson Du and Healthcare Home Loans, the festival included performances spanning classical to contemporary genres. The program offered a variety of acts, from jazz and a cappella ensembles to piano solos, opera performances, and brass band renditions. There was even a symphony performance, highlighting the diversity of talent within the hospital community. Chief Executive Anthony Schembri reflected on the success of the event. “It was truly special to witness the joy and connection that music brought to our hospital community,” he said.
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NSLHD Net Zero leads were recognised for their contributions with a ceremony at RNSH
nslhd completes australian-first net zero leads program In what was an Australian first, NSLHD has completed its Net Zero Leads Program, marking a significant milestone in the district’s planetary health efforts. clinicians to be champions for the district’s planetary health efforts, which has also led to
improved staff and patient outcomes. “It’s amazing to see how the Net Zero Leads Program has developed the skills and confidence of a group of our clinicians to lead projects which reduce the environmental impact of our clinical services, while at the same time improving patient care,” she said. “Thanks to the support of the NORTH Foundation, our Net Zero Leads are now recognised across the district and NSW Health as ‘go-to’ sustainability experts within their field and have helped to foster a culture of innovation and improvement within their departments for this work to continue.” More information about the projects can be found on this page: https://www.nslhd.health. nsw.gov.au/AboutUs/Pages/planetaryhealth. aspx NSLHD continues to work towards net zero by 2035 for emissions it can control, with a 70-80 per cent reduction by 2030. an effective tool to de-escalate incidents. The footage captured may also be used by NSW Police as direct evidence of offending against NSW Health workers. The cameras will only be activated where there is an imminent threat to the safety of security staff, and other staff or individuals.
The program, which was funded by NSLHD’s charity partner The NORTH Foundation, saw a group of 12 nurses, doctors, pharmacists and allied health staff from two NSLHD hospitals undertake 16 projects to improve the district’s planetary health efforts. Over two years, the clinicians dedicated half or one day per week designing, implementing and evaluating projects that minimise low- value care and decarbonise high-value care. Some notable highlights as a result of the program include an annual saving of 45,529 kg carbon dioxide equivalent (which equates to 1,300 acres of blue gum forest being saved), 16.3 tonnes of waste being diverted from landfill and a total of $170,000 in savings each year. NSLHD Planetary Health Manager, Nicola Groskops, said the program has enabled the
Body-worn cameras protecting staff and patients In a first for NSW, security guards at Royal North Shore Hospital are wearing body-worn cameras to improve safety for patients and staff.
The 12-month trial started in early December and will be rolled out to other hospitals across the state. Minister for Health Ryan Park announced the trial when he visited RNSH’s emergency department where he was given a demonstration of the cameras. Prior to activating their cameras, security staff will issue verbal advice that they are going to activate their cameras. “Our frontline health workers work hard every single day to provide care and treatment to people when they need it most,” Mr Park said. “But we know there is a risk they may be subjected to abuse and aggressive behaviour while on duty.” The trial will assess whether these cameras are
RNSH security officers
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NSLHD Staff Spread Christmas Cheer This year, staff at Hornsby, Ryde, Mona Vale and Royal North Shore Hospital donated items for the Dignity Christmas appeal. For over four years, Dignity has been an official charity partner of NSLHD. The hamper drive, coordinated by the NSLHD Executive Unit, encourages staff to choose from a list of approved items, which are then assembled into hampers. These hampers are distributed to people experiencing homelessness and hardship in the community. Thanks to the generosity of NSLHD staff, one van was filled with non-perishable food, clothing for men, women, and children, as well as toys and presents. The items will provide much-needed support to those in need over the holidays. Chief Executive Anthony Schembri expressed his gratitude and pride in the district’s collective effort. “It was wonderful to see how NSLHD staff came together for this worthy cause,” he said.
Volunteer end of year celebrations at Ryde Hospital A portion of the total donations
Mona Vale staff stand with their donations
Members of the NSLHD Executive Team with their donations
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Diabetes Research Earns RNSH Fellow Award During Dr Ann Nillsen’s time with the hospital and on top of her busy role caring for children with diabetes and hormone conditions at RNSH, Ann led important research that could change how diabetes is managed around the world.
health problems, which suggests that keeping blood sugar stable might be more important than always trying to get it to normal levels,” she said. This research has since been recognised by the Australia New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes with the doctor receiving the Emerging Investigator Award for her research.
Ann’s study focused on a rare type of diabetes called GCK-MODY. Unlike other forms of diabetes, patients with GCK- MODY have high blood sugar levels from birth but don’t develop serious complications like blindness or kidney disease. Thirteen patients with this condition were studied as part of the research, comparing their blood sugar patterns to those of healthy individuals and children with type 1 diabetes. Ann said the research found that people with the GCK-MODY type of diabetes had high blood sugar for about half the day, but their levels didn’t swing up and down much, instead they stayed steady. “The results indicated that despite living with high blood sugar for decades, none of the patients had developed serious Leaders across NSLHD have undertaken psychosocial risk management training to enhance workplace safety and well-being. The Psychosocial Risk Management Training for Managers course introduces psychological health and safety, led by a qualified psychologist, and guides participants through NSLHD’s Psychosocial Risk Assessment Tool. This tool is being implemented district-wide to help identify and address potential risks in the workplace. Simon Radmore, Executive Director, Office of the Chief Executive, is encouraging all managers at NSLHD to undertake the training. “By completing this training and
Dr Ann Nillsen Empowering Leaders with Psychosocial Training
as role overload, workplace harassment, or exposure to violence, can significantly impact staff well-being if unmanaged. To address these risks, NSLHD offers the Psychosocial Risk Management Training for Managers, a course led by a psychologist that explores psychological health and safety. Managers are encouraged to complete this essential online training, delivered through 12 two-hour sessions, to ensure a safe and supportive work environment for all. Managers who would like to do the training can access it here: https://bit. ly/49mLI4K
conducting risk assessments, we are fostering a supportive and safe environment,” said Simon. “It’s about equipping everyone with the tools to thrive at work.” Psychosocial hazards, such
Some NSLHD Managers completing their training
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Our cancer experts going from strength to strength A special visit by two international cancer
Sumit said he and the researchers also had the chance to present their promising data on the development of a urinary biomarker test for early detection of pancreatic cancer. “The day provided a wonderful chance to meet the two leading international experts and to explore collaborative opportunities between clinicians and scientists working in this field,” he said. “It was exciting to hear the latest research with these complex gastrointestinal cancers, including the role of microbiome in promoting colon cancer and influencing cancer immunotherapy responses.” The event was co-ordinated by the University of Sydney’s Cancer Research Network and NSLHD.
specialists could mark the start of a valuable collaborative partnership. Professor Matthew Katz from the MD Anderson Cancer Centre in Houston Texas is recognised as a pioneer in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, while Professor Cynthia Sears from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore is a global leader in colorectal cancer research. The pair discussed the role of microbiome in colorectal cancer progression, and peri-operative treatment options for pancreatic cancer patients. Senior Kolling Institute cancer researcher Dr Sumit Sahni said the event focused on the clinical management of colorectal and pancreatic cancers, and recent advances in the development of organoid models for cancer.
A chance for our clinicians and researchers to meet international cancer experts
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Digital food ordering arrives across NSLHD Out with the paper, in with the iPads – that’s the new reality of ordering meals for patients at sites across NSLHD.
Royal North Shore, Mona Vale, Ryde and Hornsby hospital’s are now all benefitting from an innovative project which sees patient meals being ordered on iPads instead of paper, making it faster and more sustainable. The new menu offers more options, allowing patients to mark foods they like or dislike, proving greater choice and a more personalised experience. NSLHD’s partners, HealthShare NSW, have spearheaded and carried out the innovative project which also see a new statewide menu introduced to patients. The new process supports the district’s planetary health efforts and streamlines the process by automatically transmitting requests to the kitchen, making order fulfillment faster and more efficient.
RNSH dietary aide Erika with the new iPads
Plaque honouring Eileen Gordon unveiled at Mona Vale Hospital A plaque has been installed at Mona Vale
Hospital to honour the late Eileen Gordon, who sadly passed away in 2022. Eileen devoted over 20 years of service to the Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary, playing a pivotal role in supporting the hospital and the wider community. Her efforts laid the groundwork for many of the Auxiliary’s successful fundraising activities, including stalls, sausage sizzles, fashion parades, and raffles. A much-loved resident of the Northern Beaches, Eileen dedicated countless hours to helping others. This plaque serves as a lasting tribute to her remarkable contributions and enduring legacy.
Elieen Gordon’s plaque was unveiled at Mona Vale Hospital
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Danica Willis and Karen Zhang
Training emergency nurses for tense situations A group of emergency nurses huddle around two laptops in a training room at Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH), trying to calm down a virtual persona.
mother wanting her toddler to be seen to immediately. In a bustling emergency department, patient care is often fast-paced, but tensions can escalate quickly. To help create a safe space for both patients and healthcare professionals, RNSH has been running the Aggression Prevention Minimisation project since June this year. Clinical Nurse Consultant Alison Partyka the VR component is an important part of the training. “The VR de-escalation training is one of three key tools helping staff recognise and manage difficult behaviours in the emergency room before they spiral out of control,” she said.
On one laptop, the avatar represents a patient with a substance use disorder. “I don’t want to listen to anything else you have to say. Just get me a damn doctor and some stronger pain relief,” he demanded. The avatar unfortunately mimics real- life aggressive behaviour, and the nurses are practising ways to de-escalate the situation. Nearby, two nurses have donned virtual reality (VR) headsets and are also talking to avatars, including the upset family member of a person with dementia and a
Thank you for helping us SPread the GOOD neWS throughout 2024
Please continue to share your news and achievements in 2025. Contact the Media and Communications team on 9463 1722 or email NSLHD-media@health.nsw.gov.au to submit your news.
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Professor Sarah Hilmer
New research to capture those with frailty, informing hospital care and resources
A $3-million research grant will help develop technology to identify frailty in older people in hospital, a crucial step towards improving care and long-term patient outcomes. The Kolling Institute’s Professor Sarah Hilmer will lead the large-scale study involving hospitals and universities across Australia as well as international investigators. Sarahsaid the five-year project will develop real-time frailty monitoring technology to help tackle one of the biggest challenges facing older people. “As we age, our risk of frailty increases, and we know that frail older people in hospital have a high chance of experiencing an adverse event, like confusion or a fall,” she said. “The technology that we are researching will use existing data from the electronic medical records to measure the Frailty Index, and this will automatically and efficiently screen hospital patients for frailty. “Identification of frailty is the essential first step to providing frailty-informed
health care. It will also inform health services about the facilities, resources and staff required to meet the needs of people with frailty. “On an individual basis, it means patients will receive specialised, multidisciplinary care, including the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment model of care, where patients are more likely to continue living at home and less likely to be in a nursing home up to a year after their stay in hospital.” The screening may be used for observational research or clinical trials of optimal therapies for people living with frailty. Sarah said the research project will help to bring models of care in line with international guidelines which strongly recommend that all older people are screened for frailty. “I am delighted to lead a strong, multidisciplinary, national and international team to develop the crucial technology we need for frailty screening of older people in hospital,” she said.
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Shining the light on domestic violence Staff working to support domestic
support and consultation you provide to our community partners in this work,” she said. The team held bright orange stalls across hospitals as part of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, which ran from 25 November until 10 December.
violence families in northern Sydney have been awarded for their “gold standard service”. The Prevention and Response to Violence Abuse and Neglect (PARVAN) team was awarded the Gold Standard Award for Outstanding Domestic Violence Community Service 2024, being recognised as “a community- minded organisation that goes above and beyond to support victims of domestic violence and abuse.” The award coincided with the 16 Days of Change campaign where staff at NSLHD hospitals and services wore orange to campaign against gender-based violence. Held by the Northern Beaches Domestic Violence Network, the event brought together people and services committed to making a difference in the field of domestic and family violence. PARVAN Director Rachel Wolfe said it was a “wonderful recognition” of the PARVAN Service. “For all of the staff’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to constantly improving and extending services and responses available for victims of domestic and family violence across our district, as well as for the
Members of the PARVAN team with their award
This annual campaign is one NSLHD supports and encourages visitors and patients to also get behind.
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Jeremy Booth Honoured with Clinical Excellence Award RNSH medical physicist Jeremy Booth has been recognised for his experience in
treatments that cure more patients while reducing toxicity. Some of our work has even been productised and commercialised through collaborations with industry,” he said. The award is named after Associate Professor Lyn Oliver, a pioneer in medical physics who played a key role in establishing ACPSEM and advancing healthcare and cancer care through clinical leadership and federal funding initiatives.
translating science into patient care. The head of medical physics in the radiation oncology department was awarded the inaugural Lyn Oliver Excellence in Clinical Translation Award by the Australasian College of Physical Scientists & Engineers in Medicine (ACPSEM). The award celebrates individuals who demonstrate a commitment to patient-centred care, driving significant improvements in patient safety, experience, and well-being. Jeremy said the recognition holds special meaning due to his deep admiration for Lyn Oliver. “I was so honoured to receive this award because Lyn was the first person who recruited me to RNSH in 2007,” he said. “He was instrumental in building this hospital and creating a lasting legacy of excellence in science and clinical application.” Jeremy’s work focuses on translating science into practice through innovative clinical trials. “Our efforts target more accurate the practitioners across Australia. Nurse practitioners are highly skilled registered nurses endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. They have completed advanced university studies at the Master’s level, earning the title of the most senior and independent clinical nurses in Australia’s healthcare system. Only individuals endorsed by Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia can use the title nurse practitioner. NSLHD Director of Nursing and Midwifery Claire Harris outlined the importance of Nurse Practicitioners. “This is a time to honour their
Jeremy stands wtih his Lyn Oliver Excellence in Clinical Translation
Celebrating Nurse Practitioner Week Nurse Practitioner Week, celebrated globally from 9–15 December, acknowledges the vital contributions of
achievements and recognise the value they bring to healthcare in our health district and nationwide,” she said. Their roles extend beyond clinical practice to include research, education, and leadership in healthcare service development. They are authorised to diagnose and treat a range of acute and chronic conditions, prescribe medications under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, order diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists and hospitals. “Our 37 NSLHD Nurse Practitioners work in diverse care models and settings, from hospitals to community environments, serving as key members of the healthcare team,” she said. “Their dedication and expertise significantly enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare across the nation.”
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NSLHD Chief Executive Anthony Schembri was taken on a tour of the new theatres
Sake and kimonos at new operating theatres at RNSH A traditional Japanese ceremony was held to honour the new interventional vascular and cardiothoracic theatre suites in a nod to the company that supplied the life- saving equipment.
“This has been quite a journey with a group engaged clinicians devoting a significant amount of time and energy to ensure best possible outcomes,” she said. “I also extend my gratitude to Canon and Getinge for working closely with our teams to provide state-of-the-art equipment. “These theatres are a testament to what we can achieve when we work together, and they will play a vital role in delivering safe, high-quality care to our patients.” alongside his dedication to supporting his loved one. • Eileen McDonald received recognition for her national advocacy representing the lived experience of carers, working with MHCN and various organisations, while supporting her family through complex challenges. The awards were presented by Mental Health Carers NSW CEO Jonathan Harms and the NSW Minister for Mental Health, Hon Rose Jackson.
Guests were invited to wear kimonos and toast with non-alcoholic sake to mark the official opening of two theatre suites at RNSH. RNSH General Manager Alison Zecchin said the theatres allowed for greater capacity for complex cardiothoracic and vascular surgeries, ensuring the hospital can meet the demands of the growing needs of the community.
NSW Carer Recognition Awards for Advocacy Mental Health Carers NSW celebrated its 50th anniversary on 28 November at Parliament House, recognising six mental health carers with NSW Carer Recognition in Advocacy Awards. Among the recipients were Lyn Anderson,
Peter Heggie, and Eileen McDonald, members of the Mental Health Drug and Alcohol Carer Peer Worker team, acknowledged for their significant contributions to advocacy for mental health carers. • Lyn Anderson was honoured for her extensive state and national advocacy efforts in health, forensic health, police training, and rural health services. As a founding Carer Peer Worker at NSLHD, Lyn continues to champion increased carer and consumer peer worker roles. • Peter Heggie was recognised for his national representation with Carers Australia and long- term collaboration with Mental Health Carers NSW (MHCN),
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