NEWS NORTHERN SYDNEY LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT NSLHD LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT
SHELLEY BEACH PHOTO WINS RNSH AWARD
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Message from the chief executive Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM
We recently wrapped up the 2025 People Matter Employee Survey, and I would like to thank all staff members who took the time to share their feedback about what it’s like to work at the district. We had more participants this year than the previous year which was incredibly pleasing and I would to thank all the survey’s champions across the district for helping your peers have their say. Your input from this survey will be invaluable as we continue to strive to make NSLHD a great place to work and thrive. I look forward to sharing the results in the coming weeks to staff and seeing what’s going well and where we can improve. We recently celebrated the district’s 2025 Mental Health Drug and Alcohol awards, and it was fantastic to see the workforce come together to celebrate a year of outstanding achievements and recognise standout staff members and teams. Thank you to all of our MHDA staff across the district for your tireless contributions throughout the year. The care and compassion you provide to some of our community’s most vulnerable members does not go unnoticed, and I hope you all found a moment to celebrate your hard work.
Congratulations to the Northern Sydney Home Nursing Service on celebrating 125 years of service to the community. This major milestone has provided an opportunity for us to look back to the service’s early days, when it was founded in 1900 by the Anglican Christian Social Union to provide nursing care for the sick in their homes. As we celebrate the past and look towards the future, models of care in the home will continue to evolve and be ever-present in our health service. Advances in technology, new approaches to chronic disease management, and an increased focus on patient-centred care will all play a role in shaping how community nursing continues to deliver this essential service. I would like to thank all our community nursing staff members, both past and present, for the care you provide for our patients and their loved ones in often very personal settings where they need it most.
Warm regards,
Adjunct Professor Anthony M. Schembri AM Chief Executive Northern Sydney Local Health District
NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 17| 19 SEPTEMBER 2025
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RNSH ICU staff hosted a barbecue for Jersey Day, joined by Jersey Day organiser Richard Gremmo (kneeling in middle) alongside NSLHD CE Anthony Schembri
wearing jerseys for a cause Staff across NSLHD wore their favourite jerseys last week to mark Jersey Day. Jersey Day is all about starting conversations with family, friends and colleagues about the importance of organ and tissue donation. The campaign is inspired by the story of Nathan Gremmo, a 13-year-old boy whose decision to become a donor gave the gift of life to six people. Richard Gremmo, Nathan’s uncle and one of the organisers of Jersey Day, also joined the ICU staff barbecue at Royal North Shore Hospital to support the campaign. Chief Executive Anthony Schembri said the event was a powerful reminder of how one choice can make a lasting impact. “Organ and tissue donation is one of the most meaningful gifts we can give,” Anthony said. “Jersey Day is about sparking conversations, raising awareness, and encouraging everyone to register as a donor.” The hospital hosted a barbecue to celebrate, while other sites across the district held morning teas, activities and shared photos to raise awareness. Staff said the celebrations were a great opportunity to come together, share stories and reflect on the importance of donation. Alyce Robinson, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Organ and Tissue Donation, NSLHD said participation across the district was inspiring. “The simple act of wearing a jersey started so many important discussions about donation,” she said. Registering as an organ and tissue donor is quick and easy — and it could save a life. Visit www.donatelife.gov.au to sign up today.
SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS Share your news and achievements. 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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SHELLEY BEACH PHOTO WINS Art of wellness AWARD A neurologist’s striking underwater image of a giant cuttlefish has won the Royal North Shore Hospital’s Art of Wellness photography prize. Dr Kate Ahmad is a regular scuba diver at Sydney’s Shelley Beach and took the photo in July when the males put on mating displays. “They are huge animals about a metre in length. They change their colours, their textures and their shape while they are dancing around to impress the females,” said Dr Ahmad, who is based at Royal North Shore hospital (RNSH). “It’s honestly like being in another world.” Eighty-one images were entered into the photography prize, held at Royal North Shore Hospital. “I’m thrilled that the staff embraced this concept of the art of wellness and the interpretations highlight an incredible level of creativity in our district,” said committee coordinator Susan Day. Five photographs received high commendation, with an additional 15 selected as finalists. The full collection will be on display in the RNSH foyer until mid-October.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
‘Wellness is laughter happiness and friends’ by Sarah Mearns
HIGHLY COMMENDED
HIGHLY COMMENDED
‘Grace in Motion’ by Sheila Jala
‘Nature’s Soothing Palette’ by Susan Day
NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 17| 19 SEPTEMBER 2025
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WINNER
Kate Ahmad’s winning photograph ‘The Appreciation of Beauty’
HIGHLY COMMENDED
HIGHLY COMMENDED
‘Resilience’ by Barbara Lewis
‘Autumn Reflections’ by David Waugh
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Awards point to world-leading cardiac care A group of RNSH clinicians received a collection of coveted awards at the Cardiac Society ANZ scientific meeting. The most prestigious research award for young investigators across Australia and New Zealand was awarded to cardiologist Dr Karan Rao. He was presented with the Clinical Ralph Reader Prize for his valuable study of 200 TAVI patients, which used an implantable loop recorder to guide post procedural care and risk classification. Dr Hari Sritharan received the Heart Failure Prize for PREDICT TAVI, a machine learning model that improves individualised mortality prediction after TAVI. Dr Jonathan Ciofani was named Editorial Fellow of the Year for his leadership at Heart, Lung and Circulation, and Dr Neila Litkouhi won Best Research Poster for the DAY STAY TAVI study demonstrating the feasibility and safety of same day discharge for selected low risk patients after TAVI. Head of Cardiology at Royal North Shore Hospital Professor Ravinay Bhindi said it was encouraging to see the focus on this group of emerging research leaders. “As their research supervisor, I felt immense pride watching Karan, Hari, Jonathan and Neila receive well deserved recognition for their relentless dedication to cardiovascular research,” he said. “Their work blends rigorous data collection, machine-learning analytics as well as practical innovation. It is already reshaping clinical practice and promises to drive even greater advances in patient care.”
Doctors Neila Litkouhi, Hari Sritharan, Karan Rao and Jonathan Ciofani with Professor Ravinay Bhindi (seated)
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NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 17| 19 SEPTEMBER 2025
Stitching kindness for carers this Carers Week Ahead of Carers Week (12-18 October), staff are joining a drop-in stitch circle to create felt hearts for patient carers– an act of kindness honouring those who support
our patients every step of the way. The bright little hearts are part of the global 1000 Hearts kindness movement, symbolising comfort and support for carers. “Kindness is already at the heart of what we do,” said Barbara Lewis, Carer Support Service Manager. “A few stitches can create a beautiful gift that reminds carers they are valued.” For Heidi, whose husband was critically ill in Royal North Shore Hospital’s ICU, the gesture came at just the right time. “We’ve been married for 41 years. Seeing him that sick... my heart was breaking,” she said. “A staff member handed me a gorgeous little felt heart, and, in that moment, it gave me goosebumps. I keep it in my front pocket and hold it when I need strength. It’s like it’s glowing.” There are more than 130,000 unpaid carers in northern Sydney supporting loved ones through illness, disability, and age-related needs. While they play a vital role in patient outcomes, carers themselves face significant challenges, with wellbeing levels much lower than the average Australian adult. “These hearts are a tangible reminder carers are seen, supported and never alone,” said Barbara. To stitch a heart, visit the carers centres at Royal North Shore or Hornsby hospitals, or the Pink Ladies at Ryde Hospital. Email NSLHD-Carers@health.nsw.gov.au for a DIY pack.
Heidi, with her son Ben, holds a felt heart stitched by staff while her husband recovers in Royal North Shore Hospital’s ICU.
Each heart is a small gesture of kindness for carers supporting loved ones
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125 Years of Northern Sydney Home Nursing From humble beginnings to a burgeoning service, Northern Sydney Home Nursing Service has come a long way in its 125-year history.
community setting.” Northern Sydney Home Nursing service origins were tied to the Sydney District Nursing Association and it was founded in 1900 by the Anglican Christian Social Union to provide nursing care for the sick in their homes. This grew to become the Sydney Home Nursing Service in 1967, with the Northern Sydney Home Nursing Service eventually established as a vital part of the Northern Sydney Local Health District.
Reaching the milestone, past and present nurses, allied health clinicians and staff of the service came together to reminisce and celebrate at the Epping Club. Among the guests was former director of nursing, Linda Wadsworth who was with the service for 45 years. Joining her was Kim Field, former director of NSLHD primary and community health, who
kicked up her heels on the dance floor as staff let their hair down. NSLHD Executive Director, Nursing and Midwifery Claire Harris highlighted the critical role community nursing plays in healthcare. “As we plan for the future, there is an increasing focus on delivering treatment in people’s homes,” she said. “This service exemplifies the future of health care—providing care beyond the hospital walls.” “Such a large part of our district consists of people like you, caring for patients in their homes, in a
Northern Sydney Home Nursing Service celebrated 125 years
Butterflies take flight on NICU Graduation Wall Families of Royal North Shore Hospital’s tiniest patients now have a new way to celebrate their journey, with the unveiling of the Neonatal Intensive Unit (NICU) Graduation Wall.
Developed by the NORTH Foundation, the wall features colourful butterfly decals, each representing a baby who has spent time in the NICU. Families can make a donation to the NORTH Foundation, using the QR code displayed on the wall, choose a butterfly colour, and write a message before placing it on the wall as a symbol of hope, gratitude and new beginnings. Melissa and her daughter Mariah were among the first to take part. Born at just 27 weeks and weighing only 1.234 kilograms, Mariah spent her earliest weeks in the NICU. Melissa said she will always be thankful to the team who saved her daughter’s life and helped her family celebrate their first Christmas together. Every butterfly honours a story of strength, care and survival – and helps ensure more families can celebrate their own milestones in the future. Read Melissa and Mariah’s story here: https:// bit.ly/484rEpe
Melissa and her daughter Mariah
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Changing of the guard After more than 25 years leading visionary research, Professor Ian Cameron has stepped down as the head of the internationally respected John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research. Accomplished researcher, educator and clinician Professor Ashley Craig has been appointed to the role and will lead a large team of experienced and emerging investigators. Dr Mohit Arora steps into the new position of deputy head, with Dr Kishan Kariippanon the centre’s manager. Ashley has paid tribute to his long-standing colleague. “Ian Cameron is one of Australia’s leading rehabilitation specialists and a world leader in complex injuries and physical outcomes, compensation issues, and ageing complications,” he said. “He was instrumental in the establishment and growth of the John Walsh Centre and has long advocated for rehabilitation to be recognised as a specific research area. “He has led many clinical trials related to rehabilitation, disability and ageing, while fostering a new generation of researchers, and encouraging them to develop their research careers.” Ian played a key role in driving reforms within the CTP injury compensation scheme in NSW and developing best practice guidelines. Ian pursued his vision for a multidisciplinary centre focused on injury related disability and rehabilitation, and today, the centre is recognised for its high-quality research into musculoskeletal, spinal cord, psychological and traumatic brain injury. It continues to increase its research impact, with leading publications, large-scale funding and high-profile awards. Ashley is keen to build on the centre’s achievements by strengthening its research and education capabilities, and supporting a new generation of rehabilitation experts to offer exceptional care.
Professor Ashley Craig
Professor Ian Cameron
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Celebrating 2025 THRIVE Graduates Cohort 10 of the NSLHD THRIVE Mid- Tier Leadership Program graduated on 11 September 2025, with 22 multidisciplinary participants in the program. The THRIVE program is designed to develop mid-tier leaders across NSLHD by building skills in self-awareness, leadership capability, and collaboration, while
opened with a quote from the program that resonated with them: “Be the leader you wish you had.” Another shared: “Leadership is not about you – it’s about lifting the people around you.” Anthony Schembri commended the participants for their achievement. “These 22 emerging leaders have shown remarkable curiosity, courage, and collaboration, serving as an inspiration to others aspiring to lead. Their energy, insight, and dedication will have a lasting impact across NSLHD,” he said. “I encourage the graduates to keep asking questions, lead with empathy, and embrace any opportunity for incidental or formal coaching and mentoring.” THRIVE Cohort 11 will start in February 2026. Application information and links will be circulated at the end of October 2025. For more information on the THRIVE program, visit the Leader Development intranet page: https://bit.ly/3Itbj31
providing opportunities for networking, coaching, and insights from senior leaders. The six-month program included immersive workshops, individual coaching, and opportunities for sharing ideas across teams. On the final day, participants presented their personal leadership journeys and key THRIVE learnings to a panel of leaders, which included NSLHD Board members and Chief Executive Anthony Schembri. The panel offered encouragement and shared leadership insights, with one member noting that “attending the THRIVE presentations is a privilege and a highlight in their calendar.” Presentations highlighted a growth in confidence, attributed to self-awareness and perspective gained through 360-degree feedback, leadership style diagnostics, and coaching sessions. One participant
NSLHD THRIVE Cohort 10 graduates celebrated with Chief Executive Anthony Schembri and Board Members
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Hope for FND Patients A clinical trial at RNSH is exploring a form of psychotherapy to treat functional neurological disorder (FND)—a condition marked by serious neurological symptoms such as weakness, paralysis, seizures, tremors and sensory problems, even though there is no structural brain damage. While this disease is common in Australian neurology clinics, accounting for around 30 per cent of patients, it remains poorly understood and has limited treatment options. “No matter what constellation of symptoms, it can be very disabling, and quality of life is incredibly affected,” said advanced psychiatry trainee Dr Kelsey Josling. With no obvious physical cause, FND patients have long been stigmatised and treated in a variety of ways, from medication to speech pathology and occupational therapy. Since February 2025, Kelsey and psychiatry colleagues have been examining the effectiveness of short-term psychodynamic interpersonal therapy (PIT) for 10 FND patients at RNSH and Westmead hospitals. PIT therapy is a trauma-informed conversational approach that delves into how early life relational experiences and past traumas could manifest in current symptoms.
Participants complete seven sessions, with follow-up at six and 12 months. According to Kelsey, two patients have completed the therapy and shown signs of improvement. “It’s quite amazing how even just a short interaction in a safe relationship has helped these people”. Kelsey is a principal investigator on the study alongside Associate Professor Loyola McLean and Dr Ralf Ilchef, and her role is funded by the HETI Special Training Award and a RANZCP Foundation grant.
Advanced psychiatry trainee Dr Kelsey Josling is involved with a FND clinical trial
From Emergency Rooms to World Championship Dr Michelle Chen, Clinical Director of Virtual Care and Hospital in the Home Services at NSLHD, is gearing up to compete in her 11th World Championship triathlon this October, racing both Sprint and Standard distance Age Group events in Wollongong. Michelle outlined the similarities between being a doctor and triathlon.
Joining her this year is fellow NSLHD clinician Dr Gil Burton, who will compete in the Olympic distance. Dr Burton delivered both of Dr Chen’s children 21 and 19 years ago, adding a personal connection to their shared journey.
“Triathlon continues to teach me that how you do anything is how you do everything, a philosophy that guides the care, integrity, and commitment we bring across our district,” she said. “I’m proud to stand alongside exceptional athletes and look forward to bringing the lessons of high performance back to the teams and communities I serve.” Michelle began triathlon 12 years ago with no sporting background, drawn by the sport’s disciplines and welcoming community. Since then, she has competed in 10 world championships, including London, Edmonton, Chicago, and Auckland, even carrying the Australian flag in Chicago. Beyond racing, she volunteers and serves as the medical doctor for the World Cross Triathlon Championships.
Members of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia holding the ‘Rookie Book’ at RNSH Dr Michelle Chen in training for her 11th World Championship triathlon
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