Showcasing our remarkable NSW Health support staff. |
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Across our health system, we are focused on delivering high-quality, safe and compassionate healthcare to the people of NSW. And we are able to do so, and do it well, because of the contributions of every single staff member.
In this edition, we are celebrating our remarkable support staff, who work tirelessly in so many different ways to ensure our health services run smoothly and make a positive impact for people in the communities we serve.
Whether it is administrative professionals, security staff, tradies, couriers, cleaners, procurement officers, our hospitality and linen teams, mechanics or the many other important roles, the stories in this edition are a testament to the care and compassion that reflect the best of NSW Health. |
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As I was reading these stories, I was moved by the bonds of friendships within these teams. It is wonderful to see how much care and support they provide not only to our patients, but to each other.
We have also had the opportunity in this edition to acknowledge other incredible staff groups during Library and Information Week (31 July to 6 August), the National Day of Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners (7 August), and Dental Health Week (7 to 13 August). These events really showcase the wide variety and scope of people’s skillsets here at NSW Health and the countless ways in which you all make a difference every day. Kind regards,
Susan Pearce AM
Secretary, NSW Health
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Keeping pathology tests rolling |
Buckle up and take a ride with Emily Gardiner as she delivers thousands of pathology samples across the state. No matter the weather or terrain, Emily makes sure important testing continues for the people of NSW. |
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| Emily is a courier driver at NSW Health Pathology. Since she started in the role, Emily has been transporting samples from collection centres to laboratories to ensure patients get their test results quickly. “Before I started, I didn’t realise how much work goes into making sure all the thousands of samples collected every day get to the right place in critical time frames,” said Emily.
An adventurous soul, Emily loves the diversity that her role offers. No two days are the same. Her routes stretch from the city of Newcastle to the regional Hunter Valley and even further up the North Coast to Port Macquarie. |
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“Everywhere I go, there are new people to meet and interesting things to learn about the journey of samples, from collection to analysis,” she said.
“Being part of a team that quietly keeps a very important part of the health system running on a day-to-day basis is truly rewarding.”
Read more about Emily on the NSW Health Pathology website. |
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Warm smiles front and centre at Auburn Hospital |
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Step into Auburn Hospital and you’ll be greeted by the smiles of this dynamic duo.
Slagjana Djorgoska and Kerry Mavin are two administrative professionals who have built a friendship that goes beyond the hospital’s walls.
“Kerry gives me a hug every day and we always help each other – we work together and take care of each other,” said Slagjana.
Slagjana has been an admin billing clerk for seven years, and Kerry is a dedicated cashier who has been part of Western Sydney Local Health District for 23 years. |
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Kerry Mavin and Slagjana Djorgoska |
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The pair share many experiences, but it is the human connection that these front desk jobs require which both Slagjana and Kerry are so passionate about.
“Whoever comes to me, I am happy to help because I genuinely enjoy assisting people. Even if someone comes into the hospital and doesn’t speak English, I will use my phone to help translate for them,” said Slagjana.
“They are like my family here – and I love this family.”
For Kerry, interacting with people and helping others is her favourite part of her job.
“I love where I’m situated because there are so many different types of people coming through the front entrance and I get to see all of them. I love my job!” |
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Can we fix it? Absolutely! |
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No two-days are the same for the Physical Resources Team at the Mid North Coast Local Health District.
The team keep hospital operations running smoothly and ensure services are delivered on time, no matter what challenges come their way.
Whether it’s a mechanical issue or electrical complication, the team think on their feet to adapt and respond to any situation. |
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Rob Wehbi, who has been serving as a Site Maintenance Officer at Macquarie Base Hospital since 2019, has experienced many challenges along the way.
“Every day is like an adventure with the potential for new experiences,” said Rob.
“Coming to work, I always think in the back of my mind, ‘what will come my way today?’ and I feel confident knowing that I have the support of my team no matter what challenges arise – we are always there for each other.” |
| Physical Resources Team at the Mid North Coast Local Health District |
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Rob is giving a special shoutout for this year’s Tradies National Health Month (August).
"I'm extremely proud of everyone in the Physical Resources Team. They put in a tremendous effort every day, and they're the reason why our medical facilities can continue to operate and provide quality care to the community," Rob said. |
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Adrian Daley, Donna Evans and Natasha Donovan are Aboriginal Health Workers from Mid North Coast Local Health District, who are each inspired to improve health care for First Nations people in their community.
The National Day of Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners (7 August) celebrates Aboriginal Health workers like Adrian, Donna and Natasha. |
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| “I am a proud Wiradjuri and Ngunnawal man.” Family is what Adrian values most. “Not just my direct family but all those others that I count as family, like the old bloke who lives on his own that you grab to go have a coffee and a yarn.”
Adrian Daley, Aboriginal health Worker, Hastings Macleay |
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“My family are Wiradjuri people from the Dubbo area. My spirituality is the most important thing to me. I value the spirituality we have, and the respect and care for the land.” Donna Evans, Aboriginal Liaison Officer, Kempsey District Hospital |
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“I am a proud, strong Dunghutti woman. Being Aboriginal means everything to me! It’s my identity. It means I’ve come from the longest culture in the world. I most value and admire our strength and resilience and that we are a strong, connected people through our land, songs, dreaming, spirituality and way of life.”
Natasha Donovan, Aboriginal Wellbeing Family Violence Prevention Officer |
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Name: Carmen Rechbauer Role: Chief Executive, HealthShare NSW
Now, let’s get to know you a little better…
What are three words your family and friends would use to describe you? Loyal, fun and sometimes tricky. Last great TV show or movie you watched? I recently enjoyed watching Oppenheimer. I was also hooked on Mr Mercedes (Netflix). Favourite book or podcast?
I always enjoy listening to Richard Fidler’s Conversations. I love reading all types of books, however, I read a book many years ago called ‘Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway’ by Susan Jeffers. The key lesson I learnt has stayed with me through the years, especially when I feel anxious about tough things I need to address at home or work. The basic lesson is – don’t let fear rule your life. |
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If you could learn a new skill, what would it be?
I would really like to learn how to sew properly and play the piano. If you’re cooking dinner, what will everyone be eating? I enjoy cooking stir-fry meals. Any hidden talents?
Sadly, I don’t have any hidden talents. I used to be quite a good golfer as a teenager. I still call myself a golfer but don’t play much these days. One day…! How does HealthShare NSW support the NSW Health system? HealthShare NSW provides the support services people rarely think about – payroll, financial transactions, food, linen, cleaning, non-emergency patient transport, amongst others. All those basic human needs we take for granted.
What is something you are most proud of at HealthShare NSW? I’m very proud of our people and our culture. It never ceases to amaze me how passionate and proud they are about their role in NSW Health. Nothing is too much trouble. They were absolute warriors during COVID-19. Can you share an interesting fact or statistic about one of HealthShare NSW’s services?
HealthShare NSW is responsible for the largest payroll in the Southern Hemisphere, processing $14B in salaries annually and ensuring over 170,000 NSW Health employees receive the correct pay at the correct time. |
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'At the CORE' of HealthShare NSW |
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Our CORE values are at the heart of everything we do at NSW Health. At the CORE showcases the teams, initiatives, and achievements from around the system that display our values in action. |
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Empowerment: Decluttering, cleaning and colour-coding compact spaces can make processes more efficient, and also spark joy!
Wearing their signature blue t-shirts, the DeliverEASE team from HealthShare NSW – nicknamed ‘The Blue Fairies’, create magical clinical storeroom transformations so staff don’t have to worry about stock levels.
Steve Crook has been with DeliverEASE since 2021 and has helped his colleagues statewide to easily find, order and maintain their stockrooms.
"I love working with such a diverse group of people,” said Steve.
“The job takes me to different parts of the state which is helpful as I’m originally from England. I’ve been to Lithgow, Dubbo, Wagga and am currently in Lismore working with lovely people.”
From Lismore to Wagga Wagga to Shoalhaven, and dozens of places in between, the team empower their colleagues with a wave of their magic wand.
Since launching in 2021, DeliverEASE has successfully transformed more than 700 storerooms across 27 hospitals and trained more than 1,100 hospital staff.
The Blue Fairies recently visited Sam Green, Clinical Support Officer at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital and this is what he had to say.
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| Around 100 members of the DeliverEASE team |
DeliverEASE team and the Emergency Department team at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital. Sara Crook, Louise Coldwell, Emma Daisley, Kristy Watson, Ben Lenthall and Steven Crook. |
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“It’s a brilliant system! The storerooms are laid out in an accessible and visual way that makes it really easy to manage. Each section is colour-coded; it’s just a great system.” |
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| Join a conversation in Human Experience The conversation on Finding Your Way – a shared decision making resource developed by and for Aboriginal people in NSW, has been rescheduled to Thursday 24 August.
Tara Dimopoulos-Bick and David Follent from the Agency for Clinical Innovation will discuss the first culturally adapted shared decision making resources for Aboriginal people in Australia.
Download a calendar invitation to join the conversation at 10:00am. |
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Angela Smith never thought she would be a librarian but enjoyed volunteering at the John Hunter Hospital Library so much that it has become a 30-year career.
Angela is now the Hunter New England Health Libraries Research Support Librarian and District Manager.
“I love meeting new people and hearing about their work and sharing what we do in the library service,” said Angela.
Health librarians ensure staff have access to information resources and services so health professionals can make informed decisions about patient care. |
| Hunter New England Health Libraries Services team |
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“Supporting our colleagues who are dedicated to their patients inspires me every day and it's great to connect over our shared goal of providing the best possible care,” said Angela.
The theme of this year’s Library and Information Week (31 July - 6 August) is Where’s the Source? – Angela believes this is incredibly important to health.
“With a lot more medical misinformation going around and artificial intelligence in the mix, your health library is a reliable source against the misinformation. We curate reliable sources and give people the tools to navigate the health information environment,” said Angela.
Angela has also shared her thoughts on one of the great modern debates: hard copy, Kindle or audiobook?
“Audio! There is evidence to suggest that this is now a preferred format for people and we're looking at the possibility of expanding our collection to support this.” |
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The Stores Team at Justice Health NSW are the most positive team on the ground! |
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Responsible for delivering goods to correctional centres across the state, the Stores Team are known for singing out loud during deliveries and always putting a smile on peoples' faces.
Leading the team is Altaf Ahmed, Domestic Services Manager.
“I am incredibly proud to lead such a fantastic team and am grateful for the opportunity to support them,” said Altaf.
While singing along to some tunes, the team facilitate the smooth delivery of their version of V.I.P (very important products). Things such as clinical goods, medication, patient records, PPE supplies, vaccine delivery, mail, patient parcels, corporate caterings, and milk supply on the Long Bay Complex, are all in the hands of the Stores Team. |
| The Stores Team accepting their Justice Health NSW Team of the Year award |
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“The team’s efficiency and attention to detail has undoubtedly contributed to the functioning of our facility and helped support many teams and patients,” said Altaf.
“I cannot express how proud I am of my colleagues for their dedication and effort to make an impact on patient care and hospital operations overall, as well as their ability to make people smile.” |
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Two decades of safety and compassion |
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For more than two decades, Jayne Burgin has been a trusted security staff member at Wyong Hospital in the Central Coast Local Health District.
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From routine patrols and responding to emergencies, to even saving little baby birds that were stuck in a drain, Jayne loves every part of her job.
“Being a security officer allows me to be there for staff, patients and visitors when they are experiencing some of their worst times in life,” said Jayne.
“You start with a person who is very distressed and at times aggressive towards others, and end with a calm and cooperative person because they’ve been heard and understood. That always is the best outcome for all involved.
“I really enjoy being the person that can de-escalate a situation, offer a helping hand or just let people in need express their emotions so that staff can work in a safe place to ensure patients receive the best level of care.” |
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Tooth fairy with a touch of artistry and empathy |
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Dentistry combines art and science. Or that's what Dr Geetanjali Salwan believes, after practicing dentistry for three decades. |
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| "Empathy is the most important skill for a health professional. I listen carefully to what a patient is saying and try to pick up on non-verbal cues so I can ensure my patients feel comfortable, understood, and respected," said Geetanjali.
Geetanjali joined the Warilla Dental Clinic in the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District back in 2013 and has remained dedicated to her patients and community ever since.
"I look after some of the most vulnerable people in the community and it gives me immense satisfaction to know that I am helping people in need," said Geetanjali.
“I recently had the opportunity to work closely with the Shellharbour Hospital Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit. The patients’ smiles when they finished their treatment and their confidence with the skills they'd learnt to maintain good oral health is the best reward of all!" |
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While Geetanjali loves her job, she doesn’t want to see more patients ending up in her clinic with dental problems. So, for this year’s Dental Health Week (7 - 13 August), she has reminded us why oral health is so important.
"A healthy mouth is a valuable asset. Without it, a person's physical, mental, social, and emotional wellbeing and general quality of life is compromised," said Geetanjali. |
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2023 People Matter Employee Survey The NSW People Matter Employee Survey will open on Monday 21 August.
This is your opportunity to have your say about how we can make this a better place to work.
A link to the survey will be sent from the Secretary to you on the opening date.
For more information, read the frequently asked questions. |
| Appointment of Chief Executive, NSW Health Pathology
Vanessa Janissen has been appointed as Chief Executive, NSW Health Pathology, effective 9 October 2023.
Vanessa will be responsible for overseeing the operations of NSW Health Pathology and ensuring that the delivery of high-quality pathology services to the people of New South Wales continues. |
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Finalists of the 2023 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards Congratulations to all 29 finalists of this year’s Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards, who represent outstanding professionalism, diversity and commitment.
All finalists and winners will be celebrated at the Awards event on Thursday 16 November at Parliament House, with details also be shared online after the event.
Find out more about the finalists on the NSW Health website. |
| Healthcare responses to homelessness
Healthcare workers play a vital part in reducing homelessness by initiating support and referrals.
In recognition of Homelessness Week (7 – 13 August), the Health Education and Training Institute shares the ‘Healthcare responses to homelessness’ e-learning pathway – a series of videos highlighting the challenges and personal stories of people who have experienced homelessness.
Use course code 130313829 to find this learning pathway in My Health learning. |
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From the Critical Intelligence Unit
The Critical Intelligence Unit (CIU) Evidence Digest focuses on clinical innovations that have the potential to change clinical practice and delivery or organisation of care.
In the past weeks, the Evidence Digest featured: - Tirzepatide for weight loss, diabetes medications and cancer risk, Solanezumab in preclinical Alzheimer's disease and cost analysis of telemedicine interventions
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First‐line diuretics for hypertension, negative pressure wound therapy for preventing surgical site infection, reducing blood transfusion in patients with hip fracture, monoclonal antibody therapy for Alzheimer’s disease.
To receive the digest in your inbox on Wednesday mornings, please subscribe. |
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We acknowledge the Aboriginal traditional custodians of the land in which we live and work and pay respects to all Elders past, present and emerging. We also acknowledge all the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff working with the NSW Government. |
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