ConcordConnection

Pride of Concord

Summer 2019/2020 The official newsletter of Concord Hospital www.slhd.nsw.gov.au/concord/

Kokoda Day A Bloody Great Night Out Fundraiser

Volunteers Annual Luncheon

Winners announced

Executive Message Formal Appointment of General Manager

Calendar of Events 2020

Dr. Genevieve WallaceGeneral Manager

I am passionate

We want to hear from you!Does your ward or department have a story, event or staff achievement that you would like to share with the Hospital community?

Mail peta.macfarlane@health.nsw.gov.au with your story and pictures.

Front cover picture: (L-R) Dr Teresa Anderson AM CE SLHD presented joint Pride of Concord winners Jacqueline Laurens and Professor Judith Trotman with their awards, together with Dr Genevieve Wallace General Manager, Concord Hospital.

Photograph by: Audio Visual Services, SLHD

Produced & Marketing & Community Relations DepartmentDesigned by: Concord Hospital

Print by: Anchorage Media

I am the pride of Concord

Welcome to the Summer 2019/20 edition of the Concord Connection. As we draw closer to the end of another fantastic year, I would like to thank our staff for their tremendous efforts throughout 2019. The hospital has remained busy and our teams have continued to provide outstanding clinical care to our patients.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the winners of this year’s Pride of Concord Medal. This year, the medal was awarded to two deserving recipients who embody the spirit of Concord Hospital. Congratulations to Professor Judith Trotman and Jackie Laurens on taking out the title for 2019. Both nominations highlight the incredible determination and energy both women have committed to being pioneers for our patients, and we are very lucky to have them.

The accolades don’t end there, with Jane Turner, Exercise Physiologist at Concord Hospital, having been awarded the Anthea Kerr Award at the 2019 Premier’s Awards for Public Service. This prestigious award recognises individuals who exhibit a deep commitment to public sector values and have been recognised as having significant leadership potential. Congratulations, Jane, and we look forward to supporting you in your ongoing professional development.

We are fortunate to have talented, committed staff right throughout our hospital, and in October, we had the opportunity to celebrate their efforts and dedication at the Staff Barbeque. Thank you once again for all your hard work every day, and especially during the busy Winter period.

Moving on to hospital events, we rounded out Spring in style with the third annual Rivendell Flower and Garden Show, held over the last weekend of September. The Thomas Walker Estate became host to a flurry of activity, with stunning floral displays, live music, market stalls, vintage cars, two Gala dinners, and even a floral fashions catwalk. The weekend was a resounding success thanks to the many community organisations which lent their support, the volunteers from Concord’s Aged Care Service, and the work of the Marketing and Community Relations team, led by Alice Kang. Well done on your tremendous effort in pulling off a fabulous weekend.

Dr Genevieve Wallace has been formally appointed to the position of General Manager of Concord Hospital, a role she has been acting in since May 2018.

Having worked in Sydney Local Health District since 2009, Genevieve has widespread experience, undertaking the previous roles of Director Corporate Services, Canterbury Hospital; General Manager, Balmain Hospital and General Manager, Canterbury Hospital. During each of these appointments, Genevieve has also continued her role of Service Director of BreastScreen.

Concord Hospital looks forward to working with Dr Wallace during the progression of the Stage 1 redevelopment and to further build upon the facility’s reputation for excellence in clinical expertise, teaching and research.

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Thank you to our donorsConcord Hospital would like to thank the following donors for their support.

- The Australian Legion of Ex-Service Men and Women for their generous donation of $3000 towards the work of Concord Hospital and the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare (NCVH).

- Berowra RSL sub branch for their generous donation of $4500 towards NCVH.

In October, we truly had A Bloody Great Night Out! There was a great turnout for the event, with 770 people attending the dinner dance at Lilyfield’s Le Montage. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, more than $216,000 was raised to support world-leading blood cancer clinical trials at Concord Hospital. The Clinical Research Unit here at Concord is the largest clinical research unit for blood cancers in NSW and provides many patients the opportunity to participate in clinical trials and access innovative medicines to improve their quality of life. It was a fantastic night and a reminder of the generosity of the Concord community. Well done to all involved!

Continuing our hospital’s long and proud history of supporting our veteran community, we had the opportunity to honour and pay our respect to those who bravely fought for our freedom at the SLHD Remembrance Day service. Colonel Professor Robert Lusby AM delivered a poignant Remembrance Day address, reminding us of the sacrifices made by our veterans, the lingering impact of war and the importance of services such as the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare in providing support for veterans and their families.

Finally, we have achieved a milestone in Stage One of the Concord Redevelopment, with concrete slabs having been poured to form the foundation of our new clinical building. In another exciting development, the prototype rooms are now complete, allowing staff to see for themselves what the rooms in the new building will look like. Thank you for bearing with us through the noise disruption as works continue on our new hospital!

I send my best wishes to all staff, volunteers and members of our community, and hope that you and your loved ones stay safe and enjoy the Christmas and New Year break. I look forward to continuing to work alongside you to support outstanding patient care throughout 2020.

AMS Achievements Employees of the MonthI am persistent I am the pride of

Concord

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JUNE 2019Emalynne SoClinical Psychologist

Emalynne is a Clinical Psychologist who commenced employment at Concord Hospital in February 2016. To quote her nominator:

“Emalynne collaborates daily with her team members including psychology colleagues and staff on wards/clinics. She has also taken on extra responsibilities and roles across both clinical and administrative aspects of her job, all without fuss and with a smile. She is also always looking for QI projects or ways to improve systems within our department and is always keen to work together to do so.

Emalynne has been an exemplary employee in her time at Concord Hospital - along with being very hardworking and respectful, she is also fun and brings a lot of positive energy to her department and wider workplace. She is a humble person who does not get enough recognition for the work she does and the collaborative spirit she brings to this hospital.”

HESTA continues to be a proud sponsor of the Employee of the Month Awards

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JULY 2019Layla Habib-PourAmbulatory Care Business Unit

Layla commenced employment at Concord Hospital in October 2017 and currently works in the Ambulatory Care Business Unit.

As quoted from her nomination form:

“Layla is an exemplary staff member who has continued to promote work health and safety practices in all facets of the organisation that she has been involved in. Layla is a local Work Health and Safety Champion in her workplace and has previously represented ACBU as a Health Safety Representative.

She contributes daily to Work Health and Safety improvements by identifying and implementing solutions to her staff members operational issues, including manual handling, organising and overseeing minor capital works in both 2MC and 3 West, to enable safe work practices and promote working efficiencies. She has also been pivotal in addressing concerns, relaying messages and tips regarding Work Health and Safety as part of fortnightly ACBU All Stream meetings.”

Concord Fighting Antibiotic Resistance The Concord Antimicrobial Stewardship Initiative (CASI) team celebrated World Antibiotic Awareness Week in November, travelling around the Concord Hospital campus to meet with staff and the public. CASI is a multidisciplinary team of doctors and pharmacists specialised in infectious diseases, working with clinicians and patients to ensure antibiotics are prescribed appropriately and in a patient-centred way. Antibiotics are lifesaving medications, but only if they work against the organism causing infection. Antimicrobial resistance may impact on life saving health care, such as cancer treatments or organ transplants, as antibiotics will not be effective to prevent infections that are commonly associated with these procedures. Antimicrobial resistance is already affecting the care of patients now and current trends indicate this will have an increasing impact over time. The World Health Organisation has described antibiotic resistance as one of the greatest threats to human and animal health, as well as food and agriculture.

In 2019 CASI is proud to report on very positive results in audits on antibiotic use, benchmarked across Australia. Concord showed a significant improvement from 86.7% in 2017 and 83.7% in 2018, to 90.3% appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing in 2019. In addition, Concord was reported to have the lowest antibiotic usage rate amongst all Principal Referral hospitals in NSW, continuing to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use. This is testament to the commitment of all clinicians at Concord to improving antibiotic use.

Initiatives of CASI have driven improved antibiotic use. Collaborating with the SLHD Health Informatics Unit, CASI has championed the development of the Live AMS application, which is transforming AMS activities in NSW. Live AMS provides a holistic real-time overview of antimicrobial prescribing at CRGH

and enables the CASI team to monitor and provide advice on antimicrobial use in an unparalleled way. The software embedded into the medical record continues to evolve, with the CASI team and HIU working together to develop it into a complete AMS solution.

Collaboration is the key to achieving optimal antibiotic use. In 2019 CASI will have joined the Vascular, Upper GIT, Colorectal, Breast & Endocrine, Plastics, and Burns surgical teams to undertake over 300 multidisciplinary AMS rounds, optimising antimicrobial care of over 1500 patients. CASI also meets regularly with medical team such as ICU, Haematology and Aged Care. The Antibiotic Advice and Approvals hotline provides real time advice to all clinicians in the hospital on appropriate antibiotic use, and the Antibiotic Allergy Rounds, in collaboration with the Immunology team, is providing clearer assessment and documentation of reported penicillin allergies to better guide antibiotic use. For these collaborative efforts, CASI was recognised as a National Finalist in the 2019 Hospital Team of the Year awards, presented by the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia.

Congratulations to all who have worked with the CASI team to continue to improve antibiotic use at Concord to achieve optimal outcomes for patients and families. Aryan Shahabi-Sirjani, Senior Infectious Diseases Pharmacist

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Antibiotic Awareness Week stand at Market Day. Dr Timothy Gray, Mr Aryan Shahabi-Sirjani, Dr Sarah Younan, Dr Nilanthy Vigneswaran, Ms Brighid Carey.

AMS/ID Team after multidisciplinary meeting with ICU team. Dr Timothy Gray, Lead AMS Physician; Dr Elaine Cheong, ID Physician; A/Prof Thomas Gottlieb, ID Physician; Ms Brighid Carey, AMS Pharmacist; Dr Genevieve McKew, ID Physician; Mr Aryan Shahabi-Sirjani; Senior AMS Pharmacist; Dr Sarah Younan, ID RMO; Dr Nilanthy Vigeswaran, ID Advanced Trainee.

CASI cupcakes for World Antibiotic Awareness Week.

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NSW Premier’s Award Winner

Concord Hospital among NSW Premier’s Award winners

Concord Hospital congratulates Exercise Physiologist Jane Turner, who was awarded the Anthea Kerr Award for her contribution to the community. This award gives recognition to the outstanding effort and commitment of individuals under 35 years of age working within the NSW public sector.

Jane has worked at the Sydney Cancer Survivorship Centre since 2010 as a key member of the multidisciplinary team providing integrated services to cancer survivors and their families. She is well regarded and known as a committed, enthusiastic, caring and friendly allied health professional.

The recipient of the Anthea Kerr Award receives an individually customised professional development program to assist them in accelerating their career.

Three Concord Hospital staff members have previously been awarded this esteemed prize over the last six years, including Sydney Local Health District Director of Operations, Dr Tim Sinclair (2013) and

New model of service presented with Quality Award

burns and reconstructive surgeon Dr Andrea Issler-Fisher, NSW State-wide Burns Service (2017).

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I am passionate

Concord’s commitment to the health of our veterans

Concord Hospital continued its tradition of supporting veterans and widows by hosting its annual Veterans’ Health Day on Friday 25 October with a series of enlightening presentations.

Representing the NSW Minister for Veterans, Mr James Griffin MP officially opened proceedings, reaffirming Concord’s continued commitment to caring for our veteran community. Following this, a donation of $100 000 towards the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare (NCVH) was announced by NSW RSL President Mr Ray James, further solidifying these close and strong links. More than 70 attendees listened attentively as guest speakers spoke on a variety of topics such as the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare (NCVH) and Fussell House accommodation

facilities, Advances in Prostate Cancer Treatment - Improving Cancer Control and Quality of Life and Caring for someone with Dementia. A number of display stalls represented by Oral Health, Aged Care and Rehabilitation and Vital Home Health Services were also present on the day to provide additional information to veterans.

Following official proceedings, attendees were treated to a delicious buffet luncheon in the conference rooms, kindly sponsored by Burwood RSL and Enfield-Croydon Park RSL Sub branches.

As part of a series of Veteran Health Week activities scheduled by the NCVH, visiting eminent US psychiatrist Adjunct Associate Professor Harold Kudler, MD delivered an informative presentation to SLHD and Concord Hospital staff on ‘The Nature of Psychological Trauma”.

Veteran Health DayI am the pride of

Concord

Exercise physiologist Jane Turner is presented her award by NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklan.

Congratulations to Concord Hospital’s Gastrointestinal Tract Unit, who was recently presented with Sydney Local Health District’s Quality Award for Transforming Patient Experience.

Enhancing Recovery following Bariatric surgery: development of a new model of service has reduced the

length of stay of patients by one night, which equates to a reduction of between 250 to 350 beds a night per year. This new recovery time improves the patient’s quality of life as they are able to return to their normal daily routines earlier. This in turn has created achievable patient centred goals, which leads to better patient outcomes and greater patient satisfaction. Antiemetic medication is not given by pharmacy, which further reduces time and cost. The model of service was developed over a two year period and reviewed six-monthly. This was achieved through a multi-disciplinary team (surgeons, nursing, medical staff and pharmacy) approach and despite significant heterogeneity between surgeons and frequent changes of medical and nursing staff, a standardised pathway was developed. Improved communication between pharmacy and medical officers has reduced delays and ensured early discharge. The SLHD Quality Awards recognise, celebrate and encourage healthcare innovation and excellence.

Presented by The Hon Ron Phillips AO and Dr Teresa Anderson AM, CNC Carolyn Wildbore (centre) recieves the quality award on behalf of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract team.

Members of the audience enjoyed the days program. Veterans were able to receive on the spot blood pressure checks courtesy of Vital Home Health Services.

A donation of $100,000 towards NCVH was announced by NSW RSL President Ray James (centre) and Bankstown RSL Sub-branch members.

The Oral Health team provided information to veterans on oral health.

A number of informative topics were presented on Veteran Health Day.

Concord Clinical DayI am the pride of

Concord

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Pride of ConcordI am caring

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Pride – Passion – Purpose: The Pride of Concord winners are announced

For the first time since its inception, the Pride of Concord medal has been awarded to two worthy recipients. This year, on Concord Clinical Day, Professor Judith Trotman and Mrs Jacqueline “Jackie” Laurens were announced as the joint winners of the 2019 Pride of Concord Medal.

Both have performed at Concord Hospital for more than 20 years and have varying backgrounds and experience.

Professor Trotman is a Haematologist, a Senior Clinician and Researcher, Ms Laurens began her career as a nursing graduate at Concord and is now an instrumental leader in the Hospital’s future – helping to shape its digital transformation.

Judith and Jackie bring to their roles at Concord incredible fortitude and gusto. They both are completely committed and passionate about how their work helps our patients. Professor Trotman’s achievements and “unbridled enthusiasm” is widely recognised. She inspires all those around her and works relentlessly to ensure patients at Concord Hospital have the latest and most innovative treatments. She is committed to growing and building on the reputation of Concord

Haematology not only here in Australia but internationally too.Jackie has worked on essentially every information system used at Concord Hospital since the 1980s. From Y2K to Patient Administration Systems, Mainframes to Desktops, to the pioneering work on Electronic Medication Management which led to the implementation of what we now call “eMEDS”, she cares about the impact of the work she does on our patients.

The Pride of Concord Award is a prestigious honour that acknowledges and celebrates the outstanding achievement and contributions of those staff who have provided outstanding service and made a significant contribution to the Hospital.

Concord Hospital congratulates both Judith and Jackie on this well-deserved accolade.

Concord Clinical Day

Concord Clinical Day continues to be a highlight on the hospital’s calendar of events and this year, the occasion was held on Thursday 24 October. The Maryann Nicholls Oration was delivered by Professor Dominic Dwyer, medical virologist and infectious diseases physician at Westmead Hospital, who spoke on the effect that illness has on art, in many different cultures, using the 1918 - 19 influenza pandemic as an example.

The theme for Clinical Day focussed on mental health. Rebecca Koncz, Julian Nasti and Lil Vrklevski provided insights in the management of physical and mental health in people with an intellectual disability, the management of depression in patients with medical illness, and the under-recognized mental health problems that can occur in professionals (such as police and paramedics) who attend traumatic events.

At the ANZAC Research Symposium, Vivien Chen, Helena Liang, Ibrahim Tohidi and Elizabeth Gardener showcased examples of the extraordinary work being undertaken by the Platelet and Thrombosis Laboratory.

The popular “Have You Been Paying Attention Concord?” program segment entertained the audience with some light-hearted and comical quizzing of contestants on their knowledge of current and local affairs.

Finally, the cooking talents of the Concord medical students were on display at lunchtime, as they raised funds for charity in the annual High-Tea Bake-Off competition.

Pride of Concord recipient Professor Judith Trotman.

(L-R) Dr Teresa Anderson AM CE SLHD presented joint Pride of Concord winners Jacqueline Laurens and Professor Judith Trotman with their awards, together with Dr Genevieve Wallace General Manager, Concord Hospital. Pride of Concord recipient Jackie Laurens.

The joint winners are presented their cheque by Dr Teresa Anderson AM CE SLHD (centre).Winners receive a 9 carat gold pin embellished with diamonds.

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NCVH Update

In November, Psychology week proved popular for staff at Concord Hospital with Clinical Neuropsychologist at National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare (NCVH), Chiara Pawela joining colleagues hosting a stall for three days adjacent to the conference room.

A radiography student took out one of the major competitions while other visitors engaged in a “myth busting” quiz activity.

The stall helped clarify knowledge and raise awareness about the resources and profession and address some modern misconceptions about how psychology can help Australians lead healthier, happier and more meaningful lives.

Psychology Week is used to demystify and communicate the depth, breadth and many benefits of psychology. Many Australians benefit from psychology every day, in almost every setting – from classroom to workplace, private clinics to large hospitals, sports fields, courtrooms and much more.

Staff Forum Update

Update provided at Staff Forum On 13 November hospital employees gathered in the medical education centre for a staff forum, where updates were provided on hospital activities and achievements. The forum addressed several topics such as the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS), results of the NSW public sector People Matter employee surveys, an update on the hospital’s redevelopment and salary packaging. This was followed by the presentation of the Employee of the Month awards. Following the forum, staff were invited to enjoy light refreshments.

I am persistent

Name that craneI am consistent

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As part of a fun community project, local primary school students within Sydney

Local Health District had the chance to put a name to the two cranes located on Concord

Hospital’s redevelopment site.

12-year old Concord Public School student Iris Doh was announced as one of the winners

with her chosen name of Saso.‘I chose Saso because it means stay strong, and I wanted to send that message to cancer

patients.”

The second crane has been named Giganto, by 5-year old Luca Andreassi from Yaralla Childcare Centre. Luca named the crane

Giganto because “it was big and gigantic”. (Luca’s sister Ava attended the ceremony on

his behalf).

Both Iris and Ava put on their hard hats and guided the crane drivers to reveal their chosen names, which were selected from more than 150 entries received by building contractor Roberts Pizzarotti. They also unveiled the name plaques with General Manager of

Concord Hospital Dr Genevieve Wallace. Chief Executive Officer of Roberts Pizzarotti

Alison Mirams presented the winning cheques to the recipients.

Congratulations to both our winners!

(Clockwise)1. Participants in the Kingdom gym challenge.2. Trainer Shannan Ponton (centre) with NCVH team.3. NCVH staff host an information stall during Psychology week.

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A Bloody Great Night Out was had by all!

Anticipation was at fever pitch as 770 revellers from all walks gathered at Le Montage, unified in their determination to have A Bloody Great Night Out and support the Concord Haematology Clinical Research Unit.

The approaching dusk was held at bay by the dancing flames of fire artistes and camera flashes as the tireless photographers scrambled to capture every splash of red adorning exquisitely dressed guests. Rapturous music lured the crowd upstairs to the ballroom like sailors drawn to Sirens. Guests were greeted by an army of volunteers whirring around the great expanse like a well-oiled machine. Patrons were ushered to their seats as Christian Bracci and Lara Campisi stepped up to the MC plate at short notice with great aplomb. Delightful entrees were devoured as dignitaries were introduced and the bountiful donations of major sponsors John Hill and Co ($15,000), Deicorp and Roberts Pizzarotti ($10,000 each) were acknowledged.

Guests were inspired to open their hearts and empty their pockets to achieve the fundraising target of $160,000. There was a flurry of raffle ticket sales and accelerated bidding in the silent auction whilst carefully cultivated cocktails were being proffered in a delicious fund raising twist. A giant blood drop serving as a vessel for cash donations was being filled as wine bottles were drained. The first formal fund raising event saw 200 Lisa McGuigan wines whisked up in in minutes with 3 lucky benefactors collecting generous prizes donated by patients and local businesses. A Lady and Two Tenors delivered an enthralling operetta before acclaimed cover band Jellybean Jam had lubricated frolickers cutting up rugs. Meanwhile The Black Ties roving troupe of magicians stole between tables astonishing the less rhythmically inclined with mind-blowing illusions.

As the dance floor cleared, Dr Jane Estell, Director of the Clinical Research Unit, stole the limelight to introduce 8 patients who would sell 50 blood drop packages with personalised messages from patients. The spruiking had barely begun before the drops were snapped up by punters hoping to secure their caffeine fix and win a major draw prize.

The sounds of mirth and merriment filled the ballroom as the promise of A Bloody Great Night Out was being fulfilled. The Foundation for a Bloody Great Cause was officially launched with the inaugural members of the board gathering to unveil a commemorative plaque to a chorus of cheers and cascading fireworks. Professor Judith Trotman delivered a vote of thanks to the tireless staff of the research unit and to the patients for placing the trust in the hands of the research unit. Heartstrings were tugged and purse strings were loosened as the live auction commenced with frenzied biddings from all corners.

An unprecedented number of left feet then inundated the dancefloor as research staff joined a Greek dancing group on stage. Meanwhile the silent auction concluded with triumphant not-so-silent cheers from sections of the ballroom. The main raffle was drawn with the jubilation of the winners reflected on the dancefloor as patrons left their inhibitions at their tables and let their hips do the talking until midnight.

Almost $220,000 was raised in the final wash up – well beyond the target for the night. The money raised will go towards funding more research nurses thereby facilitating more patient access to potentially life-saving blood cancer treatments. The success of the night reflected the tireless efforts and unflagging focus of the organising committee. Thanks should also be extended to the volunteers, patients and guests who were overwhelmingly generous with their time and money. Here’s hoping you had A Bloody Great Night Out!

Gajan Kailainathan Haematology Clinical Research Fellow

A Bloody Great Night Out raises funds for Blood Cancer ResearchI am the pride of

ConcordI am consistent

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I am the pride of Concord

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Volunteers’ Appreciation LuncheonI am consistent

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Each year our volunteers and consumer representatives work tirelessly to provide invaluable assistance and care to our patients and staff across all departments at Concord Hospital. In recognition of their efforts throughout the year, an appreciation luncheon was held on Monday

2 December.

Director of Medical Services, Dr Kash de Silva, spoke on behalf of the hospital’s Executive team to convey gratitude for the many services the volunteers have provided over the course of the year. Dr de Silva expressed great appreciation for their many hours of selfless work.

A buffet luncheon prepared by our Functions and Retail team was enjoyed by all. This was followed by live music from soloist Roseanne, and acoustic duo James and Anton from The Midnight Infirmary, which had everyone in good, jovial spirits.

The event also provided an opportunity to also acknowledge the International Day of People with Disability, with the cutting of a celebratory cake.

On behalf of Concord Hospital, we would like to express thanks to our dedicated volunteers for their outstanding work throughout the hospital community. We look forward to seeing them spreading their joy and cheer throughout the hospital in the New Year.

I am the pride of Concord

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Kokoda Day ServiceI am consistent

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Hundreds of veterans, family members and supporters of the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway attended the Kokoda Day Flag Raising ceremony on Sunday 3 November, to hear an inspiring address from 96-year old World War II and Kokoda veteran, Mr Reginald Chard.

A member of the 55/53 Battalion Association, Mr Chard delivered a personal account of the fears he faced when in 1942, after the fall of Singapore, he and his fellow soldiers were sent to Papua New Guinea to fight on the Kokoda Track. Hundreds of men died during the campaign and many more were wounded. Even greater numbers were struck down by tropical diseases, including Mr Chard, who collapsed in 1943 from scrub typhus

and malaria. He paid tribute to the doctors and nurses at Concord Repatriation General Hospital, who helped him on his road to recovery.

Highlights of the service included the showing of historical footage, depicting the unfolding story of 1942. This was accompanied by the musical piece “Meeting the Sun”, composed by Elena Kats-Chernin. A vocal interlude by the Aurora Australis Chorus provided an opportunity for further

reflection.

The flag raising ceremony was performed by New Guinea veteran Mr Lloyd Birdsall and WO2 Michael Ali, representing the Fuzzy Wuzzies. Kokoda Day commemorates the flying of the Australian flag when Australian soldiers recaptured Kokoda in what was the turning point of the war

in the Pacific.

The traditional wreath laying ceremony was led by Canada Bay Mayor Angelo Tserikas, Dr Fiona Martin MP, Member for Reid and Mr Bill Paterson, Director, Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway, followed by other dignitaries and notable guests.

Younger Australians were well represented during the service, with students from Rosebank College providing a student’s perspective of their own journey along the treacherous New Guinea trail.

I am the pride of Concord

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Concord commemorates Remembrance Day

On 11 November, guests at Concord Hospital’s Remembrance Day service observed a minute’s silence to commemorate the end of World War I.

The service, held on the front lawn at the Centenary Garden, was led by hospital chaplains Father Graeme Malone and Dale Baikie. A large number of hospital staff and members of the community were in attendance.

Colonel Professor Robert Lusby AM (Ret’d), Chair of the National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare (NCVH) delivered this year’s Remembrance Day Address. The Hospital’s executive also played an active role with Clinical A/Professor

John Cullen reading a scripture and General Manager Dr Genevieve Wallace delivering a poignant poem titled “Taking a Stand”. The traditional wreath laying ceremony was conducted by Alice Kang, Director of Marketing and Community Relations. This year, the children from Yaralla Childcare Centre participated in the ceremony, laying their decorative

handmade wreath alongside others at the Tri-service badge.

Students from Meriden Intermediate Singers performed two reflective pieces and led the congregation in the singing of the hymns and National Anthem.

At the conclusion of the service, guests were invited to plant a poppy in the Centenary garden, in honour of those whose lives have been lost during times of war.

Remembrance Day ServiceI am consistent

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Sydney Cancer Survivorship Centre Cabaret I am the pride of

Concord

Life and Hope cabaret raises funds for Survivorship CentreThe Sydney Cancer Survivorship Centre at Concord

Hospital held its inaugural fundraising cabaret dinner at Concord Golf Club in early November. The theme for the occasion was Life and Hope and to start the evening’s proceedings guests enjoyed canapés on the terrace

while listening to flautist Hanna Tsoi. Emcee Lisa Page entertained the audience and performances by The

ABBA Girls (Lisa Cook and Caroline Tatara), and Elvis impersonator Steven King had guests dancing on their

feet throughout the night. All entertainers kindly donated their time for the event and local businesses were a great support, contributing raffle

and silent auction items. The doves of hope provided an opportunity for guests to honour a loved one who has been touched by cancer,

helping to raise funds for the Centre.

The Sydney Cancer Survivorship Centre is dedicated to helping survivors and families better manage their

treatment beyond its first diagnosis and care. The Centre aims to help people make positive lifestyle changes

including improving their physical activity and nutrition as well as providing psychological support. For more

information about the Centre contact slhd-concordsurvivorship@health.nsw.gov.au or

telephone 02 9767 5222.

Following the success of this year’s cabaret dinner, plans are underway for next year’s event, which is expected to

be held late 2020.

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Medical Staff Council DinnerI am passionate

The Medical Staff Council annual dinner at Rivendell was a night of camaraderie and reflection. This year’s guest speaker was The Honourable Michael Kirby AC CMG, former judge of the High Court of Australia. When he retired in 2009, he was Australia’s longest serving judge. Following his judicial retirement, Michael Kirby has served on many governing bodies and participates regularly in many local and international conferences and meetings. He has been awarded a number of honorary doctorates at home and abroad.

A number of new consultants were welcomed this year and several of Concord’s senior clinicians were farewelled, all of whom have been highly regarded and active at Concord, particularly as educators and mentors.

Agnes Kainer is a long serving and valued member of the geriatrics department. She was one of the lead clinicians in ward 17 for many years, a model of care that has become the gold standard in caring for older patients with behavioural symptoms. Most recently, Agnes has been a member of the geriatric Medicine Telehealth team, providing her expertise to the residents of Western NSW.

Yih-Lin Wan commenced as a Staff Specialist Anaesthetist at Concord Hospital in 1992, where she worked for 27 years in that role. Apart from her clinical duties Yih-Lin has contributed much time to the wider anaesthetic community through her roles in welfare and training. She was a long-serving Supervisor of Training, Rotational Supervisor and the Anaesthetics department’s first Welfare Officer, being an early and strong advocate for the welfare of trainees.

Anne Pike has been a Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) for almost 30 years and has been Head of Department of Gynaecology for most of that time. Anne’s area of expertise was vaginal and pelvic floor repairs and she was also much involved in the Menopause Clinic. A respected surgeon, teacher and well-loved by staff and patients alike, she was the Gynaecology department.

The occasion saw Associate Professor David Gillett AM inducted into Concord Hospital’s Hall of Fame 2019. Professor Gillett developed expertise in all aspects of General Surgery, particularly Gastrointestinal and Breast/Endocrine Surgery and was instrumental in developing the Breast Unit at Concord Hospital.

The evening was a wonderful affair, and above all the night is remembered for its collegiate atmosphere where Medical Staff come together to enjoy the company of friends and esteemed colleagues.

Medical staff enjoy the evening 2019 Hall of Fame inductee Associate Professor David Gillett AM

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Concord Compliments CornerI am the pride of

Concord

Many thanks for all the amazing care and prompt attention I received yesterday evening when I arrived with a left foot laceration. The Triage nurse together with Dr. Matthew Khoury were exemplary in their attention to detail and care. Many thanks for the wonderful service you provide and all the professional and dedicated staff you employ.

- Name withheld

I would like to say a big thanks and express my gratitude to the people who work at the Concord Hospital.Firstly, thank you to the receptionists and administrative staff who are all very courteous and kind and polite. Secondly, thank you to the nurses on Level 2 and all medical staff for their caring attitude and understanding towards their patients.Thank you to the urologists and the anaesthetists- anaesthesiologists for their work, for their attitude and their care and understanding as well. The anaesthetists-anaesthesiologist who were with me were really good. It is very important to understand that a person may be anxious before a surgery and they lighten up the mood with jokes. We need to keep this method up and making sure that a patient is feeling positive before a surgery instead of being nervous. It is always nice to see a smiling face instead of a grim one or with a frown.I’ve had constantly problems with my left kidney, and I have kidney stones and my kidney stones like flowers bloom every year, but your doctors have always helped me and saved my life.I am very grateful and thankful that there are such wonderful and professional people in Concord Hospital.

- Name withheld

My dad has been admitted to Concord Hospital on 20 May 2019 and discharged on 23 May.He has received very professional medical treatment from the emergency room, surgeons and in-patient room. My dad, mum and myself felt that the level of love and care received has no difference from what we would expect from a family members and even more.Special thanks for Emergency Doctor Peggy, Trainee Surgeon (Laparoscopic) Jason and Jessica, and nurse Stephen in Level 1 North Ward.I have been sharing my dad’s experience with friends who has bias or bad experience of public hospitals. Even though we are Chinese family and my parents barely speak any English, everyone in the hospital tried all their best to make it easier for us to go through the stress and defeat the disease.I also believe it is because of the kind and strongly supportive leadership and management, your employees are enabled and encouraged to show their care to the patients and the family.Many thanks to you all and all the best wishes.

- Name withheld

And it was a good morning last Friday when I arrived at 3-West Main Building for my heart problem and it only became better.The patient attention, empathy and high quality care was par excellence.Myself, and indeed all the other patients, were made to feel welcome and comfortable in a congenial atmosphere.I wish to thank all the staff, nurses and doctors who made my troubling time a very pleasant experience.May you pass this on to those good people.

- Name withheld

Good evening Concord staff. I was a patient in your hospital for the gastric sleeve operation. I wanted to take the time to thank all the staff that looked after me during my stay. The care that I was given by all staff was first class and with all the cutbacks and stresses put on our hospital system I am pleased to let you all know that I think you are all super stars. My stay was in ward 1 north. You are all dedicated professional and I know that dealing with the public can be far from nice sometimes and that is why I am sending this email. As I wanted to say a big thank you to all. I had the time to meet your unit manager and from the top level through to all staff you deserve gold stars. Thank you again. - Name withheld

With Compliments

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I am persistentPerioperative Nurses’ Week

Perioperative Nurses’ Week is held in October every year to celebrate the work done by nurses behind the closed doors of the operating theatres. Perioperative nurses’ care for our patients before, during and after surgery and are a strong advocate for patients whilst in their care. This year, there was a hype of activity during Perioperative Nurses’ Week, and a number of different activities were held as outlined below:

• Recycling guessing competition – a number of recycling items were placed into a bag and staff were encouraged to donate $1 to have a guess at the total number of items (in the bag).• An afternoon tea was held featuring a specially baked cake, trivia and fun activities with a recycling focus. One activity involved three competing teams who had to place an item between their legs, walk down the corridor and deposit the item into the correctly labelled bin.• Display on The Green – Perioperative services staff set up an imaginary patient with equipment, which showcased recycled items from the operating theatres. This generated plenty of interest from both hospital staff and the community, with lots of questions asked. Staff also made sure their theatre colleagues were involved, so arrangements were made to enable them to participate and feel part of the celebrations, which was appreciated.

Market DayEvery Thursday from 8:30am

On the GreenReturning 30 January 2020

Harmony Day20th march 2020Cultural Food Stalls

PerformancesStaff Art Exhibition

Celebrating