JUNE/JULY 2021 EDITION - South West Hospital and Health Service
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South West Hospital and Health Service
JUNE/JULY
2021 EDITION
From the Board Chair 3 Our Teams 21
Board out and about 5 Specialist Palliative Care in Aged Care (SPACE) 21
From the Chief Executive 6 Virtual training for the South West takes off! 22
Our Communities 7 Staff help ‘Close the Gap’ with new uniform 23
Roma Hospital officially opened by the Premier 7 Closing the Gap on Indigenous health 24
Experienced duo join South West Hospital and
Our Services 25
Health Board 8
South West’s COVID-19 vaccination update 9 South West represented at the SQRH
Extended Rural Placement Summit 25
National Reconciliation Week 2021 10
Nurses continue to take out top spot as
Kids Oral Health in check in the South West 11
most trusted of 30 professions 26
Charleville community digs deep at race day 12
Strength with Immersion to develop our
Roma State College Flexischools next generation speciality staff 27
Cooking Skills Program 13
Hold’em or Fold’em Workshop 13 Our Resources 28
This is your (adulting) life 14 Patient Flow Manager update 28
Uni students make a huge contribution Ed-LinQ program showcased at Isolated
to healthy lifestyles and nutrition 15 Children’s Parents’ Association
Keeping in check with early years nutrition 15 State Conference 29
Splinters Earrings – on trend out west 16 Around the kitchen table 30
Commit to quit: World No Tobacco Day 17 New mural brightens up Charleville Hospital 31
Roma Show Sheep Dog Trials 18 Inform your health decision 31
Charleville shines a light on domestic
and family violence 18
South West Spirit recipients:
South West Vaccination team 32
Surat Monthly Music sessions a hit! 19
World Continence Day 2021 20
Cover image: Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and South West HHS
staff member Debbie-Ann Landers at the official opening of the Roma Hospital
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We respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands across the South West. We also pay our respects to the
current and future Elders, for they will inherit the responsibility of keeping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture alive,
and for creating a better life for the generations to follow. We believe the future happiness and wellbeing of all Australians
and our future generations will be enhanced by valuing and taking pride in Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
peoples – the oldest living culture of humanity.
SOUTH WEST TRADITIONAL OWNERS
Augathella – Bidjara (Bid-jara) Quilpie – Bunthamarra (Bun-tha-mar-ra) and
Wangkumara (Wong-ka-mara)
Bollon – Kooma (Coo-ma)
Roma – Mandandanji (Mand-an-dand-gee)
Charleville – Bidjara (Bid-jara)
St George – Kooma (Coo-ma) with Kamilaroi, Mandandanji,
Cunnamulla – Kunya (Koun-yah) with other interests Bigambul and Gungarri interests
Dirranbandi – Kooma (Coo-ma) Surat – Mandandanji (Mand-an-dand-gee)
Injune – Kongabula (Kong-ga-bull-a) Thargomindah – Kullila (Coo-lee-lar)
Mitchell – Gunggari (Gon-gari) Wallumbilla – Mandandanji (Mand-an-dand-gee)
Morven – Bidjara (Bid-jara)
Mungindi – Kamilaroi (Car-milla-roy)
QUALITY COMPASSION ACCOUNTABILITY ENGAGEMENT ADAPTABILITY
This newsletter is produced by the South West Hospital and Health Service.
All feedback and contributions are welcome to SWHHS_Communications@health.qld.gov.au.
All published material has been approved by the Health Service Chief Executive.
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
2 PULSE July edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
From the Board Chair
“Successful business leaders who have helped build institutions of
lasting value – all are committed to talent and a culture of excellence.
This is usually accomplished by the identification, retention, and
development of great people”.
Bobby Kotick (American CEO of Activision Blizzard and the longest-serving head of any
publicly traded USA tech company).
It was with great delight that we share the most recent Anthony is currently based at Thursday Island where he is the
appointments of board members to the South West Executive Director Medical Services with the Torres and Cape
HH board. Claire Alexander and I were reappointed for Hospital and Health Service. He is a Rural Generalist doctor with
another term to the board, and Jan Chambers was similarly advanced skills in obstetrics and is a highly regarded senior
reappointed as Deputy Chair. We also welcomed two new executive with outstanding health sector knowledge and brings
board members, Bruce Scott and Chris Hamilton to our June a wealth of experience in delivering quality healthcare.
board meeting.
Over a period of 32 years, he has served in various rural
Chris Hamilton is the CEO of RAPAD Employment Services communities including as a Medical Officer at Gove Hospital in
Qld – RESQ – supporting job seekers and employers with Arnhem Land; as a partner in a GP practice in Camperdown in
their employment needs. RESQ currently has offices located Victoria and as Senior Medical Officer at Mareeba Hospital.
in Charleville, Cunnamulla and Mitchell. Chris has previously
had a career within the Australian Army and Deference Force Anthony currently Chairs the Qld state-wide Rural and Remote
and still serves with a mobile regiment. He has also worked in Clinical Network and is a board member of the Rural Doctors
a range of other positions which have provided services and Association Queensland as well as a member of the Clinical
support to rural Queenslanders. Senate and the State-wide Maternity and Neonatal Clinical
network. He will bring to the SWHHS a genuine passion and
Charleville resident Bruce Scott was also appointed to the commitment to address the gap in health outcomes for remote
board. He is currently employed as an adviser with the and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We look
National Recovery and Resilience Agency which works to forward to welcoming Anthony and his wife Ruth, who are both
support local communities to respond to natural disaster. relocating to Roma.
Bruce is a Director of Red Ridge and a Committee member
for the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) In the interim, Craig Carey will continue as Interim Chief
committee and has had a long career in local government Executive where he continues to provide strong and
with the Barcoo Shire Council. authentic leadership to our SWHSS team.
Both Chris and Bruce bring extensive governance experience We have also received our Service Delivery Statement for
to our board and they look forward to meeting staff and the 2021 – 2022 operational year and I can confirm that we
community members as we traverse South West Queensland have an operating budget of $169.7 million, which is a
in the coming months. 2.0% increase in comparison with the previous financial
year initial offer. Our full time equivalent workforce
Board member Dr Mark Waters is currently on leave from the numbers will be 791.87 people – which is an increase of
board, as he has been appointed Acting Chief Executive of
17.4 people from the 2020-21 year which means we will be
the Sunshine Coast HHS until early October. The SWHHS
able to continue to deliver excellence in health services to
board is currently in the process of appointing a replacement
the people of South West Queensland.
clinician board member.
Whilst on the topic of personnel changes, it was with
delight that the SWHH Board recently announced the
appointment of Dr Anthony Brown as Chief Executive who
will commence in this role on 30 August.
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The Queensland Government State Budget also contained Dr Michael McLaughlin is a Senior Medical Officer at the Roma
an announcement of funding for capital works to the value Hospital and he received the 2020 Denis Lennox Award for
of $8.1million. Whilst we await the details behind the outstanding Rural Registrar at the RDAQ conference. Whilst this
announcement, we understand this funding will be used for recognition is belated due to the postponement of last year’s
the following: conference, Dr McLaughlin has dedicated himself to rural
medicine in an inspirational manner during his time in the
• A new community clinic at Morven to replace the dated SWHHS and this award confirms his place as one of
facility which in 2021, is no longer truly fit for purpose. Queensland’s top rural Doctors.
In recent years, we have built new DON’s accommodation,
so this will truly refresh our facilities in the Morven area. On behalf of the SWHH Board team, I extend my sincere
Our Morven based staff and community members are congratulations to Adam and Michael on their commitment,
delighted with this news. compassionate care and dedication to health outcomes
• A new allied health building in St George. These services are in our area, and for being recognised for their outstanding
currently provided from an incredibly old building (indeed, professionalism.
the former maternity wing) at the St George Hospital and
this building is not considered contemporary with current Karen Tully
expectations. Our allied health staff have warmly welcomed
this news.
• In Charleville, the old brick Eyre Street building will be
replaced. Several community health and wellness programs
are located in this building, which is in the main CBD area.
It is wonderful that the State Government has recognised our
need for safe, compliant and contemporary buildings in South
West Queensland and as these were all priorities within our
Strategic Asset Management Plan), it is with great joy that our
SWHHS receives news of these funding announcements.
As we all know, there is much more to a Hospital and Health
Service than ‘a board and buildings’ and it was an honour to
have the contributions of two of our doctors recognised at the
recent Rural Doctors Association Queensland conference.
Dr Adam Coltzau was awarded Honorary Life Membership
of the RDAQ. Dr Coltzau has been serving the St George
community in an exemplary manner since 2004 and in his
current role as Director of Medical Services at St George
Hospital, he generously offers leadership, professional
support and mentoring to his fellow colleagues that truly
does demonstrate our HHS core values in action.
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Board out and about
Anne Lloyd taking the SWHH Board on a tour of Westhaven Dr Deb Tennett, Rebecca Greenway, Craig Carey and Liz Frith
Jan Chambers, Melissa Wathen, Emma Gordon, Judy Kelly, Jan Chambers, Karen Tully, Sandy Rodney Landers, Lane Brookes and Ray
Craig Carey, Karen Tully, Chris Hamilton and McDonald and Sue Williamson Chandler
Bruce Scott OAM
Showing off the new Closing the Gap shirts are SWHH Board members from left Chris Showing off the new Closing the Gap shirts are SWHH
Hamilton, Ray Chandler, Claire Alexander, Karen Tully and Bruce Scott OAM (back of Board members from left Chris Hamilton, Ray Chandler,
shirts) Claire Alexander, Karen Tully and Bruce Scott OAM
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From the
Chief Executive
It is hard to believe that the 2020/2021 financial
year has closed! I want to take the opportunity
to acknowledge and recognise the dedication,
commitment and people-centred healthcare that
continues to be delivered by our clinical and
support staff across the South West.
During the year, our emergency departments had over 26,000 schedule; To our staff and community members who have done
presentations with 95% seen and discharged or admitted this, I say thank you! To everyone else,
within four hours. Around 500 patients were treated from the I implore you to protect yourself, family, friends and
gastrointestinal endoscopy waitlist while nearly 1,000 patients community, by scheduling your COVID-19 vaccinations.
received elective surgery. Collectively you have worked to
ensure delivery of high quality, timely and accessible services, For many of us, we have the joy of being greeted at home by
not only in our acute facilities, but in the community with a a canine family member. Friday 22 June 2021 was International
focus on health prevention and promotion. Take Your Dog to Work Day and while I couldn’t actually do that
on the day, I thought I’d close by sharing with you a photo of
On 1 June 2021, a very warm welcome was extended on a cold Mr Buck, my Boxer!
Roma morning to the Hon Annastacia Palaszczuk, Premier and
Minister for Trade and our Minister for Health and Ambulance Best regards
Services, the Hon Yvette D’Ath, to officiate at the opening of
Craig
the Roma Hospital. It was great to have our healthcare partners
and community members on hand to celebrate with our staff
and to acknowledge the $117 million investment in what is a
state-of-the-art facility that will support our communities into
the future.
Throughout the year, our staff have worked tirelessly to keep
COVID-19 from our communities. This is even more important
today as new strains of the virus emerge. While our vaccination
program started slowly, I am incredibly pleased to see the
dramatic increase in the proportion of our eligible population
that have started or completed their COVID-19 vaccination
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Our Communities
ROMA HOSPITAL OFFICIALLY OPENED BY PREMIER
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk officially opened “We are also tackling the unprecedented demand in our
a new and improved hospital in South West hospitals with the $100 million Care4Qld package delivering
65 new beds and other services.”
Queensland delivered as part of the government’s
record $21.8 billion investment in public health More than 60 local workers, including five apprentices and
on 1 June. trainees, were employed during the construction of the new
Roma Hospital.
Tens of thousands of south west Queenslanders will now
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said in total, the Roma Hospital
have access to world-class health facilities under the one
project created 97 jobs.
roof thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s investment in
the new Roma Hospital. “This hospital development also provided a major boost to the
local economy with more than $4 million spent directly with
The Premier toured the new $116.6 million hospital which
local companies during construction, and more than 40 local
now caters to increased outpatient capacity and houses
businesses engaged for contracting work, supply services and
22 beds, two birthing suites, two operating theatres and is
materials,” she said.
capable of accommodating families and people travelling
long distances for day surgery. “Roma Hospital has been built with patients and communities
front of mind, thanks to a strong public consultation process
“Roma Hospital is everything a state-of-the-art hospital
and input from locals.
should be to support people in the south west and to look
after their families and loved ones,” the Premier said. “This is a benchmark by which all hospital construction should
be measured and I congratulate everyone at South West
“We’re investing more in health than any government in
Hospital and Health Service and all of the stakeholders for
our state’s history because we know how important it is
delivering this world-class hospital.”
for people in regional Queensland to have access to
great facilities.
“New public infrastructure is also an important part of our
plan for economic recovery.
“Throughout construction, the Roma Hospital project has
created dozens of jobs for local workers – injecting millions of
dollars into our economy at a time businesses need it most.”
The new hospital was built through the Palaszczuk
Government’s $180 million Enhancing Regional Hospitals
Program.
The Premier said the redevelopment was the single largest
investment in healthcare in South West Queensland since 1987.
“The health of Queenslanders remains a top priority at
all times, not only during a global pandemic, and my
government’s record investment in health care is delivering
nation-leading facilities,” the Premier said.
“That’s why the most recent Queensland State Budget
included an investment of more than $21.8 billion in health.
PULSE November edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
7 PULSE July edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
EXPERIENCED DUO JOIN SOUTH WEST HOSPITAL AND HEALTH BOARD
A Charleville resident, experienced board director “He has been involved in a number of agri-businesses and
and former country council Mayor, along with a continues to act as Colonel Commandant of the North West
Mobile Force and the Pilbara Regiment.
retired army Brigadier have been appointed to the
South West Hospital and Health Board. “Together, he and Mr Scott will bring a wealth of talent and
experience to the South West Hospital and Health Board.
Health and Ambulance Services Minister Yvette D’Ath said
Mr Bruce Scott and retired Brigadier Christopher Hamilton “I look forward to continuing to work with the board to ensure
would bring a broad range of experience and skills to the Queensland’s health system continues to thrive.”
South West Hospital and Health Board.
The South West Hospital and Health Board’s members are:
She said Board Chair Karen Tully and current board member
Ms Karen Tully (Chair)
Claire Alexander also had been reappointed to the Board.
Ms Claire Alexander
“I’d like to congratulate Ms Tully and Ms Alexander on their
reappointments and welcome Mr Scott and Brigadier (retired) Ms Jan Chambers
Hamilton to the board,’’ she said. Mr Ray Chandler
“Charleville resident Mr Scott is a former member of the Central Dr Mark Waters
West Hospital and Health Board from 2012 to 2016 and was Mrs Kerry Crumblin
Barcoo Shire Mayor on two separate occasions.
Mr Bruce Scott OAM
“He has also been a member, director and chair of numerous
Brigadier Christopher Hamilton (Retired)
rural planning, development and disaster organisations.
The 16 boards throughout Queensland are responsible under
“He continues to serve on a number of boards, including the
the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011 for local performance
Red Ridge Foundation, Foundation for Rural and Regional
of their health service and the delivery of public health
Renewal and National Drought and North Queensland Flood
services within their communities.
Response and Recovery Agency.
“In 2017, he was a recipient of the Order of Australia
Medal for service to local government and the community
of Barcoo Shire.’’
Ms D’Ath said Brigadier Hamilton was a long-serving former
army officer with a broad range of skills which had been
transferred to the private sector following his retirement from
the defence force.
“Brigadier Hamilton serves on the Premier’s Queensland
Veterans Advisory Council and is Chief Executive Officer of
RAPAD Employment Services,’’ she said.
Board members from left: Chris Hamilton, Ray Chandler, Claire
Alexander, Karen Tully and Bruce Scott OAM
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
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COMMUNITIES RALLY BEHIND SOUTH WEST VACCINATION CLINICS
Since the COVID-19 vaccine rollout started in the Please remember to bring with you to the community
South West we have seen approximately 13,000 vaccination clinic:
people step up to help protect our communities 1. Photo identification and your Medicare card, if you have one
by getting vaccinated. 2. If coming in for your second dose, please bring the
vaccination card that you received at your first dose
Thanks to our wonderful vaccination team and our partnering
appointment
organisations who have been delivering additional
vaccinations we are helping keep our more vulnerable 3. Information about medical conditions and current
members of our communities safe. medications
4. Information about any other vaccine you’ve had in the past
South West HHS COVID-19 Vaccination Coordinator Mrs Robyn
14 days.
Brumpton said vaccination clinics for the general public
would continue across the region over the next few months Pfizer is now the recommended COVID-19 vaccine for those
at hospitals, multipurpose health services (MPHSs) and aged 16–59, consistent with revised national guidelines.
community clinics.
People of all ages who have had the first dose of the
“We are encouraging everyone in our communities to come AstraZeneca vaccine without serious adverse effects are
along and be vaccinated, or if you have already had a first recommended to have their second dose of AstraZeneca.
dose, schedule your second,” Robyn said. Mixing vaccinations is not recommended and is to be avoided.
“Being vaccinated is the best thing you can do for yourself, Revised health advice recommends a one-week gap between
your family, and your community.” a COVID-19 vaccination and any other vaccine, including the
seasonal FLUVAX (influenza vaccination), rather than the
Robyn commended everyone on the ground helping with the previous two-week gap.
‘biggest vaccine rollout’ the South West had seen.
Updated Australian national health advice is that pregnant
“Logistically we are a bit different with so many facilities in woman can now receive the Pfizer vaccine. We encourage
such rural and remote areas of Queensland,” she said. pregnant women to come forward and receive the vaccine so
they and their unborn child can be protected from COVID-19.
“So, it is timely to thank everyone for supporting our
vaccination teams who are travelling across the South West
to help protect our communities.”
Schedule your vaccination by calling the vaccination line on
1800 844 886 from 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday.
“Being vaccinated is the best thing
you can do for yourself, your family,
and your community.”
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
9 PULSE July edition | South West Hospital and Health ServiceNATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK 2021
Every year from 27 May to 3 June we celebrate the So, we ask you to all please have a read over the actions
strengthening relationships between First Nations (https://nrw.reconciliation.org.au/actions-for-reconciliation/)
that have been shouted out. If you are hesitant to challenge
people and other Australians as part of National
some of the long-held but incorrect ideas in your community, be
Reconciliation Week (NRW). assured that across this country many people just like you are
joining First Nations peoples in this effort.
The week also commemorates other significant milestones
in Australia’s reconciliation journey—the successful 1967 This NRW, make reconciliation more than a word. Move from
referendum and the High Court Mabo decision respectively safe to brave on issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait
and National Sorry Day (26 May). Islander peoples.
So, it’s an important week for us. Reconciliation must live in the hearts, minds and actions of all
Australians as we move forward, creating a nation strengthened
Reconciliation Australia’s theme for 2021, More than a word.
by respectful relationships between the wider Australian
Reconciliation takes action, urges the reconciliation movement
community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
towards braver and more impactful action.
We all have a role to play when it comes to reconciliation and
Reconciliation is a journey for all Australians – as individuals,
building an organisation that values Aboriginal and Torres Strait
families, communities, organisations and importantly as
Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures.
a nation and at the heart of this journey are relationships
between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Together we can help close the gap and take action!
Torres Strait Islander peoples.
NRW is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared
histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each
of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. “Reconciliation takes action,
This year’s theme is asking all of us to act. urges the reconciliation
The goal of the reconciliation movement is for a just,
movement towards braver and
equitable and reconciled country. This will only be achieved more impactful action.”
when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the
First Peoples of this land, are able to equally contribute to daily
life of the nation. Until this happens, Australia will not reach
its full potential.
We need more people speaking up, asking the hard questions
and taking action during and beyond NRW and to help us
NRW have compiled 20 actions for reconciliation.
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
10KIDS ORAL HEALTH IN CHECK
ACROSS THE SOUTH WEST
Visiting the School Dental Van for the first time
and seeing the Oral Health Therapist should be a
fun, learning adventure for children as teeth are
very important for your health. For five year old
Hunter, he took it all in his stride during a visit to
the van Mobile Dental Clinic 150 at Roma Middle
School recently.
(L to R) Emma Hagen (Dental Assistant)
Jorjee Laverty (student) Lisa Rippon
“Hunter has been so excited to come to the school dental van for
(Senior Oral Health Therapist)
a check-up” Hunter’s mum Emylee said.
“And, after seeing Lisa and Emma, he is even more excited to go
back and visit next time. School dental services not only come around in our Mobile Dental
Van, as our Dental Team also visit schools to provide classroom
“He especially loved the prize he got from the Minion Box and his
lessons in an effort to give students an interactive experience
new toothbrush”
about looking after their teeth.
“As a parent, its excellent that my son was made to feel so
As such, The Minion Tooth Fairy and her crew are well known
comfortable to come and visit the school dental service - the
in South West, with Lisa saying, “I often go downtown, and the
experience the girls gave him was amazing.”
children run after me calling the Minion Tooth Fairy! It’s great
During his appointment Hunter learnt all about what coming to that they recognise me, and if seeing the Minion Tooth Fairy
the Dental Van involves – how we count teeth and clean them and encourages them to remember to brush their teeth…well my job
then putting the fluoride “cream” on. is done!”
Hunter also now knows that when we brush our teeth we need Lisa Rippon (Senior Oral health Therapist SWHHS)
to do big circles on the outsides of our teeth, scrub the chewing
parts and flicking on the insides. He also learnt that you only need
a “pea” sized amount of toothpaste on your brush - even when
you are a grown-up.
But the most important thing Hunter learnt was, after you brush
your teeth, you do not need to rinse the toothpaste out, as by
rinsing out the fluoride that is meant to keep your teeth strong
goes straight down the sink!
Even when you are a “big kid” coming to the School Dental Van
can still be fun as Jorjee found out during her appointment.
Up until very recently, Jorjee was wearing braces and very much
understands the importance of coming in for regular check-ups
and cleaning her teeth.
We all know the importance of looking after your teeth as we
use our teeth to smile, eat and talk and that – if your teeth aren’t
(L to R) Emma Hagen (Dental Assistant) Hunter Wolfe (student) Lisa Rippon
healthy - then it can also make you unhealthy. (Senior Oral Health Therapist)
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
11CHARLEVILLE COMMUNITY DIGS DEEP AT RACEWAY AUCTION
The fantastic Charleville Hospital Auxiliary
works hard to raise money to support the local
hospital and community to enhance access to
quality healthcare within our rural and remote
environment.
Operating in a COVIDSafe environment, the Auxiliary’s
luncheon at the Newmarket races during May was followed by
a keenly contested auction which raised an amazing $30,000!
It was supported by special guest speakers Sam Kekovich
– ‘Lambassador’ and sports commentator - alongside Peter
Moody – conditioner of the world’s highest-rated galloper, Jersey auction
Black Caviar, and the man who trained the 2009/10 Australian
Horse of the Year Typhoon Tracy.
Following the luncheon and guest speakers, participants were
able to bid on a range of items including travel, accommodation
and tickets for Moonee Valley races, and the Melbourne Storm
/ Panthers fixture scheduled for end July, signed Queensland
Maroons Jerseys donated by Origin Greats Gene Miles and Billy
Slater with all funds generated to be used to further support the
Charleville Hospital and patients in need.
In true Charleville style the community spirit shone through to
ensure the success of this event.
Nicky McKellar, President of the Auxiliary said how they were Sam Kekovich, Nicky McKellar and Peter Moody
completely overwhelmed by the success of the luncheon.
“This was only possible due to the generous support of our
sponsors and guest speakers. In particular thank you to Sam
Kekovich for taking the long drive out here and entertaining us
so well in your own time,” Nicky said.
“Sam spoke about altruism and philanthropy, and how these
qualities are what help make Australia wonderful. With his
wonderful sense of humour, he certainly had the crowd in fits
of laughter!
“We were also extremely grateful to Peter Moody - it’s actually
still difficult to find the words as we remain in awe of what he Ladies enjoying the luncheon
has done for us. It was generous enough of you to offer to drive
out here and speak for free. But then the auctions happened
and he just kept giving – we were unbelievably grateful!”
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
12 PULSE July edition | South West Hospital and Health ServiceROMA STATE COLLEGE FLEXISCHOOLS COOKING SKILLS PROGRAM
Following on from last year’s successful Jamie’s Comments from some of the students: “I can’t thank Rohan
Ministry of Food program, South West HHS’s and the team enough for creating a super engaging program!
Mr Banks and Mrs G are very grateful to the team.”
Senior Community Nutritionist Rohan Ballon has
once again partnered with Maranoa Regional “Cooking is the best subject we have. You get to have good
Council in supporting the Roma State College (RSC) food, make things and have fun. The food is healthy for you
as well.” Jarome
Flexischools cooking skills program.
“Food skills are good because I really like cooking.” Ja-Marley
This program provides opportunities for RSC students in
the Beyond the Bronco’s Flexible Learning Program to learn “I like having the other teachers from the hospital and council
about different foods and some tips and tricks around food come to school and teach us.” Myka
preparation, such as cutting, chopping and heating.
Roma State College Beyond the Broncos Program Coordinator
Ben Banks stated, “The Food Skills program is excellent at
engaging students in healthier eating. They get to learn skills
in a practical setting and learn from community members
who have a passion for helping others in their eating journey.
The program’s attendance rate is the highest on Tuesday due
to the program. Students often come to school excited about
cooking in the morning and often ask what they are making.
All the students have commented that they would like
cooking to continue for as long as possible and enjoy sharing
their meals that they make with their family.
COMMUNITY NUTRITIONIST TALKS TO FARMERS ABOUT
MAKING GOOD HEALTH DECISIONS
Local farmers attended a decision-making Rohan’s practical demonstration had the crowd talking and is set
workshop in Roma, made possible by Queensland to be included in the line-up of many future ag-based workshops.
Government’s Tackling Regional Adversity through
Integrated Care (TRAIC) and GrazingFutures
programs, and the Balonne and Maranoa Councils.
South West HHS’s Senior Community Nutritionist Rohan Ballon
was invited along to share his experiences in prioritising
human health.
“Farmers excel at making good decisions about the health of
their animals and other farm operations but often fall short
when it comes to making sound decisions about their own
health,” Rohan said.
Rohan Ballon at the Hold em or Fold em workshop
Rohan emphasised this message by drawing comparisons
between the nutritional requirements of livestock and humans
with the aim of raising awareness of the amounts and types of
foods needed and how best to achieve these.
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
13THIS IS YOUR (ADULTING) LIFE
Charleville State High’s Year 12 students have been
learning what it means to live an adult life.
Everything from taxation and banking, job seeking to real
estate, the students have been immersed in the real world
thanks to local solicitors, JPs, Centrelink staff, accountants
and bank managers.
Supported by the HOPE Program’s Jenny Peacock and Angela
Young from the Charleville Neighbourhood Centre, the weekly
Adulting Life sessions have proved eye-opening for many of
the students. Cassandra, Jenny and Ashtyn at an
Adulting Life session in the school library
“Students now know what a JP does and how to access their
services as well as the importance of having a current Will and
Enduring Power of Attorney,” Jenny explained.
Thanks to funding secured by the Charleville Neighbourhood
Centre, students have been given an Adulting Life Organiser,
which is a useful ‘grab and go’ folder with clearly marked
sections for lots of essential documents.
“There are sections for everything,” explained Angela.
“Students can file their ID documents and education
qualifications, payslips, rental leases, taxation details,
cover letters and resumes, and lots more,” she said.
Each week, a local professional comes to school to talk to the
students about their role in the community. Representatives from
local businesses and services explain what they do and offer
valuable advice to prepare the students for life after school.
Angela explained that the students may not realise the value of
this information right now, but she feels certain they’ll be grateful
sometime in the future.
“Representatives from local businesses
and services explain what they do and
offer valuable advice to prepare the
students for life after school.”
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
14UNI STUDENTS MAKE A HUGE CONTRIBUTION TO
HEALTHY LIFESTYLES AND NUTRITION
Griffith University students Michaela Fortmann “In our time here in the South West we have had a really good
and Sarah Anderson are currently undertaking taste of what public health nutrition involves,” Michaela said.
a student placement with South West HHHS, “Our work here has highlighted the importance of talking to
working alongside Senior Community Nutritionist stakeholders and consumers to understand local issues.
Rohan Ballon to develop a virtual healthy “Rohan has shown us that there are many opportunities to
lifestyles program. plug nutrition messaging into activities going on around town.
It has opened my eyes to working in this area of dietetics in
Their work is in response to the findings of a needs the future.”
assessment that Rohan conducted in late 2020 which found
that the existing Shape Shifters Healthy Lifestyles program
wasn’t meeting consumers needs in its current state. Some of
the problems were around the face-to-face delivery and length
“Our work here has highlighted the
of sessions, as well as the actual information covered. importance of talking to stakeholders
Michaela and Sarah’s focus for this redevelopment has been and consumers to understand local
on presenting healthy lifestyles content into short engaging
issues.”
pieces that are suitable and appropriate for the entire region.
KEEPING IN CHECK WITH EARLY YEARS NUTRITION
Students Mikaela Young and Caroline Lamb from Reflecting on her time in Roma, Mikaela said, “Caroline and I
the University of the Sunshine Coast have also were given the opportunity to work out of the South West HHS
in Roma for our public health placement. As someone who is
been working alongside South West HHS’s Senior
passionate about improving community health, this placement
Community Nutritionist Rohan Ballon throughout was an invaluable experience. We learnt the importance of
the Maranoa to understand parents’ perspectives being out amongst the community and being able to adapt our
when it comes to feeding their young children. role to serve the community’s needs as they arise. The past
six weeks have solidified my passion for making change from
Early years nutrition has always been a priority for South West within the community, for the community.”
HHS, which has delivered a Mums and Bubs Nutrition program
since 2013. However, COVID provided an opportunity for Rohan
and his team to reconsider the delivery of this program and
investigate whether it was meeting the needs of parents in
the region. They also looked at the potential of extending the
program to other regions within the South West.
Rohan, Mikaela and Caroline are also assessing the evidence
base for the virtual delivery of feeding information for parents.
Their recommendations will inform future program phases
including developing digital content for website and Facebook.
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
15Sue Eustace-Earle from the HOPE
Program can’t decide which colour
to choose
SPLINTERS EARRINGS –
ON TREND OUT WEST
Creativity and style were the order of the day in the
first week of May thanks to the HOPE Program and
generous RADF Funding from Murweh and Paroo
Shire Councils.
Emily Wood of Splinters Creative brought her earring
making workshops to Charleville and Cunnamulla, and ran
workshops for enthusiastic participants eager to create
their own unique designs.
Polymer clay of every colour along with all the necessary
tools and equipment were available for up to 15 workshop
participants at each session.
Jill Usher from Murweh Shire Council helped with the
arrangements in Charleville and was at her creative best
during the first workshop.
“I loved the experience and am completely hooked on this
new hobby,” she said. “Emily was a wonderful facilitator and
such a skilled artisan. She explained everything patiently and
clearly, and she demonstrated so many clever and creative
techniques.”
Participants in Cunnamulla were equally enthralled and have
even ordered more materials so they can continue with this
new and exciting creative outlet.
Julie Fox from Cunnamulla P-12 State School made several
pairs of beautiful loops and dangles and is keen to share her
new-found skill.
“I can’t wait to take this workshop back to school and get
Miriam Airey from HOPE makes earrings with Healthy Ageing
the kids involved,” she said. “Working with your hands and
clients May, Carmel and Anne
creating something beautiful and unique alongside others is
such a fun thing to do and helps boost self-esteem,” she said.
Emily and Splinters Creative left behind a practical legacy in
each community with a fully equipped earring-making kit,
complete with lots of polymer clay, all necessary tools and
fixings, and a comprehensive instruction manual.
Look around next time you’re in Charleville or Cunnamulla –
beautiful colourful earrings are a fabulous new trend in town.
Emily Wood from Splinters Earrings at the RESQ workshop
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
16COMMIT TO QUIT: WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY
With so much emphasis on encouraging people “But of course, we would love for this number to go from 44 to
across the South West to lead a healthier lifestyle 171! Remember every day is a good time to quit!”
our Healthier Communities team thought they Here are some top tips to help you on your way to a smoke
would use this year’s World No Tobacco Day to free life:
help people ‘Commit to Quit’.
• Make the pledge to quit
Every year on 31 May World No Tobacco Day shines a spotlight • See your GP for a smoking cessation plan
on the risks and harms of using tobacco. This year’s theme was • Plan a quit date
about encouraging any smoker wishing to quit to commit to the
• Ask your friends and family to support you on your
task at hand and seek help if they need.
quitting journey
Over the years the Healthy Communities team have had • Call Quitline on 13 7848 for free information and practical
different promotions across the South West to assist our staff assistance
and community members to quit. Their current promotion
Helen said it didn’t matter how many times you have tried to
for staff is called Ditch the Durries 320, which is a two-year
quit – “keep at it, and there will be the right time for you –
program with a target of helping 320 smokers quit.
it can and will happen”.
South West’s HHS Executive Director Allied Health Helen
“Many of our community members say it is the effect on their
Wassman said already they had seen a reduction in smoking
children and their families that has driven their successful quit
across the South West.
story; and not wanting to be short of breath or unable to do
“The Chief Health Officer’s Health of Queenslanders 2018 the things they used to do,” she said.
Report said South West Queensland had 17.3% of the
“We have delivered Smoking Cessation and Quitline
population were smokers, while the 2020 report was down to
workshops across the South West via teams to develop skills
13.4%,” she said.
and knowledge in our workforce to assist and support smokers
“And even more promising is the Quitline report for the period in their journey to quit. So help is not far away!”
from 1 July 2020 to 28 February 2021 where 171 South West
You can also register with Quitline on 137848.
Queensland smokers are registered with Quitline to quit
smoking with 44 smokers participating.
“The Chief Health Officer’s Health
of Queenslanders 2018 Report said
South West Queensland had 17.3% of
the population were smokers, while
the 2020 report was down to 13.4%”
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
17ROMA SHOW SHEEP DOG TRIALS
Rohan Ballon, South West HHS’s Senior Community
Nutritionist, and his dogs Locky and Chad put on
some impressive performances recently in Roma
and Morven.
As Chief Steward for the sheep dog trials at the Roma Show,
Rohan explained the complexities of this hugely skilful and
entertaining event.
“Sheep dog trials bring handlers together to compete on a
level playing field,” Rohan said. “The trials are intended to
demonstrate the skills a dog uses every day of its working life.” Though Rohan and his dogs didn’t have much success at the
Roma Show, only coming away with a 6th place in his class,
The Roma Show is just one of many trials held across
they backed this up the following Monday, Tuesday and
Queensland and this year saw record numbers of dogs coming
Wednesday at the Morven sheep dog trial, coming away with
from as far away as Dubbo and Melbourne to compete in over
a 1st place with Locky and 3rd with Chad.
300 sheep dog runs across four days of trialling.
CHARLEVILLE SHINES A LIGHT ON DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE
Each May, Queensland marks DFV Prevention “The majority of perpetrators are men and most victims are women
Month to raise awareness and remind everyone of and children. However, DV doesn’t discriminate – it affects people
and families of all genders, backgrounds and ethnicities.”
the role we all need to play in preventing violence
and abuse in our communities. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse,
please reach out for help. In emergency situations always call
The Charleville Neighbourhood Centre took a unique approach, triple zero (000). There are also several support services ready
inviting community members to bring this important issue and willing to help, including 1800RESPECT.
out of the darkness and into the light by walking a lap of
Graham Andrews Park on Friday night, 7 May. A free sausage Far West Indigenous Family Violence Service also offers
sizzle and glow sticks were on offer to encourage as many support, advice and advocacy to families who have experienced
participants as possible. or are experiencing DFV. Services are available in Charleville,
Cunnamulla and St George.
Donna Enders from Far West Indigenous Family Violence
Service invited Charleville service providers and businesses to
help raise awareness of domestic violence in the community
by displaying silhouettes.
“These silhouettes represent women who were killed in acts of
intimate partner violence,” Donna explained.
The DV statistics are shocking and tragic, with one woman in
Australia killed each week,” she said.
Donna also explained that domestic and family violence is
deeply gendered.
Donna Enders from Far West Indigenous Family Violence Service
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
18SURAT COMMUNITY CONNECTS THROUGH MUSIC!
Keeping communities connected and helping
community members with dementia is what Surat’s
Monthly Music mornings are all about!
Surat Multipurpose Health Service’s Recreational Officer Wendy
McAlpine is the driving force behind these regular events.
Surat MPHS Director of Nursing Skye Williams said Wendy’s
aim to start the Surat Monthly Music mornings was to keep
our communities connected, decrease isolation while also
helping slow the onset of dementia in some of our community
members and long stay residents of the Surat MPHS. Mother and daughter Pat and Laurel Bridge sitting
“They are becoming more popular each month with increased
attendance from the Surat community and surrounding
communities,” Skye said.
“It is a wonderful Healthy Ageing initiative and our residents
from the Surat MPHS really enjoy the social outing which is
held at the Surat Town Hall.”
Skye said the mornings started after a dementia awareness
forum was held in Surat a few years ago about the importance
of becoming of a dementia friendly town.
Nellie Watson ( MPHS resident Surat Community residents dancing
“Music and dance is one of the most positive activities to and long time Surat resident)
promote dementia, assist those living with dementia and to
help slow the onset of dementia,” she said.
“In addition to this, the event provides a fun and social outing
for all, helping to decrease social isolation and loneliness
while filled with much fun, frivolity, exercise and enjoyment by
all who attend.
“The event is a collaborative effort through the Surat District
Development Association (SDDA), and along with a raffle each
event, we can help cover the costs for live music performers
The band at Surat Monthly Music mornings
each month.”
Wendy McApline and Kevin Donnally Vernon Dean ( Resident) Alfred
(Surat MPHS Resident) Varty and June Podham
Kate Rollinson, Faye Patterson, Wendy McApline
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
19WORLD CONTINENCE DAY 2021
This year World Continence Week was held from Incontinence affects 1 in 10 1.34 million
Australian bo
21 to 27 June and the South West HHS Continence men in Australia, of all ages.
men experi ys
ence incontin and
ence
Services used this week to highlight the impact Did you know that many male public These toile
ts have a
disposal bin
urinary incontinence can have on our lives. toilets do not have a disposal bin
available
for incontin
ence
products fo
for men to place their continence men who ne
r boys and
ed them.
South West HHS’s Clinical Nurse Consultant (Continence) Jane- products? This leaves men to carry
Maria McArthur said the week helped showcase that those used products with them or feel
If you exper
ience incon
how to mana tinence and
ge want to learn
on 1800 33 00 it, contact the National more about
66 or at helpli Continence
ne@contin Helpline
ence.org.au
.
who suffer from incontinence are not alone. stressed about how they’ll throw
them out. A lack of options stops men with
“It (the week) is an important time for those living with
incontinence from going out to exercise, shop and
incontinence to seek help so they no longer have to suffer
simply enjoy life.
in silence,” Jane said.
A study of Australian men with urinary incontinence found:
“World Continence week and men’s health highlights
incontinence which affects 1 in 10 men and boys in Australia. • 50% avoided situations where they could not access a
It is linked to prostate problems, cancer, diabetes, heart toilet easily
disease, intellectual and physical disabilities.”
• 57% intentionally kept accidents secret from those close to them
Jane shared some tips for those with living with urinary • 27% stated they stayed at home as a precautionary measure
incontinence a little easier:
How you can support the Bins4Blokes campaign and
• Stop smoking as nicotine and other toxins can be bladder improve men’s health in your community
irritants. In addition, the chronic smoker cough can put
The Continence Foundation of Australia is calling on all agencies
extra pressure on the bladder.
that provide toilet facilities to join the BINS4Blokes campaign
• Lose weight if you are overweight as this puts pressure on and install incontinence product bins in male toilets. Everybody
the pelvic floor. should have access to a comfortable and discreet way to
• Stop or reduce caffeine and alcohol intake. dispose of incontinence pads and pants.
• Reduce the consumption of high acidy drinks, drink more “Our hope this World Continence Week is to get BINS4Blokes
water instead. into male public toilets Australia-wide,” says Rowan Cockerell,
• Plan where to sit when travelling or when out in public. Sit CEO of the Continence Foundation of Australia.
closer to exits or bathrooms.
Adding BINS4Blokes to toilet facilities will help men in your
• Talk to your GP or Continence Nurse, Roma Hospital community live and work with confidence.
Bins4Blokes BINS4Blokes supporter Greg Ryan was born with a rare
This World Continence Week (21 to 27 June), join the call to congenital condition called Imperforate Anus, also known as
support more than one million men around Australia who live Anorectal Malformation. He has lived with faecal incontinence
with incontinence. The Continence Foundation of Australia is his entire life and is passionate about raising awareness and
launching BINS4Blokes – and you can get involved. understanding of incontinence. He says the BINS4Blokes
campaign will make a huge difference.
BINS4Blokes is an Australia-wide awareness and advocacy
campaign promoting the installation of incontinence bins in “The BINS4Blokes campaign will impact and change the
male public toilet facilities. daily lives of males of all ages who have had to deal with
incontinence, mostly in secret. I know BINS4Blokes will be a
life changer for me!” Greg says.
Get involved at https://bins4blokes.org.au/
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
20Our Teams
SPECIALIST PALLIATIVE CARE IN AGED CARE (SPACE)
Thanks to State and Commonwealth funding the South West “Palliative Care Needs Rounds integrates staff education
HHS is now able to deliver the Specialist Palliative Care in Aged into the case-based discussions while promoting symptom
Care (SPACE) to enhance equitable access to specialist palliative management, initiating case conferences, advance care
care in Queensland residential aged care facilities (RACF). planning discussions, and the management of current and
anticipatory medicines.
South West HHS’s Clinical Nurse Consultant in Palliative Care
Anna Ferrier said the proposed plan was aligned to SPACE “We plan them to be six weekly staff triage meetings, where
project principles. the palliative care needs of 4-6 residents are discussed.
The meetings occur via telehealth and will be up to 60
• Streamlined service
minutes in duration.
• Comprehensive, resident-focused, whole person care
“The residents discussed in these meetings is based on those
• Capacity building who have the greatest palliative care need. The idea is to focus
Anna said the current plan across the South West for our RACF on those who are at greatest risk of dying without a plan in
and MPHS teams was to: place and who have a high symptom burden.”
• Provide education for RACF and General Practice staff Anna this approach was a proven and pro-active model of care
• Support the introduction of Palliative Care Needs Rounds for triaging RACF/MPHS residents who have palliative care
via Telehealth with the Gold Coast Palliative Care Service needs.
• Purchase new syringe drivers to ensure each aged care “Needs rounds are designed to be flexible and dynamic to suit
facility has two (2) syringe drivers to deliver end-of-life the varying needs of each facility,” she said.
medications
She said they hoped to offer the needs rounds by August once
• Purchase telehealth equipment to deliver bedside the equipment arrives.
specialist palliative care and to access virtual palliative
The impact of introducing Palliative Care Needs Rounds into
care needs rounds
rural residential aged care: A quasi experimental study
• Support facilities to streamline current processes to ensure – Rainsford – 2020 – Australian Journal of Rural Health –
end-of-life plans are developed are made to avoid crisis Wiley Online Library
management.
“We also need to acknowledge the Palliative Care Needs
Rounds. This is an out-reach specialist palliative care service
focused on proactive management of resident’s needs as well as
building upon palliative care education, training, and capacity in
RACF/ MPHS staff,” Anna said.
“Palliative Care Needs Rounds integrates staff
education into the case-based discussions
while promoting symptom management,
initiating case conferences, advance care
planning discussions, and the management
of current and anticipatory medicines.”
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
21VIRTUAL TRAINING FOR THE SOUTH WEST TAKES OFF!
The introduction of Virtual Reality (VR) training Early stages are currently underway to launch a virtual reality
will be a game-changer for South West HHS staff, familiarisation process which is critical for success and will
continue to be the trademark of our VR business. From here,
just as it is proving to be on the national and
Learning and Development will continually plan and initiate
international stage. VR exposure opportunities through upcoming courses and
development opportunities.
One VR solution currently being introduced is an integrated
program to support interprofessional learning. Working in partnership with immersive technology experts in the
field of Nursing, Bundle of Rays, our Learning and Development
“The South West HHS Learning and Development Team
team is also taking their VR understanding to the next level,
are committed to ongoing innovation in how employees
ensuring the team are fully trained and aware of all information
best receive innovative training that minimises costs and
and support required to ensure staff can confidently progress
maximises outcomes in the learning and work environment,”
required layers of practice skills-based training.
said Nursing Director, Education, Leanne Raatz.
Watch this space for further updates regarding VR training in
VR integration and immersive learning solutions will help
the coming months!
provide quality and accessible learning and development for
all staff, providing a remote solution that brings us together.
Our goal is to enhance learners experience by connecting
both across the South West – and beyond – whilst making
the mindful move to truly partner with our employees in
the spirit of living our core values of Quality, Compassion,
Accountability, Engagement and Adaptability”.
Our goal is to be a recognised HHS and a rural and remote
leader in immersive virtual reality learning. South West HHS’s
initial tranche of Virtual Reality provision will deliver:
• Active anatomy
• Remote capabilities
• Focused immersion
• Contextual learning
The simulation allows staff from across the South West
to virtually enter a training session and work alongside
colleagues from other facilities without having to leave their
home base.
Recently, staff from Cunnamulla, Quilpie and Augathella linked
into a session to experience the virtual training environment,
working together, and communicating as a team.
Staff taking part in the Virtual Training day
PULSE June/July 2021 edition | South West Hospital and Health Service
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