Dear colleagues,

In my first week as Acting CE, I have had conversations with several people who are concerned that there will be significant changes to our vision and direction following Shaun Drummond’s departure. During Shaun’s seven years with Metro North, including four as CE, he brought amazing energy, vision and drive. As part of that, he spearheaded the MN32 aspirational plan. I want to reassure you that we are on a strong steer and will remain on our MN32 journey. The Board and executive are committed to the direction and we will continue working towards our 2032 aspirations. Just in time for the Brisbane Olympics!

We are watching the situation in New South Wales closely and it’s significant that those COVID patients currently in intensive care have not had a COVID vaccine. It’s a strong reminder that we need to take the opportunity, when available, to get vaccinated.

As at close of business Tuesday, Metro North staff had administered 200,000 vaccinations, including around 17,000 to our own staff. We’re delivering around 11,000 doses per week at the moment, depending on supply.

On yesterday’s vidcast I was asked about the use of face masks. I want to reiterate that masks are mandatory and everyone who enters our facilities should be wearing a mask unless they have a medical reason. It’s not acceptable to walk through a hospital or health facility without a mask and collect one when you reach your workplace. If you need to, take a mask home at the end of your shift for the next day.

There also appears to be confusion around the use of QR codes. All staff and visitors should be scanning in at the start of your shift and, if you move around campus, scanning at any other locations and when you return. Fast contact tracing is one of the things that has helped Queensland avoid significant COVID outbreaks.

Wearing masks, using the QR codes, and practicing good hand hygiene and social distancing will help us keep COVID at bay. Please remember our Metro North values. We’re all in this together.

At the Board meeting this week, I was asked to pass on the Board’s gratitude to all staff for how well we have managed through the challenges and changing environment of the last year.

I apologise for not being in attendance at last night’s important Metro North event. I am proud of our research commitment.

Thank you.

Regards,

Jackie