Kate Copeland AM, Executive Director, Strategy, Planning, Assets, Infrastructure, and Strategic Developments

Holly Jones, Length of Service Award

October 2023 provides an opportunity for all of us to recognise the contribution of all our Operational Services staff. I want to shout out to the entire BEMS team across all of our campuses. I would like to acknowledge all of the BEMS staff who work behind the scenes supporting the day-to-day operations of our hospitals and workplaces. Thanks to our skilled team of dedicated electricians, plumbers, carpenters, welders, painters, engineers, landscapers, gardeners, waste coordinators, and administration staff for the valuable solutions and services you provide all year round for the benefit of our staff and patients.

During October we are also presenting Length of Service Awards to staff who reached employment milestones. At Caboolture, we recognised Holly Jones, who has clocked up 10 years of service. She is currently on loan from BEMS to the Redevelopment Team, so diversifying her skills.

This week was Charlies Week at TPCH, and it was a great opportunity to recognise Mandi Butland, who has dedicated 30 years to the BEMS team. Mandi was thrilled that so many of the team came over to see her receive her award.

This week at RBWH, the BEMS team gathered to celebrate their colleagues who were recognised for length of service with Metro North. Ten staff reached service award status ranging from 15 years to 45 years, with an amazing combined total of an astonishing 260 years of service. Three staff account for almost half of that total. Jeffrey McGrogan, Trade Coordinator Welders, Glen Downey (not pictured), Electrician, and Ashley Walters, Trade Coordinator Painter and Decorator, reached notable service recognition awards and have dedicated 40, 40 and 45 years, respectively, to working for Metro North.

Note: Redcliffe and Community and Oral Health awards will be progressed shortly.

Caboolture Hospital Redevelopment Project

I’d also like to congratulate the team at Caboolture for two milestones this month.

On Monday 16 October, the new multistorey carpark opened. When I visited, the carpark was filling up and staff and patients commented favourably on the ease of arrival, and the proximity to the hospital. 

Monday this week saw another important milestone. The new Clinical Services Building reached Practical Completion! The redevelopment team and the hospital are now progressing Operational Commissioning, with clinical services due to transition into the new building during November/December.