2022 has thrown its fair share of challenges at us so far: COVID-19, an accreditation survey, opening new wards, floods and more. Despite all of this, we have lived our values and demonstrated resilience, perseverance and compassion for one another. I am so proud of not just what we have achieved together this year but how we have achieved it together.

With the Queensland borders opening in December 2021, our teams worked tirelessly to implement our COVID-19 response. This included opening a rapid antigen testing clinic for patients coming to STARS and, at times, designated COVID-19 wards for our patients who became unwell with COVID-19. Despite the challenges we faced as staff became close contacts or unwell themselves with COVID-19, our team ensured we always delivered safe and compassionate patient-centred care.

In March, we had our first full ACHS accreditation survey. We passed our survey with flying colours, and the Metro North Board commended us on our outstanding result after only 12 months of operations. This incredible result was made possible by everyone’s hard work and dedication.

We also opened Ward 6C to support Metro North Health’s COVID-19 response, by providing additional sub-acute bed capacity across our network. We have now opened all wards in STARS ahead of schedule and are continuing to provide additional bed capacity to Metro North Health.

We formally welcomed our colleagues from Food Service, Patient Security and Patient Support Services under the STARS governance following the Clinical Support Services Business Case for Change. It is our pleasure to now have these great teams formally part of our STARS team – although we’ve always felt they are part of our extended family since we’ve opened.

I have highlighted just a few of our achievements and great work. Despite the challenges, and many of you feeling a little jaded after this year’s challenges, it’s important we keep celebrating our wins and supporting one another to pursue excellence and innovation in all that we do.

A sincere thank you for continuing to care; to care for each other, our patients and our community.

Helen