A LONG list of activities, several awards and a prominent guest speaker were features of the recent Western District Health Service (WDHS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), which more than 100 staff and community members attended.

Board chairperson, Anna Sweeney highlighted the year’s achievements, including the opening of the MRI and Stage 2 of the Penshurst redevelopment, the completion of the WDHS Clinical Services Plan, and investment in a detailed design for the redevelopment of the Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit at Hamilton Base Hospital.

Chief executive, Rowena Clift provided the activity highlights for Coleraine and Penshurst, and thanked staff across the health service for their contributions and support in the first six months of her dual chief executive role at WDHS and Casterton Memorial Hospital.

“Since stepping into the role, I’ve been getting to know the remarkable people and communities that define these organisations,” Ms Clift said.

“Looking to the future, I’m excited to build on the legacy of innovation at WDHS and bring the best possible care to our communities.”

Corporate Services director, Nick Starkie discussed the financial performance of the health service in a challenging year.

“Although WDHS, like many other health services across the state, posted a deficit in 2023-24, we achieved the target set by the department at the beginning of the financial year,” he said.

“Our focus remains on ensuring the sustainability of our health service into the future while continuing to meet the growing demand for emergency care and surgical services.”

Guest speaker, Suzan Muir, a participant in SBS’s Alone Australia, captivated the audience with her personal health and survival journey, emphasising resilience and holistic strategies.

Life Governor Awards were a highlight, recognising three individuals:

• Aunty Claudette Lovett, for advancing cultural awareness and supporting First Nations health.

• Rohan Fitzgerald, former WDHS chief executive, for his visionary leadership over a decade.

• Leanne Deutscher (posthumously), for her 40-year commitment to patient-centred care.

The newly established Dr Dale Ford Award honoured Aisling Cunningham for her exemplary leadership in quality and safety.

The staff Above and Beyond Award was presented to Sally Kinghorn for her dedication to supporting staff in the Education Centre and patients in hospital, with visits from her Jack Russell, ‘Pickles’.

The Recognising Excellence Awards celebrated the Theatre Sterilisation Wrap Recycling Team, the Public Maternity Clinic Team, and Corporate Services director, Nick Starkie for their contributions to sustainability, service innovation, and leadership.

Long-service awards acknowledged over 50 staff members, including five with over 40 years of service, a testament to the dedication and passion of the WDHS team.

“This year’s AGM was really about celebrating the incredible people who make WDHS such an essential part of our community,” Ms Clift said.