Staff at Shellharbour, Shoalhaven and Wollongong Hospitals have swapped work uniforms for their pyjamas as part of an initiative aimed at encouraging patients to get out of bed, into their day clothes and move around more while in hospital.

The Wollongong Hospital Children’s Ward and Illawarra Hospital School were transformed into a ‘magic kingdom’, for the inaugural Children’s Party Week held in August.

The Shellharbour Hospital Auxiliary President Lyn Thompson was recently awarded an Order of Australia (OAM) for her dedicated services to the Auxiliary and the Shellharbour community. The OAM recognises Australian citizens for achievement or meritorious service. Lyn said she was very shocked and excited to receive the award.

Shellharbour Hospital’s Adolescent Mental Health Unit caters for young people aged 12-18 years who experience mental health concerns. Staff at the unit recently decided to incorporate pet therapy into its weekly program.

The Member for South Coast, Shelley Hancock and Parliamentary Secretary for the Illawarra and South Coast, Gareth Ward officially opened the $3.4m Nowra Dental Clinic at the end of last year. A traditional Aboriginal smoking ceremony was held on site before staff transitioned into the new clinic and patient service.