1. The heart of volunteering
Meet one of our first Pink Ladies,
Shirley Wragge
In Profile
Timeless care
A nurse’s passion for her
patients
Research
Transforming healthcare
for Frankston
Follow us on
connectionYOUR FREE MAGAZINE FROM PENINSULA HEALTH • ISSUE 4 • SUMMER 2015
Special edition:
Celebrating 75 years
at Frankston Hospital
Special edition:
Celebrating 75 years
at Frankston Hospital

2. New Dental Health Service at
Carrum Downs
Contact
Email: dentalfrankston@phcn.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03/9784 8184
Location: Shop T5, 100 Hall Road, Carrum Downs
Peninsula Health Community Dental
Service has recently opened a new
dental clinic at Shop T5, 100 Hall Road,
Carrum Downs Regional Shopping
Centre, Carrum Downs, making
it easier to attend our dental service.
The dental team at Peninsula
Health Community Dental Service is
committed to providing dental care to
the whole community of the Frankston
Mornington Peninsula.
Why do I need to make an appointment with the
Peninsula Health Community Dental Service?
Visiting a dentist or oral health clinician is essential to maintain
healthy teeth and gums and avoid the risk of tooth decay, pain,
infection and poor oral health.
Am I eligible to attend the dental services at
Peninsula Health?
Anyone can attend Peninsula Health Community Dental
Service for a check-up and treatment. The Community Dental
Service provides a mix of public, private and Medicare funded
dental services. We will discuss your eligibility for our services
when you contact us. Our private dental services provide both
evening and weekend appointments for your convenience and
accepts payments from all private health insurers.
We accept the Child Dental Benefit Scheme under Medicare
and there are no out of pocket fees.
What happens at a first visit?
A first visit consists of a check-up and the dentist or oral health
clinician will discuss any treatment required with you.
The check-up includes an examination of your mouth, teeth
and gums, and advice on how to care for them.
Some of the types of treatment may include:
• Dental cleaning
• Advice on brushing teeth and maintaining healthy gums
• Advice on how to care for your dentures or dental plates
• Management of tooth decay including fillings, crowns or
extractions
• Preventive treatments including sealants
• Providing dentures or other treatments to replace missing
tooth/teeth such as bridges
• Periodontal treatment (gum disease)
• Basic cosmetic and orthodontic treatments.
How do I make an appointment?
Contact the Community Dental Service on 9784 8184 where
a member of our dental team will provide you with options and
costs regarding accessing our services. If you are in pain,
you should contact the Community Dental Service immediately
for advice.

3. CONNECTION I 1
Welcome
Director,
Corporate and
Community Relations
Amy Johnston
Writers
Dr Stephen Bright
Silvia Dropulich
Eliza Keck
Claire Polatidis
Editor
Silvia Dropulich
Layout
and Design
George Ovlachi
Corporate and Community Relations
Peninsula Health
PO Box 52
Frankston Vic 3199
Telephone 03 9788 1284
peninsulahealth.org.au
PeninsulaHealth
@PeninsulaHealth
PeninsulaHealth
This magazine is distributed across our
campuses at Frankston, Hastings, Mornington
and Rosebud, and mailed to our volunteers,
supporters and donors.
You can also download it from our website:
peninsulahealth.org.au/about-us/publications
To subscribe or be removed from the
mailing list please contact us below.
This publication was correct at the time of
printing. Peninsula Health reserves the right
to make changes as appropriate.
Cover: Frankston Hospital in the 1950s.
Photo courtesy of the State Library of Victoria.
T
his issue of Connection celebrates a special anniversary – 75 years of Frankston
Hospital as an integral part of the Peninsula community.
From its beginnings in 1941, when it was known as the Frankston Community
Hospital, the theme that emerges throughout its history is its commitment to the local
community.
The £24,000 two storey hospital building was built on a T-shaped plan, which was
designed for easy expansion.
With 32 beds, Frankston Community Hospital was officially opened on Sunday 30
November 1941 by Major-General H W Grimwade.
The first patient was admitted the following day.
Plans to extend the hospital soon followed. The Standard reported in October 1949:
“The tremendous growth in Frankston and the surrounding district has exceeded the estimated
growth when the original plan to extend was made, and it maybe that a much larger institution
will be required to meet the needs of the future.”
They were prophetic words.
Today Frankston Hospital has more than 380 beds and provides general and specialty
medical and surgical services, mental health, maternity and paediatric services. In 2015
more than 67,000 people presented to its emergency department. From its humble
beginnings 75 years ago, Frankston Hospital has transformed into a major teaching and
research hospital, with strong partnerships with Monash, Deakin and other universities.
The succes of Frankston Hospital is due to its highly commited staff. Together we are
training future generations of doctors, nurses and allied health professionals.
We are proud to be one of the largest employers on the Peninsula, and we continue to
grow. In February 2015 we commissioned 88 new beds and a new emergency department
two and a half times the size of the old department. The old emergency department
has been converted into a purpose built outpatient area for expanded orthopaedic,
plastics and women’s health clinics, which has state-of-the-art technology not seen
in any other hospital in Victoria. A new operating theatre will also be commissioned in
early 2016. With the expansion of clinical facilities comes a requirement to upgrade our
infrastructure with building works for a new 750-space car park commencing early in the
new year.
We have achieved so much in 75 years, and in the years to come we will continue to grow
and provide outstanding care to our patients.
I hope you enjoy this special anniversary issue of Connection. In this issue, you can read
more about our amazing history and learn about the exciting developments we have
planned as we take the next step in our journey.
Sue Williams I Chief Executive Officer
Contents
Cover story
Celebrating 75 years at
Frankston Hospital
Frankston Hospital 1941-2016 2
The heart of volunteering
Meet one of our first Pink Ladies,
Shirley Wragge 8
The modern-day Emergency
Department
We have always been an early
adopter of new technology 10
In Profile
Timeless care
A nurse’s passion for her patients 12
Research
Transforming healthcare for
Frankston 14
Your health
Drinking responsibly during
the holidays 18
In Brief
Peninsula Health news 20
The difference between
life and death
How one simple procedure
changed Mary’s life forever 22
Connection is a free publication
of Peninsula Health.
Peninsula Health acknowledges and pays respect
to the traditional people of this region, known as
the Myone Buluk of the Boon Wurrung language
group of the greater Kulin Nation and bestows
the same courtesy to all other First Peoples, past
and present, who now reside in the region.

4. 1955
24-bed East Wing added.
1963
A 40-bed medical and surgical north wing
was built.
1965
The year was described as one of record-
breaking proportions. Births increased by
118 to 834. Patients treated reached a total of
3,726, being 637 more than the previous year;
and outpatients treated (including X-rays)
reached 8,847, or 1,383 higher than
in 1963-64. The figures show the fast growing
development of Frankston with the Hospital
stating that this proved the need for further
extensions in nearly every section of the
Hospital, especially midwifery,
casualty/X-ray and operating theatres.
1966
To say that the Hospital is bursting at the
seams is a gross under-statement, said the
1967/68 Annual Report. “The occupancy rate
of 84 per cent does not tell the true story…
on numerous occasions the rate has been in
excess of 90 per cent, in fact 100 per cent has
been broken several times.”
1941
Frankston Community Hospital was officially
opened on Sunday 30 November 1941 by
Major-General H W Grimwade.
Frankston Hospital,
Celebrating 75 Years
1941 - 2016
2 I CONNECTION
1941 – 1967

5. CONNECTION I 3
1970
The Walter and Ellen Lawton operating
theatre suite was opened by the Minister for
Immigration, the Honourable Phillip Lynch,
MP on 28 September 1970.
1971
New 50-bed Midwifery Wing opened.
1972
The hospital employed 330 full-time and
part-time employees; of this number 230
were nursing staff. Sister Lois Murray, the
hospital’s evening supervisor, was made a
Fellow of the College of Nursing Australia.
1973
A staff social club was formed and the first
function, a Christmas break-up party,
was very well attended. The Committee of
Management instituted the appointment
of Corporate Image Inc., for six months,
to be responsible for the hospital’s public
relations, particularly to draw public
attention to the shortage of beds.
1968
In April 1968, Mrs Edna Vincent, President of the
Frankston Hospital Ladies’ Auxiliary, established
a new volunteer group to help lighten the
workload of nurses and to brighten up the lives
of patients. The 15 founding members were given
a distinctive and cheerful uniform – floral pink
dress, white shoes, and later, a pink cape.
See volunteering story on page 11.
1968 – 1973

6. 4 I CONNECTION
1974 – 1988
1977
1977 saw the opening of South Ward, the
beginning of a department of anaesthesia, further
expansion of the Resident Medical Staff, and the
continuing development of all ancillary services.
1980
Happiness is a new baby. 9,655 inpatients
were treated in the financial year ending 30
June 1980. 17% of the inpatients treated were
midwifery patients.
1982
Frankston Community Hospital changed
its name to Frankston Hospital to reflect its
role as the major referral hospital for the
Mornington Hospital.
1988
A new 100-bed Surgical and Services Wing
opened in 1988.
1974
Dr Roger H Redston commenced duties as the
first Medical Director.
Frankston Hospital,
Celebrating 75 Years
1941 – 2016

7. 1991 – 2000
1992
Frankston and Southern Peninsula Hospitals
merge to form Mornington Peninsula Hospital.
1995
The Government established the Peninsula
Health Care Network (PHCN) in 1995.
The PHCN initially united the Mornington
Peninsula Hospital Group with the Mount
Eliza Centre. It subsequently integrated with
the Frankston Community Health Centre.
2000
The Peninsula Health Care Network evolved
into Peninsula Health.
1991
Frankston Hospital celebrated its 50th
Anniversary. A psychiatric unit comprising 35
beds and a 25 place day centre was officially
opened at Frankston by the Minister for
Health, the Honourable Maureen Lyster on
29 November 1991.
CONNECTION I 5

8. 2007
Winner – 2007 Premier’s Award for Most
Outstanding Metropolitan Health Service.
2010
The new $3 million Commonwealth funded
12-bed Elective Surgery Ward at Frankston
Hospital was opened in 2010. In February
2010, staff from Peninsula Health and
Monash University celebrated progress of
the $1.8 million Peninsula Clinical School
building on the Frankston Hospital Campus.
2005
Frankston Hospital had 321 beds. Work
commenced on a $3.4 million upgrade and
renovation of the Frankston Hospital Medical
Imaging Department. Peninsula Health, with
the support of the then Department of Human
Services, invested $837,000 in specialised
equipment for the Intensive Care Unit.
6 I CONNECTION
Frankston Hospital,
Celebrating 75 Years
1941 – 2016
2005 – 2010

9. 2015
In February 2015, we commissioned 88 new beds
and a new emergency department two and a half
times the size of the old department.
Today, Frankston Hospital has more than 380
beds and provides general and specialty medical
and surgical services, mental health, maternity
and paediatric services. In 2015, more than 67,000
people presented to its emergency department.
2016
In 2015, the old emergency department was
converted into a purpose built outpatient area
for expanded orthopaedic, plastics and women’s
health clinics, which has state-of-the-art
technology not seen in any other hospital
in Victoria. A new operating theatre will be
commissioned in early 2016.
2011
Stage 2 of the Frankston Hospital redevelopment
– a $45 million project – delivered additional
operating theatres, surgical wards and
departments, and a new intensive care unit.
CONNECTION I 7
2011 – 2016

10. 8 I CONNECTION
Shirley Wragge
Meet
one of our first
volunteers,
Shirley Wragge
In Profile – The heart of volunteering

11. Did you know?
The value of volunteering to Australian society is
estimated at around $290 billion a year. The economic
contribution of volunteering to Australian society
surpasses revenue sources from major sectors
including mining, agriculture, defence
and retail.1
The real value of volunteering is difficult to measure.
Volunteers tend to be fitter, healthier and have greater
social connections, which produce general goodwill
and flow-on effects for governments – there’s less
crime and greater community wellbeing. And people
who experience the benefits of volunteering have a
better quality of life.2
“I have always enjoyed
meeting the lovely people
that come through the
hospital.”
Following Edna’s death, Mrs Judith Smith, a 10-year veteran of the
Pink Ladies was voted president. Judith, often described as Edna’s
‘right arm’ helped plan the new Pink Ladies’ kiosk and café and
was instrumental in raising funds for nearly 60 new beds.
Judith’s sister, Pauline Ellerby, and fellow Pink Lady Elizabeth
Maguire, stepped into the role as joint Vice-Presidents, and
in 2002 Pauline followed in her sister’s footsteps and became
President.
The Frankston Hospital Pink Ladies Auxiliary now boasts 81
members. They raise funds for the hospital, run the kiosk and
café, and work on the wards delivering flowers and selling
newspapers and other items to patients.
Volunteering
If you are interested in volunteering at Peninsula
Health, contact our Volunteer Team by email:
volunteers@phcn.vic.gov.au
1. Source: Flinders University researcher Lisel O’Dwyer (http://blogs.flinders.edu.
au/flinders-news/2014/10/31/volunteering-worth-290-billion-a-year/)
2. Ibid.
CONNECTION I 9
Words I Silvia Dropulich
When Shirley Wragge started out as a volunteer at Frankston
Hospital in 1968, she began by tending to flowers. Her first
uniform was pink and it had flowers on it. And so began what
is known as the remarkable Pink Ladies – Peninsula Health’s
longest running volunteer group.
The Pink Ladies have raised more than $8 million since they
began operating in 1968 and they have provided wonderful
support to staff, patients and their families along the way.
Shirley, who lives in Seaford, works half a day a week as a Duty
Officer and still finds every day just as rewarding as the first.
Commenting on the most significant change in her time as a
Pink Lady, Shirley said:
“It would have to be the changes at Frankston Hospital.
“The hospital has just grown and grown – it is so big.
“When I started it was just the middle part of the existing
hospital opposite Hastings Road, but it has changed so much
now, it’s just amazing.
“Wednesdays are my hospital days – I’ve had a go at
everything, from delivering flowers and newspapers to
patients and organising their TVs, to working in the kiosk.
I still remember when we used to prepare morning and
afternoon tea for the patients and help during meal times.”
Shirley says there’s no sign of giving up yet. “It can be hard
work sometimes but I would miss it terribly.”
In April 1968, Mrs Edna Vincent MBE, President of the
Frankston Hospital Ladies’ Auxiliary, established a new
volunteer group to help lighten the workload of nurses and to
brighten up the lives of patients. The 15 founding members
were given a distinctive and cheerful uniform – floral pink
dress, white shoes, and later, a pink cape.
Edna’s long association with Frankston Hospital began even
before the Frankston Community Hospital officially opened
in November 1941. Her husband, Dr Frank Vincent, was a
member of the hospital’s founding committee and Edna,
along with other doctors’ wives, helped form a special ladies’
auxiliary.
Edna became President of the Frankston Community Hospital
Ladies’ Auxiliary in 1952 and was awarded an MBE in 1964
for her services to the community. She was responsible for
introducing the concept of Pink Ladies to at least 15 other
hospitals.
Edna remained President of the Pink Ladies’ Auxiliary for
31 years until her death in July 1999.

12. 10 I CONNECTION
Words I Eliza Keck
In 1999, if you gave someone a ‘tablet’ they would swallow it with
water. If you get a tablet now, everyone thinks you’re buying a
mobile device.
In only 16 years technology, and consequently emergency
medicine, has transformed beyond recognition – and Peninsula
Health’s Clinical Director of Emergency Medicine, Dr Shyaman
Menon (pictured above and top right on page 13), has been
keeping up with the changes every step of the way.
“I did my training in Emergency Medicine in 1999. Over the
last 16 years the way we practice medicine, and even how we
communicate, has completely changed.
“Take ultrasounds for example: in 1999 if you needed to insert
a catheter into a patient’s neck you knew roughly where you
needed to go based on anatomical landmarks. Now emergency
physicians use ultrasound as well as the visual landmark to assist
during the placement.”
Frankston Hospital’s Emergency Department has always been
an early adopter of the latest technology. In 2013, it was the
first emergency department in Australia to introduce digital
e-prescribing and medication management and in early 2015, the
department became one of the first in the country to digitise all
medical documents. “Technology has also changed the way we
communicate. Here [at Peninsula Health] we don’t look at x-rays
on film anymore. They’re all on our secure online system.
All of our ordering, medical documentation, results checking,
patient flow and the majority of our messaging systems are now
done electronically,” Dr Menon said.
With technology changing at such a rapid pace, emergency
physicians have had to continue training and improving
their skills.
The Modern-Day Emergency
Room
“I don’t think we ever stop changing in the pursuit
of ensuring that our patients get the highest quality
of care and experience.”
Dr Shyaman Menon,
Peninsula Health’s Clinical Director
of Emergency Medicine

13. “Here at Peninsula Health we use simulation training as a way
for our emergency physicians to increase their repertoire of what
they can do based on clinical evidence. A recent example is the
use of video layngoscopy (using a camera to see inside patient’s
throat while intubating*),” Dr Menon said.
The quick rise in new technology has also brought about an
interesting dynamic for the team; senior doctors are now learning
from junior doctors.
“There are early adopters, what I call the Facebook Generation.
They are proficient at typing, texting, notifications. Our more
senior staff have had to learn these skills later in their careers.
It took some staff a while to adjust, for example initially they
couldn’t type as fast, but everyone’s catching up now. These days
almost everyone has a smart phone or an iPad, and they use it
[technology] really well. Once you’ve moved to digital it’s very
hard to go back.”
While technology has brought about significant changes in the
way Emergency Medicine runs, Dr Shyaman explains it hasn’t
changed what they do, just how they do it.
“The excitement of day-to-day work hasn’t disappeared. You
still get the joy of going to work and seeing a patient, making
a diagnosis or resuscitating someone who is really unwell. The
downsides of it still occur too. Despite your best efforts you still
have patients where things don’t go well but overall there’s a lot
of joy in the work we do.
“I don’t think we can ever stop changing. The demand on
emergency departments is going to continue to increase so
we need to look into our procedures to become more efficient
without losing quality in patient care. The endpoint doesn’t
change, the way we get there does.”
CONNECTION I 11
Did you know?
Frankston Hospital Emergency Department:
has the most ambulance presentations of any hospital in Victoria
has 49 treatment cubicles as well as specialist treatment rooms and consultation areas
67,576 people attended Frankston’s Emergency Department last financial year –
that’s an average of more than 185 people every day
has an Information System that is the most advanced system in Victoria, enabling staff
to access relevant patient information and order medications or further tests in an instant without
compromising patient confidentiality
children make up nearly 20 per cent of emergency presentations
a separate children’s waiting area full of toys and interactive touch screen televisions
not only helps make their visit to hospital less scary, but also helps clinicians with diagnosis
by allowing them to observe their cognitive ability
* The placement of a flexible plastic tube into the trachea (windpipe) to maintain an
open airway or to serve as a conduit through which to administer certain drugs.

14. 12 I CONNECTION
Words I Claire Polatidis
Nursing is tough, both mentally and physically, according to
graduate nurse Bernadette Pulis.
It is “caring for all patients, irrespective of their illness. It is
giving your absolute best, in every situation. And knowing that
life is the most precious thing, and that we should treasure every
moment,” Bernadette said.
The new nurse believes the learning really starts during the
graduate year, as no amount of theoretical knowledge can
replace the practical aspect of nursing - connecting with families
and patients.
The Bonbeach resident has a strong link to Frankston Hospital,
“I was born at this hospital, you could say I was born and bred at
this place,” she joked.
Bernadette completed her clinical training at a number of health
services, including a stint in England, before selecting Frankston
Hospital as her first choice for her graduate placement.
It is surprising that this warm and enthusiastic nurse
describes herself as being very shy throughout her school and
university days.
However, the first few months of working on the wards and
observing experienced nursing staff here has led to a growth
in confidence.
“Nursing is knowing
that life is the most
precious thing.”
Timeless care – a nurse’s passion for patients
Graduate Nurse Bernadette Pulis

15. Bernadette’s enthusiasm for learning and patient care is
chronicled on Peninsula Health’s website, which is rapidly gaining
popularity. To keep up to date with her nursing journey or
discover the insights of other health practitioners
visit: peninsulahealth.org.au/author/bernadette-pulis
“It helps when a patient feels comfortable with you, and
from the initial contact with a patient there is usually an
opportunity to start a good relationship. I like to ask about
them, their family and what they have been doing.”
Working with families is also a part of the job.
“Communicating is key to nursing, sometimes at the very
start of my shift I may be called by a family member, so I need
to know straight away what is happening with my patient.”
Bernadette’s caring approach and willingness to share a
laugh with her patients has endeared her to many in the
General Medical ward. However, her first months there were
not without some dramatic events. One in particular, where
a patient suffered a cardiac arrest became a life-changing
moment for her.
Bernadette recalls: “It happened during a quiet afternoon
shift. The patient was just transferred to my ward and needed
to use the bathroom. On his return walking back from the
toilet, the patient felt faint. A set of observations were
taken and he was hypotensive, with his oxygen saturation
undetectable. The Medical Emergency Team (MET) call was
made immediately for rapid response.”
What happened next has been played out many times in
Bernadette’s mind.
“It was the fear in the patient’s eyes as numerous doctors and
nurses rushed to his bedside, giving him the treatment that he
needed.”
Unlike the previous MET calls Bernadette had experienced, the
situation became a Code Blue as the patient’s health rapidly
deteriorated.
“As a team, we did absolutely everything we could. The
patient was having a cardiac arrest so severe he was unable to
be revived. No matter how many times I review every action
and every effort taken, the outcome was beyond our control.”
This experience became a reality check for the new nurse.
“I was always told at university that nurse–patient relationships
must be strictly professional and while that is true, I am concerned
when my patients receive a difficult diagnosis and I feel for a
patient’s family when their loved one has passed away.”
“Life is extremely precious. A patient’s health can deteriorate
very, very quickly and sometimes without any warning and I’m
attuned to look for any signs of change,” she added.
As a nursing graduate, Bernadette’s final rotation is now underway
at the Emergency Department. “Completing rotations in the
General Surgical and General Medical wards is great preparation
for this new challenge. The support from staff is incredible, as
there is no preparing for the speed of patients that are seen in the
Emergency Department.”
Bernadette’s concern over not being able to build a great
rapport with patients, due to the short times patients are in the
department, was quickly abated.
“I still get to build a great professional relationship with all
my patients. To be the first healthcare professional to assess
the patient, other than the triage nurse, is both exciting and
confronting. The diversity of medical conditions and patients seen
in each shift is unbelievable,” Bernadette added.
To her delight, the Emergency Department’s runs education
sessions for nursing staff every day during weekdays. “This is why
I have chosen the right profession for me. Because as a nurse, I
will continue to learn different things every day.”
CONNECTION I 13
Bernadette ensuring patient
Murray Cornell is comfortable.

16. An artist’s impression of the proposed new Academic Centre.
$20m
research and
teaching hub
at Frankston Hospital
14 I CONNECTION

17. Find a Health Expert
Find a Health Expert is a new feature on Peninsula Health’s
website. This webpage gives a snapshot of the experts that
make up the greatest asset of our health service.
Many of our health experts are regular commentators in the
media. Specialists leading ground-breaking research to nursing
staff at the bedside delivering person-centred care, there is a
wealth of expertise and knowledge they are keen to share.
If your community group or event is after a focus on health
issues in your community, the Find a Health Expert page
identifies the most suitable speakers for you.
Topics include cancer detection, emergency medicine,
endoscopy, women’s and childrens health, research and
clinical trials and the future of the health service.
There is no charge to your club and our involvement would
depend on your event, your requirements and the speaker’s
availability. The 2016 speaking calendar is taking bookings.
For more information or to book a speaker, contact the
Corporate and Community Relations team on 9788 1501
or email: corporate.relations@phcn.vic.gov.au.
www.peninsulahealth.org.au/healthexpert
CONNECTION I 15
Words I Claire Polatidis and Silvia Dropulich
Peninsula Health is taking a lead role in transforming
healthcare for Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula region.
A $20 million teaching and research centre at the Frankston
Hospital campus is set for construction in 2016, according to
Executive Director of Medical Services Dr Fergus Kerr.
“This leading-edge academic development will include a
lecture theatre, meeting rooms, library and research space.
It will be located adjacent to the simulation centre and the
existing teaching rooms on the Frankston Hospital campus.”
Dr Kerr explains that once established, this new precinct will
position Peninsula Health as the premier academic and health
research facility for the region, with a leadership profile in
chronic disease management and care of the elderly.
“Frankston Hospital is well respected as a tertiary teaching
facility, where new and experienced medical staff are mentored
by some of the State’s best clinicians,” Dr Kerr said.
“Bedside clinician teaching is an area we are well known for and
an area of particular interest to universities, such as Monash.”
Peninsula Health has recently developed a research strategy
and advertised for the role of Professor of Medicine. This
appointment will lead the Research Strategy over the next
five years. Discussions have also commenced with Monash
University to develop a co-located Academic Precinct with a
research focus on community health, addiction medicine and
chronic diseases.
Peninsula Health’s research vision is to:
embed a culture of innovation, evaluation and the translation
of research into practice across the whole health service; to
support and mentor emerging researchers; to provide research
leadership in integrated care of our ageing population; and to
undertake collaborative research in many other areas of research
strength.
The Research Strategy outlines the following seven areas as
priorities from 2015-2025:
• Person Centred Care
• Innovative Technology and Therapies
• Commercially Sponsored and Collaborative Clinical Trials
• Population Health and Integrated Care
• Aged Care and Chronic Disease Management
• Patient Safety
• Health Services and Workforce
“The critical role of applied research has been recognised as
integral to clinical care outcomes in all healthcare services,”
said Dr Kerr.
“In particular, translational research (where research has
provided evidence for improvements in clinical outcomes and
these are translated into daily care practices) is the basis of
research undertaken within Peninsula Health,” he said.
Peninsula Health Cardiologist and Associate Professor at Monash
University Dr Jamie Layland welcomed the proposed academic
centre and the innovative practices it would bring to the region.
“The large number of patients in this catchment means we can
run far more clinical trials than many of the larger hospitals that
service a much smaller catchment,” he explains.
Dr Layland is currently leading a study investigating the use
of common anti-inflammatory medication to lessen the
likelihood of repeat heart attacks.
The benefits of having these types of studies at Peninsula
Health should not be underestimated, according to Dr Layland.
“Our community will have opportunities to be involved in
ground-breaking research to improve their health outcomes,”
he said.
“This leading-edge academic development
will include a lecture theatre, meeting rooms,
library and research space.”

18. 16 I CONNECTION
Words I Dr Stephen Bright
Alcohol is a colourful thread that is woven into Australian
society. It is embedded into the way we socialise. During the
holiday period people often use alcohol to celebrate and unwind.
Because alcohol impairs judgment people can drink more than
they anticipated, while others might “drink to get drunk”.
To reduce the chance of experiencing accidents or harms while
drinking, the Australian National Health and Medical Research
Centre recommends that people consume no more than four
standard drinks on any given day.
You can also reduce the likelihood of experiencing alcohol-
related accidents or harms by using simple strategies such as
keeping track of how many standard drinks you are consuming
(e.g., measuring pours), and having a meal before drinking.
It is also important to drink a glass of water between drinks,
particularly on a hot day, as alcohol is a diuretic. It tricks the
body into thinking there is too much water in the body, so the
body excretes more water than usual through urination - you
might notice that your urine is clear after having a few drinks.
Younger people are less likely to experience alcohol-related
harm by drinking in a household rather than going out. However,
if you do go out, be sure to look out for one another. For people
who have been dependent on alcohol, the holiday periods can be
particularly difficult with so much drinking occurring. A person
is often perceived as being abnormal if they do not drink and
there is often peer pressure to drink.
Some people find it helpful to have a reason for not drinking
prepared, such as being a designated driver or taking antibiotics.
Others find it more helpful to simply state that they don’t drink.
If you have recently reduced the amount that you drink, or have
stopped completely, it might be best to avoid events where there
is going to be alcohol served.
To help you stay safe with drinking over the holidays, we have
provided the following handy reference. A standard drink in
Australia contains 10 grams of pure alcohol, but the drinks you
buy often contain more than one standard drink.
Stay safe over the holiday period,
if you drink alcohol, drink responsibly
Peninsula Health’s Psychologist and Program Manager
in the Community Health Alcohol and Other Drug
Services program has some great tips and advice for you
to stay safe with drinking over the holidays.
Your Health
Top tips
When you buy a drink at the pub or a restaurant, it often
contains more than 1 standard drink. For example, a glass of
wine from a pub or restaurant contains 1.5 standard drinks,
though when a person pours their own glass of wine it often
is larger. A pot of beer of full-strength beer is about
1 standard drink and a pint contains 2.2 standard drinks.
The label on an alcoholic drink container tells you the
number of standard drinks in the container.

19. Spirit
330ml Bottle of pre-mix
5% alcohol volume
30ml Glass 1 nip
40% alcohol volume
375ml Can of pre-mix
5% alcohol volume
300ml Can of pre-mix
7% alcohol volume
CONNECTION I 17
Source: Australian Government Department of Health Don’t lose your standards
at: http://www.alcohol.gov.au/internet/alcohol/publishing.nsf/Content/guide-young
Beer
285ml Glass of full strength
4.8% alcohol volume
375ml Bottle of full strength
4.8% alcohol volume
375ml Can of full strength
4.8% alcohol volume
Wine
150ml Glass
11.5% alcohol volume
150ml Glass
12% alcohol volume
150ml Glass
13.5% alcohol volume
750ml Bottle
13.5% alcohol volume

20. In Brief:
State-of-the-art
Outpatients Area
opens at Frankston
Hospital
The project, completed in less than seven
months, converted the former Emergency
Department into 22 consultation rooms
and treatment areas that will be home to
nearly 40 clinics including an expanded
Orthopaedic Outpatients Clinic, the
Women’s Health Unit and Paediatric
Outpatient Clinics.
The new facility has a purpose-built IT
system with functionality not seen in any
other outpatient department in Victoria.
The bright and spacious area offers better
facilities for ante-natal care, birthing
classes, paediatric appointments and
gynaecological services.
The expansion of Orthopaedic Outpatient
services, with more treatment rooms,
means elective patients and post-operative
patients will be seen sooner.
As Minister Hennessey toured the facility,
seven-year-old Lucas, who was attending a
follow-up Orthopaedic appointment after
breaking his arm, proudly showed her his
cast and told her who would sign it first
(himself; and he would write ‘Go Hawks’).
“It was pretty cool [to meet the Minister],”
Lucas said after their chat.
‘Pupparazzi’ blitz
Since Rory the Cavachon (King Charles
Cavalier cross Bichon Friese) was 12
weeks old he has been lapping up love
from patients at The Mornington Centre
during his weekly visits with his owner,
Diversional Therapist Lisa Burns.
“The average stay at The Mornington
Centre is 24 days so Rory plays a huge role
in helping patients feel like they’re at
home rather than in care.
“You can always tell when Rory has been
in – he brings so much joy to the patients
and there is plenty of research that proves
happier patients means healthier patients,”
Mrs Burns said.
Peninsula Health’s pet therapy program has
been run by volunteers for five years.
18 I CONNECTION
Frankston Hospital’s old Emergency
Department has been transformed into
an ultra-modern Outpatients facility,
opened in August by Minister for Health,
the Hon Jill Hennessey.
Rory our Pet Therapy star, celebrated
his 1st birthday in September with his
A-list dog pals at Peninsula Health’s
Geriatric Evaluation and Management
facility, The Mornington Centre.

21. In Brief:
‘Tree of Life’
We’re so proud of the clients and staff
of our Adult Mental Health Ward 2 West
who worked together for six weeks to
create this beautiful collaborative artwork.
The tree represents the group’s philosophy
of working together to achieve recovery.
The words surrounding the tree include;
Diversity, Individuality, Support,
Empowerment, Partnerships, Respect,
Equality and Hope. Clients identified these
as positive words that hold particular
meaning relating to their Recovery
Journeys.
The four segments of colour represents the
four elements:
• Water – Washing away negative
thoughts.
• Air – Breathing in new life.
• Earth – Being grounded in the here and
now and not worrying about the past or
present.
• Fire – Lighting the path for growth,
understanding and acceptance.
International conference
for stroke nurse
We’re very lucky here in the
Mornington Peninsula to have some
of the best stroke staff and programs
in the country.
Frankston Hospital is one of only
two hospitals in Victoria that runs
the highly successful Stroke Detours
Program. This program helps
patients get out of hospital and
into their homes faster by having
multidisciplinary teams visit patients
at home on a regular basis.
Carol’s role involves advanced clinical
practice and leadership which includes
health assessment, prescribing
medications, ordering investigations,
secondary stroke prevention and
admission rights to the hospital.
She works closely with patients and
staff as well as in community education
regarding stroke awareness and
prevention.
CONNECTION I 19
Carol Gore, one of Australia’s only sub-acute stroke nurse practitioners, presented
some of her outstanding research on mood screening and management post-stroke
at the international Stroke 2015 conference in September.

22. 20 I CONNECTION
The difference
between life
and death
Words I Eliza Keck
Today the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is only
six per cent. This means 94 people out of every one hundred
diagnosed with the disease do not live more than five years.
A key reason why the pancreatic cancer survival rate is so low is
because most tumours are not detected until they are at an
advanced stage, when treatment is unlikely to be successful.
Frankston Hospital Pink Ladies volunteer Mary Dyer knows only
too well the importance of early detection. Sadly, she knows
first-hand it is the difference between life and death.
It is the difference between her story and her brother’s.
In February 2010, Mary wasn’t too concerned when she
mentioned to her GP that she’d been feeling more tired than
usual. Thankfully her GP took her complaint seriously. After a
number of tests she was given the devastating news. There was a
large tumour on her pancreas.
Mary’s GP referred her to specialist Mr Peter Evans who,
knowing the importance of early detection, immediately
arranged for Mary to have an Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS).
The only problem was that the closest available EUS machine
was over an hour’s drive away at the hospital in Footscray.
“If my daughter hadn’t been able to take me in I don’t know…
I’m so lucky that she was available. I know a lot of [Mornington
Peninsula] people put the EUS procedure off because they can’t
cope with the transport.”
Five years later this is still the case. There is still no EUS machine
in the Frankston-Mornington Peninsula region, which is why
Peninsula Health launched a major fundraising campaign in May
this year to bring an EUS machine to Frankston Hospital.
“The EUS procedure was very simple. It only took 15 or 20
minutes. They put [a tube] in your mouth, you’re asleep and
then the next thing they’re saying ‘how are you feeling?’
and I was done. It’s very quick,” recalls Mary.
By the time Mary had been wheeled into recovery, the doctor was
beside her with the results. The procedure was quick and gave
the doctor all the information he needed to start treatment.
“The EUS had given them so much detail – the doctor knew
exactly what we were up against.”
In stark contrast to Mary’s story is that of her brother’s.
Only two years ago Mary’s brother, who lived in the United
Kingdom, was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer.
“He never got the attention I got. He had been losing weight for
a while. There were only three months between diagnosis and
his death. If you present yourself too late, it’ll be too late. This is
why the EUS machine is so important.”
This year the Frankston Pink Ladies, who run the kiosk at the
hospital six days a week, donated their year’s takings to the EUS
appeal and Mary couldn’t be happier.
“I think it’s brilliant. Early detection, that’s what it’s all about.”
How one simple procedure
changed Mary’s life forever
HELP DETECT AND TREAT CANCER SOONER
An Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) machine helps doctors diagnose life-threatening
illnesses like pancreatic cancer.
Having the machine available locally will mean faster diagnosis for people
like Mary Dyer living in our community. And faster diagnosis leads to faster
treatment.
But the machine is expensive. That’s why we need your help to raise $500,000.
Your donation today will help detect – and treat – cancer sooner.
Every dollar counts and takes us closer to our goal.
To make a tax deductible gift today call our Fundraising Team on 03 9788 1284
or visit peninsulahealth.org.au/cancer.
Help close the gap
so we can bring this
important machine to the
Mornington Peninsula.
As at October 2015.
$500,000
$463,000 we are here
$100,000
$200,000
$300,000
$400,000
OUR GOAL
$

23. Thank you to our
donors and supporters
We are so grateful to our many wonderful donors and
supporters. Your extraordinary generosity helps give the
highest quality of care to our patients and their families.
In the last four months we received the
following donations over $1,000.
• Pink Ladies Auxiliary – Frankston
• Rosebud Hospital Kiosk Auxiliary
• Red Hill Opportunity Shop Inc.
• Lioness Club of Dromana
• Rosebud Hospital Pink Lady Group
• The Faulkner family and friends
• Jackanandy’s Op Shop
• The Charitable Network Opportunity Shop
• The Village Baxter Residents Association
• Esso Australia Resources Pty Ltd
• Mr Brett Hopkins
• Mrs Stefanie Johnston
• Mrs Fay Kitching
• Mrs Rosemary Lucas-Moore
• Mr Walter Zarb
We would like to acknowledge gifts given
in memory of the following:
We would like to thank and acknowledge all our generous
donors for their ongoing support.
Donate today
Yes, I want to help give the highest quality
of care to patients and their families.
I would like to give:
All donations over $2 are tax deductible. Please give generously.
I would like to give to:
Where it’s needed most Palliative Care
Frankston Hospital Rosebud Hospital
Other: ....................................................................................................
Payment details
I would like to pay by:
Cheque MasterCard VISA
Credit card details
Card Number
Expiry date:
Cardholder’s name:……………………………………………………………………
Cardholder’s signature:………………………………………………………………
Your details
Name/s:……………………………………………………………………………………
Address: .................................................................................................
Suburb:………………………………………………………………………………………
State:..........................................Postcode: ………………………………
Phone:…………………………………………………………………………………………
Email:…………………………………………………………………………………………
Please return to:
Fundraising Team
Peninsula Health
PO Box 52
FRANKSTON VIC 3199
Please send me information about how I can:
host my own fundraiser include Peninsula Health in my Will
become a regular donor volunteer my time
$25
$……………………………………… (an amount of my choice)
$50 $100 $250 $500
(providing your email address helps us to reduce our postage costs)
Peninsula Health respects your privacy
and observes the provisions of the Privacy
Act 2001. To change your communication
preferences, please call us on 03 9788 1284.
ABN 52 892 860 159
Peninsula Health
Supporter Hotline: 03 9788 1284
fundraising@phcn.vic.gov.au
www.peninsulahealth.org.au/donatenow
• Mr Carmelo (Charlie) Astone
• Mr George Barbopoulos
• Mr Michael Boyle
• Mr Frank Cahill
• Ms Laura Collister
• Mr Vasilios Darras
• Mr Stan Drysdale
• Mrs Mavis Hopkins
• Ms Nancy Hughes
• Mrs Beverly Irving
• Mr Jim Jackson
• Ms Doris Jones
• Mr Hector “Pato” Maira
• Ms Kerry Mae Mitchell
• Mrs Valmai Mouser
• Ms Genevieve Oswald-Jacobs
• Mr John Ratten
• Mr Lino Rossetto
• Mr Edwin Stear
• Ms Shirley Tucker
• Mr George Vlahos
• Mr Graeme Wilson

24. Peninsula
Health