The QEII Central Sterilising Department (CSD) team has been recognised for their outstanding contribution to patient care, taking home the hospital's Staff Rewards & Recognition Team Award.
Often described as the hospital’s hidden engine room, the CSD team plays a vital role in ensuring clinicians have the sterile equipment they need to safely care for patients. From theatres to clinics and endoscopy, the 44-strong team works behind the scenes to clean, disinfect, sterilise and supply reusable medical devices used across the hospital.
QEII’s CSD team includes dedicated nurses and sterilisation technicians who undertake specialised training to ensure every reusable instrument meets strict safety and quality standards before being returned to clinical areas.
Announcing the award, Acting Executive Director Julie Argus praised the team for maintaining service excellence under pressure.
“The CSD team consistently demonstrates outstanding accountability and compassion by maintaining safe and reliable service delivery in all circumstances,” Ms Argus said.
“The team remains calm, adaptable, and solution-focused, taking collective ownership of issues and implementing effective strategies to ensure patient safety and operational continuity. Their professionalism, resilience and teamwork provide vital support to clinical services and the wider organisation.”
Nurse Unit Manager Antony Kocheril said teamwork is central to the department’s success.
“Last calendar year alone we sterilised 76,286 reusable medical devices. Working in CSD it’s important that we all work together so our medical teams can get the best outcomes for patients right across the hospital,” Antony said.
“Every tray we prepare supports a patient’s procedure, and seeing theatres continue to run smoothly — especially on difficult days — gives the team a strong sense of pride.”
Antony said under current leadership the department has seen significant improvements in team culture, communication, and morale as reflected in the recent BPA survey results which show strengthened teamwork and workplace satisfaction across the CSD.
“A good sense of humour serves us well and we make sure we look after each other. We even do coordinated stretching together to keep our bodies and our heads in the game.”
By working collaboratively and supporting one another, the CSD team ensures QEII clinicians can focus on delivering safe, high-quality care to the community every day.
Congratulations to the CSD team on this well-deserved recognition.