We would like to thank you for your support during what has been a challenging year for the QLD/NSW branch, recognising that there has been limited communication and events in 2024. We are very keen to re-engage with the members and supporters with face-to-face events, commencing with the Barefoot Bowls event planned for 8 February 2025.

I would like to recognise Troy Litzow and Liam O’Toole, the outgoing Chair and Vice-Chair, for their work leading the committee over the past years. Their energy has been pivotal for the ongoing management and support of events including the hugely successful National Conference held in Brisbane in 2022. As Troy and Liam stand down from the committee, their efforts in shaping and supporting the QLD/NSW branch over the past 5+ years should be recognised.

The committee has undergone some changes at the AGM held in late October. All positions were declared vacant and a new Chair, Deputy Chair, Treasurer and Secretary have been elected.

Chair: Brendan Host – STARS Hospital – Qld Health

Deputy: Kevin Dunne – Mater Hospital

Treasurer: Ben Hensley – Ramsay Hospital Greenslopes

Secretary: Jen Ellick – Dietitian Consultant - Qld Health

Committee members: Jackie Downs, Valerie Seychell, Denise Cruickshank and Liam O’Toole.

For those members and supporters who travelled to Perth in November for the 41st National IHHC conference, it was great to see you for a fantastic event. It was an amazing opportunity to be selected to compete in the IHHC Culinary Competition this year and to see how far the quality and standard has improved over the last three years. Congratulations to Antonino and Paolo from Catholic Homes who were the winners this year and to all the competitors for showcasing your talents and dedication to improving the standard of food we deliver to our patients - the bar has definitely been raised again this year. I would also like to thank UNOX Australia, Nutritious Cuisine, Bega Foodservice and Moffat for their support of the competition.

A big congratulations to Queensland Children’s Hospital for its success in being presented with the National Award for Sustainability. I would like to congratulate each one of our winners along with all the finalists and nominees. We acknowledge you all go over and above for our residents, patients and clients and I personally would like to thank you for your commitment and service.

The National Conference is also a great time to catch up with our Supporters, of which we are very thankful for their continued and ongoing support of the IHHC.

What’s ahead?

With Christmas fast approaching and 2025 on the horizon, the committee are developing a plan for events next year.

Commencing with the bowls event on Saturday 8 February, we are committing to at least three face-to-face events in 2025 plus the Annual Awards night dinner later in the year. It should be an exciting year.

From the committee, wishing you and your families a safe and happy Christmas and New Year

Regards

BRENDAN HOST QLD/NSW Chair

KEVIN DUNNE QLD/NSW Deputy