Your Impact

With your help amazing things happen at Darling Downs Health!

Together, we make a real difference in the lives of patients and their families by buying important medical equipment, improving services, making facilities better, delivering patient care programs, fund research and support staff training.

Men standing with arms on each others shoulders in solidarity

The impact of our donors is truly remarkable

Here are just a few of the incredible ways they’ve helped support the work of Darling Downs Health:

L-Dex SOZO Machine benefiting rural patients

L-Dex SOZO Machine benefiting rural patients

A brand-new L-Dex SOZO machine now operates at Kingaroy Hospital, revolutionizing the detection of lymphoedema for patients of Darling Downs Health.  

This cutting-edge equipment enables Kingaroy Hospital staff to accurately diagnose lymphoedema and take preventative measures to stop the lymphoedema from progressing, which eradicates the need for patients to travel to Toowoomba for confirmation.  

This machine was purchased using funds raised from the 2022 Suncorp Talwood Pink Ladies Day and is now being used in the care and treatment of patients. 

“If we can catch lymphoedema early, we can help reduce the potentially life-long impact of this chronic condition on the patient. The machine will give us a better chance of catching lymphoedema while it’s still in stage zero."

Shellee | Senior Physiotherapist

Foam Wedges for Breastscreen Service

Foam Wedges for Breastscreen Service

Breastscreen Toowoomba now have six foam wedges in a variety of sizes which are used for proper positioning of clients during Breastscreen assessment procedures and are crucial to ensuring patient comfort and optimising the performance of clinical staff during diagnostic procedures.   

Since incorporating these foam wedges into procedures at Breastscreen, staff have mentioned that the overall experience for clients has been enhance and efficiency of clinical staff has improved.

High Black Chairs for all MU2 patients

High Black Chairs for all MU2 patients

Every patient on Medical Unit 2 of the Toowoomba Hospital now has access to their own high back chair at their bedside.

These chairs also help reduce the risk of developing delirium and infections while supporting improved back, postural and spinal support, which can ultimately lead to a faster recover time and a reduced hospital stay.

Composition Analyser supporting Allied Health Team

Composition Analyser supporting Allied Health Team

The Allied Health Team at the Toowoomba Hospital have a brand new SOZO L-Dex Body Composition Analyser which is helping in the early detection of Lymphoedema in patients diagnosed with breast cancer. The new machine is now being used on a weekly basis by the Allied Health Team to help monitor, diagnosis and guide treatment plans for breast cancer patients at Toowoomba Hospital.  

This equipment was made possible thanks to funds raised during the 2022 Hi-Tec Oils Ultimate Pink Night at the Toowoomba Speedway.

Baillie Henderson Hospital scores HIII Rom Accella Beds

Baillie Henderson Hospital scores HIII Rom Accella Beds

Nurses and midwives in training now have two new Accella beds, which are being used to support simulation-based education within the Baillie Henderson Hospital clinical simulation training rooms.

These beds are currently used throughout the health service, which enables the nurses and midwives in training to be exposed to equipment they will be using in placements under the guidance of the nursing and midwifery educator.

Oxygen Concentrator supporting Chinchilla Hospital

Oxygen Concentrator supporting Chinchilla Hospital

A brand-new oxygen concentrator is now in operation at the Chinchilla Hospital, much to the delight of staff. The oxygen concentrator is designed and built to meet the ever-growing demands of patient care and the economic challenges faced by service providers, while also increasing patient comfort.

This equipment was made possible thanks to funds raised during our 2023 Great Western Road Trip.

Nitrous Delivery System assisting regional Emergency Department

Nitrous Delivery System assisting regional Emergency Department

The Goondiwindi Hospital Emergency Department is now equipped with a new Nitrous Delivery System, which allows for safe delivery of gas to patients, ranging from small children to elderly patients. This machine provides pain relief to patients requiring procedures such as dressings, relocation of fractures, dislocations, insertion of IV’s and catheters, and more. 

This equipment was made possible thanks to funds raised during our 2023 Suncorp Talwood Pink Ladies Day.

Dalby Hospital receives Electronic Pressure Monitor

Dalby Hospital receives Electronic Pressure Monitor

An electronic pressure monitor for the Renal Unit within the Dalby Hospital is now making a difference to the lives of patients and staff. The acquisition of this equipment allows the team in the Unit to continue their high standard of care by accurately measuring blood pressure, which is critical to management of patient flow.

Prior to the purchase of the monitor there was an inadequate supply of monitors, which were shared across other parts of the hospital causing delays and disruption to daily hospital proceedings.

EEG Machine for local Neuroscience Unit

EEG Machine for local Neuroscience Unit

The Neuroscience Unit within the Toowoomba Hospital now have an additional EEG machine to support growth of services within the department! This machine allows staff to investigate and manage seizure disorders and increases capability to provide services closer to home, provide sustainability to the service and eliminate critical service disruptions due to equipment failures.

The Neuroscience team who sees hundreds of patients per year, hope to expand their division of clinical measurements in the future and equipment such as this, certainly steers them in the right direction!

New Curtains for patients of Baillie Henderson Hospital

New Curtains for patients of Baillie Henderson Hospital

New curtains and running rails have been installed in all patient rooms and common rooms for staff and patients to enjoy in the Giabal Unit of Baillie Henderson Hospital!

The curtains allow for more control of glare, noise reduction and keeps heat in during winter and cool air in during summer! Staff have reported that it has made such a difference to the unit.

iPad supporting nursing home residents

iPad supporting nursing home residents

The pictured iPad is used on regular basis by residents at Mt Lofty Nursing Home during their activity time and staff find it invaluable for recording minutes during internal meetings.

These contributions not only enhance daily life for residents but also support the staff in providing the best possible care.

Ultrasound probes assisting local Medical Imaging Unit

Ultrasound probes assisting local Medical Imaging Unit

The Medical Imaging Unit at the Toowoomba Hospital now have access to four additional ultrasound probes for the in-ward cannulation service. The medical team uses these probes to insert IVs into patients' veins, often requiring ultrasound guidance for difficult phlebotomy cases.

These new probes work to enhance efficiency and reduce equipment downtime due to cleaning and availability. This new equipment is essential for providing a top-notch in-ward cannulation service, meeting patients' needs effectively.

Training skeleton upgrades for Toowoomba Hospital

Training skeleton upgrades for Toowoomba Hospital

An upgraded training skeleton was presented to the Medical Imaging Unit at Toowoomba Hospital. The equipment will assist x-ray operators to identify key anatomy and practice radiographic positioning, while having a physical reference of the bones and joins being imaged.  

This training equipment will also enable staff to gain a better understand of how to optimise positioning for an x-ray examination during training and refresher courses at Toowoomba Hospital and across other rural healthcare facilities across the Darling Downs Health region.

Jandowae Multipurpose Health Service receives Portable Suction Unit

Jandowae Multipurpose Health Service receives Portable Suction Unit

This new suction unit benefiting the Jandowae Multipurpose Health Service will significantly aid in emergency responses and routine medical procedures, enhancing the overall health service delivery in our community.

The suction unit is used to remove substances obstructing a patient’s airway, ensuring they can breathe freely, and it will be used within the hospital’s Emergency Department and Aged Care Unit. This life-saving machinery is portable, can be used on a wide range of ages and is now ready to use in order to enhance the quality of care provided to patients.

Kitchen Upgrade for Critical Care Unit staff at the Toowoomba Hospital

Kitchen Upgrade for Critical Care Unit staff at the Toowoomba Hospital

Staff working at Critical Care Unit staff in the Toowoomba Hospital now have a refurbished kitchen space, plus some additional roller blinds and window tinting. The refurbished kitchen provides a much-needed, modernised space with new cabinetry for meal prep and breaks, while the new roller blinds and window tinting offer improved privacy and control over lighting, creating a more comfortable environment for all.  

The common area is used by around 80 nurses and 10 doctors, hence the need for a functional upgrade. Our dedicated healthcare staff now have a more pleasant and functional area to relax and recharge, which is crucial for their well-being and the high-quality care they provide to patients.

Procedural Chair for Unara Unit within the Toowoomba Hospital

Procedural Chair for Unara Unit within the Toowoomba Hospital

A brand-new procedural chair has been provided to the Unara Unit within the Toowoomba Hospital. This chair enables paediatric patients to receive care in the outpatient setting rather than the Paeds Ward, reducing their risk of exposure to other infectious patients.  

It’s also adjustable, making it versatile and comfortable for various procedures and suitable for a wide range of ages.  

This equipment was made possible thanks to funds raised during the Ellie Project’s 100K in 100 Days Appeal!

Hosportal System for Department of Medicine

HosPortal System for Department of Medicine

The Department of Medicine at the Toowoomba Hospital have been provided with a trial to upgrade the current staff rostering system. The HosPortal System is an online staff rostering system specifically designed for the medical industry to effectively manage rosters for staff.  

The purpose of the trial was to determine whether rollout of this system to other areas of the hospital would be valuable. The team have received very positive feedback from the 105 users, with most users reporting an improvement in efficiency and accuracy of rostering. We hope the outcomes of the trial assist with the decision-making process.

Electric Medical Table for Rural Women’s Health Service

Electric Medical Table for Rural Women’s Health Service

An Electric Medical Table have been provided to the Mobile Women’s Health Service at the Dalby Hospital. This equipment will be used to conduct exams and patient treatments and will provide support and comfort for both patients in rural and remote areas and clinicians of the mobile service.   

The treatment table provides enhanced precision, efficiency, and patient comfort during examinations. It is also portable, which means healthcare providers can treat more women across the Darling Downs Health region.

Therapy Dog, Toby serves patients in Oakey

Therapy Dog, Toby, and his handler Chade provide comfort and joy to residents and staff at the Dr EAF McDonald Residential Aged Care in Oakey.

The Foundation have funded training for Clinical Nurse, Chade to undertake official training through Therapy Dogs Australia to become a Therapy Dog Handler. 

Duodenoscope for Endoscopy Unit

An additional duodenoscope now enables staff within the Endoscopy Unit of the Toowoomba Hospital to better serve patients with advanced medical tools.

The Unit has seen an increase in demand for the service, as staff are now able to provide as much care as possible closer to home without having to refer patients to Brisbane.

Virtual Reality Goggles for Paeds and Emergency Wards

Two Virtual Reality Goggles, one for the Paediatric Unit and one for the Emergency Department are now serving as a great distraction for patients who are having painful procedures undertaken at the Toowoomba Hospital.

The goggles improve the patient and caregiver experience and work to reduce procedural anxiety. 

Emergency Department Family Room Refurbishment

The newly refurbished family waiting room in the Toowoomba Hospital is now kitted out with a variety of items funded by THF.

This family room is now used to provide a quiet, calm space for relatives of patients in the resuscitation area of the hospital. It is also a space where family members can wait while their loved one is undergoing procedures or tests, or to make refreshments during a difficult time.

Opportunity to upskill for Physiotherapy Staff

Fourteen Physiotherapy staff at the Toowoomba Hospital had the opportunity to upskill during a training session. Our super Physiotherapy staff are now equipped with cutting-edge skills that are already making a difference to patients across the region. 

This training session was made possible thanks to funds raised through the 2021 Freedom Lifestyle & Fitness Pink High Tea event and a previous S&T Glass and Toowoomba Fasteners Golf Day.  

Practical experience for junior medical officers

Junior medical officers who took part in the recent Advanced Skill Workshop at Rural Medical Education Australia, had the opportunity to test their skills with the brand new Clinical Pelvic Trainer under the guidance of Medical Director, John Douyere (pictured).

Equipment like this plays a pivotal role in mastering vital skills and preparing medical staff in training for real world medical scenarios.

Streamlining systems with a new MEQU blood warmer

The Toowoomba Hospital now have an additional MEQU blood warmer for the Critical Care Ward. This portable system efficiently rapidly heats fluids and blood from cold to body temperature within seconds. The blood warmer stands as an indispensable device in the treatment of critical patients, playing a pivotal role in preventing complications.

Completion of Toowoomba Hospital Neonatal Unit Refurbishment

Decorative decals have been installed Toowoomba Hospital Neonatal Unit, which turns these sterile hospital spaces into havens of comfort and serenity for families navigating the delicate journey of neonatal care. Simple changes to hospital spaces such as this can make a world of difference to families in need of a calm and comforting space.

Purchased from funds raised through during our 2022 Christmas Appeal. 

Education Sessions for Darling Downs Health Staff

Three education sessions were held at the Toowoomba Hospital featuring Michael Jeh, a DV Prevention Educator representing the Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation, who spoke about the legacy of Hannah Clarke and her children. The purpose for these sessions was to empower and educate Darling Downs Health staff about coercive control warning signs based on Hannah’s Story.

New Sensory Room for Jacaranda Unit

Mental Health consumers in the Jacaranda Unit at Baillie Henderson Hospital now have access to a Sensory Room, which is a supervised, therapeutic environment equipped with sensory-based tools.

The Foundation assisted in funding wallpaper (chosen by the residents) and a massage chair.

Ultrasound System for Nanango Hospital

The Sonosite PX Point-of-Care Ultrasound System allows clinicians to perform a rapid bedside assessment, aiding diagnosis, reducing clinical risk, and improving clinical outcomes. This donation is an equipment first for Nanango Hospital, which previously didn’t have its own Ultrasound.

Purchased from funds raised through the Great Western Road Trip.

Equipment for the Student Nursing Training Program

Three vital signs monitors with stands, one blood pressure cuff and one electrocardiogram machine, are now all being used to train local 2nd and 3rd year nursing university students at Toowoomba and Baillie Henderson Hospitals.

Cardiac Monitors for Medical Assessment Planning Unit

Four portable cardiac monitors with consumables, are now in use within the Toowoomba Hospital MAPU, helping staff to deliver appropriate and timely cardiac care for patients.

What We Funded

2023 / 2024 Financial Year

add remove

Education, Training & Professional Development

Application and Area Item Requested Amount
J.W. Perinatal Mental Health The Marce Society and Helen Mayo House Joint Perinatal Mental Health Conference in Adelaide - 7-9 September 2023 $2,000
K.A. Dietitian Online Course - The Low FODMAP Diet for IBS $627
G.T. The Cunningham Centre Certificate III Sterilisation Services $715
J.S. The Cunningham Centre Certificate III Sterilisation Services $1,582
S.B. Clinical Midwife Australian College of Midwives National Conference in Adelaide $1,300
M. T. Pastoral Care Annual retreat for Pastoral Care volunteers $290
E. M. GARSS Baillie Henderson Hospital Monash Health AHA Day $80.72
D. M. Maternity Medela Symphony Breast Pump $4,468.13
C. R. Dr EAF McDonald Nursing Home, Oakey Therapy & Dog Handler Certification $2,110
M. W. Physiotherapy Oncology Scar Workshop $19,600
J. U. Paediatrics Ward 15th Annual APS/ISPAD Diabetes Workshop in Adelaide $1,676.82
J. V. Toowoomba Hospital 15th Annual APS/ISPAD Diabetes Workshop in Adelaide $1,271.27
S. M. Darling Downs Health RBWH Lower Body Lymphoedema Training Module $2,000
A. S. Toowoomba Oral Health Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
N. H. Toowoomba Oral Health Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
N. H. Toowoomba Oral Health Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
A. H. Darling Downs Public Health Unit Australian Public Health Conference $2,000
A. M. Indigenous Health Of BBQ: Yarning circle and radio messaging: Community engagement key to success $1,579.68
N. G. Darling Downs Public Health Unit Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter "Active Monitoring of adverse events using SMS in an Aboriginal Community" $2,000
S. S. Darling Downs Public Health Unit Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter "Active Monitoring of adverse events using SMS in an Aboriginal Community" $1,579.68
S. W. Darling Downs Public Health Unit Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter - Utilisation of REDCap for Public Health Response: Lessons Learnt - Conference $2,000
A. S. Toowoomba Oral Health Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
N. H. Toowoomba Oral Health Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
A. H. Darling Downs Public Health Unit Australian Public Health Conference $2,000
A. M. Indigenous Health Of BBQ: Yarning circle and radio messaging: Community engagement key to success $1,579.68
N. G. Darling Downs Public Health Unit Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter "Active Monitoring of adverse events using SMS in an Aboriginal Community" $2,000
S. S. Darling Downs Public Health Unit Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter "Active Monitoring of adverse events using SMS in an Aboriginal Community" $1,579.68
S. W. Darling Downs Public Health Unit Australian Public Health Conference - Presenter - Utilisation of REDCap for Public Health Response: Lessons Learnt - Conference $2,000
H. P. Child Health APLS Australia Conference $1,920
J. W. Physiotherapy, Toowoomba Hospital Workshop: Focus on Helping therapists to minimise lower limb impairments post-stroke $1,440
T. H. A&TSI Health Worker, Indigenous Health NAATSIHWP Professional Development Symposium $2,095
L. M. Sonographer, Toowoomba Hospital 1 Day Course on Ultrasound of the Lower Limbs $1,074
Z. W. AODS, Cherbourg 7th National Social and Emotional Wellbeing Forum $2,000
L. G. AODS, Cherbourg 7th National Social and Emotional Wellbeing Forum $2,000
R. O. Nurse Practitioner, Emergency Department Advanced Paediatric Life Support Course $1,920
S. S. Toowoomba Oral Health ADAQ Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
C. C. A/CN Bladder Cancer, Urology USANZ and ANZUNS Urology Conference $1,450
S. B. HP4 Emanual Kanal's MRI Safety Course $1,835
S. A. Advanced Cardiac Scientist HP5 ANZ Cardiac Scientist HP4 $443
K. N. Toowoomba Oral Health Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
S. S. Toowoomba Oral Health Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
A. R. Medical Imaging MRI Safety Course $2000
D. H. Toowoomba Oral Health Certificate III in Dental Assisting $1,450
H. W. BreastScreen BreastScreen Australia Conference $2,000
E. P. Senior Peer Coordinator Women's Leadership Conference $2,000
C. D. HP3 MRI Safety Course $2,000
L. B. HP4 SHPA Extension Seminar $460
L. F. Radiographer BreastScreen Australia Conference $1,853.90
S. P. HP4 BreastScreen Australia Conference $2,000
R. M. Clinical NRG6 BreastScreen Australia Conference $2,000
J. D. NRG6 BreastScreen Australia Conference $2,000
R. E. Senior Radiographer BreastScreen Australia Conference $1,546.37
E. B. Support Officer Diploma in Government $2,000
E. W. Senior Pharmacist Nicotine Addiction, Smoking & Vaping Cessation $1,750
L. P. Pharmacist, Transition Care Program 3 Day Seminar Pharmeducation Masterclass $2,000
Total $102,958.80

Equipment & Facilities Enhancement

Application and Area Item Requested Amount
Women's & Children's Services 2 x Breastfeeding chairs $1,200
Mortuary Attendant Outdoor table $2,743.40
Jacaranda Unit Message Chair - Jacaranda Unit $2,495
Mental Health WIFI for Mental Health (Part Funding $50k Mental Health funds) $33,781.70
Mental Health WIFI for Mental Health (Part Funding $50k Mental Health funds) $50,000
Medical Imaging 2 x Philips Sparq Ultrasound Point of Care probes $23,598
Medical Unit 3 Roller Blinds for room 1 - 12 $11,180
BreastScreen 5 x Dell Monitors and 5 x Dell OptiPlex $8,802.75
Ward 6D 5 stools $1,245
SASS and Emergency Department Clothes $2,000
BreastScreen Foam wedges $741.40
Ward 6D 5 stools $1,245
SASS and Emergency Department Clothes $2,000
BreastScreen Foam wedges $741.40
Ward 6D 23 Bar fridges for Ward 6D (Oncology) $5,612
Physiotherapy SOZO Machine $19,285
Radiography Skeleton for practical demonstration of radiographic positioning $351.65
Endoscopy Unit Olympus Duodenoscope $48,319.83
Paediatrics Unit 2 x ensuites for single room and pan room $180,000
Volunteer Program Patient Transport Golf Buggy $24,675
ADTW Portable ECG Machine $2,513.69
Nursing & Midwifery Education & Research ECG Rhythm Simulator $7,586.52
Qld Rural Generalist Pathway Clinical Female Pelvic Trainer $5,857.50
Emergency Department Smiley Scope VR Goggles $6,270
Midwifery Bladder Scanner Workstation, system and printer kit $16,951
Midwifery Lifepack 15 Defibrillator $32,229.65
Medical Unit 1 10 High Back Chairs and 18 Tray Tables $11,792.10
Taroom Hospital Neonatal Resuscitation Panda Warmer $30,360
Phillips Ward, Warwick Hospital 2 x Talley-Quattro Plus MRS Mattresses $12,017.50
Clinical Measurements, Kobi House EEG Machine $26,440
Phillips Ward, Warwick Hospital Bladder Scanner $16,951
Critical Care Ward MEQU Blood Warmer $7,524
Ridley Unit, Baillie Henderson Hospital Christmas Gifts for patients $1,440
Goondiwindi Hospital Design for playground $3,200
COHS 3 x Sectionall Electric Medical Table $2,899
Ultrasound, Medical Imaging Thermal Paper Supplies to print foetal ultrasound images $2,500
Paediatrics Unit GE Bilisoft 2.0 Phototherapy System $8,613.66
Medical Unit 3 7 x Welch Allyn Vital Signs Monitors $38,205
Goondiwindi Hospital Nitrous Delivery System $17,479.53
Central Sterilising Department MDCD Kangaroo Medical Drying Cabinet $26,000
Warwick Hospital 5 x Welch Allyn Connex Vital Signs Monitors $27,099.32
Dalby Hospital Alaris PK Nexus Syringe Driver $4,238
Midwifery Educators PROMPT Global Training Package $20,000
Chinchilla Hospital 5 Lt Devilbiss Oxygen Concentrator $2,027.49
Toowoomba Hospital Oncology Sterimesh Wire Compactor Storage System  $9,050.80
Oakey Hospital Outdoor Furniture for Sunset & Sunrise Room $5,000
Oakey Hospital Furniture for Recreation Room $5,000
Miles Hospital Blood Collection Chair $1,215
Miles Hospital Baby Change Table $780
Karingal Aged Care Observation Machine $4,738.48
Dental, Southern Downs Xsmart Endo Motor $4,238.26
BreastScreen Shirts & Embroidery $1,865
Day Oncology and Outpatients Unit Renovations of Cancer Care Services Pharmacy and Day Onvology Unit Storeroom $38,218.45
Safety and Wellbeing Services ARJO Maxi Move, Sara Plus, Sara Stedy and Carendo, JD
Healthcare Hover Jack System & 2 x Hillrom Bed and Mattresses.
$78,199
Clinical Measurements, Kobi House Echo Machine $338,217
Karingal Aged Care 5 x Patient Hoists $42,840.50
Total $1,289,639.37

Research

Application and Area Item Requested Amount
M.B. THF/2023 R1 - 05: Bilateral scaphoid symmetrt: comparative geometry and volume Increase to Research Budget $3,571.10
D.R. Novice Researcher How do clinicians sustain research activity alongside clinical workload? $5,220
G.P. Novice Researcher Effect of Computer-based upper limb therapy delivered using AbleX for acute stroke patients: A randomised controlled trial. $15,423
Total $24,214.10

Scholarship

Application and Area Item Requested Amount
Master of Nursing - Majoring in Advanced Practice Increase to Research Budget $5,000
J. J. MAPU Graduate Certificate in Leadership (Health and Human Services) $2,843.60
A. S. Central Sterilisation Services Department Certificate III in Sterilisation $3,170
R. T. Toowoomba Hospital Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing - Acute Care Nursing $5,700
C. C. Community Care Allied Health Master of Dementia $6,500
S. B. Nurse Educator Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Clinical Education) $4,308
C. M. Nursing Graduate Certificate in Nursing - Anaesthetic and Recovery $1,320
Total $28,841.60

Become a regular giver

Your ongoing and regular support ensures that every dollar of your donation goes directly to assisting Darling Downs Health patients and staff across our region's hospitals and health services. Join us in making a lasting difference and ensuring a brighter, healthier future for all.

Donate

Stay up to date

Stay up to date