Greenslopes Archives - Greenslopes News

Greenslopes Doctors Return from Lifesaving Mission in Uganda

Prof. Judith Goh AO and Prof. Hannah Krause AO, two Greenslopes urogynaecologists, recently returned from Uganda, where they performed over 140 procedures for women suffering from serious gynaecological issues in remote areas.

The trip, which took place in early September 2024, saw the pair working at Kagando Hospital in western Uganda. In just a short span, they treated more than 200 women, many of whom were experiencing childbirth-related injuries such as vaginal fistulas and untreated 4th-degree tears, conditions that are often left unaddressed in resource-limited areas.

“We treated mostly women with childbirth-related injuries – including vaginal fistulas and unrepaired 4th-degree tears. We also treated women with pelvic organ prolapse,” said Prof. Goh, reflecting on the challenges faced by women in Uganda. “It’s wonderful to be able to use our skills to help these women.”

Almost 30 Years of Volunteer Work

Prof. Goh and Prof. Krause have been volunteering in Asia and Africa since 1995. For nearly three decades, they have dedicated their time and expertise to providing critical healthcare in areas where it is most needed.

Greenslopes doctors — *Photo Credit: File Photo/Greenslopes Private Hospital*

Remarkably, the two doctors cover their own travel costs for each trip, while Greenslopes Private Hospital supports the mission by donating medical equipment.

Their work in Uganda is part of an ongoing commitment to improving women’s health in regions where access to specialised medical care is scarce. The duo’s next mission is scheduled for South Sudan in October 2024, where they plan to continue providing essential gynaecological care.

Recognition and Support

In recognition of their extraordinary humanitarian contributions, both Prof. Goh and Prof. Krause have been awarded the Officer of the Order of Australia, a prestigious honour celebrating their selfless work over the years.

Greenslopes Private Hospital CEO, Justin Greenwell, praised the two doctors for their dedication: “I commend Prof. Goh and Prof. Krause on their humanitarian efforts – the world needs more people like them both. Greenslopes Private Hospital is proud to support their work and to donate to such a great cause again this year.”

As the doctors prepare for their next mission in South Sudan, their ongoing work continues to highlight the important role that Australian medical professionals play in improving global healthcare, particularly for women in underserved communities.

Broncos vs Sharks: Brisbane Challenge Cronulla for NRLW Summit

The Brisbane Broncos face the top-seeded Cronulla Sharks in a crucial match this Saturday, 14 September, with the top position on the NRLW ladder hanging in the balance. Broncos vs Sharks kick off 1:45 p.m. at Cbus Super Stadium in Gold Coast.

Read: Greenslopes Tops List as Brisbane Braces for Peak Swooping Season

Momentum from historic comeback

The Broncos enter this crucial match riding the wave of a historic comeback against the Knights last week. Down 18-4 in the 37th minute, the team staged a momentous second-half comeback, clinching a 32-24 victory.

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The second half was a clinic, an impressive display with five tries from five different players: Julia Robinson (46’), Brianna Clark (50’), Stacey Waaka (57’), Lavinia Gould (60’), and Romy Teitzel (64’). Teitzel’s near-perfect conversion record (4/5) in the second half further solidified the win.

Broncos vs Sharks

Currently sitting third on the ladder, the Broncos have a golden opportunity to leapfrog the first-placed Sharks with a victory in their final home game of the home-and-away season. This match is pivotal for both teams as they head into the final stages of the season, each aiming for a strong finish.

Broncos head coach Scott Prince stresses the team’s focus, stating, “We want to chase that top 2 for a home final. That’s the advantage we’re striving for.”

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The Broncos have turned their season around with five consecutive wins, recovering from a challenging two-loss start. A win in this match would put them on the verge of securing a spot in the finals series, though mathematically, they need another victory to guarantee it.

“We were put on the back foot initially, it wasn’t the perfect start, but the resilience that the girls showed to stick to their process and get back in the game and come home like a wet sail was well done.”

Read: Chippers: Greenslopes’ New Catch for Fish and Chips Lovers

Following this weekend’s game, the Broncos will take on the ninth-placed Dragons in the final game of the season—in what could be another decisive match for their charge towards the minor premiership.

Published 13-September-2024

Man Charged With Murder After Greenslopes Father Found Dead

Photo Credit: Facebook / Donald Robert Green

A Sunshine Coast man has been charged with murder after a father was found dead in his Greenslopes unit.

Ryan Clifford Nord, 40, of Moffat Beach, appeared in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Monday, August 19, facing charges related to the death of 61-year-old Donald Robert Green. The victim’s body was found during a police welfare check at a unit on Vine Street, Stones Corner, around 1 am on Friday.

**Green with his son, Dominic.**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Donald Robert Green

Magistrate Chris Callaghan adjourned the case to November 1, with a brief to be prepared by October 14. Nord was remanded in custody until the next court date. Court documents revealed that Nord declined a mental health assessment at the Maroochydore Watch House.

Police believe the incident stemmed from an alleged altercation in the unit around 10 pm on Friday, August 9. Investigators have indicated that the two men were known to each other.

The victim, Donald Robert Green, has been remembered fondly by his family. His brother, Danny Green, shared heartfelt tributes, describing Donald as a man who “lived life to its fullest” and was “always helping anyone, especially the homeless.”

Donald Green was a father to a teenage son and a cherished member of his extended family. Born in Papua New Guinea, he moved to Australia in 1974, where he became an integral part of the local community.

Published 19-August-2024

Greenslopes Woman Faces Attempted Murder and Arson Charges

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A 46-year-old woman from Greenslopes has been charged with multiple counts of attempted murder and arson following a harrowing incident in the early hours of July 12, 2024.

Queensland Police reported that the woman allegedly set fire to a house while three occupants, including two children, were asleep inside.

The blaze was discovered at approximately 4 am in a residential property in Greenslopes. A 44-year-old man and two children, aged 12 and 9, were inside the house at the time of the incident. Fortunately, all three managed to escape without sustaining any injuries.

According to police statements, officers arrived at the scene and took the woman into custody. As a precautionary measure, she was initially transported to a local hospital. Following a thorough investigation, authorities formally charged her on Friday, August 9.

The accused Greenslopes woman now faces three counts of attempted murder and one count of arson, all classified as domestic violence offences.

The woman has been denied bail. She is scheduled to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday, August 10, where further details of the attempted murder and alleged arson case may come to light.

Authorities urge anyone experiencing family violence to report it to the police. Support services are available, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) for general assistance and 13YARN (13 92 76) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals seeking help.

Published 10-August-2024

Greenslopes Private Hospital Celebrates 500th Life-Changing Heart Procedure

Photo Credit: Greenslopes Private Hospital

A 91-year-old Stradbroke Island resident has made history as the 500th person to undergo a minimally invasive heart procedure at Greenslopes Private Hospital.

Sydney Owens, who had been grappling with severe aortic stenosis, underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) led by Dr. Peter Hadjipetrou.

TAVI, a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery, involves replacing a narrowed aortic valve with an artificial one through a catheter inserted in the groyne. This approach significantly reduces recovery time and surgical trauma for patients.

*Photo Credit:* *Greenslopes Private Hospital*

Dr. Hadjipetrou expressed his pride in participating in this milestone procedure, emphasising its significance in the hospital’s commitment to advanced cardiac care. He highlighted that reaching 500 TAVI cases signifies a shift towards less invasive options, offering patients a better quality of life and a faster recovery.

The success of the TAVI programme is attributed to the collaborative effort of the cardiac team and the state-of-the-art facilities at Greenslopes Private Hospital. Dr. Hadjipetrou commended the team’s expertise and dedication, acknowledging their instrumental role in providing exceptional care to patients with heart conditions.

The hospital boasts a custom-built hybrid operating theatre for cardiac and vascular cases. This unique facility enables a seamless transition from

Additionally, the hospital’s comprehensive approach ensures that patients receive emergency care, procedures, and post-operative rehabilitation all under one roof.

Dr. Hadjipetrou thanked Sydney Owens and all patients, their families, and the healthcare team for their support and collaboration in achieving this remarkable feat.

This milestone showcases the hospital’s commitment to innovation and reaffirms its position as a leader in cardiac care.

Published Date 30-July-2024

Greenslopes Mum Beats Rare Sarcoma, Highlights Early Detection

Photo Credit: Australia and New Zealand Sarcoma Association

A Greenslopes mother’s life turned unexpectedly when she discovered a lump on her foot one summer’s day in 2022. Jacqui Cooper, then 36, was diagnosed with a rare form of sarcoma, a malignant tumour more commonly found in children and adolescents.

The Greenslopes resident was warned that the cancer could have quickly spread to her chest and lungs if left unnoticed.

Ms Cooper, a human resources coordinator, underwent six gruelling rounds of chemotherapy, which severely impacted her physical and emotional well-being. The treatment left her bedridden and unable to care for her two-year-old son, Max, who struggled to understand his mother’s sudden absence.

Despite the immense challenges, Ms Cooper remained determined to overcome the disease. While confined to her bed, she dreamt of future travels and unfulfilled goals, clinging to the hope of a life beyond cancer. After going into remission, she has remained cancer-free for the past year and a half.

Now, Ms Cooper is on the road to recovery, undergoing physiotherapy and counseling to regain her strength and adjust to life after cancer. She has returned to work, resumed walking, and can once again care for her now four-year-old son. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of early detection.

Medical experts warn that both patients and doctors often miss rare cancers like sarcomas until they have progressed significantly. Dr Wayne Nicholls, director of oncology at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, emphasised the need for more research into sarcomas, which can manifest in unusual ways and often deviate from textbook descriptions.

Dr Nicholls highlighted that sarcomas sometimes present as non-specific pain, often mistaken for a sporting injury. This delay in diagnosis can lead to the cancer spreading, making treatment more difficult and reducing survival rates.

The Australian and New Zealand Sarcoma Association (ANZA) is actively involved in sarcoma research, having conducted numerous studies and clinical trials to understand how patients respond to different treatments. The organisation stresses the importance of raising awareness and securing funding for further research to improve outcomes for sarcoma patients.

Dr Denise Caruso, ANZA’s chief executive, pointed out that while sarcomas account for only 1 per cent of adult cancers, they represent 20 per cent of childhood cancers in Australia. Sarcomas are the leading cause of cancer death in children and young adults nationwide, underscoring the urgency for more outstanding research and awareness efforts.

As Sarcoma Awareness Month continues throughout July, ANZA is raising funds to support its vital work. Medical professionals like Dr Vivek Bhadri, a medical oncologist and researcher, echo the call for greater attention to this often-overlooked cancer. Dr Bhadri noted that Ewing sarcoma, a common type of sarcoma, is often misdiagnosed as a sports injury or growing pain due to its presentation as non-specific pain.

Jacqui Cooper’s experiences and medical experts’ warnings highlight the importance of early detection and increased research in the fight against sarcoma. As awareness grows and research progresses, the hope is that more lives will be saved and outcomes improved for those affected by this rare but devastating disease.

Published Date 23-July-2024

Greenslopes Mum Diagnosed with Unnamed Rare Cancer

A Greenslopes mum originally believed she had fractured her foot but was instead diagnosed with an unnamed, extremely rare form of cancer.

Jacqueline Cooper, a resident of Greenslopes, initially mistook a growing lump on her foot as an injury from an everyday accident involving her young son. Believing the swelling resulted from something as simple as a dropped toy, Ms Cooper’s concern grew as the lump enlarged.

Seeking answers, she visited a podiatrist who conducted multiple scans, which led to a referral to a specialist at the Wesley Hospital. It was there that she was diagnosed with a rare type of sarcoma in her right big toe, a cancer so uncommon that it has yet to be named.

The Wesley Hospital Brisbane — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Diagnosed in 2022, Cooper underwent a series of treatments, starting with chemotherapy that did not shrink the tumour, necessitating surgical intervention. This was followed by additional chemotherapy sessions.

Now, a year and a half later, she celebrates being cancer-free but remains committed to raising awareness about her condition, especially during Sarcoma Awareness Month this July.

Ms Cooper is eager to share her story to enhance awareness and support for sarcoma and other rare cancers. She emphasises the importance of recognising the existence of support networks and resources available for those facing similar challenges. Ms Cooper’s experience highlights the emotional and medical journey faced by individuals diagnosed with rare cancers, underscoring the need for increased research and better support systems.

Sarcoma, which comprises only 1% of adult cancers and accounts for 20% of childhood cancers, is often misdiagnosed due to its symptoms resembling sports injuries or growing pains. The rarity of such cancers means that treatment advancements are slow to develop, prompting healthcare professionals to advocate for more substantial awareness and research efforts.

Visit www.sarcoma.org.au for more information or to find support.

Published 2-July-2024

Tigers vs WM Seagulls: Brisbane Fight Valiantly But Fall Just Short

The Brisbane Tigers mounted a spirited second-half fightback against Wynnum Manly in Round 13 but their valiant efforts ultimately fell just short as the Seagulls held on for an 18-16 victory. Tigers vs WM Seagulls kicked off at 3:00 p.m. last Saturday, June 8 at the Totally Workwear Stadium.

Read: Stones Corner Set to Undergo Suburban Renewal Project

Tigers vs WM Seagulls

Wynnum Manly came out of the gates firing, with lock Josh Stuckey grabbing a first-half double to help the home side race out to an 18-6 lead at the break. The Seagulls looked in complete control after their blistering start.

However, the Tigers refused to go away quietly. Led by a phenomenal individual performance from centre Kane Bradley, Brisbane turned the tide in the second stanza.

The towering Bradley was simply unstoppable, scoring two tries while racking up 193 run metres, 79 post-contact metres, 2 line breaks, 5 tackle busts and 2 offloads in a true master class of powerful centre play.

Despite Bradley’s herculean efforts, the Tigers just couldn’t quite get over the line as Wynnum’s first-half burst proved too much to overcome.

Tigers captain Ryley Jacks bemoaned his side’s slow start as the ultimate difference maker.

Jacks said that their atrocious first half really hurt them with those two sin bins and lack of discipline. “If we can fix that up, I back us to win games like this,” he argued.

Read: Stones Corner Readies for Sky-High Transformation with New Apartment Approval

Long Lunch ahead for the Tigers faithful

Photo Credit: Facebook/Suzuki Brisbane Tigers

In other news, the club’s major fundraising Long Lunch is announced for Friday, August 9th at Victoria Park Golf Course. Rugby league legends Wally Lewis and Gene Miles are the special guests, with raffles, auctions and amazing prizes on offer for fans.

Get your tickets here.

Published 14-June-2024

Developers Seek Approval for Six-Storey Mixed-Use Project in Greenslopes

Developers have submitted plans for a six-storey mixed-use development in Greenslopes, which aims to transform the site into a vibrant hub offering a diverse range of amenities.

Read: Greenslopes to Witness Urban Renewal with New Commercial Building Development

The subject site is located at 730-742 Logan Road and 11, 11A & 15 Plimsoll Street.

At the heart of the proposal is a 5045 sqm gross floor area, catering to office spaces, healthcare services, a food and drink outlet, and a gym.

This blend of functions, designed by Wiltshire Stevens Architecture, reflects a modern approach to urban development, promoting both productivity and leisure within the same space.

Photo credit: Wiltshire Stevens Architecture

According to planning documents, the proposed building is envisioned as a contemporary marvel, boasting sleek design elements and versatile spaces. Its strategic location on a prominent corner holding further enhances its visibility and accessibility.

One of the standout features of the development is the 24-hour gym, providing round-the-clock fitness opportunities for patrons. Meanwhile, the rooftop pool deck and garden offer an exclusive retreat for members, elevating the concept of leisure amenities to new heights.

“The development capitalises on the site’s location and access to social and transport infrastructure to provide additional housing choice within a key inner-city location and represents the efficient use of the of the land,” planners stated.

With 147 car parking spaces spread across two and a half levels, convenience is prioritised for visitors and tenants alike. The remaining four levels are dedicated to accommodating the food and drink outlet, healthcare services, indoor sport and recreation facilities, and office spaces, ensuring a dynamic blend of activities within the building.

The project is the brainchild of Brisbane-based office park developer Bill Henderson of OPD, in collaboration with Capital Transactions’ David Watson.

If approved, the food and beverage establishment, healthcare services, and office spaces will adhere to the designated operating hours outlined in the Centre’s code, spanning from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., inclusive of deliveries.

Conversely, the proposed gym plans to operate continuously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Group classes will start daily at 5:00 a.m. and conclude by 8:00 p.m. Moreover, access to the rooftop garden will be exclusive to gym members, open from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Read: Seven-Storey Commercial Building, Six-Storey Car Park Proposed on Burke Street in Woolloongabba

In summary, the proposed six-storey mixed-use development at Greenslopes represents a fusion of innovation, functionality, and luxury. It embodies the evolving needs of modern urban communities while setting a new standard for mixed-use developments in Brisbane.

Published 16-May-2024

Musical Healing Resonates as Greenslopes Doctor Conducts Cancer Choir

Photo for illustration purposes only | Photo Credit: Matthew Ball/Unsplash

Dr Andrew Nicol, a leading Greenslopes haematologist and oncologist, has launched a virtual cancer choir, providing a harmonious refuge for patients undergoing gruelling cancer treatments from the comfort of their own homes or hospital beds.

Dr Nicol spent over 20 years leading cutting-edge haematology-oncology research at the Greenslopes Private Hospital, testing innovative lymphoma, myeloma, and leukaemia therapies. His Brisbane Clinic for Lymphoma, Myeloma and Leukaemia ensures rapid access to specialist care and seamless coordination with other medical experts.

However, he recognised the need for a more holistic approach, one that addresses the emotional and psychological toll of cancer treatment.

Thus, the idea for Hope Sings was born. The project was officially formed in 2023.

Collaborative Healing Melodies

Hope Sings is a virtual choir that allows patients to record themselves singing from anywhere in the world, with their voices merged into a unified performance by music technicians.

The project is a joint effort between Dr Nicol’s Exercise, Music and Art in Medicine charity, Queensland’s renowned Voices of Birralee community choir, cancer survivor and podcaster Jacqui Cowan, and the support of university composers.

Voices of Birralee, under the guidance of musical director Paul Holley, has provided backing tracks and a repertoire of uplifting songs tailored to various vocal abilities. Patients can download the tracks, sing along while recording themselves on their smartphones, and optionally submit video performances.

Ms Cowan is a patient of Dr Nicol, who has been in remission for 10 years. She hosts the “Cancer Culture” podcast on Spotify.

Harmonising Hope

Dr Nicol explained that cancer treatment often involves extended periods of isolation or being bedridden, leading to feelings of boredom and depression. Their research consistently demonstrates the positive effects of singing, collaborating, engaging in art, and exercising for individuals undergoing treatment.

The therapeutic power of music is already evident among the choir’s first participants.

David Taylor, undergoing leukaemia therapy, has experienced the emotional benefits of choir singing firsthand.

Terry Ryder, a 76-year-old lymphoma patient and music lover, sees the choir as a source of solace and hope during his cancer journey. For Nerida Rienecker, a mother of four, the choir is a source of comfort and relief from the stresses of cancer as her son battled stage 4 Wilms tumour.

As the virtual choir expands, participants can collaborate with university composers, share their stories on podcasts, and eventually participate in hybrid concerts streamed online. Hope Sings aims to bring hope and healing to cancer patients worldwide with an inclusive and innovative approach.

Learn more about this program here.