2025 has been a transformative year for the Sterile Services team at Grafton Base Hospital, marked by major upgrades, professional achievements and collaborative success.
In April, the team launched the MaQs computerised tracking system. Theatres came online shortly after with support from the Central Sterilising Services Department (CSSD).
The upgrade has improved sterility assurance and traceability for every item reprocessed for operating theatres. It introduces quality control checkpoints and allows for rapid recall if concerns arise after surgery.
Rolling out the MaQs system came with some challenges.
“The decontamination and packing modules are quite different from each other and required us to rethink how they fit into our existing workflows,” said Jacqui Stewart, Manager of Sterile Services.
“Even just the decontamination module on its own is complex and demanded several procedural changes to get it right.”
Despite the complexity, Jacqui said the team rose to the occasion.
“They’ve shown incredible adaptability and commitment to getting it right. It’s been a huge learning curve, but they’ve embraced it with enthusiasm.”
In June, the team reached a major milestone when all nine sterilisation technicians achieved their Certificate III in Sterilisation Services, officially making the entire department fully qualified.
The nationally recognised qualification includes infection control principles, microbiology and the care and handling of reusable medical devices.
Jacqui said the certification milestone reflects the team’s professionalism and dedication.
“It’s a huge achievement. Every technician now has the skills and confidence to work independently which strengthens our service and supports patient safety.”
Together, the team brings more than 90 years of combined experience in sterilising services – a testament to their depth of knowledge and commitment to patient care.
But the team didn’t stop there! In August, they tackled one of their biggest logistical challenges yet – transforming the sterile stock room. With limited space and growing demands, a new storage solution was installed to streamline operations and support compliance with AS/NZS 5369:2013.
This national standard sets out best practice for sterilising and storing reusable medical devices, helping ensure items remain sterile and safe until use. The upgrade not only improved efficiency but also reinforced the team’s commitment to patient safety.
“Everyone pitched in to make it happen and the result is a more efficient, compliant space that supports our work,” Jacqui said.
“I am incredibly proud of the positivity and resilience the team have shown to work through the implementation of some big projects this year. They really embraced the learning opportunities.”
Pictured:
Top: The Grafton Central Sterilising Services team from left: Katelyn Barkley, Julie Smidt, Vlette Lee, Sam Coulstock and Raelee Tommassini.
Below: The newly installed Space Logic Sterile Stock Room Storage System.