Staff mark the foundation of the site

Hand prints in wet concrete have marked the start of work on the new central acute services building.

Staff from Westmead Hospital, the University of Sydney and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead took part in the ceremony at the construction site.

The hand prints are a reminder of the positive legacy staff from Westmead have left behind ever since the hospital was first built forty years ago.

Westmead Hospital nursing unit manager Jo Merkelbach said healthcare had changed significantly during her career.

“Since I first started at Westmead Hospital, patient numbers have increased, but the length of patient hospital stays have significantly decreased,” she said.

“When I moved to the hospital’s haematology unit, I was able to witness new capabilities, with research, new medications and more chances for people with haematological disorders.”

There are more than 160 workers on the construction site and that number is expected to grow to around 850 as the project progresses.

Westmead Redevelopment executive director Leena Singh said it was important to recognise the commitment of the existing and future Westmead workforce.

“We have a rich history and wealth of experience at Westmead, and it’s with this legacy in mind that we mark the site in recognition of where we’ve been and what’s to come,” she said

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the project team on 1800 990 296 or via email at WSLHD-WestmeadProject@health.nsw.gov.au