Celebrating strong foundations

On 30 October, Sydney/Sydney Eye Hospital (SSEH) came together for Foundation Day, commemorating 214 years on Macquarie Street, and celebrating the hospital’s past, present and future.  

Staff gathered in the SSEH courtyard for a BBQ lunch, while an awards ceremony was held to recognise the expert care and compassion provided by our staff.  

The audience heard from keynote speakers who have been integral to the life of the hospital: Aunty Linda Boney, Aboriginal Liaison Officer; Dr John Graham (pictured left), Consultant Physician at SSEH 1974-2010; and Valda Wiles (second from left), an influential figure in Australian nursing who spent much of her career at SSEH.  

Congratulations to this year’s long service recipients and the following award winners: 

  • JMO of the Year: Dr Sarah Li 

  • Consumer nominated Star: Dr Patrick Delaney (ED) 

  • Staff Achievement: Gowtham Subramonian (Patient Experience Officer) 

  • Anita Cobby Grant: Isabela Heremaia (Eye outpatients) 

  • Quality and Innovation Award: Danielle Morgan (Orthoptist). 

Dr Pauline Rumma, SSEH Director of Clinical Services said: “We honour not only individual achievements, but the collective effort that drives innovation in eye and hand care, advances research, and supports the next generation of healthcare professionals. Happy Foundation Day!” 

Over two centuries, Sydney/Sydney Eye Hospital has evolved into a modern metropolitan hospital that provides specialised hand and eye care to patients from right across NSW, as well as general medicine to city residents, workers and visitors.  

Published 10 November 2025

Dr John Graham (pictured left), Consultant Physician at SSEH 1974-2010; and Valda Wiles (second from left), an influential figure in Australian nursing who spent much of her career at SSEH.