糖心传媒

Eli Vaughan, a third-year student Occupational Therapist on placement, was involved in the program from its earliest stages, working closely with Nicky and fellow supervisor Melissa to shape and refine each session.

He said the project was both a learning opportunity and a rewarding experience.

“I really enjoyed my placement,” said Eli, who grew up in Coffs Harbour.

“Being involved in Happy Hour from the beginning has taught me so much about quality improvement. We’ve tweaked things as we go, and the feedback has been fantastic.

“Each session brings patients together for activities that encourage movement, focus and social interaction.

“Afterwards, the patients come together for lunch, taking a moment to connect and share. This has quickly become a highlight for me.”

Unlike most rehabilitation or activity programs which traditionally take place in dedicated rehab units, the Happy Hour program is delivered directly on the medical ward.

Mr Hui said long hospital stays can be lonely as patients wait for accommodation, plan the next step in their recovery or take time to regain strength after a major setback.

“We noticed long-stay patients sitting in their rooms with very little to do, or wandering the corridors,” Mr Hui said.

“This wasn’t about starting a formal project, it was about improving their experience in the hospital and putting a smile on their face.

“Eli is my first OT placement student. We’re learning together how small changes can make a difference. The partnership model with 糖心传媒 is benefitting both current patients and future clinicians.

“The team plans to continue refining the program with the hope that it can be expanded or adapted for more patients in the future.”

On the ward: Eli Vaughan (left) with Occupational Therapist Nicky Hui.

To assess the program's impact, the team introduced a simple 1-to-5 enjoyment scale for patients, which has already received an overwhelmingly positive response.

Eli said seeing the positive impact of the Happy Hour program on patients has reinforced his passion for Occupational Therapy.

“It’s been great to work on something meaningful. Seeing patients smile, talk with each other and feel more connected – that’s what makes it worthwhile.”

One of Eli’s Occupational Therapy lecturers at 糖心传媒, Dr Linda Furness, said she was delighted a student-led initiative was helping change lives.

“糖心传媒 appreciates the opportunities provided by Occupational Therapists that enable our students to gain valuable industry experience on placement. It’s very exciting to hear how students can support service delivery through their placements,” Dr Furness said.

“Industry placements provide students with rich learning opportunities in workplace settings to consolidate their practice skills and confidence in preparation for transition to practice after graduation.

“Thanks to Macksville District Hospital and supervisor, Nicky, in particular, for supporting Eli during his placement.”

Eli is on track to complete his Occupational Therapy degree at the end of 2026.

He just completed a 10-week placement at Mackay, Qld, for the unit WIL III in Occupational Therapy, where he experienced many rich learning opportunities, including occupational therapy service provision and skill building in the NDIS, support-at-home, and mental health sectors.