There was much excitement as staff welcomed the first patient into the new Paediatrics Department.

Patients and their families were involved in the buzz that surrounded the new ward’s opening with balloons handed out and photos taken.

Nurses, paediatricians and wards staff said goodbye to the old department as all patients were transferred to the new purpose-built ward which provide larger rooms and more suitable play areas.

The new department is second to open as part of the NSW Government’s $265 million redevelopment of the hospital, which is opening in stages and due for completion in 2021.