#WeAreNorthern

Meet Don Goonesekera, Manager, Cleaning and Waste Management, ISS Facility Services at Northern Hospital Epping.

Q. Don, could I start with your coffee order, please?
My mornings typically begin with a medium almond latte, it’s my go-to before the day gets going.

Q. Tell us about your journey at Northern Health?
I first began working at Northern Health in 2016 when ISS was awarded the contract. Shortly after, I relocated to Hamilton Island to pursue my career as a chef. In 2020, I returned to Northern Health and took on a variety of roles across several sites, including Food Services Assistant, Concierge, and Cleaner.

My dedication and versatility led to an opportunity to become a Cleaning Supervisor, followed by a promotion to Assistant Manager of Cleaning and Waste Management. I am currently serving as the Manager of Cleaning and Waste Management, where I continue to contribute to the delivery of high standards across our facilities.

Q. What do you like most about your role?
ISS Facility Services is involved in many different areas across Northern Hospital, playing a vital supporting role. There’s always something new and exciting happening, whether it’s furniture moves, sustainability initiatives, or advancements in innovation and technology.

But for me, the most meaningful aspect is the patient journey. Contributing to that journey as part of a dedicated team is something I deeply value. When my mother was undergoing cancer treatment at Northern, I saw firsthand how much of a difference it made to have the right support staff around her. That experience continues to inspire my commitment to making a positive impact every day.

Q. What are some things people don’t know about you?
Outside of work, I play cricket for GCC on the weekends, which helps me stay active and connected with the community. Earlier in my career, I worked in hospitality, where I had the privilege of working alongside some truly great chefs, an experience that taught me a lot about teamwork, discipline, and attention to detail.

Q. Do you have a bucket list item? Something you would love to do.
Since I was a kid, I’ve always loved wildlife, and going to Africa to see the Big Five is definitely a bucket list item for me. Hopefully, I’ll be able to cross it off by next year!

Q. If you were a superhero, who would you be and why?
Tony Stark (Iron Man) has always inspired me, not just because he was a billionaire, inventor, and philanthropist, but because he chose to become a superhero. He didn’t have to, he made a conscious choice to use his talents for the greater good. I believe that, like him, we all have the power to define who we are through the choices we make in life. It’s when we step out of our comfort zones that we truly grow and make a meaningful impact.