A Champion for Community: Celebrating Dr. Narayanan Jayachandran
At St Vincent’s Private Community Hospital Griffith (SVPCHG), we are thrilled to recognise the outstanding contributions of our esteemed General Surgeon, Dr. Narayanan Jayachandran—affectionately known as Dr. Jaya. His dedication and service to rural healthcare has touched lives of many across the Riverina region, highlighting the vital role of dedicated professionals in strengthening our communities.
Dr. Jaya at the NSW Surgeons' Evening.
Service to the Community Award
Dr. Jaya's commitment has been recognised by multiple organisations, beginning with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons' NSW State Committee. In 2024, he was awarded the Service to the Community Award, honouring his long-standing dedication to providing essential surgical care to residents of rural NSW. This recognition reflects how his work has enhanced healthcare access, positively impacting individuals and families throughout the area.
Griffith's Citizen of the Year
The accolades continued in 2025 when Dr. Jaya was honoured as Griffith's Australia Day Citizen of the Year during the community's annual celebrations. This distinguished award commended his focus on providing empathetic, top-tier care to patients, alongside his generous volunteering and involvement in local initiatives that bring people together.
Dr. Jaya at the 2025 Griffith Australia Day awards ceremony.
Dr. Jaya at the special civic reception that was held in his honour.
Freeman of the City of Griffith
Most recently, the Griffith City Council unanimously granted Dr. Jaya the esteemed title of Freeman of the City of Griffith. This rare distinction honours his over 22 years of exceptional service to the community, including his integral role at SVPCHG since early 2019. These achievements collectively affirm his enduring legacy as a key figure in regional healthcare.
Gabrielle Wood, General Manager and Director of Clinical Services, states, "Dr. Jaya's dedication to his patients and our community is truly inspiring. His work exemplifies the spirit of St Vincent's, and we are incredibly proud to have him as a valued member of our team."
Dr. Jaya's contributions to both our hospital and the wider community are immeasurable, he is a true champion for the health and well-being of our community.