EHO Knows

In this episode Shane is joined by globally respected food safety expert Dr. Douglas Powell, whose decades of experience in foodborne illness research are put to the test in a fast-paced quiz. From deadly E. coli outbreaks and salmonella scandals to waterborne disasters and the risks of modern consumer trends, this episode highlights just how universal the consequences of food safety failures can be and that when it comes to foodborne illness, what we don’t know can absolutely hurt us.Thank you to our guest Dr. Douglas PowellHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this episode Shane is joined by Environmental Health Officer Kylie D’Alton to tackle what may be one of the most underestimated food safety threats in modern society: sushi. One of the world’s most popular convenience foods quickly reveals a perfect storm of food poisoning risks.From raw seafood and cooked chicken to acidified rice, large-scale batch preparation, and widespread room-temperature storage, Kylie unpacks why sushi has become an “ultimate food poisoning weapon” when proper controls fail. Thank you to our guest Kylie D’AltonHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this episode Shane is joined by Environmental Health Officer Jacob Shaw, who shares his unique journey from the confines of a microbiology lab to the frontline of public health. Jacob reveals just how powerful modern diagnostics have become, and why many Environmental Health Officers may be underutilising the expertise and resources available to them.Thank you to our guest Jacob Shaw Hosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In part two of Cruise Control Shane is re-joined by Environmental Health Officer Cameron Smith, continuing the conversation on life at sea as a Public Health Officer aboard international cruise ships. From managing difficult crew and enforcing strict public health standards to navigating the pressures of working 70+ hour weeks for months at a time, Cameron shares what it truly takes to operate in one of the most demanding EHO roles in the world. Tune back in for a story of resilience, perspective, and trade-offs, as Cameron reflects on the personal and professional realities of cruise ship life and why, despite everything, it’s an experience that’s hard to walk away from.Thank you to our guest Cameron SmithHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this episode Shane is joined by Environmental Health Officer Cameron Smith, who shares his journey from flood response in Australia to life at sea as a Public Health Officer aboard international cruise ships. Set against the backdrop of post-COVID cruising, Cameron reveals the realities of working in a tightly regulated, multicultural environment where a single mistake can shut down an entire ship. From managing gastro outbreaks and pest risks to navigating the unique hierarchy and pressures of ship life, this episode explores the complexity, responsibility, and unexpected rewards of environmental health on the open ocean.Thank you to our guest Cameron SmithHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this episode Shane is joined by Environmental Health Officer Monique Goodhew, who brings a unique perspective shaped by her deep cultural roots and professional experience in New Zealand, exploring the rich traditions of Māori food practices and how they continue to shape large community gatherings today. Monique demonstrates that protecting public health isn’t just about enforcing rules, but about bridging worlds to keep both people and traditions thriving.Thank you to our guest Monique GoodhewHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this episode Shane is joined by Associate Professor Melissa Stoneham for one of the most powerful reminders of what environmental health is really about. As the lead of the Ending Trachoma Project in Western Australia, Melissa shares how a disease that is 100% preventable is still causing blindness in some of Australia’s most remote Aboriginal communities. This episode explores the power of prevention, the politics of providing basic hygiene, the challenges of remote housing maintenance, and what sustainable, community-led environmental health really looks like in practice.Thank you to our guest: Melissa Stoneham

**Content Warning** This episode discusses adult themes including sex work, sex trafficking, drug use, exploitation, and sexually transmitted infections, which some listeners may find distressing. In this episode Shane is joined by environmental health veteran and advocate Lisa Hughes for one of the most confronting and eye-opening episodes of EHO Knows to date. Lisa lifts the curtain on sex-on-premises venues. From infection control and worker safety to organised crime and exploitation. Thank you to our guest: Lisa Hughes

In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane is joined by Tanya Morrison to unpack the absurd yet true story of Rooster Gate. What begins as a single noisy rooster crowing at dawn spirals into a decade-long saga of neighbour complaints, environmental health investigations, sound monitoring, lockdown complications, and eventually a landmark court case the first of its kind in New Zealand. Equal parts comedy and cautionary tale, this episode pulls back the curtain on how seemingly minor nuisance issues can escalate into criminal prosecution, proving that in environmental health, even a rooster can end up before a judge. Thank you to our guest Tanya Morrison

In the final instalment of this Bond-esque trilogy, EHO Knows follows Dr Stephanie Fletcher-Lartey from a locked-down Sydney to the remote Solomon Islands, where COVID arrives years later with all new challenges. This episode closes the series with powerful insights on public health, hindsight, and the lessons that must carry forward.Thank you to our guest: Dr Stephanie Fletcher-Lartey Hosted by: Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this high stakes second part of Shane's interview with Dr Stephanie Fletcher-Lartey as she trades Caribbean sunshine for a Sydney lock-down. Stepping into a national research role advising government during extreme lockdowns, Stephanie reflects on the contrast between Australia’s pursuit of zero cases and the lived reality in Western Sydney, where border closures, isolation, misinformation, racial profiling, and personal loss collided. Thank you to our guest: Dr Stephanie Fletcher-Lartey hosted by: Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this jet-setting episode of EHO Knows, Shane is joined by Dr Stephanie Fletcher-Lartey for a journey through the very early days of COVID-19. From Sydney to the Caribbean, Stephanie shares how she stepped into a senior regional public health role just as a mysterious new virus began to emerge, helping 27 small island nations prepare with limited information, strong collaboration, and economies heavily reliant on tourism. This episode offers a rare international perspective on pandemic preparedness beyond the usual headlines, setting the scene for what happens when Stephanie returns to an eerily quiet Australia.Thank you to our guest Dr Stephanie Fletcher-LarteyHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane continues his discussion with former EHO and hygiene expert Dr. Greg Whiteley, who lifts the lid on the invisible world of germs lurking in our kitchens, bathrooms, and even hospital ICUs. From contaminated chair handles to “clean” stainless steel surfaces harbouring norovirus, Greg shows how easily bugs spread and how rarely we see it happening.Thank you to our guest Greg WhiteleyHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane is joined by Dr. Greg Whiteley former EHO and now a global authority on hygiene science for a fascinating and confronting deep dive into handwashing and cross-contamination. Greg uncovers the unseen world of microbes that travel across nineteen touches, the hidden dangers of dirty rags and poorly designed sinks, and how everyday cleaning practices can actually make pathogens stronger. A sharp, eye-opening conversation that shows how EHOs and frontline workers can make an enormous impact by understanding the invisible world right at our fingertips.Thank you to our guest Greg WhiteleyHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this bonus episode of Shane van de Vorstenbosch takes a moment to step back to reflect, reconnect, with you. We are endlessly thankful for everyone who has tuned in, contributed stories, or supported the show’s journey so far and the best way for the show to keep getting better is to hear what you think. Reach out today by writing a comment or on our facebook

In this episode Shane is joined by long-time Environmental Health Officer Megan Nilon, who shares a story set in a tiny Western Queensland town of just 100 people, inside a century-old country pub where she uncovers everything from pests to structural challenges. What unfolds is a transformation, not just of a business, but of a community’s pride and wellbeing, as Megan demonstrates how education, empathy, and persistence can turn a struggling establishment into a thriving gathering place.Thank you to our guest Megan NilonHosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch

In this episode Shane and Environmental Health Officer and President of the New Zealand Institute of Environmental Health, Tanya Morrison, delve into the under-regulated world of the appearance industry. Drawing on her in-depth research of tattooing, piercing, and beauty therapy both in New Zealand and abroad, Tanya sheds light on the hidden public health risks, from infections to allergic reactions, and the alarming lack of consistent by-laws. Thank you to our guest: Tanya MorrisonCheck out NZIEH on face book (@TheNZIEH) and LinkedIn. They have International memberships available too all on their website: www.nzieh.org.nzAlso Check out the two publications discussed in this episode: www.nzieh.org.nz/publicationsHosted by: Shane van de VorstenboschEdited by: Josh Granger

In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane sits down with Lydia Buchtmann, the tenacious force behind the Food Safety Information Council. For nearly 30 years, Lydia has championed public education on everything from handwashing to deadly mushrooms. They explore the Council’s vital role in closing the consumer knowledge gap, and Lydia’s personal story of turning passion into purpose when funding disappeared. Discover how food safety education supports the work of EHOs and how getting involved can amplify your impact and help build a safer, more food-literate Australia.Please consider supporting the food safety information council here: https://www.foodsafety.asn.au/Thank you to our guest - Lydia BuchtmannHosted by - Shane van de VorstenboschEdited by - Josh Granger

In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane is joined by Andrew Mathieson to explore how technology is transforming the work of Environmental Health Officers. From remote inspections and smart data tools to AI-driven assessments and hygiene-testing tech, this conversation highlights practical innovations already making a difference. Tune in to hear how EHOs can embrace these tools to work smarter, support businesses, and keep communities safer in a rapidly changing world.Thank you to our guest: Andrew MathiesonHosted by: Shane van de VorstenboschEdited by: Josh Granger

In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane sits down with Andrew Waters for his second episode on flood but this time taking a look at the aftermath. Listen in for a fascinating conversation about arriving at Fitzroy Crossing in the wake of devastating floods. This episode goes beyond immediate disaster response, highlighting the crucial role Environmental Health Officers play in helping communities not just survive a disaster but recover and rebuild safely afterwards.---Follow us on your podcast app and check us out on our Facebook for all our updates and extra contentAndrew Waters on Linkedin⁠The crocodile at Fitzroy Crossings---Thank you to our guest: Andrew WatersHosted by: Shane van de VorstenboschEdited by: Josh Granger

In this episode Shane reunites with Sarah Ainsworth, President of Environmental Health Australia (NSW), to continue their conversation on:How technology reshapes the way we work and live and how can environmental health professionals harness innovation or be hindered by it. How social expectations around health, housing, climate, and equity that are shifting and how EHOs can stay ahead of the curve.⁠Follow us on Facebook⁠ for updates, special features and to let us know what you love or want to see more of.Thank you to our guest - Sarah AinsworthHosted by - Shane van de VorstenboschEdited and Produced by - Josh Granger

In this episode Shane reunites with Sarah Ainsworth, President of Environmental Health Australia (NSW), to continue their conversation on:How technology reshapes the way we work and live and how can environmental health professionals harness innovation or be hindered by it. How social expectations around health, housing, climate, and equity that are shifting and how EHOs can stay ahead of the curve.Follow us on Facebook for updates, special features and to let us know what you love or want to see more of.Thank you to our guest -Sarah AinsworthHosted by -Shane van de VorstenboschEdited and Produced by -Josh Granger

Shane teams up with Jason Scarborough to get behind the gavel in this courtroom-themed episode, Law and Order: EHO Unit. When Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) are called to testify, how can they be ready to take the stand with confidence? Shane and Jason break down the best strategies for EHOs and their managers, sharing essential tips, required reading, and a few behind-the-scenes insights. Whether you're preparing for your day in court or just want to stay ahead of the game, this episode serves up justice—EHO style! DUN DUN.

Shane sits down with Sarah Ainsworth, El Presidente of EHA NSW, for the first of a two-part conversation on the vital role of EHOs and what does the future have in store. Environmental health officers are often told that “silence is a standing ovation,” Sarah and Shane discuss why it’s more important than ever for governments and the public to understand what EHOs do. Could there be a new hope for EHOs across the galaxy? Tune in to find out.Thank you to our guest -Sarah AinsworthHosted by -Shane van de VorstenboschEdited and Produced by -Josh Granger

Shane sits down with the enthusiastic Ariana Johnson to talk about her early days as an EHO and what makes the role so appealing to a younger audience. They dive into how the job taps into childhood dreams of curiosity and problem-solving. In a break from the usual format, this episode reflects on how we can better recruit and inspire the next generation of EHOs—sharing ideas, experiences, and insights to keep the profession thriving.Thank you to our Guest - Ariana JohnsonHosted by - Shane van de VorstenboschEdited and Produced by - Josh GrangerThe captioning issues should be properly resolved by the next episode but once again wed like to apologize for this.

In this episode, Shane chats with EHO guest Max Payne (no, not that Max Payne) about the infamous "Pied Piper Incident." What started as a routine trainee inspection turned into uncovering a subterranean rat metropolis beneath a shopping centre. From the first signs of scratches and chewed packaging to rats dangling out of meat boxes and a full-blown warren swarming with hundreds of rodents, it’s a story that’s equally shocking, eye-opening, and darkly hilarious. Join us as we dive into the chaos, the unexpected challenges EHOs face, and why this job is never boring (or for the faint-hearted).Alopgises to our video watchers this episode, the captions were less than perfect.

In this gripping second episode of EHO Knows, Shane chats with Cameron Smith about the extreme challenges of being an Environmental Health Officer during the devastating Lismore floods. Cameron shares how he was thrown into chaos, managing everything from securing vital medications to addressing nicotine dependency—all while dealing with COVID-19. Discover what it means to “fill the void” for your community when disaster strikes and how adaptability becomes an EHO’s greatest tool.Thank you to our guest - Cameron SmithHosted by - Shane van de VorstenboschEdited by - Josh Granger

In the explosive first episode of EHO Knows, Shane van de Vorstenbosch sits down with Lauriston Muirhead to uncover the shocking story behind Albury's mass Salmonella outbreak that sickened over 100 people. Lauriston reveals how a single egg turned into a hidden time bomb, unleashing a Salmonella "bomb" that destroyed a gourmet burger joint and threatened lives. Lauriston shares the intense reality of managing a public health crisis.