Zodo the Clown retires

After two decades of entertaining our youngest patients, Zodo the Clown is hanging up his oversized shoes.

‘Zodo’ the Clown, AKA Norm Gibbs OAM, has spent more than 20 years regularly visiting Monash Children’s Hospital with his ‘case of tricks’, performing for children in the play room, corridors and at the bed side.

In the words of our staff, Norm is ‘an amazing man’ – kind and generous.

Norm has been recognised for his community service with many awards including Sir John Monash Community Leadership Award, the Medal of the Order of Australia, and Victorian Seniors Award and the honour of carrying the Olympic torch.

Norm says he has always looked forward to his visits: “It’s a joy to do magic shows and tie animal balloons for the children and rewarding to be able to distract them from their health problems. Their courage is so inspiring and it’s been a pleasure to work with other volunteers and Monash staff.”

Norm says he will continue to contribute through his many other community interests, but feels having turned 90, it was time to retire.

With trademark wit he added: “I still have my own teeth, but I have worn out my feet.”

Thank you for your dedication and service to our patients, Zodo!

Pictured: Norm Gibbs

Pictured: Monash Health staff members thank Norm for his contribution and service. L-R: Volunteer Coordinator Annessa Conquest, Child Life Therapist (CLT) Tammy Young, CLT Michelle Lowe, Community Relations Manager Kim Minett, Norm Gibbs, MCH Volunteer Coordinator Andrea Booth, CLT Emily Young.