Far West LHD celebrates Midwife of the Year 2026

International Day of the Midwife is held annually on 5 May to celebrate the contribution of midwives who provide safe care and support during pregnancy and beyond to women and their babies. The theme for this year’s International Day of the Midwife is “One Million More Midwives”.

Acting Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Grace Matthews, said midwives across Far West Local Health District are honoured to play an integral role within many women’s pregnancy and birth journeys.

“We thank and are proud of all our midwives who work tirelessly across our district to ensure women are empowered, respected, and heard throughout their pregnancy journey. They are highly skilled and play an essential role within our health service.

“I’d also like to congratulate Ms Jesse Prokop on being awarded Midwife of the Year for Far West Local Health District, this recognition is well deserved. Ms Prokop’s nomination and award is a powerful reflection of what excellence in midwifery truly looks like.”

“Ms Prokop has been pivotal in the implementation of the new Maternity Antenatal Postnatal Service model of care in Buronga, while continuing to provide both antenatal and postnatal care to women across the lower sector of the Far West Local Health District.

Ms Matthews said Ms Prokop provides women with the knowledge they need to make informed maternity choices and stands beside them as a trusted and compassionate guide throughout their pregnancy and birth journey.

“What makes Ms Prokop’s care particularly exceptional is her flexibility and accessibility. She offers home visits, ensuring care is delivered in a way that meets the needs of women and their families.

“Ms Prokop has been an outstanding example of the difference midwives make every day, not only improving health outcomes, but shaping positive, empowering birth experiences – congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.”

Ms Prokop will also be nominated in the 2026 NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards, which will be held in Sydney later this year.

“We are fortunate to work collaboratively with our partner organisations to ensure a cohesive and high-quality service to our communities. Our midwives are supported with ongoing professional development ensuring care is evidence based and contemporary ensuring women and families are receiving the best care possible in the Far West.”