Deanna Stenhouse named Allied Health Assistant of the Year

Deanna Stenhouse has been awarded Allied Health Assistant of the Year at the 2026 NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards in Sydney on Thursday March 26. This award recognises Deanna’s outstanding contribution to rural healthcare and her community in Lake Cargelligo.

A proud local, Deanna grew up in Lake Cargelligo and now works as an Allied Health Assistant in the same community. She completed her Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance in 2025 and, in a short period of time has become a vital connector between community members and multidisciplinary allied health services.

Deanna’s pathway into health was shaped by her earlier career in early childhood education, where she built deep, trusted relationships with Indigenous families and the wider community. These connections now underpin her exceptional work in healthcare, helping clients feel supported and confident as they navigate health services that can often feel complex and daunting.

As a mother to a child with Down syndrome, Deanna brings authentic lived experience, compassion and determination to her role. She is a strong advocate for people with intellectual disability and other vulnerable populations, ensuring care is inclusive, respectful and genuinely person centred.

In her role, Deanna supports the implementation of care plans across social work, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and dietetics. She plays a key part in ensuring continuity of care, particularly for clients with chronic and complex health needs. Her collaborative approach has also contributed to initiatives such as Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation programs, helping improve access to essential services in the region.

Deanna’s holistic approach, strong work ethic and deep community knowledge have already delivered tangible benefits, improving health outcomes while strengthening trust between clients and health services.

The NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards are an annual event that celebrate the passion, dedication and impact of allied health professionals and their support staff across the state, highlighting the crucial role allied health plays in delivering high quality, patient centred care. The 2026 awards ceremony was held in Sydney on Thursday 26 March, bringing together allied health professionals from across NSW to celebrate excellence in the sector.

Executive Director Service Delivery Emma Field who was in attendance at the Awards said Allied Health Assistants are critical to rural health services.

“In rural health, Allied Health Assistants are not an adjunct to care, they are vital to it. Their contribution expands access, strengthens continuity, and enables our clinicians to deliver timely, person centred care where it is needed most.”

She also acknowledged Deanna’s achievements and commitment.

“Deanna, thank you for the work you do every day, often quietly, always professionally, and with an unwavering commitment to the people we serve. Your impact matters, and it is both seen and deeply appreciated.”

Reflecting on the award, Deanna said she was surprised and honoured to be recognised.

“I am extremely shocked at winning the award. Although it is definitely nice to be recognised for my contribution to our community.”

She said the award reinforces the value of her role within the Integrated Care team.

“Winning the award, I suppose, cements that I am providing my community with much needed navigation with all things health, and that I am contributing positively to my team.”

For Deanna, working in Lake Cargelligo, the community where she grew up, is especially meaningful.

“Being able to help others navigate the health system and services that are available in our community, something I once found daunting, is a great feeling. It’s rewarding to know I’m contributing to our clients having a positive health journey.”

Deanna Stenhouse’s award recognises not only individual excellence, but the profound impact Allied Health Assistants have in supporting rural communities to access the care they need, close to home.

Murrumbidgee Local Health District congratulates Deanna on this well-earned achievement.