Week 1 recap: NBMLHD celebrates staff achievements at annual awards

The award ceremonies honoured the contributions and everyday efforts of staff, that make a lasting difference. Each service and facility hosted its own special celebration, where winners were announced.

Congratulations to the following winners:

Together Nepean

Outstanding Professional Support Staff Member

Danielle Hilder

Danielle continually goes above and beyond. Starting with and finalising the setting up of voluntary assisted dying service, working on background tasks to ensure that briefs are completed, organising meetings, keeping databases up to date to name only a few of the many hidden administration functions she completes on the behalf of the team and the service.

Danielle has supported our patients by taking phone calls, notifying all parties of appointments, engaging with the patients and support people before appointments. Danielle is the point of contact when the coordinators are not available. She is responsive to requests and works above and beyond daily. 

Outstanding Clinician

Mark Salter

Dr Mark Salter, Deputy Director of the Emergency Department is an outstanding clinician whose skill, leadership and dedication set the highest standard for both patient care and teamwork. His clinical work is exemplary, consistently going beyond what is required of a shift to ensure every patient receives thorough, timely and compassionate treatment. Mark’s breadth of knowledge, calm approach and ability to make sound, patient-centred decisions in high-pressure situations have earned him the respect of colleagues across all disciplines.

Mark’s contribution extends far beyond the bedside. He is fierce in his advocacy for his staff, junior and senior alike, standing up for their rights, wellbeing and professional integrity. He leads with vision, actively supports team growth, and creates an environment where people feel valued, supported and empowered. His approachable manner, quick humour and ability to bring lightness to even the busiest of days make him a joy to work with. 

Volunteer of the Year

Marie Hurley

51 years of continuous voluntary service to Nepean Hospital, Marie has been a cornerstone of the Archive and Museum team, working tirelessly to preserve and protect the rich heritage of Nepean Hospital. Her commitment to cataloguing, curating, and caring for invaluable historical records and artefacts has ensured that the legacy of our hospital remains alive and accessible. Through her efforts, she has created a vital connection between the past and present, reminding us all of the remarkable journey of our hospital and the people who have shaped it.

Marie’s contribution goes far beyond preserving objects and documents. She has preserved the stories of the people, the milestones, and the achievements that define Nepean. Her work has been instrumental in keeping these memories alive, not only for current staff and the community but for future generations who will benefit from her foresight and diligence. Her service reflects the very spirit of volunteering, selflessness, commitment, and a deep sense of pride in her community.

Collaborate for Success

Discharge Patient Flow Concierge

This team exemplifies excellence in collaboration, innovation, and patient-centred care through their pivotal role in the Patient Flow strategy. Established to strengthen discharge planning services, this team ensures seamless transitions from hospital to home or other care settings by reducing avoidable delays and improving the patient experience.

Acting as a vital link between clinical and non-clinical services, the team provides essential administrative support to expedite discharges. This includes coordinating equipment, RACF vacancies, booking referrals, distributing patient resources, and supporting discharge planning meetings. Their efforts have significantly enhanced discharge efficiency, allowing clinical staff to focus on clinical care.

Working closely with Social Work, Occupational Therapy, and Nursing teams, the Discharge Concierge Team enables multidisciplinary staff to work at the top of their scope. Both members of the team demonstrate excellent customer service providing a positive experience for patients, carers and families.

People Focused Award

Alicia Hatcher

Alicia works tirelessly for the women and families in Nepean Hospital and the District who suffer pregnancy loss. Her devotion to midwifery is outstanding.

During these past few months, she has organised and created a space for grieving mothers and their families to spend time with their baby they have lost. Alicia listened to feedback from families effected by loss and the staff caring for these women and completely redesigned our loss patient rooms, clinical rooms and created safe and beautiful spaces for families to have support people their children and family all meet their loss loved on and grieve in privacy and comfort.

Alicia supported the development of pathways and procedures to accompany the physical resources after collaborating with families and staff to ensure that we have everything to provide the safest and more efficient and respectful and loving care to families at their time of need while also protecting the emotional safety of the staff.

Innovator Award - Team

Respiratory Rapid Access Centre

The Respiratory Rapid Access Centre (RespAC) was established in October 2024 to deliver timely, targeted care for patients with non-complicated Pneumonia, Pulmonary Embolism, Lung Cancer, and Pneumothorax.

Designed to reduce unnecessary emergency department presentations, hospital readmissions, and average length of stay, RespRAC ensures patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time. By offering early assessment and prompt implementation of chronic disease pathways, RespRAC aims to prevent illness escalation and improve patient outcomes.

RespRAC is a scalable, patient-centred innovation with clear potential to become a standard part of respiratory care delivery. As a new service the nursing, medical and administration team have come together to work and collaborate to establish the new service resulting in a positive work environment and driving positive change for our patients.

Inspiring Leader Award

Dr Sowmya Gandham

Dr Sowmya Gandham exemplifies inspiring leadership through her vision, strategic thinking, and exceptional commitment to improving paediatric care at Nepean Hospital and across the District.

As Medical Lead for Paediatric Safety and Quality, she has championed data-driven improvements aligned with NSQHS standards, leading HS2-4 reviews, incident investigations, and proactive system changes that have strengthened patient safety.

She is generous with her time, openly shares knowledge, and cultivates a positive, collaborative culture that empowers colleagues. Her sustained contributions in clinical governance, quality and safety, virtual care innovation, and education have not only improved patient outcomes but also inspired those around her, making her a true role model and an outstanding candidate for the Inspiring Leader Award.

Innovator Award - Individual

Vanessa Wilkinson

Clinical Nurse Consultant, Vanessa demonstrates outstanding contributions to service innovation and patient care in the Medical Imaging department. She has played a pivotal role in the establishment of MRI General Anaesthetic sessions at Lithgow Hospital, significantly expanding access to essential diagnostic services for patients in the region.

Vaness’a leadership in developing the department’s Model of Care, alongside many other important projects, has laid the groundwork for a more efficient, patient-centred approach to service delivery.

Her innovative thinking, collaborative approach, and unwavering dedication to improving both patient experience and clinical efficiency make her an exceptional candidate for this award. Her innovative thinking, collaborative approach, and unwavering dedication to improving both patient experience and clinical efficiency make her an exceptional candidate for this award.

Together C&I

Outstanding Professional Support Staff Member

Tracy Spooner

Tracy consistently delivers exemplary, attentive and responsive service, playing a vital role in the smooth running of PCCH; her exceptional skills, attention to detail and client‑centred approach lift quality across services, and she regularly goes above and beyond—supporting colleagues, implementing PMES actions, seeking staff feedback, and enabling information integration for Hawkesbury Community Health.

Tracy brings willingness and reliability to every task and is a truly valued member of the team.

Outstanding Clinician Award

Jenifer Benny

Jenifer is recognised for her outstanding clinical leadership and unwavering commitment to patient‑centred, trauma‑informed care. She has transformed the care environment by championing trauma‑informed principles, redesigning processes to improve patient safety and dignity, and mentoring staff with compassion and integrity.

Jenifer leads by example—supporting colleagues on the frontline, fostering inclusivity, and inspiring a culture of respect, empowerment, and continuous improvement.

Her dedication has made a lasting impact on patients, staff, and the broader service, embodying the very best of the NSW Health CORE values.

Inspiring Leader award

Natasha McGing 

Natasha, the Manager of Priority Populations in PCCH is an inspiring and collaborative leader whose dedication, vision, and people‑centred approach have made a profound impact across NBMLHD. Natasha leads complex programs with integrity and calm, fostering a safe, inclusive, and empowering culture where staff feel supported to grow and thrive.

Natasha is deeply respected for her advocacy, mentorship, and ability to build strong partnerships both within Health and with external agencies, driving meaningful improvements in service delivery and client care.

She embodies the CORE values in every interaction, setting the benchmark for leadership and leaving a lasting legacy of compassion, collaboration, and excellence.

Innovator Award

Jennifer Aiken 

Jennifer is recognised for her innovative research into Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD), which has led to the development and trial of a screening tool now used by Community Nurses to identify clients at risk during catheter changes. Alongside this, she introduced client education resources and an escalation algorithm to ensure timely, safe responses if AD occurs.

Since its implementation, the tool has reduced reported incidents, improved client satisfaction, and increased nurse confidence in performing procedures. Jennifer’s work demonstrates exceptional initiative, clinical insight, and a commitment to safer, more person‑centred care in the community.

People Focused Award

Brian Hunter

Brian is dedicated to helping others heal, grow, and thrive. A tireless advocate for people struggling with drugs and alcohol, he combines compassion, cultural knowledge, and lived experience to guide individuals toward recovery and empowerment. Brian is a role model for culturally safe, human‑centred care—meeting people without judgment, creating inclusive spaces, and embodying the principles of equity for vulnerable and marginalised groups.

Deeply respected by patients, colleagues, and community, Brian’s work is more than a job—it is a calling, and he is the very definition of people‑focused care.

Collaborate for success Award

The PECC Unit Nursing Team

The PECC Unit Nursing Team is recognised for their exceptional collaboration, compassion, and innovation in delivering high‑quality mental health emergency care. They embody the NSW Health CORE values through teamwork, inclusivity, and person‑centred practice—whether co‑designing therapeutic initiatives with consumers, supporting new graduate nurses, or introducing trauma‑informed safety planning tools.

Their commitment to creating a calm, respectful, and supportive environment has improved patient experiences, strengthened staff wellbeing, and earned consistent praise from consumers, carers, and external stakeholders.

By going above and beyond every day, the PECC nurses have transformed the culture of care, setting a benchmark for excellence in mental health services.

Commendation Award for Culture

Winners: Rodney Titovs, Jenifer Benny, and the Psychiatric Emergency Care Centre (PECC) Unit - Mental Health.

Commendation Award for Performance

Winners: Thomas Hoglund, Robyn Catto, Scott Van Eck, the Wellbeing Health In-Reach Nurse (WHIN) Coordinator Team - Primary Care and Community Health, Natalie Szuch, and Jenifer Benny.

Together Lithgow

Outstanding Professional Support Staff Member

Brett Birkett

Brett is a valued member of the Patient Services team at Lithgow, known for his professionalism, responsiveness, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether managing a full-time rotating roster or responding to the dynamic needs of patients and staff, Brett consistently delivers with kindness, respect, and efficiency.

His ability to prioritise tasks while maintaining a calm, clean, and safe environment has earned him widespread admiration. Colleagues describe him as approachable and dependable—someone who never hesitates to go the extra mile. Brett’s contributions reflect the CORE values of NSW Health and help foster the positive workplace culture that Lithgow is proud of.

Outstanding Clinician

Chantell Thompson

Chantell Thompson is a driving force within the Operating Suite, recognised for her tireless dedication and clinical excellence. As a Clinical Nurse Specialist, she has played a pivotal role in the implementation of the TDoc and CSSD projects—meticulously etching over 4,000 instruments, building and organising trays, and streamlining workflows to ensure a safe and efficient service.

Balancing these demanding projects alongside her regular duties, Chantell consistently demonstrates resilience, precision, and a deep commitment to patient care. Her willingness to take on extra shifts, support her colleagues, and contribute wherever needed reflects her approachable nature and wealth of knowledge.

Chantell’s positive and inclusive attitude uplifts those around her, making her a standout clinician and a deserving recipient of this award.

Inspiring Leader Award

Shayne Southall

In his role as Acting Security & Corporate Services Manager, Shayne Southall has exemplified what it means to lead with integrity, vision, and resilience. Over the past four months, he has navigated challenges with calm determination, earning the respect of both his team and stakeholders across the organisation.

Shayne’s leadership has reinvigorated his department, fostering a renewed sense of purpose and unity. He has driven key initiatives in workplace health and safety across the Hospital and Portland MPS, while also making significant progress in recruitment and workforce development. His commitment to supporting staff, particularly in obtaining security licences and training, demonstrates his dedication to building a capable, confident team.

A trusted and knowledgeable leader, Shayne’s proactive approach, adaptability, and collaborative spirit make him a standout contributor and a truly inspiring presence within our health service.

People Focused Award

Nicholii Hall

Nicholii Hall is a quiet achiever whose dedication, professionalism, and compassion define his role as a social worker at Lithgow Hospital. Known for his respectful and attentive approach, Nicholii supports patients, families, and staff through complex and often challenging circumstances with empathy and care.

His ability to truly listen and make others feel heard has had a profound impact, bridging gaps in communication and fostering trust, especially among caregivers who have felt overlooked. Nicholii’s support extends beyond the hospital walls, guiding clinicians and patients through community programs, guardianship processes, and tailored resources with clarity and kindness.

Despite a demanding workload, Nicholii remains approachable, generous with his time, and unwavering in his commitment to person-centred care. His thoughtful presence and inclusive attitude make him a standout contributor and a deserving recipient of the People Focused Award.

Volunteer of the Year Award

Joyce Cutting

Joyce Cutting is a cherished member of the United Hospital Auxiliary, bringing warmth, dedication, and creativity to everything she does. A familiar and friendly face for many years, Joyce has generously volunteered her time across the kiosk and craft/raffle stall, always greeting others with kindness and a welcoming smile.

Collaborate for Success

Sandra Riley

Sandra Riley is a dedicated Enrolled Endorsed Nurse at Portland MPS, recognised for her outstanding collaboration and leadership in workplace health and safety. As the WHS and Manual Handling Coordinator, Sandra has played a vital role in ensuring a safe and responsive environment for staff and patients alike.

Her diligence in coordinating meetings, completing risk assessments, and implementing mitigation strategies reflects her proactive approach and commitment to excellence. Sandra’s ability to work across teams and respond to emerging needs with professionalism and care makes her a valued contributor and a deserving recipient of the Collaborate for Success Award.

Together Blue Mountains

Outstanding Professional Support Staff Member

Katie Downey

Katie truly embodies the CORE values of NSW Health and consistently demonstrates a positive, can-do attitude. Katie regularly goes above and beyond, taking on additional tasks outside of her role to support other departments and to improve systems and processes. She is diligent, caring, and a highly valued team member who performs her role to an exceptionally high standard.

Outstanding Clinician

Bronwyn Shannon

Bronwyn Shannon has quickly become a valued member of the Blue Mountains team, bringing warmth, positivity, and a deep commitment to collaborative care. Since joining earlier this year, she has consistently gone above and beyond to support her colleagues and enhance the experience of those in her care.

Bronwyn exemplifies the CORE values through her respectful communication, openness to feedback, and unwavering dedication to empowering women in their birth journeys. Her supportive presence uplifts both patients and staff, fostering a culture of trust, inclusion, and excellence.

Inspiring Leader Award

Dr Arman Babajanyan

Dr Arman Babajanyan, Head of Paediatrics at Blue Mountains Hospital, is a transformative leader whose vision, compassion, and clinical excellence have elevated paediatric care across the region. His hands-on approach and unwavering advocacy have strengthened services across paediatrics, maternity, and emergency departments, ensuring holistic and responsive care for children and their families.

People Focused Award

Cris Hofland

Cris actively fosters an inclusive and respectful workplace. He supports staff at all levels, mentors new team members, and encourages open, supportive communication. He is a strong advocate for workplace safety and wellbeing, helping to build a positive environment where people feel empowered, valued, and engaged in their work.

His compassionate approach to patient care, combined with his advocacy, leadership, and commitment to supporting colleagues, consistently reflects a people-first ethos at the heart of his practice.

Innovator Award

David Corden

As Facility Nurse Educator at Blue Mountains Hospital, David brings a visionary and practical approach to clinical education and workforce development. His forward-thinking mindset has led to the implementation of sustainable, engaging learning solutions that directly enhance staff capability and elevate patient care.

David’s contributions extend beyond the hospital, influencing practice across the wider district. He consistently goes above and beyond, driving innovation with compassion, clarity, and purpose.

Collaborate for Success

Chris Boothroyd

Chris Boothroyd is an exceptional Clinical Nurse Consultant in the BMDAMH Emergency Department, recognised for his unwavering commitment to collaboration and team excellence. A respected clinical leader, Chris fosters a culture of shared learning, inclusive practice, and patient-centred care.

He leads with integrity and purpose, celebrating collective achievements, encouraging open dialogue, and creating space for reflection and growth. Chris responds to feedback with insight and optimism, turning challenges into opportunities for service improvement. His dedication to safety, respect, and continuous development makes him a driving force behind a high-performing, cohesive team.

Above and Beyond Consumers Choice Award

Springwood Hospital

Staff at Springwood Hospital exemplify compassion, professionalism, and dedication in every interaction. Across both nursing and support teams, they consistently go above and beyond to ensure patients and their families feel cared for, respected, and supported, especially during times of need.

Their commitment to the NSW Health CORE values is evident in their collaborative teamwork, open communication, and unwavering respect for all individuals. By empowering patients and families with empathy and dignity, Springwood Hospital fosters a culture of excellence that truly places people at the heart of care.