Western NSW finalists in NSW Health Nursing and Midwifery Awards
Western NSW Local Health District nurses and midwives have been recognised for their passion and dedication in caring for patients as finalists in the 13th annual NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards.
Western NSW Local Health District nurses and midwives have been recognised for their passion and dedication in caring for patients as finalists in the 13th annual NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards.
The 27 state-wide finalists have been announced across nine categories including; Team of the Year, the Judith Meppem Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Healing Heart Award which recognises a nurse or midwife whose compassion, kindness and professionalism stood out for a patient or family.
Amy Sutherland, the District’s first Aboriginal-identified Transitional Nurse Practitioner, Rural Generalist, is a finalist for the Aboriginal Nurse/Midwife of the Year. She was the recipient of the District’s corresponding 2025 award.
Registered Nurse Sarah Driver is also a finalist for the Healing Heart (Consumer) Award, after being nominated by a patient who said her life was changed forever by the professional and compassionate care Sarah provided her at Bathurst Hospital.
WNSWLHD Executive Director Quality, Clinical Safety and Nursing Adrian Fahy congratulated the pair, and said Amy and Sarah’s progression to the final stages of the awards speaks volumes of their commitment and passion.
“Both Amy and Sarah are thoroughly deserving of this recognition, and I’m thrilled to see them named as finalists. This is an incredible achievement and I wish them all the best, and hope to see them recognised further,” Mr Fahy said.
“This acknowledgement is testament to the commitment and compassion Amy and Sarah put into the care they provide each and every day. They are two shining examples of the incredible nursing and midwifery workforce we are so fortunate to have in our District.”
NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce AM said this year’s finalists have demonstrated outstanding care or contributed to improved health outcomes in their local community.
“The Nursing and Midwifery Awards acknowledge the passion, dedication and contributions of nurses and midwives across the NSW public health system who support patients and their families during what can be some of the most important or difficult times in their lives,” Ms Pearce said.
“I want to congratulate the finalists for this year’s awards, but I also want to thank all of our nurses and midwives who are integral in ensuring patients receive exceptional care every day across NSW.
“I look forward to celebrating the finalists’ achievements at the Awards ceremony later this year, and to finding out who the winners are.”
NSW Health Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Jacqui Cross said all nurses and midwives are highly valued for the vital role they play in the NSW public health system.
“These Awards are a great opportunity to recognise the skills and professionalism of our nurses and midwives and the important work they do in NSW hospitals,” Ms Cross said.
“I’m incredibly proud of the expertise, care, and compassion they provide to patients and their families around the clock across a variety of different clinical and community settings.”
Finalists and winners will be celebrated at the Nursing and Midwifery Awards ceremony, which will be held at NSW Parliament House in late November.
For more information on the NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards 2025 visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/einma