Allied Health Awards

About this award:

The Allied Health Professional of the Year makes an outstanding contribution to clinical excellence, leadership, education and culture. They advocate for evidence-based practice and focus on value-based health care.

Donna Shadwell - Social work; Child, Youth and Family

Donna is a highly respected Clinical Coordinator of New Street, recognised for her professionalism, collaboration and compassion. She leads with integrity and promotes client-centred, trauma-informed care that prioritises safety, dignity and empowerment. Through evidence-based practice, reflective learning and multidisciplinary collaboration, Donna supports positive outcomes for young people and their families. Her leadership fosters a supportive environment for staff, strengthens clinical excellence and contributes to preventing harm and promoting healing across services.

AWARD RECIPIENT: Lisa Onley - Exercise Physiology; Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

Lisa is a highly respected Senior Exercise Physiologist whose leadership and innovation have strengthened the integration of physical care within mental health services. Through her work in the Pathways to Community Living Initiative, Lisa has embedded exercise physiology across inpatient and community settings, improving continuity of care and quality of life for consumers. Her collaborative, evidence-based approach across a range of different programs and services drives systemic improvements, enhances health literacy, and fosters sustainable, person-centred recovery across the District.

Susan Smith - Speech Pathology; Orange

Within Community Health, Susan fosters a positive, inclusive team culture and drives service improvement through her leadership, collaboration and ongoing commitment to innovation. Susan delivers evidence-based, family-centred care across diverse caseloads which reflects her deep clinical knowledge, and commitment to service sustainability and equitable access. Through exceptional programs like the Zero Wait List Project, dedication to education and commitment to culturally responsive care and partnerships, the impact of Susan’s work is visible in enhanced access, empowered families and communities, and lasting improvements in communication outcomes.

Louise Hawke - Social Work; Orange

Louise is consistently recognised for her professionalism, compassion, integrity and commitment to providing safe, holistic and patient-centred care, and plays a critical role in supporting patients with complex medical and psychosocial needs. Within the High Risk Foot Clinic and High-Risk Diabetes Management Service, Louise integrates clinical expertise with empathy, advocacy and education, directly contributing to improved patient outcomes, reduced risk and enhanced quality of life, while empowering patients to take ownership of their care. Through collaboration, mentorship and trauma-informed practice, Louise ensures dignity, safety, and equity remain central to every interaction across the multidisciplinary team.

Tanya Austin - Social Work; Aged, Disability and Palliative Care

Tanya is a dedicated and compassionate clinician who fosters collaboration, professionalism, and continuous improvement across the entire team and service. She demonstrates strong leadership in aged care, combining clinical expertise with empathy and a genuine commitment to person-centred support. Through mentoring, service innovation, and proactive engagement with sector reforms, Tanya empowers colleagues and clients by ensuring care is informed, inclusive and delivered with dignity and respect.

Joshua McLean - Care Navigation, Welfare; Child, Youth and Family

Joshua is a dedicated Care Navigator within the Adult Survivor Program, and has played a critical and leading role in the development and implementation of the role and its model of care. Through empathetic, compassionate, trauma-informed and client-centred practice, Joshua empowers survivors to access coordinated support and rebuild trust in health services. Within and beyond his developmental work, Joshua’s collaborative approach has strengthened partnerships across agencies, improved service integration and enhanced staff capability, resulting in meaningful and improved outcomes for adult survivors of sexual abuse.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Rochelle Smith - Physiotherapy; Lachlan

Rochelle is an accomplished Physiotherapist whose innovation and advocacy have transformed access to specialised care in the Parkes region. She has helped to establish local services in lymphoedema management, women’s health, fracture care and paediatrics, ensuring rural patients can access and receive high-quality, evidence-based treatment close to home. Through her commitment to collaboration, research, and education, Rochelle has improved outcomes across multiple disciplines, enhanced clinical practice, and empowered both staff and patients, delivering safe, first-class and person-centred care for her community.

Elly Schiller - Social Work; Grenfell

In her role as a Senior Social Worker, Elly’s creativity, compassion and innovative approach have significantly enhanced wellbeing and community connection across Grenfell and the entire Weddin community. Among a range of other varied programs, Elly has spearheaded the development and delivery of innovative programs such as Navigating the Aged Care System and Connect through Pets, improving access, inclusion and support for older adults. A passionate advocate against family violence and a committed wellbeing leader, Elly promotes holistic, person-centred care that strengthens community resilience, while always supporting the diverse and complex needs of individuals, families, her community and her colleagues. 

Kate Gibson - Occupational Therapy; Child, Youth and Family

With nearly two decades of experience Kate brings exceptional expertise and compassion to her role as an Occupational Therapist supporting children and families through the Brighter Beginnings program. Her leadership in developing and evaluating innovative models of care has improved access and outcomes for rural and remote communities. Through collaboration, mentorship and evidence-based practice, Kate empowers families and clinicians alike, ensuring high-quality, person-centred care that drives lasting developmental impact.

Eloise Borschtsch - Physiotheraphy; Health Promotion

Eloise is a dedicated Senior Physiotherapist and health promotion leader whose work is continuing to create lasting change, support wellbeing and improve health outcomes for older people across Western NSW. Eloise has helped to pioneer innovative healthy aging programs like DanceMoves and DanceWise, among many more, and is a driving force in ensuring these programs are culturally-safe, accessible, engaging and evidence based. Eloise’s collaborative commitment to thorough evaluation, mentoring and development has helped build sustainable, scalable models of preventative care, and significantly built the capacity of volunteers, health workers, teams and services. 

Lucy Belmonte - Pharmacy; Orange

At Orange Health Service and across Western NSW, Lucy continues to bring exceptional clinical expertise and trusted leadership to pharmacy practice, grounded in kindness, compassion, respect and efficiency. Lucy played a pivotal role in launching the Partnered Pharmacist Medication Charting Program as the first pharmacist in the LHD to undertake the innovate model of care, leading implementation in Orange’s ED. Beyond acute care, Lucy has driven a district-wide initiative to improve medication management during residential aged care transition. Through her dedication to continued improvement, Lucy drives a culture of safety, positivity, respect and collaboration.

Rachel Pittman - Pharmacy; Dubbo

At the Western Cancer Centre in Dubbo, Rachel provides expert, evidence-based pharmacy care that improves safety, precision, and quality of life for people receiving cancer treatment. She works closely with doctors, nurses and allied health teams to ensure medications are used safely and effectively, reducing side effects and treatment risks. Rachel also leads improvements in medication safety and mentors junior staff, helping to build a collaborative, skilled pharmacy team that delivers consistent, person-centred care.

Julianne Potts - Social Work; Child, Youth and Family

Julianne is a respected leader with more than 30 years’ experience whose work has transformed care for people affected by trauma across Western NSW. As Manager of the Integrated Violence, Abuse and Neglect Crisis Response Services, Julianne has led multiple initiatives which have significantly improved access, quality and consistency of care in rural and remote communities, ensuring critical, timely and culturally responsive care is available to those in need regardless of their location. Julianne is recognised across the state as a passionate advocate, leader educator and mentor, who ensures every client not only receives care but feels seen, respected and supported throughout their journey.

Patricia Berry - Sexual Assault Counselling; Child, Youth and Family

Patricia is a Senior Sexual Assault Counsellor with the Integrated Violence, Abuse and Neglect Crisis Response Service, known for her calm leadership, professionalism and compassion. She provides expert guidance to counsellors and clinicians during critical incidents, ensuring care is safe, timely and trauma-informed. Patricia supports her team through mentoring, reflective practice and open communication, helping prevent burnout and strengthen service quality. Her person-centred approach fosters trust, promotes safety and ensures every client is treated with dignity and respect.  

Dipalee Amin - Physiotherapy; Walanmarra, Dubbo

In her role as a Physiotherapist at Walanmarra, Dipalee leads with compassion, professionalism and a commitment to continuous improvement. She fosters a supportive and collaborative team environment, guiding staff and students through complex rehabilitation cases and promoting wellbeing at work. Dipalee contributes to research on amputee rehabilitation and education, and quality improvement projects that enhance therapy outcomes. Her focus on safety, evidence-based practice, and professional development ensures high-quality, person-centred care for patients and colleagues alike.

Angela Vass - Speech Pathology; Aged, Disability and Palliative Care

Angela is an experienced Rehabilitation Clinician who provides person-centred, evidence-based care for people recovering from brain injury. She collaborates closely with clients, families, schools and multidisciplinary teams to design and deliver coordinated rehabilitation plans that promote independence and participation. Through strong advocacy, clinical insight, and effective use of communication tools, Angela supports clients to navigate complex systems, address care gaps, and achieve sustainable outcomes that enhance recovery and quality of life.

Megan English - Dietitian; Bathurst

As a Dietitian and Credentialled Diabetes Educator, Megan provides expert, compassionate care that improves the health and wellbeing of people living with diabetes and complex nutritional needs. Working across hospital, outpatient and community settings in Bathurst, she ensures timely and coordinated care for adults, children and high-risk mothers. Megan also contributes to service development, including plans for a transition clinic for young people with type 1 diabetes, and is valued for her professionalism, collaboration, and person-centred approach.

Jen O'Driscoll - Occupational Therapy; Child, Youth and Family

Based in Coonamble, Jen's dedication as an Occupational Therapist has expanded access to early intervention services for children in rural NSW. To support the expansion of the First 2000 Days workforce, Jen developed a student-led paediatric occupational therapy model. By mentoring and holistically supporting future clinicians, the model has more than doubled the service’s reach including expansion into nearby communities. Jen delivers culturally safe, trauma-informed care that meets children and families where they are - including at home, in the community or at pre-schools - ensuring therapy is practical, inclusive and sustainable.

About this award:

The Aboriginal Allied Health Professional of the Year demonstrates exceptional commitment, professionalism, and compassionate care to all patients. They are committed to improving and advocating for the culturally appropriate health care of Aboriginal people and communities and are proud to be an allied health professional working in NSW Health. The Aboriginal Allied Health Professional of the Year demonstrates their leadership through passionate advocacy for their profession by contributing to the growth and development of the Aboriginal allied health workforce in NSW Health.

AWARD RECIPIENT: Tara Swainston - Occupational Therapy; Walanmarra, Dubbo

Tara is an Occupational Therapist at Walanmarra who provides culturally safe, person-centred rehabilitation and palliative care for Aboriginal patients. She supports individuals to restore function, reconnect with identity and community, and achieve goals that reflect their values to allow them to heal with dignity and strength. Through collaboration with Aboriginal services, mentoring, and advocacy, Tara promotes health equity and cultural understanding across her team, by supporting colleagues’ cultural learning and promoting initiatives that foster connection and reflection.

About this award:

The Allied Health Educator of the Year has made exemplary contributions to the education of others to improve allied health services. This could include teaching of allied health professional peers, students, other health disciplines, patients, or the general public. They are proud to be an allied health professional working in NSW Health. Their activities have been impactful to improve the practice standards of allied health professionals, the knowledge of specific health conditions or the understanding of allied health services. Education provided can be part of a formal teaching role or in an informal capacity.

Sean Bowen - Medical Imaging; CT

As Head of CT in Medical Imaging, Sean has led major advancements in scanning quality, staff training and patient care. He has introduced new technologies, developed a comprehensive CT training program, and personally trained radiographers across all experience levels to ensure consistent, high-quality results. Sean’s commitment to mentoring, problem-solving and person-centred care has created a skilled, confident team that delivers accurate diagnoses efficiently while maintaining a calm, respectful experience for every patient.

AWARD RECIPIENT: Victoria Young - Medical Imaging; Radiography

Victoria has revitalised the Remote X-Ray Operator Program on behalf of NSW Health, expanding access to diagnostic imaging across rural and remote communities. By overhauling and rejuvenating course content, governance and processes, under Victoria’s leadership the program has doubled its workforce, reduced patient transfers, improved regional access to services and enhance outcomes for communities. This is all completed outside Victoria’s core role as Chief Radiographer at Cowra Hospital.

Bethany Robb - Speech Pathology; Orange

Bethany is a senior Speech Pathologist who combines clinical expertise with a strong commitment to education and service improvement. She mentors and supervises early career clinicians and students, fostering confidence, reflection and professional growth. Through creative teaching resources and consumer collaboration Bethany strengthens clinical standards and communication across teams. Her leadership and positivity have built a culture of learning, compassion and excellence that enhances outcomes for patients and colleagues.

Rochelle Sutherland - Physiotherapy; Dunedoo

Rochelle combines clinical expertise with a passion for education and rural health. She delivers person-centred, evidence-based care while fostering a strong culture of learning and improvement among staff and students. Through mentoring school-based trainees, leading in-service education and supporting university placements, Rochelle builds local capability and promotes allied health careers in rural communities. Her collaborative, inclusive approach enhances service quality and empowers others to learn, grow and contribute with confidence.

Lisa Carey - Speech Pathology; Child, Youth and Family

Lisa Carey is a senior Speech Pathologist at Dubbo Primary and Community Health Centre who has dedicated more than a decade to mentoring students and early career clinicians. She has strengthened education and supervision through clear learning frameworks, practical resources and reflective practice. Lisa supports professional growth across disciplines, leading programs such as SLICE and AHEAD, and fostering interprofessional learning. Her commitment to teaching, collaboration, and rural health has enhanced clinical standards and inspired the next generation of allied health professionals.

Jenny Rose - Social Work; Bathurst

Jenny Rose is a Senior Social Worker and educator at Bathurst Health Service whose leadership has strengthened student learning and clinical standards across Western NSW. She has expanded and almost doubled the number of social work placements by building new partnerships with education providers and training supervisors across the district. Through mentorship, advocacy, and evidence-based practice and education, Jenny fosters a supportive, inclusive learning culture that empowers staff and students. 

Emma Brown - Physiotherapy; Walanmarra, Dubbo

Emma consistently demonstrates a deep and sustained commitment to staff and student education in Physiotherapy, and to the broader team at Walanmarra and district-wide workforce development initiatives. With dedicated leadership grounded in inclusion and respect, Emma delivers high-quality clinical placements, mentors students and colleagues, and bridges theory with practical, compassionate care. As an accredited Pride in Diversity Trainer, Emma also promotes LGBTIQ+ awareness and inclusive practice. Her teaching, advocacy and person-centred approach foster a supportive learning culture and encourage critical thinking, empowering staff across the facility.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Myf Bryant - Occupational Therapy; WNSWLHD

Myf’s leadership and commitment to effective, comprehensive education has transformed allied health learning opportunities across Western NSW. She established the Occupational Therapy Clinical School, expanding placements from one to eight sites and increasing student capacity by 50 per cent in its first year alone. Myf develops high-quality resources, mentors new and experienced supervisors, and fosters innovative learning models such as simulation training. Her collaborative, evidence-based approach strengthens the workforce pipeline and inspires future allied health professionals.

About this award:

The Allied Health Researcher of the Year has made exemplary contributions to research to enhance allied health practice and services. Their activities have been impactful and can be translated into practice, and they are proud to be an allied health professional working in NSW Health. The Allied Health Researcher of the Year holds a clinical or clinical leadership role and may or may not have protected research time. They may hold a conjoint academic appointment in addition to their clinical role, but this is not their primary role. They may be a higher degree by research student who is achieving at a high level and meets the criteria set out below. They contribute to building capacity to conduct and translate research in allied health services, for example by supervising research students, leading research teams, or mentoring novice researchers. This Award is open to early and experienced researchers. Applications will be assessed based on the impact of their research in NSW Health and how they are supporting clinicians to implement research in clinical practice as well as build research capacity.

AWARD RECIPIENT: Linda Krogh - Pharmacy

Linda Krogh has established a strong track record of research that directly contributes to the evidence base for Allied Health practice, particularly in rural and remote medication safety. Through her leadership of national trials, her research, publications, and collaborations with clinicians and consumers, Linda has advanced culturally safe, patient-centred care models. Her mentorship and leadership in evidence translation strengthen Allied Health capability and improve continuity of care for rural communities.

About this award:

The Allied Health Leader of the Year has continuously exhibited excellence in leadership, focusing on the values of teamwork, innovation, service, quality, compassion and integrity. They show exceptional skills to support, mentor and coach staff. The Allied Health Leader of the Year is a visionary. They drive quality improvement in patient care, service delivery and a commitment to value-based health care. They are leaders of a positive culture across professional groups in line with NSW Health's CORE values. They are proud to be an allied health professional working in NSW Health. The nominee does not have to be working in a management or senior role.

Michele Evans - Social Work; Child, Youth and Family

Michele is the Clinical Lead of the Western NSW Sexual Assault Service, where her compassionate and inclusive leadership has strengthened trauma-informed care across the district. She has developed professional resources, reflective practice groups and peer supervision frameworks that support staff wellbeing and build clinical capability. Michele ensures equitable access to counselling for rural communities and has introduced innovative programs like Shark Cage to support survivors. Her leadership fosters trust, collaboration, and high-quality, person-centred care.

Sharon Buxton - Psychology; Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

Sharon is the Clinical Lead for the Older Persons Mental Health Team, where her expertise in neuropsychology and leadership has strengthened care for older people across the district. She provides specialist assessments, clinical supervision, and statewide leadership in policy and model-of-care development. Sharon fosters a psychologically safe and collaborative team culture, promotes evidence-based practice, and advocates for equitable, person-centred care. Through her mentorship and innovation, she enhances both clinical outcomes and workforce capability in mental health.

Rebecca Shaw - Psychology; Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

Known for her innovative leadership and commitment to mental health in rural NSW, Rebecca built a thriving workforce at Bloomfield Hospital through “grow your own” initiatives, strong partnerships with universities and NGOs, and an emphasis on supervision and professional development. A passionate educator, she established the inaugural WNSWLHD Neuropsychology Symposium and continues to drive multidisciplinary learning across mental health teams. Rebecca leads with integrity, warmth and strategic vision, fostering a culture where staff feel supported, valued and inspired. Her dedication to equity, collaboration and continuous improvement has strengthened psychology practice and elevated the standard of care for consumers.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Lacey Healey - Occupational Therapy; Orange

As a transformational leader in allied health at Orange Health Service, Lacey has built strong, collaborative partnerships across disciplines to ensure care is integrated and patient-centred. She is a strategic advocate for allied health, ensuring it is firmly embedded in planning, policy and service reform. Through mentoring and open communication, Lacey empowers her team to grow with confidence and purpose. Her leadership has strengthened workforce capability, enhanced patient experiences and fostered a culture of excellence and innovation.

Teagan Middleton - Speech Pathology; Orange

As Speech Pathology Manager at Orange Health Service, Teagan leads with compassion, innovation, and a strong focus on staff wellbeing. She has fostered a cohesive, positive workplace culture through initiatives such as wellbeing programs, flexible work practices and open team communication. Teagan’s leadership has expanded access to speech pathology in schools and preschools, improved paediatric service delivery and strengthened collaboration across districts. Her commitment to education, inclusion and empowerment continues to elevate both staff experience and patient care.

Maria Woods - Psychology and Social Work; Child, Youth and Family

A transformative and values-driven leader, Maria has helped redefined care for people affected by violence, abuse and neglect across Western NSW. With more than 25 years in Allied Health, she has led the design and implementation of trauma-informed, culturally safe models now recognised at a statewide level. Through programs such as the IVAN Crisis Response Service and SANE Assist Model, she has helped to strengthen interagency collaboration and clinical excellence. Maria’s leadership combines empathy, integrity and strategic vision to uplift staff, shape systems and ensure vulnerable communities receive compassionate, high-quality care.

AWARD RECIPIENT: Corey Hemopo - Medical Imaging; WNSWLHD

As General Manager of Imaging Services for Western NSW, Corey demonstrates authentic, forward-thinking leadership that has strengthened rural imaging and empowered staff across the district. He established the Radiographer Rural Reliever Program, ensuring service continuity in remote sites, and helped launch sustainability initiatives such as the Greenify Project to reduce waste and costs. Corey champions professional growth through study support, mentoring and leadership opportunities, fostering a culture of innovation, inclusion and excellence.

Sue Blackmore - Social Work; Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

As Clinical Lead of the Got It! program, Sue has revitalised this vital early intervention initiative for children with emerging emotional and behavioural challenges. Drawing on her deep social work expertise, she redesigned program resources, strengthened cross-sector collaboration and expanded delivery across multiple schools. Sue leads with empathy, structure, and vision, embedding wellbeing, reflective practice and professional safety within her team. Her leadership has restored Got It! as a model of excellence, improving outcomes for children, families and staff.

Di Harvey - Multidisciplinary; Virtual Allied Health Service

As the driving force behind Western NSW’s virtual Allied Health Service, Di has focused on building an agile, flexible and sustainable workforce and model that improves access to high-quality care closer to home. While also leading across five disciplines, she has championed equity, workforce development and culturally safe practice through initiatives like the Rural Generalist Allied Health Assistant pilot. Di leads by example, inspiring innovation and collaboration across her team and the wider service.

Courtney Paull - Speech Pathology; Child, Youth and Family

Courtney is a creative and values-driven Speech Pathologist who challenges convention with curiosity and compassion. She pioneered the Virtual Early Talking Group, making early speech support more accessible for families, particularly in rural areas, and designed it around client needs rather than system constraints. By applying health-literacy principles and acting on feedback, she has improved engagement and outcomes. Courtney’s collaborative, multidisciplinary approach and commitment to reflective practice empower colleagues and communities alike, fostering person-centred, equitable Rand practical models of care.

Rebecca Vonow - Medical Imaging; Radiography

Rebecca is a calm and compassionate leader who models professionalism and teamwork within the Bathurst Medical Imaging Department. She manages competing demands with empathy and precision, supporting both staff and patients through her approachable and steady manner. Rebecca strengthens multidisciplinary collaboration through education sessions, fair rostering and mentorship, while her leadership through the development of the Transfer of Care form has improved safety and communication across services. Her inclusive, people-focused approach has fostered a cohesive, positive workplace culture where staff feel valued and supported.

Fairlie Campbell - Occupational Therapy; Bathurst

Fairlie is an inclusive and strategic leader who has strengthened occupational therapy services across Bathurst Health Service. As Acting Head of Department, she has managed increasing demand through effective workforce planning, internal training, and quality improvement projects. Fairlie has expanded clinical capability with initiatives such as the whole-of-hospital hand therapy and lymphoedema service and contributed to the development of the Clinical School. Her professionalism, mentorship, and commitment to collaboration ensure safe, evidence-based, person-centred care across the service.

Molly Banks - Allied Health Management; Bathurst

Molly is a respected leader and strategic thinker who, as Co-Chair of the ACI Brain Injury Rehabilitation Directorate, is leading the development of new care pathways for concussion and mild brain injury, improving access and continuity of care. Combining policy insight with clinical expertise, Molly fosters collaboration across disciplines, mentors staff and advocates for equitable, person-centred services. Her integrity, foresight, and compassion drive lasting improvements for patients and teams.

About this award:

The Early Career Allied Health Professional of the Year has shown exceptional potential during their first two years of practice. They are committed to supporting a positive culture in line with the NSW Health CORE values and are proud to be an allied health professional working in NSW Health. This early career allied health professional demonstrates passion and commitment to the provision of quality, safe and compassionate care to patients and their family and caregivers. They are committed to seeking continuous learning opportunities and are driven to demonstrate emerging clinical excellence for their discipline.

AWARD RECIPIENT: Tony Craw - Speech Pathology; Orange

Tony demonstrates exceptional promise as a Speech Pathologist through his compassionate, evidence-based and person-centred care. He integrates current research into practice, leads service improvement initiatives and advocates strongly for patient dignity and voice. Tony’s professionalism, reflective practice and emerging leadership are evident in his innovative projects, mentorship of peers and ability to elevate patient outcomes. His maturity, empathy and commitment position him as a future leader in his field.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Charlotte Dowding - Psychology; Orange

Charlotte has rapidly established herself as a skilled and compassionate Clinical Psychologist at Orange Community Health. Recognised for her evidence-based, compassionate approach to improving child and family wellbeing, Charlotte has revitalised group programs, strengthened multidisciplinary collaboration and driven initiatives to reduce waiting times and improve coordinated care. Her leadership is shown through service improvements, mentoring peers and coordinating district psychology groups, demonstrating initiative and professionalism well beyond her career stage. Her reflective practice and commitment to accessible, high-quality rural care continue to enhance outcomes across the district.

Lily Hewitt - Occupational Therapy; Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

Since commencing at Bloomfield Hospital, Lily has shown remarkable clinical excellence and leadership in Occupational Therapy. She delivers person-centred, recovery-oriented care, advocates for consumers and leads quality improvement initiatives enhancing discharge planning and trauma-informed care. Her professionalism, reflective practice and strong communication skills exceed expectations for her career stage. Lily’s initiative and maturity make her an exceptional clinician dedicated to elevating the patient experience in mental health care.

Gabi Landers - Speech Pathology; Dubbo

Gabi is an early-career Speech Pathologist demonstrating exceptional potential through her reflective practice, clinical curiosity and commitment to person-centred care. She applies evidence-based approaches across community and hospital settings, leading quality improvement projects that enhance patient experience and safety. Through her initiative in service innovation, collaborative teamwork and progression through the AHEAD program, Gabi shows maturity and professionalism beyond her career stage. Her drive to learn and improve positions her as a future leader.

Emma Dixon; Medical Imaging; Radiography

Emma is a capable and adaptable radiographer whose professionalism and clinical skill have quickly distinguished her across Western NSW, and her initiative and resilience reflect her leadership potential. In her rural reliever role, she provides essential imaging services to remote hospitals, often working independently to maintain access to safe, high-quality care. Emma combines technical precision with a calm, compassionate approach that earns trust from patients and colleagues. 

Lara Clarke - Occupational Therapy; Dubbo

Lara is an insightful and driven Occupational Therapist whose initiative and professionalism have already made a tangible impact within the rehabilitation team. She has strengthened service coordination by refining NDIS processes, improving patient scheduling and mentoring trainees to develop clinical confidence. Engaged in the AHEAD program and ongoing quality improvement work, Lara approaches challenges with curiosity and purpose. Her thoughtful, evidence-based practice and strong sense of collaboration signal a clinician with significant potential for future leadership.

About this award:

This award recognises an allied health assistant or technician who consistently provides extraordinary and quality support for allied health professions and allied health services. They actively support a positive culture in line with NSW Health CORE values. This individual demonstrates a commitment to elevating the patient experience by being the backbone of the allied health service. They show professionalism and are a proven team player.

Nicole Dean - Allied Health Assistant; Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

Nicole is an integral member of the Bloomfield Hospital allied health team, recognised for her initiative, professionalism and commitment to safe, patient-centred care. She improves systems and processes that enhance efficiency, safety, and teamwork, particularly within dietetics and work health and safety. Nicole’s thoughtful, behind-the-scenes leadership strengthens collaboration and elevates the patient and staff experience through her advocacy, innovation, and dedication.

Janine Hando - Pharmacy Technician

With nearly three decades of service, Janine is the cornerstone of the Lachlan Health Service pharmacy team. She leads with professionalism, supporting staff across multiple hospitals to ensure reliable, safe access to medications. Her leadership in the implementation of direct-to-facility supply, as well as training initiatives and mentorship, has enhanced efficiency and safety across multiple sites. Janine’s calm, practical approach and deep understanding of pharmacy operations make her a trusted, respected presence in every team she works with.

Emma Tedeschi - Allied Health Assistant, Physiotherapy; Cowra

Emma’s reliability and compassion underpin her clinical work at Cowra Hospital. She supports patients through education, exercise programs and community engagement, helping to extend physiotherapy services locally. Currently completing her Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance, she is committed to continuous learning and person-centred care. Emma’s professionalism, empathy and growing expertise demonstrate her strong potential.

Lisa Hodges - Allied Health Assistant, Physiotherapy; Wellington

Lisa consistently demonstrates outstanding dedication and support and is recognised for her collaboration, empathy and commitment, not just to the Allied Health team but also the nursing, medical at hotel services teams at Wellington. She supports both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, encourages patient independence and contributes meaningfully to discharge planning. Through her leadership in falls prevention and community programs, Lisa helps patients regain confidence and mobility. Her warmth, adaptability and professional growth reflect a deep commitment to her community and patients.

Kellie Tom - Allied Health Assistant; Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

Kellie has quickly become an outstanding contributor at Bloomfield Hospital, particularly within acute and rehabilitation services. Through art and cooking groups, leisure programs and innovative care activities, she fosters connection, confidence and joy for consumers, including many with complex needs. Kellie’s creative, inclusive and forward-thinking approach ensures all consumers are valued and supported, while her leadership in quality improvement projects demonstrates maturity and potential beyond her career stage.

Liz Phelps - Allied Health Assistant, Speech Pathology; Orange

Liz brings compassion, adaptability and strong clinical insight to her role supporting speech pathology services. She contributes across the care journey, tailoring interventions to individual goals and creating communication resources that empower patients. Through her studies and hands-on experience, Liz combines learning with practice to continually improve care quality. Her professionalism, empathy and collaborative spirit strengthen multidisciplinary teamwork and help patients feel heard, respected and supported throughout their rehabilitation.

Amanda Newton - Rural Allied Health Assistant; Gilgandra

Amanda plays a pivotal role at Gilgandra Multipurpose Service, supporting multiple allied health disciplines through proactive collaboration, effective communication and a commitment to patient-centred care. She helps coordinate multidisciplinary interventions, promotes safe discharges and enhances resident wellbeing through exercise programs and education. Amanda’s professionalism, compassion and ability to adapt to varied rural health needs complement her leadership skills and community focus, reflecting her commitment to improving rural health experiences.

AWARD RECIPIENT: Mariah Delaney - Rural Allied Health Assistant; Nyngan

Mariah, a proud Wiradjuri woman, has quickly become an essential link between virtual and onsite allied health teams in Nyngan. Working across multiple disciplines, she enables essential access to safe, multidisciplinary allied health care in her small community. Known for her initiative and rapport with patients, she leads group programs, identifies risks early and ensures culturally responsive care. Mariah’s empathy, professionalism and dedication to improving services locally highlight her potential as a leader in rural health care.

Amber Phillips - Pharmacy Technician

Amber is a skilled and dedicated pharmacy technician whose leadership and commitment to safety have strengthened medication management across the district. She ensures timely and accurate supply, leads training and education, and plays a key role in improvement projects, including leading the rollout of direct-to-facility medication delivery for rural hospitals. Amber’s professionalism, collaboration and compassion underpin her every interaction, making her a respected colleague and a trusted colleague and leader.

Samantha Hodgson - Allied Health Assistant, Occupational Therapy; Bathurst

Samantha is a vital member of the Occupational Therapy team at Bathurst, valued for her exceptional organisation, initiative and empathy. She has streamlined bookings and organisation of outpatient programs such as hand therapy and is also extremely diligent in supporting rehabilitation and ward therapy, and monitoring equipment safety. Sam’s compassion is reflected in her patient advocacy, and she consistently receives wonderful feedback from patients.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Julie Furner - Pharmacy Technician

Julie has had a lasting impact on patient care during her 19-year career as a Senior Pharmacy Technician at Bathurst Hospital, and throughout her 47 years providing pharmacy support in the broader community. Her exceptional knowledge, adaptability and reliability have made her an integral part of not just the pharmacy team, but the entire hospital. Julie’s mentorship, kindness, professionalism and advocacy continue to improve experiences for both patients and colleagues.

Kellie Colley - Allied Health Assistant; Mudgee

Kellie is dependable and adaptable, managing a diverse caseload across multiple disciplines including Social Work, Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Dietetics and Audiology. She balances complex workloads with exceptional dedication – coordinating care, assisting discharge planning and advocating for patients and clients navigating the health system. Through her strong organisation and positive, collaborative nature, Kellie strengthens multidisciplinary teamwork and improves the experience of care.

Hannah Spittles - Allied Health Assistant, Occupational Therapy Cadet; Dubbo

As an Aboriginal Allied Health Cadet, Hannah’s passion, cultural insight and professionalism are helping to shape more inclusive healthcare at Dubbo and across the broader region. She has contributed to a range of quality improvement projects, developed patient resources and significantly contributed enhancing quality of care and workplace culture. Her leadership potential, unwavering support and commitment to equity reflect a genuine dedication to improving inclusiveness and experiences for her community.