Nurse, Midwife and Team of the Year Awards

About this award

This award recognises a midwife who has made an outstanding contribution in providing and coordinating safe, quality and compassionate woman centred care and consistently displaying the values of commitment, compassion, resilience, professionalism and collaboration.

Finalists

Danielle Selfe – Outreach Maternity Services - Recipient

Danielle Selfe is a highly experienced midwife who has stepped into the Outreach space with confidence, purpose, and professionalism.  Transitioning from acute maternity care, she now delivers comprehensive, woman-centred services across rural and remote communities with no local birthing options.  Danielle brings a rare blend of clinical skill and psychosocial insight, building trust with women and advocating for equitable care.  She tackles complex issues with a firm yet compassionate approach, strengthening connections between community and hospital care.  A self-motivated, high-performing clinician, Danielle has raised the standard in her role and significantly increased engagement with the Outreach service in her area.

Ambrose Hansen – Orange Woman’s and Infants Services

Ambrose Hansen has made an outstanding contribution to the Orange midwifery team since relocating in early 2024.  Her positive, energetic presence is matched by her deep compassion and professionalism.  Ambrose builds strong, trusting relationships with women and their families, providing calm and thoughtful care even in complex situations, such as identifying a stroke in a neurologically compromised antenatal woman, helping ensure a timely transfer and safe outcome.  Beyond clinical care, Ambrose enhances team culture through initiatives like the SROM Award and her thoughtful coordination of social support during life events.  She is a vibrant and valued midwife whose influence extends far beyond the clinical setting.

Jessie Mangan – Orange Woman’s and Infants Services

Jessie Mangan exemplifies what it means to be a calm, capable, and compassionate midwife.  With a background in the Royal Flying Doctor Service, she brings a wealth of emergency and general nursing expertise, along with a clear sense of duty to those in her care.  Jessie is consistently present, dependable, and proactive, supporting her colleagues, mentoring students, and managing high-pressure situations with remarkable composure.  Whether leading back-to-back emergencies or navigating the emotional intensity of caring for a labouring woman experiencing stillbirth, she adapts her care to meet the unique needs of each woman.  Jessie is a steady, empathetic presence and a pillar of support in any team.

About this award

This award aims to recognise midwifery graduates who have shown exceptional potential during their first year of practice.

Finalists

Madeline Dent – Dubbo Maternity - Recipient

Madeline (Maddy) Dent is a dedicated new midwife who brings a grounded, rural perspective to her practice.  With a background in acute care, she applies a clear, systematic approach while maintaining warmth and deep connection with the women she supports.  Maddy’s person-centred care is inclusive and engaging, often bridging clinical knowledge with genuine rapport.  Her ability to educate and involve partners, particularly in underserved regional areas, highlights her commitment to accessible, high-quality maternity care.  She is a rising star in the Dubbo Maternity team.

Kaitlin Harvey – Orange Woman’s and Infants Services

Kaitlin is a calm, capable and compassionate new graduate midwife who delivers consistently high standards of woman-centred care.  Her approachable nature and professionalism help women feel safe, heard and supported, while also making her a trusted colleague.  Drawing on her background as a registered nurse, Kaitlin shares her knowledge generously and is especially valued for her respectful, patient manner when guiding others.  She has quickly become a dependable and empowering presence within the team.

Madeline Dent – Dubbo Maternity - Recipient

Madeline (Maddy) Dent is a dedicated new midwife who brings a grounded, rural perspective to her practice.  With a background in acute care, she applies a clear, systematic approach while maintaining warmth and deep connection with the women she supports.  Maddy’s person-centred care is inclusive and engaging, often bridging clinical knowledge with genuine rapport.  Her ability to educate and involve partners, particularly in underserved regional areas, highlights her commitment to accessible, high-quality maternity care.  She is a rising star in the Dubbo Maternity team.

Renee Hooper - Orange Woman’s and Infants Services

Renee Hooper has shown impressive development and commitment during her graduate year, taking on the challenging role of a group practice midwife with maturity and drive.  Renee delivers care that is both clinically sound and emotionally attuned, earning strong praise from the women and families she supports.  Her dedication to learning, her thoughtful communication and her ability to navigate complex care with compassion make her an integral part of the team and a midwife with great potential to lead and
influence positive change in the future.

Olivia Luck - Orange Woman’s and Infants Services

Olivia Luck has made an impressive transition from private sector training into the dynamic environment of public maternity care at OHS Women’s & Infants.  Adaptable, calm and consistently thorough, Olivia quickly embraced the demands of a busy unit with professionalism and grace.  Her gentle, compassionate presence puts women and their families at ease, while her willingness to seek guidance when needed has earned the trust and respect of her colleagues.  Olivia’s safe, thoughtful approach and strong foundation of clinical care mark her as a promising midwife with a bright future ahead.

About this award

This award recognises a nurse who has made an outstanding contribution in providing and coordinating safe, quality and compassionate patient care and consistently displaying the values of commitment, compassion, resilience, professionalism and collaboration.

Finalists

Nola McAnally – Walanmarra Rehabilitation and Palliative Care at Dubbo Health Service - Recipient

With more than 40 years in nursing, Nola McAnally continues to be a beacon of excellence, compassion and professionalism.  Whether caring for patients in palliative care or supporting rehabilitation goals, Nola brings a rare depth of empathy and commitment to every shift.  She approaches each patient with dignity, offering small but deeply meaningful acts of care that leave a lasting impact.  Her calm presence steadies her team and her kindness uplifts everyone she works with.  Nola is also a dedicated mentor, quietly shaping the careers of countless nurses through her encouragement and example.  She remains an active learner, eager to grow and support her team through every change.  Nola doesn’t just practise nursing - she lives it, and her decades of service continue to inspire all who have the privilege of working beside her.  She is a truly deserving recipient of Nurse of the Year.

Bianca Young - Bathurst Hospital, Operating Theatres

Bianca Young is an exceptional nurse whose dedication spans more than 20 years at Bathurst Hospital, where she continues to deliver high-quality care across operating theatres and general wards.  Known for her versatility and quiet leadership, Bianca steps in wherever needed, supporting both patients and colleagues with compassion and professionalism.  Her commitment extends beyond her local hospital—travelling to rural hospitals in Forbes, Parkes and Bourke to ensure theatre services could continue, and volunteering twice with Mercy Ships in West Africa, gaining global experience to enrich her care back home.  Bianca played a vital role during the COVID pandemic, led by example and continues to support her team through mentorship and kind gestures that lift morale.  Tireless, humble and community-minded, Bianca embodies the values of nursing and is a deeply deserving nominee for Nurse of the Year.

David Blee - Orange Health Service, Special Care Nursery

David Blee is an outstanding neonatal nurse whose practice combines deep clinical expertise with unwavering compassion.  He provides exceptional care to newborns and their families, delivering safe, person-centred support during critical moments.  David’s calm presence, clear communication and ability to address the emotional as well as clinical needs of families set him apart.  He is a strong advocate for evidence-based care, currently undertaking a prospective audit into CPAP use, while actively mentoring colleagues and sharing knowledge.  David wears many hats - nurse, educator, counsellor and advocate - ensuring the highest standards of care are met with warmth and empathy. His contribution to neonatal care is profound and ongoing, making him a truly deserving candidate for Nurse of the Year.

About this award

This award aims to recognise nursing graduates who have shown exceptional potential during their first year of practice.

Finalists

Nancy Nayler - Orange Health Service - Recipient

Nancy Nayler is an exceptional new graduate nurse who has flourished within the Medical Oncology specialty pathway.  She brings an infectious positivity and outstanding clinical diligence to her role, along with a drive for quality and innovation.  From creating her own safety checklists to leading educational initiatives, Nancy is deeply committed to patient-centred, evidence-based care.  Her journey into nursing after a previous career, and her perseverance through early challenges, demonstrate resilience and purpose.  Nancy’s influence on patient safety, team morale and future nursing standards is already evident, and she is a remarkable asset to her team.

Hollie Jewell – Orange Emergency Department

Hollie Jewell is an early career nurse who exemplifies dedication, compassion and a strong sense of patient advocacy.  Known for her thoroughness and calm demeanour, she consistently ensures patient safety, particularly in high-pressure environments such as theatre.  Hollie’s gentle, person-centred approach empowers those in her care and fosters trust among colleagues.  She seeks guidance when needed, demonstrating self-awareness and a commitment to continual learning.  Hollie’s advocacy, integrity and passion for nursing make her a valued member of the team and a deserving nominee.

Somy Maharjan - Bloomfield Hospital Orange, Older Person's Acute Ward

Somy Maharjan has made a remarkable start to her nursing career, displaying maturity, compassion and clinical insight well beyond her experience.  She builds strong, trusting relationships with patients and families, even in complex or emotionally charged situations.  Somy is proactive, eager to learn and consistently steps up to support her team.  A standout example of her care was her calm, comprehensive management of a deteriorating mental health patient, where her leadership and empathy led to improved outcomes and a positive team response.  Somy’s ability to balance professionalism with kindness sets her apart as a future nursing leader.

Tasmin Cox - MHDA, Bloomfield, Adult Acute

Tasman Cox is an outstanding new graduate nurse who brings compassion, reflection and emerging leadership to her role in mental health and substance use care.  Her ability to engage with consumers empathetically, see the world through their eyes and communicate with warmth has had a powerful impact on patient experiences.  Tasman consistently promotes thoughtful reflection in her peers, as shown in her respectful leadership during clinical discussions.  Her commitment to quality care, professional
development and creating a culture of kindness and safety makes her a highly respected member of her team and an exceptional nurse early in her career.

Zita Lamph - Walgett Multi Purpose Service

Zita Lamph is a dedicated rural nurse who returned to her community with a strong commitment to providing high-quality care in Walgett.  Her calm, capable presence in emergency situations, including trauma and pre-term birth, reflects her readiness and critical thinking beyond her experience level.  Zita’s strong connection to her patients, combined with her compassion and willingness to grow has made her a reliable and valued colleague.  With her progression through emergency nursing education and her desire to stay and develop as a rural generalist, Zita represents the future of rural nursing and is deeply appreciated by her team and community.

About this award

This award recognises an outstanding Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander nurse of midwife who demonstrates exceptional commitment to the provision of quality, safe, compassionate and culturally appropriate health care of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and/or communities.

Finalists

Amy Sutherland – Gilgandra, Castlereagh Sector - Recipient

Amy Sutherland is a respected leader in Aboriginal healthcare within Western NSW Local Health District, where she serves as the first Aboriginal-identified Transitional Nurse Practitioner.  With over 15 years of experience across emergency, acute, palliative and community care, she has contributed significantly to developing culturally safe clinical practices in rural and remote settings.  Amy is committed to mentoring healthcare professionals and ensuring that Aboriginal perspectives are embedded in care delivery.  Her work at Gilgandra Multipurpose Service has helped improve emergency care for Aboriginal patients and her ongoing studies toward a Rural Generalist Nurse Practitioner qualification highlight her dedication to healthcare equity.  Amy’s professionalism, cultural insight and commitment continue to inspire colleagues and strengthen care for Aboriginal communities.

Cassandra Goodman- Orange Risk Management Ward

Cassandra Goodman has built an inspiring career within Western NSW Local Health District, progressing from a Hospital Assistant to a Registered Nurse through hard work and dedication.  A passionate advocate for Aboriginal patients and their families, she has played a vital role in promoting culturally safe care across the district.  Her involvement in the Reconciliation Action Plan was particularly meaningful, allowing her to help strengthen relationships and trust between health services and Aboriginal communities.  Cassandra is also committed to building the professional capacity of Aboriginal nursing staff and actively supports initiatives such as the Aboriginal Nurses Network.  Her leadership and advocacy continue to make a lasting impact on both her colleagues and the communities she serves.

About this award

This award recognises a nurse or midwife who demonstrates outstanding leadership in the areas of clinical care, management, education or research.

Finalists

Danielle Syme – Orange Health Service, Women's and Infants Unit - Recipient

Danielle Syme exemplifies the highest standards of nursing practice and patient care.  As the Midwifery Unit Manager at Orange Health Service, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional clinical skills, unwavering commitment to patient safety and a deep compassion for the families she serves.

Her leadership in the Indication for Births <39wk project resulted in a significant reduction in non-medically indicated birth interventions and a decrease in Special Care Nursery admissions for jaundice care.  This initiative not only improved clinical outcomes but also enhanced the overall patient experience by promoting evidence-based practices and individualized care.

Danielle's dedication to continuous professional development and her proactive approach to implementing best practices underscore her commitment to excellence in nursing.  Her ability to inspire and lead her team in providing compassionate, patient-centred care makes her a deserving candidate for this award.

Laura Cusack – Blayney Multipurpose Service

Since joining Blayney in March 2024, Laura Cusack has demonstrated outstanding clinical expertise and a steadfast commitment to patient care.  Her leadership in implementing bedside handover and patient identification processes has significantly improved patient safety and communication among the healthcare team.

Laura's compassionate approach to patient care is evident in her daily interactions with residents, patients and their families.  She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that each individual receives personalized and respectful care.  Her dedication to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment has earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.

Her proactive involvement in quality improvement initiatives and her commitment to professional development exemplify the qualities of an exceptional nurse.  Laura's unwavering dedication to providing high-quality, patient-centred care makes her an exemplary nominee for this award.

Lucy Rolek – Mental health, drug and alcohol team, Dubbo

Lucy Rolek has consistently demonstrated exceptional clinical judgment, resilience and a commitment to excellence in nursing practice.  Despite staffing shortages and increased clinical demands, she has maintained a high standard of care, ensuring patient safety and satisfaction.

Her initiative in leading the Activity Based Funding (ABF) improvement project showcases her ability to identify areas for enhancement and implement effective solutions that align clinical practice with funding outcomes.  Through this project, Lucy empowered her team to take ownership of their practice, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Lucy's dedication to professional development and her supportive approach to mentoring colleagues highlight her commitment to advancing nursing practice.  Her contributions have not only improved patient care but also strengthened the nursing team's capabilities, making her a deserving candidate for this award.

Melissa Waterford - Bathurst Maternity Unit

Melissa Waterford has demonstrated exceptional clinical leadership and a profound commitment to patient-centred care throughout her tenure as the Midwifery Unit Manager at Bathurst Maternity.  Her innovative approach to addressing the needs of at-risk pregnant women, particularly through the initiation of inpatient detox programs, has significantly improved maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Her ability to integrate medical, social and emotional support into a comprehensive care model reflects her holistic approach to nursing practice.  By building trust and fostering an environment where women feel valued and supported, Melissa has enhanced patient engagement and satisfaction.

Melissa's dedication to continuous improvement and her advocacy for vulnerable populations underscore her commitment to excellence in nursing.  Her compassionate care and innovative leadership make her an exemplary nominee for this award.

Tegan Jones – CREST

Tegan Jones has made significant contributions to nursing education through her innovative development of culturally sensitive educational resources.  Her work on the privacy video project, which thoughtfully incorporated patient narratives and cultural contexts, has enhanced the delivery of education and fostered a deeper understanding of patient experiences among healthcare professionals.

Her commitment to professionalism and ethical practice is evident in her meticulous attention to detail and adherence to evidence-based standards.  Tegan's ability to collaborate across disciplines and her dedication to improving educational outcomes have positively impacted both staff development and patient care.

Tegan's leadership in education exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding nurse and her contributions have had a lasting impact on the nursing community.  Her innovative approach and unwavering dedication make her a deserving candidate for this award.

About this award

This award recognises the contribution of an outstanding nurse or midwife who, throughout their career, has had a positive and sustained influence on patients, the health system, and their profession.

Finalists

Sandra Wharton – Quality Clinical Safety and Nursing Directorate - Recipient

Sandra Wharton has been nominated for her exceptional leadership and nearly 30 years of dedication to Infection Prevention and Control (IP&C) across Western NSW.  Sandra has been pivotal in managing complex public health challenges, including outbreaks and accreditation, with a focus on rural health settings.  Her calm, solution-focused approach during the COVID-19 pandemic ensured the containment of an outbreak in a small rural service, balancing patient care and staff wellbeing.  As a contributor to state-level policy through the Clinical Excellence Commission, Sandra’s impact extends beyond local care, influencing the broader health system.  Her career exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and compassion in nursing.

Bernadette Orange – Specialist Palliative Care

Bernadette Orange has been nominated for her remarkable leadership and commitment to palliative care over more than 20 years.  As a key member of the palliative care team, Bernadette has championed the introduction of a Nurse Practitioner role to improve access to specialist care in rural and remote areas.  Her recent leadership during a challenging case exemplified her expertise and dedication, providing both hands-on patient care and supporting her team through difficult emotional situations.  Known for her compassionate, person-centred approach, Bernadette fosters resilience and professional growth in her colleagues, making her an invaluable asset to the service and a deserving nominee for this prestigious award.

About this award

This award recognises a Nurse or Midwife who has made an outstanding contribution to nursing/midwifery research while maintaining excellence in providing and coordinating safe, quality and compassionate patient care.

Finalists

Catherine Leahy – Quality Clinical Safety and Nursing Directorate - Recipient

Catherine Leahy has made a significant impact in rural and remote wound care through her innovative research.  She is leading critical studies such as the TRIVIA project, exploring the use of a topical gel for venous leg ulcers and the ENABLE study, which integrates digital wound care tools to improve patient outcomes.  Catherine’s work in virtual wound consultancy is improving access to specialist care in underserved areas.  She actively collaborates with clinicians, researchers and professional bodies to ensure her research is practical and patient-centred, with a strong focus on equity and care accessibility.  Her dedication to mentorship and contribution to the strategic development of nursing research further demonstrates her leadership in advancing healthcare.

James Hindman - Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol

James Hindman has been a key figure in Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol (MHDA) nursing, advocating for both research and clinical practice improvement.  His work on the Transition to Practice framework for new MHDA nurses has been ground-breaking, helping to shape the pathway for new graduates entering the field.  James has been involved in numerous research projects, utilising diverse methodologies and has presented widely on topics such as digital induction and the statewide implementation of transitional nursing programs.  His ongoing PhD work underscores his commitment to advancing nursing research within MHDA and his passion for improving nursing practice and outcomes in this sector is evident through his multiple quality awards and dedication to research-driven change.

Sandra Taylor - Dubbo Health Service

Sandra Taylor has played a pivotal role in advancing clinical trials and research at Dubbo.  As the Clinical Nurse Consultant for Clinical Trials & Research, she has expanded the number of clinical trials available to patients, offering them more treatment options.  Sandra introduced a nursing journal club, sparking increased engagement with research across nursing and midwifery teams.  She has also developed resources to guide clinicians through research and quality improvement processes, positioning her as a key support for those looking to integrate research into their practice.  Sandra’s approachable, professional and supportive nature, alongside her strong commitment to professional development, makes her an exceptional leader in clinical research.

About this award

This award recognises a team which provides service/program/initiatives that benefit the patients/women/consumers or community and enhances patient and staff experience.

Finalists

WNSWLHD Aged Care Assessment Team - Recipient

The Aged Care Assessment Team plays a critical role in providing essential support to older individuals across various settings, including community, hospitals and aged care homes.  Despite the challenges posed by the new Aged Care Act, the team has demonstrated resilience, maintaining high standards of professionalism and compassion.  Their tailored assessments, such as the care plan that helped 87-year-old Joan return home safely, highlight their commitment to meeting the specific needs of older Australians.  The team's collaboration with families and healthcare professionals, along with their critical thinking and person-centred care approach, ensures the highest quality of care for vulnerable individuals.

Orange Health Service, Ambulatory Care Team

The Ambulatory Care Team at Orange has excelled in providing patient-centred care, consistently improving the patient and staff experience.  Through effective teamwork, they have streamlined processes and enhanced accessibility, ensuring personalised care plans that cater to both immediate and long-term health needs.  One notable example was their successful coordination of a multidisciplinary care plan for a patient with a complex, chronic condition, which reduced anxiety and significantly improved health outcomes.  The team's focus on professionalism, empathy and collaboration not only fosters a supportive work environment but also ensures high-quality care, setting a benchmark for holistic, person-centred approaches.

Cowra Health Service, Maternity Team

The Cowra Maternity Team consistently provides outstanding care in a rural setting, where their dedication to women-centred care is making a profound impact on local families.  Comprising midwives and GP obstetricians, they take a holistic approach, fostering close relationships with patients and ensuring every step of the care process is informed and respectful.  A standout example of their care was providing empathetic support to a mother with postpartum concerns, ensuring she was empowered to make informed decisions about her health.  The team’s ability to deliver personalised, compassionate care in a close-knit community demonstrates their leadership, collaboration and person-centred approach.

Dubbo Health Service, After Hours Facility Managers

The After Hours Facility Managers (AHFM) team at Dubbo Health Service plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations during after-hours shifts.  Their resilience and professionalism were particularly evident when a team member was critically injured in a house fire, yet the team remained composed and managed to maintain high-quality patient care while also providing support to the colleague’s family.  The AHFM team is essential in managing patient flow, coordinating resources and responding to emergencies, all while supporting the wellbeing of both staff and patients, ensuring Dubbo Health Service continues to function seamlessly during times of high stress.

Involuntary Drug and Alcohol Treatment Unit, Orange

The IDAT team delivers exceptional care in an incredibly demanding environment, providing treatment for individuals with drug and alcohol dependencies in an involuntary setting.  Their approach combines sensitivity, empathy and professionalism, which is essential in maintaining trauma-informed care.  A notable achievement was their work with a young woman who initially resisted care.  Through consistent efforts, they built trust, encouraging her to engage with the treatment process, resulting in a significant positive change in her wellbeing.  The IDAT team’s dedication to providing dignified, person-centred care, while working collaboratively across disciplines, ensures the best possible outcomes for their patients.

Orange Health Service, Maternity Team

The Orange Health Service Maternity Team exemplifies excellence in patient care, consistently delivering the highest standards of service in a challenging environment.  Their commitment to continuous improvement is evident in their successful Quality Improvement (QI) project, which reduced early inductions and led to better outcomes for mothers and babies.  Through collaborative teamwork between obstetrics and midwifery, they have made significant strides in enhancing patient care and outcomes.  The team’s dedication to safe, evidence-based practices, alongside their proactive involvement in QI initiatives, showcases their focus on providing optimal care for women and babies across the central west.

Orange Hospital-in-the-home (HITH) – Ambulatory Care and Community Nursing Team

The Orange Hospital in the Home (HITH) team, encompassing ambulatory and community nursing, provides a flexible, professional approach to patient care, often in the comfort of patients’ homes.  This team’s ability to provide seamless transitions across multiple care levels has improved patient outcomes, such as the case of a patient who, after being re-engaged with healthcare services, ultimately received a life-saving liver transplant.  Their collaborative approach with medical teams, combined with an emphasis on continual learning, ensures not only improved patient outcomes but also contributes to the broader healthcare community through active participation in conferences and presentations.

WNSWLHD Public Health Unit Communicable Disease and Immunisation Team

The Public Health Unit’s Communicable Disease and Immunisation Team plays a vital role in safeguarding the community against vaccine-preventable diseases.  Their efforts in responding to outbreaks of diseases like Pertussis and Pneumococcal Disease, as well as their proactive role in Tuberculosis screening and testing, have had a significant impact on public health.  Notably, their collaboration with Aboriginal Health Practitioners and local health teams to improve vaccination uptake in vulnerable populations highlights their commitment to culturally safe care.  Their extensive outreach efforts and dedication to preventing disease through education and vaccination clinics in rural areas showcase their essential contribution to public health.