Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards 2025

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Opportunities are now available for organisations interested in sponsoring the 2025 NSW Health Nursing and Midwifery Awards. To register your interest and for more information, download the sponsorship prospectus or contact MOH-ExcellenceInNursingAndMidwiferyAwards@health.nsw.gov.au

Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards 2025 - Celebrating the team enriching health in millions of ways every day

Congratulations to the 2025 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards finalists

These awards acknowledge the passion, dedication and contributions of nurses and midwives, who positively impact the health outcomes of patients, women and families across NSW.

Kamala Nursing team, Mental Health Unit, Lismore Base Hospital, Northern NSW LHD
The Kamala Nursing Team at Lismore Base Hospital make an exceptional contribution to youth mental health care through innovative, inclusive, and patient-centred service delivery.
Their commitment to excellence is reflected in several quality improvement projects, including a co-designed welcome brochure and video developed in response to consumer feedback—ensuring young people feel informed and welcomed from the moment of admission, and daily embedded LGBTQIA+ initiatives promoting a safe and inclusive environment, as well as a daily on-site school program tailored to each patient's goals, promoting structure, routine, and a sense of normalcy during admission.
The strong team culture is evident in their unwavering support for one another, creating a collaborative and psychologically safe workplace.
Through their dedication to person-centred care, collaborative practice, and continuous improvement, the Kamala Nursing Team has made a profound and lasting impact on the lives of young people, their families, and the broader health system.
Nursing team, Children's Ward, Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Mid North Coast LHD
The Port Macquarie Base Hospital Children's Ward deliver outstanding innovation, collaborative excellence, and unwavering commitment to exceptional, child-centred care.
This dynamic team has not only transformed paediatric care in the hospital but has shown visionary leadership and meaningful change at a state level. Their pioneering initiative to make the reduce the anxiety of the hospital accreditation process and make it more child-friendly, has been so impactful that it has been adopted by tertiary children's hospitals across NSW.
The team exemplifies inclusive, compassionate, and respectful care. They collaborate seamlessly with families, allied health, and other departments to ensure holistic care, and their culture of openness and support has created a resilient, high-performing team.
Projects such as Yucky Medicine, Cartoon Nurses' Mask Effect, and The Big Red Project enhance emotional safety and understanding for children. These creative, child-led initiatives ease fear and build trust.
This team is a shining example of excellence in regional paediatric healthcare—innovative, collaborative, and deeply committed to patient and staff wellbeing.
Nursing team, Respiratory Ward, Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney LHD
The nursing team in the Respiratory Aged Care Ward C73 at Blacktown Hospital use incredible collaboration, open communication, resilience, and dedication to care for high-acuity, complex and vulnerable patients.
One of the key strengths of the team lies in their commitment to supporting the growth and development of novice staff. They prioritise mentoring and encouragement, offering hands-on learning opportunities, structured guidance, and ongoing support.
The team plays an active role in discharge planning, working to ensure patients transition smoothly from hospital to home or other care settings. They collaborate closely with patients and their families to ensure clear understanding of the next steps in care, fostering open communication and providing reassurance during what can often be a stressful period.
Their ability to connect with patients, including those with behavioural challenges, and to communicate effectively with patients, families and carers has significantly contributed to the delivery of effective patient-centred care.
Their teamwork and dedication truly embody the values of nursing and midwifery, and the team takes great pride in the care they provide.
Tunya Cabello, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Primary & Community Health, South Western Sydney LHD
Tunya exemplifies outstanding leadership, clinical excellence, and cultural advocacy within NSW Health.
From beginning her nursing career as an AIN, to completing a Bachelor of Nursing, Graduate Certificates in Child and Family Health and Nursing Education, Tunya is dedicated to advancing her skills and knowledge.
Tunya's impact extends beyond clinical practice; she is a respected mentor to both Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal nurses and Aboriginal Health Workers, inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Tunya combines a highly developed clinical skillset with cultural knowledge and leadership, enhancing her practice and the services she supports.
Her career reflects a powerful blend of clinical excellence, cultural leadership, and community engagement, making her a vital contributor to Aboriginal health and wellbeing in the region.
Amy Sutherland, Aboriginal Transitional Nurse Practitioner, Rural Generalist, Western NSW LHD
Amy Sutherland demonstrates excellence in healthcare while breaking down barriers for Indigenous health professionals in rural communities.
As Western NSW Local Health District's first Aboriginal-identified Transitional Nurse Practitioner, Amy represents a significant breakthrough in Indigenous healthcare leadership, creating pathways for future generations of Aboriginal health professionals.
Amy's 15-year nursing career demonstrates true dedication to rural and remote healthcare. Her journey from nursing graduate to advanced practice nurse highlights her commitment to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal people in her community.
As a proud recipient of the Puggy Hunter Scholarship and graduate of the NSW Health Aboriginal Cadetship Program, Amy has consistently used educational opportunities to build capacity within rural healthcare systems.
Kristy Leonard, Registered Nurse, Community Health, Mid North Coast LHD
Registered nurse Kristy Leonard, a proud Gamilaroi woman, has exceptional commitment to culturally safe and compassionate care for Aboriginal children and families.
Kristy began her nursing journey as an Enrolled Nurse before undertaking her Bachelor of Nursing and joining the MNCLHD Aboriginal Nursing Cadetship Program. She later undertook a postgraduate certificate in paediatric nursing and worked in the paediatric unit at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.
Her integrity, cultural leadership, and passion for improving health outcomes make her an outstanding nominee for Aboriginal Nurse of the Year.
Now working in the Keep Them Safe Out of Home Care (OOHC) Health Pathway and as a Wellbeing and Health In-reach Nurse Coordinator, Kristy supports some of our most vulnerable Aboriginal children. She builds trust, coordinates wrap-around support and ensures culturally responsive care.
Her work empowers children and families and strengthens interagency collaboration across health, education, and community sectors.
Thomas Mull-Mathers, Registered Nurse, Tweed Valley Hospital ED, Northern NSW LHD
Since joining the Tweed Valley Hospital (TVH) Emergency Department as a graduate nurse in March 2024, Tommy has quickly become a valued member of the team.
He is a genuinely kind, compassionate, and hardworking nurse who demonstrates maturity well beyond his early career stage. Always smiling, Tommy brings warmth to patients and colleagues alike.
He has excelled in the fast-paced emergency environment, showing exceptional communication and clinical assessment skills and always keeping the patient at the centre of his care.
He has shown strong commitment to becoming an emergency nurse by taking responsibility for his learning, completing all his competencies and continuing to pursue self-directed education.
In recognition of his outstanding performance, commitment to learning, and the positive impact he has made in our department, Northern NSW LOHD have proudly nominated Tommy for the NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Award in the New to Practice category.
Storm Baldwin, Registered Nurse, Blacktown Hospital ED, Western Sydney LHD
Since joining the A21 Emergency dept team, Storm has exemplified the qualities that define an outstanding nurse: compassion, integrity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to professional growth.
From the very first day, Storm has distinguished himself as a personable, hardworking, and highly motivated clinician. He actively seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge and refine his skills, consistently demonstrating a strong desire to provide exceptional care.
Despite being early in his career, he approaches every challenge with calm professionalism, earning the respect and admiration of both colleagues and patients. His positive attitude and genuine kindness contribute significantly to the compassionate and supportive culture we strive to maintain.
In every sense, Storm Baldwin is an exceptional emerging practitioner. His dedication, empathy, and proactive pursuit of excellence make him a standout member of the team and a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition. Without doubt Storm will continue to grow into a remarkable nurse.
Jonty Donald, Registered Nurse, Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney LHD
Jonty Donald is a new graduate nurse in his first year of practice with Drug Health Services in the Sydney Local Health District.
Jonty has shown an incredible passion for working with vulnerable populations and a strong commitment to nursing, and his proactive approach to learning is outstanding. He doesn't wait for opportunities to come to him, he takes the initiative.
In his first year as a registered nurse Jonty has demonstrated exceptional nursing practice, characterised by compassion, leadership, and a commitment to his professional development. His approach to care not only improves patient outcomes but also positively influences his colleagues and the wider community.
Beyond his clinical work, his enthusiasm, positive attitude, and genuine commitment to his growth and the nursing profession - particularly in drug and alcohol - have made him a standout in his first year.
Jonty's hard work, initiative, and passion for providing quality care make him a perfect candidate for this award.
Svetlana Ilich, Clinical Midwifery Specialist, Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney LHD
Svetlana Ilich's commitment to high-quality, compassionate midwifery care has had a profound and lasting impact on women and families experiencing the trauma of pregnancy loss.
Since 2021, she has played a pivotal role in establishing a dedicated Bereavement and Perinatal Service at Blacktown Hospital, bringing a significant focus to this area of maternity care.
Her leadership and empathy have been instrumental in shaping a service that supports families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.
Svetlana completed a specialised Bereavement and Counselling course to ensure she was clinically equipped to support women and families through grief and trauma. Her proactive approach reflects a deep commitment to professional growth and high-quality care.
She consistently considers the holistic wellbeing of women and their loved ones, placing family engagement and positive patient experience at the core of her work.
Svetlana's long-standing dedication to midwifery and the profound, lasting impact she has on the families she supports make her an outstanding nominee for the Midwife of the Year Award. Her work exemplifies the very best of midwifery care—skilled, compassionate, and deeply human.
Kezia Riggs, Registered Midwife, Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, Northern Sydney LHD
Registered midwife, Kezia Riggs, demonstrates outstanding leadership, compassion, and innovation within maternity and neonatal care.
As a young leader, Kezia consistently demonstrates a proactive and compassionate approach to optimising patient care, particularly in the Special Care Nursery. She anticipates the needs of new parents with remarkable insight, ensuring families feel supported during what can be an overwhelming time.
Kezia's clinical expertise is complemented by her dedication to improving systems and processes. She led the successful implementation of the Phototherapy at Home Project, empowering parents, reducing hospital stays, and strengthening community engagement.
Her leadership style is collaborative and courageous; she takes calculated risks within evidence-based boundaries and encourages her team to innovate alongside her. Kezia's communication skills—verbal, written, and non-verbal—are exemplary, fostering trust and openness among colleagues and families alike.
Kezia is a rising star whose clinical skill, compassionate care, and visionary leadership have already made a profound and lasting impact on maternity services. She is truly deserving of recognition.
Penelope Vukovich, Registered Midwife, Fairfield Hospital, South Western Sydney LHD
With 49 years of unwavering dedication as a midwife and nurse, Penelope Vukovich exemplifies an outstanding role model and mentor for the art and science of midwifery every day.
She combines exceptional clinical knowledge with a calm, reassuring presence, consistently providing outstanding care to mothers and families.
Penny is also a passionate advocate for women's health and wellbeing, bringing warmth, empathy and dedication to her role. She goes beyond her clinical expertise, supporting colleagues and fostering a culture of compassion and respect.
She is described as an inspiring mentor who leads by example, creating a safe and encouraging environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Penny's commitment to supporting student midwives and new graduates is unparalleled; questions are met with kindness and learning is embraced.
Coco Knight, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Drug Health Services, Sydney LHD
Clinical Nurse Specialist, Coco Knight's commitment to providing compassionate, culturally sensitive, and patient-centred care within the Drug Health Service, is exceptional.
Since joining the Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Service (SUPPS) team in mid-2024, Coco has seamlessly integrated her extensive experience as a neonatal nurse and as a wellbeing and health In-reach nurse into the complexities of drug health.
She consistently demonstrates outstanding adaptability, dedication, advanced clinical judgment, and leadership in delivering complex care.
She has proactively engaged with diverse services within Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) and other Local Health Districts (LHDs), building collaborative relationships with stakeholders and contributing to the development and implementation of clinical practices and policies.
Her empathetic and culturally appropriate approach, particularly when working with Aboriginal women, has fostered trust and engagement among patients.
Coco consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that patients feel heard, supported, and safe, embodying the core values of compassionate and quality care.
Judy Taylor, Clinical Nurse Educator, Ambulatory Care, POW, South East Sydney LHD
Judy Taylor is an outstanding nurse educator whose dedication to teaching, training, and professional development has made a profound impact at Prince of Wales Hospital.
With 37 years of committed service, Judy exemplifies the values of excellence, leadership, and compassion in nursing, and she plays a vital role in fostering clinical capability across teams.
Her strong work ethic and deep sense of responsibility consistently drive her to go above and beyond to enhance patient care and staff education. She is highly regarded for designing and implementing innovative patient education programs that
empower individuals to take control of their health, promoting better outcomes and long-term self-management.
Equally impactful is her dedication to staff training—she actively mentors nurses at all levels and creates a culture of continuous learning.
Her collaborative approach extends beyond her immediate teams. Judy champions multidisciplinary teamwork, improves communication pathways, and advocates for patient-centred innovations that benefit the broader hospital community.
Shivam Dhiman, Registered Nurse, Surgical/Orthopaedic,Fairfield Hospital, South Western Sydney LHD
In the four years since Shivam Dhiman has been a registered nurse, he has grown from a new graduate nurse into an exceptional clinician and a shining beacon of compassion and dedication within the nursing team at Fairfield Hospital in the South Western Sydney LHD.
Shivam is highly respected by his peers and universally loved by his patients. He consistently goes above and beyond to provide the highest standard of care, combining empathy, professionalism, and an ever-calm reassuring presence even in the most demanding circumstances.
He has confidently stepped into the role of in-charge nurse, seamlessly balancing the demands of a busy shift with the responsibility of guiding and supporting junior staff. He addresses complex issues with quiet strength and steadfast focus, ensuring that every patient and team member feels heard, valued, and cared for.
Colleagues turn to Shivam for his patient wisdom and unwavering kindness. His natural leadership, paired with his approachable and collaborative nature, has made him the heart of our team and an inspiration to all who work alongside him.
Sarah Driver, Registered Nurse, Bathurst Base Hospital ED, Western NSW LHD
Registered nurse, Sarah Driver, was nominated for the Healing Heart (consumer) Award by a patient who says her life was changed forever by Sarah's professional and genuinely compassionate care at Bathurst Base Hospital's emergency department.
The nomination highlights Sarah's skilled care and empathy, but it was the kindness of her small gestures that really made the difference.
“When I was admitted … I was conscious but unable to open my eyes or move," the patient said. “Sarah's voice became my lifeline—a calm, steady presence amidst the chaos.
“She spoke to me gently, explaining each step and ensuring I felt safe. She didn't just treat me as a patient—she treated me as a person, deserving of dignity and respect.
“She held my hand when I needed reassurance. When tears escaped, she wiped them away—not as part of her job, but with genuine kindness."
The patient felt heard, protected and cared for.
Tamara Shaw, Transitional Nurse Practitioner, Paediatric Palliative Care, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, SCHN
Tamara Shaw is a Transitional Nurse Practitioner at the Sydney Children's Hospital in Randwick and has been nominated for the Healing Heart (consumer) Award by the parents of a teenage girl Tamara cared for, specifically for the kindness, dignity, and humanity Tamara has provided.
“When your child is in the care of a paediatric palliative team, your world has already shifted into a place no parent ever imagines. In that space, we met Tamara Shaw — and what a gift she has been.
“Together with the incredible team she's part of, Tamara has turned some very difficult days into some of our most beautiful memories…these moments are more than just sweet distractions — they're deeply therapeutic and profoundly humanising.
“We are endlessly grateful for Tamara and everything she brings into our lives. Her spirit, care, and commitment reflect the very best of nursing — and we are so proud to nominate her for this recognition."
Ruaidhri Carey, Clinical Nurse Consultant,ICU Green, RPA, Sydney LHD
Ruaidhri Carey has been nominated for the Healing Heart Consumer Award for his outstanding professionalism, care, and unwavering support.
The nomination was submitted by the wife of a man who was admitted to intensive care on life support.
During a challenging and frightening time, the nomination says: “Amidst the fear and uncertainty, Ru stood out as a calm, knowledgeable, and deeply compassionate presence who made an immeasurable difference to our experience and my husband's recovery.
“His ability to manage expectations with both transparency and empathy is something I will never forget.
Over a three-month period, Ruaidhri's extensive knowledge, kindness and generosity made all the difference.
“From those terrifying early days to the quiet joy of those first steps outside, Ru remained a constant, ensuring we felt safe, understood, and never alone."
Poumansing (Raj) Gujraz, Nurse Manager, Falls Prevention Co-ordinator, South Western Sydney LHD
Raj exemplifies outstanding leadership, nursing skill, collaboration and dedication in his role as Falls Prevention Coordinator at South Western Sydney Local Health District (SWSLHD).
Through innovation and enthusiasm, Raj has elevated patient care by seamlessly integrating falls risk management into all aspects of the comprehensive care model.
Raj is a distinguished leader who empowers health care teams to rethink patient management strategies and seek continuous improvements to enhance safety.
His contributions are evident in the deployment of safety tools such as the safety cross, recognition of “days without falls" and active participation in risk modelling and safety huddles across the Local Health District (LHD).
With a “can do" approach, Raj's exceptional communication, interpersonal skills and visionary leadership set a benchmark for excellence within the Nursing and Midwifery profession.
Raj's ability to inspire change, drive improvement and advocate for patient centred care makes him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition
Jordan Fenech, A/Nurse Manager, Blacktown Hospital ED, Western Sydney LHD
Jordan Fenech, acting Nurse Manager in emergency at Blacktown Hospital, provides outstanding leadership, vision, and transformative impact.
Jordan has driven key initiatives that have markedly improved ED performance and patient outcomes. Notably, his leadership of the T2 Nurse project accelerated treatment times for Category 2 patients, earning multiple district awards.
He also played a crucial role in reducing ambulance Transfer of Care times by fostering better coordination between NSW Ambulance services and ED workflows.
A forward-thinking leader, he has further strengthened care by collaborating with mental health, patient safety, and executive teams to embed sustainable, high-functioning care models.
Jordan is a dedicated mentor and culture-builder whose daily leadership and commitment to clinical excellence empower his team, establishing him as a nursing leader of the highest calibre.
Nicole Knight, Divisional Nurse Manager, Coffs Harbour Health Campus, Mid North Coast LHD
Nicole Knight is the epitome of a compassionate, authentic, and high-functioning nurse leader.
In her role as Divisional Nurse Manager of Critical Care and Surgical Services, Nicole leads with integrity, humility, and grace. She is not afraid to show vulnerability with staff, to roll up her sleeves and run a ventilator, or to sit with a grieving family all day—because she leads with her heart.
She is calm under pressure, deeply knowledgeable, and always present for her team. Her leadership is not about recognition; it's about impact.
Nicole is currently relieving as the Director of Nursing and Midwifery / Manager of Inpatient Services at CHHC. She achieves this success not by changing who she is, but by expanding her influence while staying grounded, real, and deeply human.
Nicole is a mentor, a role model, and a quiet force of change. She doesn't seek the spotlight, but her influence is undeniable. Her leadership has shaped not only clinical excellence but also a culture of respect, compassion, and courage.
Jacqui Jagger, Nurse Practitioner, District Cancer Services, Central Coast LHD
Jacqui Jagger is an exceptional Nurse Practitioner whose 30-year career exemplifies the highest standards of nursing leadership, innovation, and compassionate care.
At Central Coast LHD, she has established programs that transition haematology care from inpatient to outpatient settings, introduced self-administration of chemotherapy at home, and developed models that reduce ED presentations and hospital admissions.
She's widely recognised for creating safe, effective nurse-led services for patients undergoing complex treatment, including those with acute leukaemia and multiple myeloma.
Jacqui's work extends beyond the bedside. She is an active member of the Haematology Society of Australia and New Zealand (HSANZ) and co-founded the Myeloma Specialist Practice Network.
Jacqui is deeply committed to empowering patients. As president of the Central Coast Myeloma Support Group, she leads education, and fundraising efforts – including participating in the World's Greatest Shave for her patients, sporting a “very close shave."
Etienne Kitto, Nurse Educator, Mental Health, Sydney LHD
Etienne Kitto has worked for Sydney Local Health District for more than 4 decades in his current role as Senior Nurse Educator- Psychiatry and Mental Health and as a former nurse manager and an exceptional mental health nurse.
He has never stopped being passionate, empathetic, and tireless in promoting optimal mental health practice by developing and delivering multiple accredited training programs.
Etienne is extremely well-regarded as an expert in mental health practice with a focus on up-to-date evidence-based practice and a curiosity and openness that makes him an excellent collaborator with people with lived experience of mental health and all healthcare staff.
His gentle, sensitive and warm nature brings the workplace together and has influenced many at work to nourish a supportive and positive workplace culture.
He has coached many health professionals who became senior clinicians, managers, and clinical leads in mental health services, which has been an extraordinary contribution to the health system of identifying and nurturing talents.
Michele Rule, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Haematology/Oncology, St Vincent's Health Network
Michele Rule's contributions to cancer nursing over a remarkable 36-year career are outstanding.
Michele is the longest-serving member of the cancer stream at St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, and she has played an integral role in shaping cancer nursing practice, not only at St Vincent's but across NSW. She was involved in the early development of what is now the Cancer Institute NSW,
Her encyclopaedic knowledge of chemotherapy, dedication to nurse education, and steadfast commitment to patient-centred care exemplify clinical excellence and embody the core values of compassion, justice, integrity and excellence.
She fosters a positive and professional workplace culture, inspires those around her, and generously mentors emerging nurses.
A role model in every sense, Michele combines clinical expertise with warmth, humility, and style. Her enduring impact makes her worthy of recognition.
Katherine Martin, Nursing Unit Manager, Kempsey District Hospital, Mid North Coast LHD
Kate Martin capably runs the Inpatient and Rehabilitation wards at Kempsey District Hospital, always making time for her staff and patients alike.
Kate has her door open and will be a listening ear and pillar of support whenever needed. She champions growth and fosters a strong workplace culture.
Recently, our area was impacted by flooding. Kate, rather than leave early and make it home, opted to stay at the hospital to support her team. She coordinated staff on the floor, ensured we were looked after while on site, checked in on team members impacted and isolated by the flood, and coordinated safe transport home for staff who needed it.
Kate stayed at the hospital for days, sleeping on the floor some nights - she was available day and night to support us. It wasn't only the team Kate supported, she did it for all the patients as well, selflessly putting many others first in a way that allowed us to care and manage in incredibly hard circumstances.
Nika Kulaweera, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Clinical Genetics, Sydney Children's Hospital Network
Nika embodies the compassion, commitment, and professional excellence that defines outstanding nursing practice.
As SCHN Rare Kids Care Navigator, she is an inspirational role model who goes the extra mile for families facing challenging healthcare journeys.
What sets Nika apart is her ability to navigate complex healthcare systems whilst maintaining genuine compassion for every family she serves. She empowers parents to advocate for their children and ensures no family feels alone.
Her practical support ranges from finding clinicians and compiling rare disease passports with accessible information, to helping navigate forms for financial & disability support—helping families put food on the table through food vouchers & electricity subsidies.
Nika displays commitment, compassion, resilience, and collaboration. She works tirelessly breaking down barriers, improving access to specialised care, and creating positive change within our healthcare system.
Her passion for nursing excellence makes her an exceptional colleague and advocate for both patients and the profession.
Ruth Phillips, Registered Nurse, Harm Reduction Officer, Coffs Harbour Health Campus, Mid North Coast LHD
Ruth Phillips commitment to compassionate, dedicated, and outstanding health care for some of the most vulnerable and marginalised members of our regional community in Coffs Harbour is outstanding.
Harm reduction nursing at the Needle and Syringe Program is grounded in empathy, respect, and non-judgment, and Ruth embodies these values in every aspect of her practice.
Ruth goes beyond traditional clinical care by meeting people where they are—physically, emotionally, and socially. Whether it's through providing clean injecting equipment, offering overdose prevention education, testing for blood borne viruses, advocating for respectful and safe care for people whilst in hospital, or simply listening, Ruth helps build trust with people who can often be stigmatised or overlooked in the healthcare system.
Ruth's work embodies trauma-informed and holistic care, saving lives not only through harm reduction education but by reducing barriers to healthcare access, promoting dignity, and empowering individuals to make safer choices.
In a health field that requires extraordinary patience, resilience, and emotional strength, Ruth stands out as an inspirational role model, not just for harm reduction clients and staff but for nursing as a whole.

For more information on each award refer to the Nomination criteria.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please email: MOH-ExcellenceInNursingAndMidwiferyAwards@health.nsw.gov.au

Current as at: Monday 11 August 2025

Contact page owner: Nursing and Midwifery

Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards 2025

Sponsorship opportunities

Congratulations to the 2025 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards​ finalists​

Kamala Nursing team, Mental Health Unit, Lismore Base Hospital, Northern NSW LHD

Nursing team, Children's Ward, Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Mid North Coast LHD

Nursing team, Respiratory Ward, Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney LHD

Tunya Cabello, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Primary & Community Health, South Western Sydney LHD

Amy Sutherland, Aboriginal Transitional Nurse Practitioner, Rural Generalist, Western NSW LHD

Kristy Leonard, Registered Nurse, Community Health, Mid North Coast LHD

Thomas Mull-Mathers, Registered Nurse, Tweed Valley Hospital ED, Northern NSW LHD

Storm Baldwin, Registered Nurse, Blacktown Hospital ED, Western Sydney LHD

Jonty Donald, Registered Nurse, Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney LHD

Svetlana Ilich, Clinical Midwifery Specialist, Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney LHD

Kezia Riggs, Registered Midwife, Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, Northern Sydney LHD

Penelope Vukovich, Registered Midwife, Fairfield Hospital, South Western Sydney LHD

Coco Knight, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Drug Health Services, Sydney LHD

Judy Taylor, Clinical Nurse Educator, Ambulatory Care, POW, South East Sydney LHD

Shivam Dhiman, Registered Nurse, Surgical/Orthopaedic,Fairfield Hospital, South Western Sydney LHD

Sarah Driver, Registered Nurse, Bathurst Base Hospital ED, Western NSW LHD

Tamara Shaw, Transitional Nurse Practitioner, Paediatric Palliative Care, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, SCHN

Ruaidhri Carey, Clinical Nurse Consultant,ICU Green, RPA, Sydney LHD

Poumansing (Raj) Gujraz, Nurse Manager, Falls Prevention Co-ordinator, South Western Sydney LHD

Jordan Fenech, A/Nurse Manager, Blacktown Hospital ED, Western Sydney LHD

Nicole Knight, Divisional Nurse Manager, Coffs Harbour Health Campus, Mid North Coast LHD

Jacqui Jagger, Nurse Practitioner, District Cancer Services, Central Coast LHD

Etienne Kitto, Nurse Educator, Mental Health, Sydney LHD

Michele Rule, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Haematology/Oncology, St Vincent's Health Network

Katherine Martin, Nursing Unit Manager, Kempsey District Hospital, Mid North Coast LHD

Nika Kulaweera, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Clinical Genetics, Sydney Children's Hospital Network

Ruth Phillips, Registered Nurse, Harm Reduction Officer, Coffs Harbour Health Campus, Mid North Coast LHD

Congratulations to the 2025 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards finalists