Sunshine Coast Health has celebrated the achievements of both its frontline health workers and behind the scenes teams who provide healthcare across the region, at their annual staff awards event.
The top award went to Director of Digital Health and Clinical Information Services Courtney Vesey, who was a driving force behind the successful rollout of digital records across the hospital and health service.
Ms Vesey took home the Dr H H (Barney) Moy Memorial Person-Centred Care Award for her innovative work in digital health which creates lasting impacts for both clinicians and patients.
Ms Vesey said she is honoured to have her contributions to the health service recognised.
“I want to acknowledge the hard-working team I'm so lucky to be surrounded by who share the same vision,” she said.
“Despite a lot of the work that our team undertakes being behind the scenes, we strive to put improvements to the patient journey and the experience of frontline staff at the heart of everything we do.”
The Gallangoor Ngin Award, which acknowledges outstanding commitment to culturally safe and competent care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, was presented to clinical nurse Joanne Millward.
Ms Millward was pivotal in redesigning and growing the Jabba Jabba model of care, which involves the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child health team visiting new families for newborn health checks, chats about vaccinations and wellness checks with parents.
Consumer Representative of the Year Breanna Medcalfe was acknowledged for her contributions to the Disability Services Plan and paediatric services, and the way she courageously shares her own experiences to improve health experiences for other consumers.
Volunteer of the Year, Carol Martens, was thanked for the companionship, joy and comfort she brings patients and families in difficult times at Dove Palliative Care at Caloundra Health Service.
The awards also celebrated those who go the extra mile to embody the service’s values:
- Integrity – Dr Ashwini Amaratunga
- Compassion – Scott Davy
- Accountability – Michelle Juillerat and Ceri Williams
- Innovation – Janine Porter
Wishlist recognised top fundraising efforts, with Ann Gillies and Jessica Tomkins jointly winning the Wishlist Champion award.
Sunshine Coast Health Chief Executive Dr Peter Gillies said the Staff Awards highlighted some particularly outstanding efforts and people across different streams, from nursing, medicine and allied health, to administration and protective services.
“Our teams are always committed to looking after the health of our communities, so it’s crucial to take a moment to acknowledge their efforts and celebrate the impact of those going above and beyond for our patients and staff,” Dr Gillies said.
“I’d like to congratulate all our Staff Awards finalists and winners, and also thank each and every one of our people for their hard work in caring for our communities.”
The awards were celebrated with a 'Brighten the Night' themed ball on Friday 2nd May at Maroochy RSL.