Country staff in the running for WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards
Five outstanding WA Country Health Service (WACHS) nurses and midwives have been named finalists in the 2024 WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards.
WACHS Chief Executive Jeff Moffet said the finalists represented the very best in country healthcare.
“It’s fantastic to see the broad range of skills and backgrounds on display, with nurses and midwives representing services from right across regional WA,” Mr Moffet said.
“This year, we also have two finalists up for the Excellence in Leadership Award which goes to show the quality of leaders we have in the bush.
“My congratulations to all our worthy finalists.”
Felicity Jones
Felicity is our Stomal Therapy and Wound Management Clinical Nurse Specialist in the South West.
She has played a leading role in the development of the South West Stomal Therapy Service and is constantly working to improve stoma and wound care services to meet community need. This important work has seen Felicity champion a flexible service that incorporates virtual care to accommodate care close to home, support networks and loved ones.
Lesley Forrester
For 22 years, Lesley has been an important part of the Great Southern Palliative Care Service making it her life’s work to provide country patients with the very best evidence-based and culturally sensitive palliative care.
In her role, Lesley collaborates with specialists and local GPs, coordinating appropriate pain control for patients to ensure their journey is one of dignity and respect, including family in all aspects of the palliative care process.
In recognition of her exceptional service and compassion, Lesley has been nominated in two categories this year – Excellence in Leadership and Excellence in Rural and Remote Health.
Sinqobizitha Mndebele
As Health Service Manager at York Hospital, Sinqobizitha demonstrates an unwavering commitment to delivering the best possible care to all her patients.
Sinqobizitha is known for her dedication and commitment to fostering a positive, productive and compassionate work culture.
Sinqobizitha actively engages with her community to better understand their unique healthcare needs and challenges and is well known for attending community events.
Claire Easter
Claire Easter provides specialist advice and management of paediatrics across Kalgoorlie Hospital in her role as Clinical Nurse Manager.
Claire’s joyful, honest and devoted approach fosters continued positive relationships with families, the community and health leaders to achieve the best outcomes for children and families.
Jessica Priest
For Jess, every decision she makes as a Clinical Midwifery Manager at Karratha Health Campus is focused on improving the experiences and outcomes for local women and for staff.
From taking on the role of Neonatal Resus Instructor to redesigning and reimplementing the Visiting Midwife Service, Jess is known for her proactive approach to education and service delivery.
A full list of finalists is available on the WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards website, with winners to be announced at a gala ball on 11 May.