We recently celebrated the outstanding contributions of our nurses and midwives by crowning the winners of our 2025 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards.

This year’s awards attracted more than 150 nominations from colleagues, patients and community members, highlighting the deep appreciation for the care and compassion shown by nursing and midwifery staff across the region.

Divided into eight categories aligned with NSW Health’s statewide awards, our District’s annual celebration shines a spotlight on the dedication, innovation and leadership that nurses and midwives bring to healthcare in Northern NSW.

Katharine Duffy, Director of District Nursing and Midwifery, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all nominees and winners.

“From those just starting off in their careers to those celebrating a lifetime of service, the contribution our nurses and midwives make to healthcare in our region is remarkable,” Katharine said.

“Through their compassion, commitment, dedication and resilience, our nurses and midwives provide excellent care to our patients, young and old, delivering high quality healthcare across our hospitals and facilities in Northern NSW.”

Meet our 2025 winners

New to Practice Nurse or Midwife of the Year

Tommy Mull-Mathers, Tweed Valley Hospital Emergency Department

Tommy has quickly become a standout in the fast-paced emergency setting, demonstrating exceptional communication and clinical skills, and uplifting his team with a positive attitude and dedication to learning.

Aboriginal Nurse or Midwife of the Year

Nikkita Johnson, Grafton Base Hospital

Nikkita’s culturally sensitive care and ability to connect with Aboriginal patients has fostered a strong sense of community and collaboration within her ward.

Nursing or Midwifery Team of the Year

Kamala Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit, Lismore

This team is recognised for their inclusive, youth-focused mental health care, involving families in treatment planning and creating a safe, transparent environment for recovery.

Nurse of the Year

Joanna Martin, Indigo House, Lismore

With more than 18 years of experience, Joanna leads with clinical excellence and a strong commitment to supporting victim-survivors of domestic and family violence through her role as Domestic Violence Prevention Officer.

Midwife of the Year

Jess Baxter, Tweed Valley Hospital Midwifery Group Practice

Jess is a passionate advocate for continuity of care and is exploring innovative antenatal models like Centring Pregnancy to enhance patient experience.

Brown Ackerman Leadership Award

Jenae O’Sullivan, After Hours Nurse Manager, Casino and District Memorial Hospital

Jenae’s leadership across multiple roles and her research into improving emergency care for Aboriginal patients earned her District-wide respect and recognition.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Narelle Gleeson, Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Lismore Base Hospital

With a career spanning five decades, Narelle has been a pillar of strength and compassion, advocating tirelessly for patient-centred care and the dignity of elderly patients.

Healing Hearts Consumer Recognition Award

This community-nominated award honours nurses and midwives who go above and beyond in delivering compassionate care.

Joint winner – Nigel Watts, Lismore Base Hospital Intensive Care Unit

Nigel received praise for his empathy and support during a family’s time of crisis.

Joint winner – Sarah Hendrikse, BreastScreen NSW at Tweed Heads  

Sarah was recognised for her gentle approach and clear communication that helped a patient navigate a breast cancer diagnosis.

Highly commended – Casino and District Memorial Hospital Emergency Department

Casino’s ED was nominated by a mother for delivering respectful, empowering care for her daughter across multiple visits.

While these awards celebrate individual and team achievements, they also reflect the heart and soul of healthcare in Northern NSW. Congratulations to all nominees and winners for their inspiring dedication to excellence.

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<< go back to Northern Exposure Issue 7 – August 2025