The 2023 National Palliative Care Awards have been the focal point of a terrific celebration highlighting significant contributions of palliative care professionals and volunteers.
“The awards are an important opportunity to show appreciation for the exceptional leadership and care provided by the palliative care community across Australia,” says Camilla Rowland, Chief Executive Officer, Palliative Care Australia (PCA).
“Every two years as part of the Oceanic Palliative Care Conference, these awards shine a light on the doctors, nurses, physios, dietitians, music therapists, social workers, OTs, volunteers – all those involved in that team approach to palliative care.
“Everyone has been looking forward to this night of recognition, especially considering the pressure the health and care sectors have been under through the pandemic.”
Eight awards were presented in a glittering ceremony hosted by comedy great Jean Kittson in the Grand Ballroom at the International Convention Centre, Sydney, attended by 900 people.
Winners include:
Lifetime Achievement Award - Dr Geoffrey Mitchell, Emeritus Professor, University of Queensland and Partner at Limestone Medical Centre, Ipswich
Emerging Leader Award – Annie Jorgensen, Goulburn Valley Hospice Care Service
Emerging Researcher Award – Rachel Coghlan, Deakin University
Outstanding Achievement by a Team Award - Ward 1A at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne
Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Palliative Care Award - Julie Rose, Hunter New England Local Health District
Outstanding Achievement in Volunteering Award – Eastern Palliative Care, Victoria
Innovation in Palliative Care Award – Eldercare, South Australia
Outstanding Achievement by an Individual Award – Kate Munro, Hunter New England Health NSW
“Congratulations to all our winners and the finalists in each category, your work is exceptional, and you are great role models for quality palliative care,” Ms Rowland says.
