Northeast Health Wangaratta (NHW) has celebrated the outstanding contribution of its workforce at the 2025 Staff Awards, recognising excellence, innovation and years of dedicated service across the organisation.
Held last week, the annual event brought together staff, supporters and community members to acknowledge the people who continue to deliver high-quality, compassionate care to the region.
NHW Chief Executive Officer Libby Fifis said the awards were an important opportunity to recognise the impact of staff across every part of the health service.
“Our people are at the heart of everything we do,” Ms Fifis said.
“These awards are a chance to pause and recognise the professionalism, compassion and commitment our teams show every day. I am incredibly proud of the way our staff continue to go above and beyond to support our patients and community.”
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Memorial Scholarships, which support staff to undertake further study and professional development in key clinical areas including oncology, palliative care, midwifery and emergency care.
This year’s scholarship recipients included Elizabeth Smith, Rachel Greenway, Maddie Gray, Rowell Miclat, Donna McAninly, Kelsey Moss, Sophie Lorback and Celine Mas.
NHW Board Chair Ruth Kneebone said the scholarships play a vital role in strengthening the future of healthcare in the region.
“These scholarships are an investment in both our people and our community,” Ms Kneebone said.
“By supporting our staff to continue their learning and development, we are building a stronger, more capable workforce and improving outcomes for the people we care for.”
The evening also recognised excellence across a wide range of clinical and non-clinical areas, highlighting innovation, leadership and a strong commitment to quality care.
Excellence award recipients included:
- Quality Improvement & Consumer Experience – Clinical Excellence & Patient Safety – Richard Kjar, Jade Radnor, Kris Smale, Brylee Gallagher, Sarah Gumley
- Quality Improvement & Consumer Experience – Non-Clinical Service Delivery – Belinda Dunbar
- Excellence in Allied Health (Therapy) – Sophie Archer, Aimee Wisnewski
- Excellence in Community Services – Alys Cummins
- Excellence in Aged Care – Charles Neal Award – Jessica Meader, Danae Henderson
- Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery – WB Richardson Award – Kate Lynch
- Excellence in Allied Health (Science) – Olivia Douglas
- Excellence in Research – Dr Chamath Jagoda
- Excellence in Medical Services – Dr David Turner
- Excellence in Support Services – Sarah Devine, Anh Tran
- Excellence in Customer Service and Kindness – Taylah Malcolm, Vicki Zabilowicz
- Excellence in Corporate Services – Amanda Earnshaw
- Leaders of the Future – Michelle Vezer
- Excellence in Leadership – Hayley Peake
In addition, staff were acknowledged for their years of service, with milestones ranging from 10 to 45 years celebrated on the night.
Ms Fifis said the recognition of long-serving staff was a powerful reminder of the commitment within the organisation.
“These milestones reflect decades of care, dedication and connection to our community. Many of our staff have supported generations of patients and families, and their contribution is truly valued,” she said.
NHW also acknowledged the generosity of scholarship donors and supporters, whose contributions continue to create meaningful opportunities for staff and strengthen local healthcare services.
The 2025 Staff Awards highlight the depth of talent across Northeast Health Wangaratta and the shared commitment to delivering exceptional care now and into the future.