WITH a booming population, a successful health industry is vital and last week the sector was recognised at the Caring Better Together Awards.
Leaders, innovators, and unsung heroes from West Moreton Health were acknowleged for their commitment to patient care at the health service’s annual awards.
From a list of almost 150 staff-generated nominations, West Moreton Health chief executive Hannah Bloch said the winners had displayed the health service’s core value of providing compassionate and equitable health care.
“The awards are a chance to celebrate the achievements of all staff over the past 12 months, and all our nominees should be incredibly proud,” she said. “Our hard-working staff are the backbone of our health service and today is all about them.”
The Connect award recognises individuals or teams who foster a collaborative team environment.
The finalists were Cherise Kingsbury (Digital and Design), the Ripley Satellite Hospital Security and Administration team, and winner Justin Elliot from Preventative Integrated Care Service.
The Respect award recognises individuals or teams who promote an inclusive workplace.
The finalists were Heydon Manuel (Prison and Youth Detention Health Services), Sophie Clarke (Ipswich Maternity), and winner Sarah Hertrick from Ipswich Pharmacy.
The Excel award recognises individuals or teams who exceed performance goals and introduce ideas for improvement.
The finalists were the Blood Borne Virus team from Prison and Youth Detention Health Services, Paediatric Diabetes Service from Ripley Satellite Hospital, and winner Nutrition and Dietetics Department.
The Health Equity award recognises individuals or teams who advocate for equitable health outcomes.
The finalists were the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit, Youth Detention Health team, and winner the Murrumba Targan Djimbulung Service.
Launched earlier this year, the service provides wrap-around health and well-being support to First Nations adults who live in West Moreton and experience chronic health issues, such as diabetes and ongoing heart and lung issues.
The #EveryoneIsALeader award recognises individuals who address challenges and opportunities and guide the development of others.
The finalists were Amanda Lewis from BreastScreen Queensland – Ipswich Service, David Arroyo from Ipswich General Medicine, and winner James Want from Ripley Satellite Hospital.
The Ipswich Hospital Foundation Champion recognises individuals or teams who assist with IHF events and raise funds to advance IHF’s strategic goals.
The finalists were IHF volunteer Ian Brown, Johanne Neill from Ipswich Cardiology, Tee Varghese from Digital Health, and the winner Suzanne Taylor from Laidley Hospital.

