Staff across the Women’s were recognised recently for their passion, excellence and dedication at the Women’s 2022 Staff Awards.
The Women’s CEO Professor Sue Matthews, Board Chair Cath Bowtell and guest Gerard Ferrara presented awards at the online ceremony, alongside the Women’s Chief Experience Officer Sherri Huckstep.
Sherri acknowledged the challenges faced by healthcare workers over the past three years. She said the awards highlighted the ability of the Women’s staff to continue providing outstanding service and care in spite of the obstacles associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Despite the challenges and complexities we face, the warmth and professionalism demonstrated every day by our people makes the experience of our patients and consumers an exceptional one,” she said.
“We strive to ensure women, babies and their families are at the heart of everything we do.”
Outstanding contributions recognised
The most prestigious award, the Woodward Family Medal of Excellence, went to Dr Carl Kuschel, the Women’s Chief Medical Information Officer (on sabbatical from the role of Medical Director, Neonatal Services), Dr Kuschel is highly regarded locally and internationally for his contribution to the health of newborns and their families.
Four other staff from across the Women’s were recognised for outstanding achievements:
- The Women’s Professor of Midwifery and Maternity Services Research, Professor Della Forster received the Liliana Ferrara Award for Diversity. Professor Forster was celebrated for her work on the Magnolia project, which allows vulnerable women to access a specialised caseload model of maternity care.
- Dr Rebecca Szabo won the Board Chair’s Award for Innovation. Dr Szabo established, and now leads, the Women’s Gandel Simulation Service.
- The Women’s Childcare Service Manager William Simpson was presented with the Chief Executive Award for Exceptional Leadership.
- The Outstanding Volunteer Leadership Award went to Information Desk Staff Team Leader Maria Gove.
More than 20 staff and two teams were recognised for their consistency, excellence and hard work with ‘Star Performer’ awards. Staff who have been at the Women’s for 35, 40 and 45 years were also honoured for their commitment to the hospital and our patients.