Flinders and Upper North Local Health Network proudly boasts two finalists in the Excellence in Practice award categories at the 2024 Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards
The South Australian Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards publicly recognise and celebrate the significant contribution that nurses and midwives make to the healthcare outcomes of the South Australian community. Where would we be without our nurses and midwives? They are the backbone of the healthcare system and often go above and beyond for patients in their care which is definitely a reason celebrate!
The Flinders and Upper North Local Health Network have in their midst shining examples of excellence in nursing and midwifery. Courtney Nowak, a Wiradjuri woman, has been nominated in the category of Excellence in Practice – Aboriginal Nurse/Midwife (Mary Buckskin Award), while Therese McCallum stands out as a finalist for Excellence in Practice – Midwife category.
Courtney, a McGrath Breast Care Nurse, has developed strong connections within the local community, allowing her to establish trust with women and offer dedicated support throughout their breast cancer journey. With her proactive approach, she has developed vital partnerships with metropolitan facilities, ensuring women in her region have access to top-notch care. Courtney’s influence extends beyond her clinical role, as she has been a driving force in establishing a support group for local women impacted by breast cancer. Her dedication to comprehensive care ensures that every woman, regardless of circumstances, receives the necessary healthcare services, particularly in aiding women undergoing breast cancer treatment in Port Augusta.
In the Excellence in Practice – Midwife award category, Therese McCallum, is a distinguished midwife with over two decades of service in the Anangu Bibi Birthing Program. Therese’s leadership has been pivotal in achieving significant advances in health and birth outcomes for Aboriginal women. Through her program, Therese provides unparalleled care and support, offering an average of 26 contacts throughout each woman’s pregnancy, including the postnatal period. Her commitment to personalised and holistic care has led to a reduction in low-birth-weight babies and pre-term births. Therese also actively empowers Aboriginal Maternal Infant Care (AMIC) Practitioners, advocating for their development and ensuring they have the resources needed to provide culturally sensitive care. Therese’s collaborative approach creates a supportive environment, empowering other midwives to contribute to the program’s success. Over her many nursing years, Therese has been passionate, dedicated, and committed to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal women and their babies.
The South Australian Outback is home to a leading calibre of health professionals with two nurses from Eyre and Far North Health Network also being finalists. Clare Guerney for Excellence in Practice – Early Career Nurse/Midwife and Theresa Xanthopoulos, a finalist for Excellence in Practice – Enrolled Nurse.
