Worthy finalists: Left, Max Heslehurst with his wife Marilyn, and, right, Clinical Nurse Educator Alison Taylor.

Local staff and volunteers recognised in Health Awards

Oct 04, 2023

Mid North Coast Local Health District congratulated two staff and volunteers who are among the 36 finalists of the NSW Health Awards for their exceptional contribution to the public health system.

Now in its 25th year, the awards recognise personalised, sustainable, and digitally enabled programs that contribute to the wellbeing of patients and the community.

MNCLHD Chief Executive Stewart Dowrick said Clinical Nurse Educator Alison Taylor from Coffs Harbour and volunteer Max Heslehurst from Port Macquarie are highly deserving local award finalists. Alison is a finalist in the Staff Member of the Year category, while Max is a finalist in the Volunteer of the Year category.

• Alison Taylor – is an inspiring leader who has created and implemented several innovative projects to improve the care provided for patients with mental illness. She is passionate about working collaboratively to integrate patients and their families into the centre of their care and creates a positive culture to support staff wellbeing. Alison’s infectious smile and positive attitude promote change and enhance care for our mental health consumers in all areas of the hospital.
• Max Heslehurst – is an 88-year-old retired Heart Health NSW and Heart Support group member who has supported patients and their families through their cardiac health journey for the past 14 years. Max initiated and promoted the local walking groups, dedicated his time to sourcing and building an outdoor gym centre in the Port Macquarie Base Hospital courtyard and an outdoor walking track, fundraised for furniture in the Cardiology Family Room and assisted in sourcing recliners for patients in the Cardiac Cath Laboratory recovery area.

The finalists showcase the breadth of skill, passion and exceptional care in the Mid North Coast Local Health District.

“We are incredibly proud of our two very worthy finalists who have been publicly recognised for their outstanding passion, collaboration and dedication to our patients and their families,” Mr Dowrick said.

NSW Health Secretary Susan Pearce extended her congratulations to this year’s finalists.

“These awards recognise our amazing staff and volunteers across the health system,” Ms Pearce said.

“I continue to be in awe of the achievements of NSW Health staff, who display such incredible innovation and compassion as they care for their communities.

“I congratulate the finalists, but I also want to acknowledge the vital work being done across the system daily by doctors, nurses, allied health, volunteers and all other support staff.”

Finalists and winners will be celebrated at the NSW Health Awards ceremony, which will be held on Tuesday, 24 October, at the Sydney International Convention Centre. The event will also be live streamed.

Further information on the awards is available here.