Wednesday May 13, 2026
Congratulations to the winners of the Eastern Health Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards; a time where we honour the dedication and compassion shown by our nurses and midwives.
Seven remarkable individuals were recognised across seven different categories, for demonstrating our values and helping deliver on our promise, to be Healthier Together.
Rising Leader Award – Olivia Smith, Registered Midwife
Olivia is an outstanding midwife who exemplifies professionalism, kindness and a genuine passion for Midwifery.
She has been recognised with the Rising Leader Award for her compassion, inclusivity and her commitment to prioritising the wellbeing of patients, families and colleagues.
Olivia’s commitment to continuous improvement, along with her curiosity and passion for learning, enables her to lead by example and shine as a calm and positive presence in the workplace. She has fully embraced the profession, and this makes her an exceptional candidate for the Rising Leader Award. Olivia has a bright, influential career ahead.
Clinical Leadership- Rachel Harvey, Clinical Nurse Educator
Rachel is a dedicated, diligent and highly collaborative clinician who consistently places patient safety and quality care at the forefront of her practice. She has been recognised with the Clinical Leadership Award for developing sustainable education and support models, that build staff confidence, capability and capacity.
Rachel’s work has enabled several critical improvement projects to be fast tracked and has driven impactful system-wide improvements. Her work helps ensure safer and more consistent care for patients in the emergency department and paediatric care.
Staff Engagement and Wellbeing- Chon Kuan (CK) Hew, Associate Nurse Manager
CK has consistently gone above and beyond to support her colleagues, ensuring they feel valued, engaged and connected. She has won the Staff Engagement and Wellbeing Award for her empathetic and approachable nature, combined with her genuine care for others, creating a welcoming, family like environment where staff feel respected and supported.
CK has a strong understanding of the importance of both mental and physical wellbeing, and her proactive approach to in organising wellness initiatives has had a noticeable impact on staff morale.
Leading Improvement, Research and Innovation in Nursing and Midwifery- Germana Ryan, Clinical Nurse Consultant Urology/Gynaecology
Germana’s work has transformed the way care is delivered to patients receiving treatment for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. She has won the Leading Improvement, Research and Innovation in Nursing and Midwifery Award, for her initiatives that ensure all patients are now tracked, followed-up and supported to receive treatment in a timely and professional manner.
Germana has rebuilt the way bladder cancer treatments are administered from the ground up. Her passion for her work and for her patients is evident in everything she does.
Promoting and Demonstrating Excellent Patient Experience – Kate Matthews, Registered Nurse
Kate is a highly valued and respected member of the Aboriginal Health Team. She has won the Promoting and Demonstrating Excellent Patient Experience Award for her dedication, compassion and commitment to culturally safe nursing practice, which has elevated the standard of care provided to First Nations clients.
She brings depth, professionalism and heart to every interaction, strengthening her team, her practice and the experience of the patients and families she supports. Kate’s work reflects a deep commitment to improving patient experience and access to holistic, culturally safe care across community and hospital settings.
Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Award for Nurses – Lucinda (Lucy) Williamson, Register Nurse
Lucinda consistently demonstrates exceptional clinical practice, delivering person-centred, safe and high-quality care to patients with complex and chronic health needs. Lucy has won the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer award for Nurses, for her commitment to high standards, teamwork and continuous improvement.
She exemplifies clinical leadership and makes a significant contribution to the quality of care provided to the Healesville Community. Lucy leads by example, inspiring colleagues through her calm, positive and collaborative approach. Lucy’s contribution to patient outcomes and staff development is both meaningful and enduring.
Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Award for Midwives – Monique Lumley, Specialist Maternity Coordinator.
Monique has won the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer for Midwives award for her leadership, compassion and commitment to delivering exemplary care to all. Monique provides compassionate care for women with complex social and mental health needs through the Specialist Maternity Services program at Eastern Health.
She goes above and beyond to ensure women and birthing people feel safe, heard and respected throughout their pregnancy care at Eastern Health. Monique’s advocacy contributes to improved engagement and outcomes for families with Complex Needs.
