This morning, Northern Health hosted its fourth and final Quarterly Staff Recognition Awards for 2023, virtually coming together to honour and appreciate the exceptional contributions of our devoted staff.

Once more, we were overwhelmed by the remarkable participation of our staff, receiving numerous nominations spanning across seven categories.

Jade Ralston, Acting Executive Director, People and Culture, opened the ceremony by acknowledging the incredible work of our staff across the health service.

“As this is the final Quarterly Awards Ceremony for 2023, I would like to acknowledge all of the deserving staff who have received awards or been nominated by their peers over the past 12 months,” she said.

“I also look forward to our next awards ceremony is 2024, where we will also have the opportunity to acknowledge staff from Kilmore District Hospital, as they join the Northern Health network as of 1 November.”

“I am extremely proud to work in an organisation where staff are passionate and kind and turn up to work every day to provide outstanding care to our patients and community. We thank you all for your hard work and dedication.”

Derrickson Mano, ANUM at Ward 1, Bundoora Centre, won the Innovation Award, for being instrumental in ensuring the ward was ready for the highly anticipated EMR launch. He was also recognised for his volunteering and active participation in creating resources such as the QRG hard copy, which was greatly beneficial to staff during the transition.

The Patient Experience Award went to Damian Cresp, Health Coach in the Patient Watch team, for delving deeper and finding out that one of his clients had been a victim of elder abuse for over two decades. Damian not only exposed this injustice but also passionately advocated for his client, displaying unwavering empathy, determination, and dedication throughout the process.

Lisa Bannan, Ward Clerk, Admin Services, won the Education Award for playing an integral part in training new clerks and others within the Maternity Unit. She was also praised for being knowledgeable, kind and always displaying enthusiasm.

Danielle Cook, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner from the Paediatric Unit at Northern Hospital Epping, was the recipient of the Clinical Excellence Award for excelling in her clinical skills and knowledge, having an incredible bedside manner and for being an excellent leader with a compassion and kindness that are truly admirable.

The Excellence in Safety Award was awarded to Awash Prasad, Director of Legal Services for demonstrating exceptional dedication by forging a collaborative partnership with the Mental Health Division and facilitating the seamless integration of the division’s intricate legal processes and Melbourne Health’s requirements into Northern Health.

Sally Braddock, Gardener, Engineering Services, won the Rising Star award for her remarkable enthusiasm and dedication to her role. She has played a pivotal role in transforming the garden environment at CCU by actively overseeing repair and restoration efforts.

Lastly, the inaugural Excellence in Leadership Award went to Joby Allen Baby, RN/ANUM at Unit 1, Medical Surgical Ward, Broadmeadows Hospital, in recognition of her exceptional mentorship and leadership abilities. Joby’s unwavering integrity, deep respect, and profound empathy have played a crucial role in fostering a positive and secure environment for all.

Big congratulations to all award winners today!

The Quarterly Staff Recognition Awards are proudly sponsored by BankVic and Northern Health Foundation.

To watch the ceremony, please click here.

Featured image (L-R) top row: Derrickson Mano, Damian Cresp, Joby Allen Baby, Lisa Bannan. 

Bottom row (L-R): Awash Prasad, Danielle Cook, Sally Braddock.