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Nurses across the Darling Downs have been recognised this week for their vital role in delivering safe, compassionate care, with International Nurses Day celebrations shining a spotlight on the profession’s impact on community health.
Marked under the theme Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives, this year’s celebrations highlighted the theme in action through a panel discussion on leadership and the recognition of outstanding nurses whose contributions are shaping the future of care.
Darling Downs Health Chief Executive, Annette Scott PSM said the day recognised the dedication and skill nurses bring to their work every day.
“Our nurses are at the heart of our health service and the communities we serve. They are there at life’s most significant moments, delivering high-quality care while advocating for patients and supporting families”
Darling Downs Health Chief Executive, Annette Scott PSM
“In an increasingly complex healthcare environment, their clinical expertise and commitment to continuous improvement are critical to achieving better health outcomes for our region.”
A major highlight of the day was the Leadership at Every Level panel discussion, which reinforced that leadership in nursing is not defined by titles, but demonstrated through everyday actions.
Darling Downs Health Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery, Alison Broadbent encouraged nurses to actively shape the future of the profession.
“Let’s be the owners of our profession and drive our professional changes rather than be on the receiving end of that,” Ms Broadbent said.
“The gift of being a nurse is that we adapt, and we manage what’s in front of us. That ability is what strengthens our workforce and ultimately improves care for our communities.”
Panel speakers shared insights on human-centred leadership, the importance of relationships and the value of learning through experience.
Acting Assistant Director of Medical Services Anu Nair highlighted the importance of compassion in leadership.
“Leadership is not just about ticking the box. The best way to lead a team is to lead with kindness,” Ms Nair said.
Clinical Nurse Consultant Brendon Robinson added that leadership often emerges in everyday nursing practices.
“Every nurse can lead. Sometimes it’s in the smallest moments where you choose to step forward and make a difference for a patient or support your team,” he said.
The discussion highlighted that strong relationships and communication are key to influencing positive outcomes, regardless of formal roles, and encouraged nurses at all stages of their careers to embrace their leadership potential.
The day also recognised outstanding contributions to nursing excellence, with Clinical Nurse Consultant, Cathie Manns named Darling Downs Health Nurse of the Year, and Stanthorpe Hospital’s Laura Brown awarded Darling Downs Health Graduate Nurse of the Year.
Cathie was recognised for her decades-long contribution to nursing as a respected mentor and clinician and her leadership in patient safety and sepsis care.
Laura was acknowledged for her exceptional commitment to patient-centred care early in her career and is known for her strong advocacy and dedication to continuous learning who supports her colleagues to deliver safe care.
Toowoomba Hospital was illuminated in blue on 12 May in tribute to the profession.
