Summary
Central Queensland Health has celebrated its star performers at the 2026 Staff Recognition Awards in Emerald on 20 August.
From more than 250 nominations across the region, nine of Central Queensland Health’s standout individuals and teams have taken top honours at the 2026 Staff Recognition Awards.
Surrounded by their colleagues, staff were celebrated in Emerald on Thursday night.
Chief Executive Lisa Blackler said she was proud of all staff, who dedicate themselves to providing great care to Central Queenslanders.
“Every day, they come to work and make a difference - whether that’s at the bedside, in the community, or in their teams to improve how we work and make our health service such a special organisation,” she said.
“Our people are the heart of what we do.”
Lisa said the strong response showed staff were proud not only of the work they do, but of the great work they see happening around them every day.
“We have so many dedicated staff doing wonderful work, but it’s important to say a big thanks once a year, and to highlight those who have truly gone above and beyond for our communities and each other,” she said.
“I am proud to be Chief Executive of this organisation, and it makes me extremely proud to know our team has so much to celebrate.”
Recipient of the Clinical Staff Member of the Year was Nurse Practitioner Naomi James.
Naomi established the health service’s first Chronic Wound Specialist Service, which has improved access to expert, evidence-based care closer to home.
Naomi said she was very excited to be recognised for her work.
“It is a privilege to do the work I do and have the opportunity to care for patients closer to home,” she said.
“We have patients who have struggled with chronic wounds that we are now starting to heal which is amazing.
“We are approaching things holistically - it’s not about the wound it is about the whole person.”
Other worthy staff celebrated included:
- Team of the Year: Capricornia Offender Health Service
- Clinical Support Staff Member of the Year: Sandi Brill, Manager Establishment Management & Roster Support
- People’s Choice Award: Prosper Pswarai, Registered Nurse Adult Mental Health Inpatient Unit Rockhampton
- Transforming Health Award: Genevieve Perrins, Research Development Manager
- Health Equity Award: Kady Colman, Nurse Navigator Midwife, Emerald
- Pursuing Innovation Award: Tania White, Maternity Unit Manager, Emerald
- Rural and Remote Health Award: Andrew Cunningham, Nurse Unit Manager, Emerald
- Health, Safety and Wellbeing Award: Shane Johnston, Operational Services, Blackwater
