The Australian College of Nursing congratulates Matiu Bush, Lorna Cook MACN and Shannon Wallis MACN for their selection as finalists in the 2020 Health Minister’s Award for Nursing Trailblazers. The winner will be announced by the Federal Health Minister at a virtual award ceremony which begins at 3.30 pm on 23 November 2020.
The Federal Health Minister will be joined by a host of high-class dignitaries including ACN President Professor Christine Duffield FACN, CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN, and 2019 Health Minister’s Award for Nursing Trailblazers Winner Nikki Johnston OAM MACN. All nurses are encouraged to register for the webinar to show their support for three nursing leaders who have transformed Australia’s health and aged care systems through their research and practice.
Nurse Practitioner Matiu Bush’s extensive nursing career is highlighted by founding platform Good Street, a social impact platform which encourages neighbour-initiated care for older residents at risk of social isolation and loneliness.
“When the act of trailblazing – standing apart and working at the fusion of health, social impact and technology – is acknowledged by peers, this demonstrates the value of nurses who challenge and don’t stay in their lane,” Matiu said.
“Awards like this profile the diversity of choices nurses can make in their career to positively impact the world around them in both local and global ways well beyond the hospital walls.”
Western Australian nurse Lorna Cook is recognised for her transformational work as the co-founder chemo@home, a nation-wide organisation which provides chemotherapy to cancer patients, in the patient’s home.
“I am thrilled to be a Finalist in this award, not for me, but to be able to showcase to nurses everywhere that you can make transformational change to health care,” she said.
“If I can do it you can too. Set goals and ask for help. Opportunities exist and the world needs nurses to lead.”
Shannon Wallis MACN nurse leadership journey currently involves leading clinical teams to oversee the establishment of a virtual hospital, the MeCare program, the Heart Health Hub and a range of ‘light touch’ programs including COVID virtual beds and a gestational diabetes program.
It is a real honour to be nominated because it is wonderful that ACN acknowledges the potential opportunities and growth for nurses, particularly in the virtual care space,” Shannon said.
“I am excited to be part of an evolutionary process where we are able to provide access to patients- especially those in rural and regional communities or those who have trouble making appointments.”
Be sure to join the conversation on Twitter using the official event hashtag #ACNTrailblazers2020.
Also, keep an eye on NurseClick over the next few weeks for our ‘Meet our Trailblazers’ series where we provide in-depth interviews with each of the three Finalists.
If you know an innovative nurse leader who you think should be recognised as a Nursing Trailblazer, be sure to register your interest to be notified when applications for the 2021 Health Minister’s Award for Nursing Trailblazers open.
