House debates

Tuesday, 13 August 2024

Statements by Members

Lewis, Sara, Nurses

1:49 pm

Photo of Gordon ReidGordon Reid (Robertson, Australian Labor Party) Share this | | Hansard source

I rise to acknowledge a brilliant nurse, Sara Lewis, who has been named a 2024 finalist for Aboriginal Nurse/Midwife of the Year in NSW Health's Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards 2024. Sara is a proud Kamilaroi woman. Her healthcare journey began as an Aboriginal nursing cadet, which led her to become a clinical nurse educator, now working in the Wyong Hospital emergency department on the Central Coast. Her story is a powerful testament to her unwavering dedication to professional development and her commitment to developing her skills as a nurse and a clinical leader.

Sara demonstrates excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health care through dedicated leadership, innovative educational approaches, and her advocacy for patients and the community. I've had the honour of working alongside Sara in the Wyong Hospital emergency department on several occasions and can attest to the phenomenal work she performs every day. She is an incredibly passionate nurse who works tirelessly for patients and to strengthen healthcare services on the Central Coast.

Without nurses, our hospitals simply would not function. I would like to take this opportunity to commend every nurse and midwife who provides tremendous healthcare services in our region. I will always support and advocate for our exceptional nurses, midwives and aged-care workers. To Sara Lewis: congratulations on this recognition, and all the best for later in the year.