Innovation, dedication and talent were on show at the Women’s 2025 Staff Excellence Awards.
Twenty-five individuals and five teams were congratulated for their outsanding contributions to the hospital and community.
The Women’s CEO Sue Matthews led the event, presenting awards alongside Board Chair Shelly Park, Chief Experience Officer Sherri Huckstep and representatives from the Ferrara and Woodward families.
“Each year, the Staff Excellence Awards are a reminder to pause and reflect on the amazing talent and dedication of our staff and volunteers,” said Sue.
“You make an incredible impact on the lives of women, newborns, community members and each other.”
A commitment to excellence in cervical cancer care
The winner of the most prestigious award, the Woodward Family Medal of Excellence, was Dr Jeffrey Tan AM. Jeffrey has spent more than 25 years in the Oncology and Dysplasia Unit at the Women’s where he has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of women with cervical cancer.
Jeffrey’s achievements extend beyond the Women’s. In 2021, he was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his significant service to gynaecological medicine and to cervical cancer research. He is also dedicated to teaching and is an Honorary in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health at the University of Melbourne.
"I am very honoured to be nominated by my peers," said Jeffrey.
"I'm proud to be working at the Women’s, in Australia where we are on track to become one of the first countries to eliminate cervical cancer."
Chief Executive Award for Exceptional Leadership
Congratulations to Andrea Donnell and Nova Barrios, winners of the Chief Executive Award for Exceptional Leadership. This award recognises leaders with outstanding commitment to the people and work of the Women’s.
Andrea stepped into the role of Quality and Safety Manager during a time of significant change. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, courage and commitment to safer systems and better care.
Nova has been the Manager of the Birth Centre for the past three years. Throughout this time, she has shown great leadership and compassion for her staff and commitment to women and families.
Board Chair’s Award for Innovation
Congratulations to the Pharmacy Publications Team, winners of the Board Chair’s Award for Innovation. This award celebrates innovation that transforms the way we deliver care, enhances outcomes for women and newborns, and adds real value to our health system.
The Pharmacy Publications Team continually challenges outdated processes, champions new ideas and delivers practical solutions. Their work has not only enhanced clinical practice at the Women’s but has also positioned the organisation as a national and international leader in maternity medicines information and innovation.
Liliana Ferrara Award for Commitment to Equity
Congratulations to Jessie Cameron, winner of the Liliana Ferrara Award for Commitment to Equity. This award recognises the outstanding work of an individual or team committed to embedding respect and equity across the hospital for the Women’s community.
As a Consumer Liaison Officer, Jessie creates safe, inclusive spaces where patients feel genuinely heard and supported. Her trauma-informed approach fosters trust and empowers patients to share openly, leaving lasting impressions on both patients and colleagues.
Outstanding Volunteer Leadership Award
Congratulations to the Women’s Security Team and the Pauline Gandel Receptionist Team, winners of the Outstanding Volunteer Leadership Award. This award recognises staff members who have provided excellent support and leadership to our volunteers.
The Women’s Security Team provides consistent and friendly support to the Volunteer Program, helping volunteers feel safe, valued and confident.
The Pauline Gandel Receptionist Team provides exceptional leadership to Patient and Visitor Support Volunteers, making them feel welcomed and part of the team from the start of each shift.
Exceptional Impact Awards
Congratulations to the following staff members and teams who received Exceptional Impact awards for the passion and dedication they bring to work each day:
• Alex Harris
• Amir Zayegh
• Emily Meilak
• Emily Rayment
• Huon O’Sullivan
• Jennifer Curtis
• Jessica Westcott
• Julia Lay
• Kathy Lim
• Kristina Langerak
• Leanne Myers
• Mandy Dias
• Meaghan Jarred
• Megan Cock
• Megan Harrison
• Monica Koenig
• Nichell Avellana
• Samantha Schembri
• Sara Lloyd
• Tony Giannakis
• Tracey van Stigt
• The Communications Team
• The Welcome Desk Volunteer Team.
After the proceedings, all guests were invited to enjoy afternoon tea.
Thank you to our Supporting Partner HESTA for sponsoring the Women’s 2025 Staff Excellence Awards.