A dedicated emergency nurse practitioner from Geraldton has been honored at the 2025 WA Health Excellence Awards, recognizing her significant contributions to healthcare in Western Australia. Deanne Brooks, who works at the Geraldton Health Campus, received the esteemed Minister for Health’s Award for her decades of exceptional service in emergency care. This annual event celebrates individuals and programs that lead advancements in health outcomes across the region.
Brooks has been instrumental in mentoring and guiding many clinicians throughout her career, fostering a culture of excellence in urgent care within rural areas of Western Australia. Her leadership qualities have not only impacted her immediate team but have also inspired a broader network of healthcare professionals.
The Director General’s Award was awarded to the South Metropolitan Health Service’s Geriatricians for Older Adults in the Emergency Department project. This initiative represents a pioneering model of care that enhances the safety and quality of healthcare for older patients through a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach. The project is noted for its effectiveness in improving patient outcomes.
In addition, the community-nominated 7NEWS Health Hero accolade was presented to Nurse Practitioner Sue Morey from North Metropolitan Health Service. Morey is recognized for her extraordinary compassion and unwavering commitment to her patients. Her professionalism and empathetic nature have made her a reliable figure in the healthcare community, exemplifying patient-centered care.
A total of ten category winners were recognized during the awards ceremony, chosen from a competitive pool of finalists. The breadth and quality of their contributions to the health system highlight the dedication of healthcare professionals across Western Australia.
Health Minister Meredith Hammat expressed her admiration for the award recipients, stating, “I’m constantly blown away by the dedication and professionalism of the incredible workers that drive our public health system. These awards are about celebrating you all.” She specifically commended Brooks for her outstanding expertise and exceptional service, describing her as a leader and role model not only within her immediate environment but also for the nursing profession as a whole.
The WA Health Excellence Awards serve as a vital platform to acknowledge the hard work and achievements of healthcare workers, emphasizing their critical role in enhancing health outcomes for the community. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the contributions of individuals like Deanne Brooks and her peers will remain essential in shaping a healthier future for all Western Australians.
