A BARKLY registered nurse has been announced as a finalist in the 2024 Nursing and Midwifery Awards
Annette (Nettie) Hodgson-Taylor is one of three finalists in the Excellence in Aboriginal Health category. Joining her is Amelia Bannister and Peter Mitchell from the Top End.
The Ali Curung-based nurse and clinic manager said she was gobsmacked at the nomination and looks forward to travelling to Darwin in early May, where the winners will be announced at a gala dinner.
The finalist achievement is a highlight in Nettie’s life after a tough life growing up with alcoholic parents and losing her 15-year-old son which threw her into years of grief and despair.
Initially working in hospitality as a trainer, Nettie turned her focus to nursing after her husband Lloyd urged her to get help with her grief.
“I grew up living in houses with no power and no windows - sometimes stealing food from my siblings,” she said.
“What you see in the Tennant Creek town camps was my life, so this nomination means a lot.
“I have gone from working in hospitality to hospitality of the spirit, which what I describe nursing as
“Nursing is one of the best jobs honestly and it is so rewarding – I couldn’t imagine doing any other work now.”
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Awards, which celebrate the exemplary work of nurses and midwives positively impacting the health and wellbeing of Territorians every single day.
A record-breaking number of 289 nominations across 12 categories were submitted for the 2024 Awards, with the Team Excellence category having received the highest number of nominations, 39.
There are 12 different Award categories for enrolled and registered nurses and midwives working in any healthcare setting in the Territory, and a dedicated Registered Undergraduate of Student Nurse/Midwife Award.
The categories recognise excellence in client care, education, aged care, research, professional leadership and commitment to the nursing and midwifery profession.
Winners will be announced at a gala ball on 4 May, at the Mindil Beach Casino and Resort.
To view the finalists and purchase tickets for the Gala Ball, visit: http://nmea.nt.gov.au
Ticket sales for the Gala Ball are now on sale until Sunday, 21 April, 2024.
“Congratulations to the outstanding staff who have been named finalists! Your hard work and good attitude has shone through the care you provide to all Territorians,” said Minister for Health Selena Uibo.
“Your work is invaluable in our communities and you are being recognised for the excellence you bring work, day in and day out.
“These Awards are the public’s opportunity to say ‘thank you’ and recognise the amazing contribution nurses and midwives make to the community and across the health system.”
