Annual Excellence Awards
2026 Winners
Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 CAHS Annual Excellence Awards.
The Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS) Annual Excellence Awards recognise staff, volunteers and teams who have demonstrated outstanding service, care and achievement across our health service.
This year, 16 remarkable winners were selected from 44 exceptional finalists at the 4 September award ceremony, showcasing excellence in areas such as clinical care, leadership, research, innovation, teamwork and service delivery.
Read on to learn about the inspiring stories behind our 2026 winners and their contribution to strengthening healthcare outcomes for children and young people across Western Australia.
Chief Executive Award
Rachel has united Allied Health disciplines under a shared strategic vision, fostering collaboration, innovation and excellence across the organisation. Her leadership has supported major initiatives including the expansion of Allied Health Hospital in the Home services and the co-design of the RiSE project, improving access to care and supporting better outcomes for children and families.
A respected and values-driven leader, Rachel has championed investment in workforce development, safety, quality, education and research. Her work is building a stronger, more connected Allied Health workforce and creating opportunities for clinicians to lead, innovate and grow.
Through her vision, advocacy and commitment to excellence, Rachel has strengthened organisational performance, enhanced patient care and created a legacy that will benefit CAHS for years to come. She embodies the very best of CAHS leadership and exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Chief Executive Award.
Rachel Resuggan, Director Allied Health, CAHS/PCHN
Rachel Resuggan is being recognised for her exceptional leadership and enduring contribution to children, families and staff across CAHS. As Director of Allied Health, she has strengthened services, developed workforce capability and elevated the role of Allied Health in delivering high-quality, family-centred care.Rachel has united Allied Health disciplines under a shared strategic vision, fostering collaboration, innovation and excellence across the organisation. Her leadership has supported major initiatives including the expansion of Allied Health Hospital in the Home services and the co-design of the RiSE project, improving access to care and supporting better outcomes for children and families.
A respected and values-driven leader, Rachel has championed investment in workforce development, safety, quality, education and research. Her work is building a stronger, more connected Allied Health workforce and creating opportunities for clinicians to lead, innovate and grow.
Through her vision, advocacy and commitment to excellence, Rachel has strengthened organisational performance, enhanced patient care and created a legacy that will benefit CAHS for years to come. She embodies the very best of CAHS leadership and exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Chief Executive Award.
Rising Star, proudly supported by SMART
Tess has played a key role in the delivery of world-first randomised controlled trials in neonatal transport, demonstrating how high-quality research can be successfully integrated into complex clinical environments. Her work is helping build the evidence base that will inform future neonatal care and transport practice.
An emerging clinician-researcher, Tess actively creates opportunities for learning, collaboration and innovation. She supports colleagues to engage confidently in research, builds partnerships with academic institutions and contributes to a culture of curiosity, continuous improvement and excellence across the service.
Through her initiative, vision and commitment to better outcomes, Tess is helping position CAHS as a leader in neonatal transport research. Her work is improving care for newborns and families today while helping shape the future of neonatal healthcare.
Tess Watson, Clinical Nurse, PCHN
Tess Watson is being recognised for her innovation, leadership and commitment to improving neonatal transport care through research and evidence-based practice. As Australia's first Neonatal Transport Research Nurse, she has established a pioneering role that is strengthening research capability and advancing clinical care within NETS WA.Tess has played a key role in the delivery of world-first randomised controlled trials in neonatal transport, demonstrating how high-quality research can be successfully integrated into complex clinical environments. Her work is helping build the evidence base that will inform future neonatal care and transport practice.
An emerging clinician-researcher, Tess actively creates opportunities for learning, collaboration and innovation. She supports colleagues to engage confidently in research, builds partnerships with academic institutions and contributes to a culture of curiosity, continuous improvement and excellence across the service.
Through her initiative, vision and commitment to better outcomes, Tess is helping position CAHS as a leader in neonatal transport research. Her work is improving care for newborns and families today while helping shape the future of neonatal healthcare.
Researcher of the Year
As Chair of Paediatric Anaesthesia and Consultant Anaesthetist at Perth Children's Hospital, Professor Britta has led nationally and internationally significant research involving tens of thousands of children. With more than 300 peer-reviewed publications, her patient-centred and consumer co-designed research spans basic clinical science, clinical trials, and the translation of evidence into routine care. Her work has directly influenced international clinical guidelines and driven global practice change, reducing complications for children undergoing surgery around the world.
Most recently, Professor Britta led a landmark study involving more than 12,000 paediatric anaesthetic procedures at Perth Children's Hospital, providing the first evidence that socioeconomic and environmental factors influence anaesthetic risk in children. These findings are helping shape clinical care and informing broader policy discussions on health equity and environmental impacts on children's health.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to medicine, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2025 for significant service as a paediatric anaesthetist and researcher.
Professor Britta Regli-von Ungern-Sternberg, Professor of Anaesthesia, PCHN
Professor Britta Regli-von Ungern-Sternberg is one of Australia's leading clinician-researchers, an internationally recognised authority in paediatric anaesthesia, and a pioneer in the prevention of respiratory complications in children undergoing surgery.As Chair of Paediatric Anaesthesia and Consultant Anaesthetist at Perth Children's Hospital, Professor Britta has led nationally and internationally significant research involving tens of thousands of children. With more than 300 peer-reviewed publications, her patient-centred and consumer co-designed research spans basic clinical science, clinical trials, and the translation of evidence into routine care. Her work has directly influenced international clinical guidelines and driven global practice change, reducing complications for children undergoing surgery around the world.
Most recently, Professor Britta led a landmark study involving more than 12,000 paediatric anaesthetic procedures at Perth Children's Hospital, providing the first evidence that socioeconomic and environmental factors influence anaesthetic risk in children. These findings are helping shape clinical care and informing broader policy discussions on health equity and environmental impacts on children's health.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to medicine, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2025 for significant service as a paediatric anaesthetist and researcher.
Improvement and Innovation Award
The team introduced a multi-stage model of care combining nurse-led waitlist audits, the Personify Care digital engagement platform, telehealth clinics and surgical waitlist optimisation. As the first specialty at Perth Children's Hospital and Neonatology to trial Personify Care, they successfully integrated technology, clinical expertise and service redesign to create a more responsive, patient-centred approach to care.
Their initiative delivered more than 5,400 patient contacts, supported the review of over 1,200 long-waiting patients, safely removed 292 patients from the waitlist and enabled more than 100 additional surgeries through improved theatre utilisation. These innovations improved waitlist accuracy, strengthened communication with families and ensured care was better aligned to each child's current clinical needs.
Through innovation, collaboration and a strong focus on families, the ENT Access and Innovation Team has created a scalable model for digital health innovation across CAHS. Their work is improving outcomes for patients, supporting more efficient use of health service resources and setting a new standard for modern waitlist management in paediatric healthcare.
ENT Access and Innovation Team, PCHN
The ENT Access and Innovation Team is being recognised for transforming ENT waitlist management through an innovative, digitally enabled model of care. By redesigning how patients are reviewed, prioritised and supported, the team has improved access to care, service efficiency and patient experience for thousands of children and families.The team introduced a multi-stage model of care combining nurse-led waitlist audits, the Personify Care digital engagement platform, telehealth clinics and surgical waitlist optimisation. As the first specialty at Perth Children's Hospital and Neonatology to trial Personify Care, they successfully integrated technology, clinical expertise and service redesign to create a more responsive, patient-centred approach to care.
Their initiative delivered more than 5,400 patient contacts, supported the review of over 1,200 long-waiting patients, safely removed 292 patients from the waitlist and enabled more than 100 additional surgeries through improved theatre utilisation. These innovations improved waitlist accuracy, strengthened communication with families and ensured care was better aligned to each child's current clinical needs.
Through innovation, collaboration and a strong focus on families, the ENT Access and Innovation Team has created a scalable model for digital health innovation across CAHS. Their work is improving outcomes for patients, supporting more efficient use of health service resources and setting a new standard for modern waitlist management in paediatric healthcare.
Aboriginal Health Advancement Award
With more than 35 years of combined experience in paediatric healthcare, the team provides a vital link between families and healthcare services across Perth Children's Hospital and Neonatology. They work alongside multidisciplinary teams to navigate cultural, linguistic, geographical and intergenerational barriers to care, while ensuring that cultural needs are considered alongside clinical priorities.
The team supports families through some of their most complex and challenging healthcare experiences, including critical care, end-of-life planning and transitions back to Country. They advocate strongly for families, facilitate culturally informed decision-making and help ensure children and young people receive care that reflects both their healthcare needs and cultural identity.
Through education, cultural training and initiatives such as the 'Keeping Our Mob Healthy' resources, the Aboriginal Health Liaison Team continues to strengthen culturally safe practice across CAHS. Their dedication, leadership and compassion are improving healthcare experiences and outcomes for Aboriginal children and families throughout Western Australia.
Aboriginal Health Liaison Team, PCHN
Perth Children’s Hospital and Neonatology’s Aboriginal Health Liaison Team, comprising Alana Loo, Lynette Reich and Louise Tucker, is being recognised for their unwavering commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal children, young people and families across Western Australia. Through culturally safe care, advocacy and strong community connections, they help ensure Aboriginal families feel supported, respected and heard throughout their healthcare journey.With more than 35 years of combined experience in paediatric healthcare, the team provides a vital link between families and healthcare services across Perth Children's Hospital and Neonatology. They work alongside multidisciplinary teams to navigate cultural, linguistic, geographical and intergenerational barriers to care, while ensuring that cultural needs are considered alongside clinical priorities.
The team supports families through some of their most complex and challenging healthcare experiences, including critical care, end-of-life planning and transitions back to Country. They advocate strongly for families, facilitate culturally informed decision-making and help ensure children and young people receive care that reflects both their healthcare needs and cultural identity.
Through education, cultural training and initiatives such as the 'Keeping Our Mob Healthy' resources, the Aboriginal Health Liaison Team continues to strengthen culturally safe practice across CAHS. Their dedication, leadership and compassion are improving healthcare experiences and outcomes for Aboriginal children and families throughout Western Australia.
Volunteer of the Year Award
Each week Leeanne brings energy, enthusiasm and a proactive approach to her volunteer role. Whether assisting families to navigate the hospital, supporting children who may be feeling anxious, or helping staff wherever needed, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure people feel informed, comfortable and cared for.
Leeanne's attentiveness and willingness to help are evident in both large and small acts of service. She has supported overwhelmed families through challenging situations, assisted with transporting patients and belongings when resources were limited, and regularly takes the initiative to identify and address practical needs across the hospital. Her adaptability, communication skills and commitment to finding solutions make her a valued member of the volunteer team.
Through her kindness, respect and dedication to person-centred care, Leeanne has had a profound impact on the experiences of patients, families and staff alike. Her leadership by example inspires fellow volunteers and reflects the very best of community service at Perth Children’s Hospital.
Leeanne Hooper, Volunteer, PCHN
Leeanne Hooper is being recognised for her outstanding commitment to supporting children, families and staff at Perth Children’s Hospital. Through her compassion, initiative and genuine desire to help others, she creates a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone she encounters.Each week Leeanne brings energy, enthusiasm and a proactive approach to her volunteer role. Whether assisting families to navigate the hospital, supporting children who may be feeling anxious, or helping staff wherever needed, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure people feel informed, comfortable and cared for.
Leeanne's attentiveness and willingness to help are evident in both large and small acts of service. She has supported overwhelmed families through challenging situations, assisted with transporting patients and belongings when resources were limited, and regularly takes the initiative to identify and address practical needs across the hospital. Her adaptability, communication skills and commitment to finding solutions make her a valued member of the volunteer team.
Through her kindness, respect and dedication to person-centred care, Leeanne has had a profound impact on the experiences of patients, families and staff alike. Her leadership by example inspires fellow volunteers and reflects the very best of community service at Perth Children’s Hospital.
Culture and Inclusion Award
As Allied Health Culture Champion, she led the development of the PCHN Allied Health Leadership Charter, helping teams translate shared values into everyday behaviours and enhancing the way they work. Through a series of culture workshops and ongoing reflection sessions, Ebony has fostered open dialogue, strengthened team cohesion and kept Allied Health teams focused on their shared purpose of delivering collaborative, high-quality care.
As Head of Department for Nutrition and Dietetics, Ebony is a respected and values-based leader who creates an environment where people feel supported, included and empowered to contribute. Her influence has helped strengthen morale and collaboration both within her department and across the wider Allied Health division.
Through her leadership, advocacy and commitment to inclusion, Ebony has helped build a more connected and engaged workforce, demonstrating the positive impact of culture on both staff wellbeing and patient care.
Ebony Sutton, Head of Department Nutrition and Dietetics, PCHN
Ebony Sutton is being recognised for her outstanding leadership in transforming culture, inclusion and collaboration across Allied Health at Perth Children’s Hospital and Neonatology. Ebony received a remarkable 15 individual nominations which is testament to her impact in driving positive culture and inclusion, creating a psychologically safe environment and promoting engagement in pursuit of exceptional patient care.As Allied Health Culture Champion, she led the development of the PCHN Allied Health Leadership Charter, helping teams translate shared values into everyday behaviours and enhancing the way they work. Through a series of culture workshops and ongoing reflection sessions, Ebony has fostered open dialogue, strengthened team cohesion and kept Allied Health teams focused on their shared purpose of delivering collaborative, high-quality care.
As Head of Department for Nutrition and Dietetics, Ebony is a respected and values-based leader who creates an environment where people feel supported, included and empowered to contribute. Her influence has helped strengthen morale and collaboration both within her department and across the wider Allied Health division.
Through her leadership, advocacy and commitment to inclusion, Ebony has helped build a more connected and engaged workforce, demonstrating the positive impact of culture on both staff wellbeing and patient care.
Values in Action Awards
- PCHN, proudly supported by Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation
Matthew Moller, Supervisor Pharmacist, PCHN
Matthew Moller is being recognised for consistently demonstrating the CAHS values through his leadership, mentorship and commitment to supporting others. Through his calm, approachable and values-driven leadership style, he creates environments where staff feel respected, valued and empowered to succeed.
A trusted educator and mentor, Matthew fosters a psychologically safe learning environment where questions are encouraged, learning is supported and patient-centred care remains at the heart of every decision. His guidance helps staff build the confidence and capability needed to deliver safe, high-quality care.
Matthew leads by example, demonstrating integrity, compassion and professionalism in every interaction. He tailors his support to individual needs, openly shares his knowledge and helps colleagues recognise their strengths, creating a culture where people feel included, supported and encouraged to grow.
Through his sustained commitment to education, teamwork and values-based practice, Matthew has had a lasting impact on workplace culture, staff development and patient care. His leadership continues to inspire others to live the CAHS values every day.
- CACH, proudly supported by Rotary Club of Karrinyup
Kellie Zappara, A/Program Manager, CACH
Kellie Zappara is being recognised for her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to strengthening community health services across CAHS. Through her values-based approach, she has fostered a culture where staff feel respected, supported and empowered to deliver high-quality care for children and families.
Kellie has led significant service improvement initiatives focused on access, demand management and continuous improvement, helping create more efficient, equitable and responsive community nursing services. Her ability to translate evidence, data and frontline experience into meaningful change has strengthened care delivery across CACH.
A passionate advocate for workforce development, Kellie has invested heavily in mentoring and growing future leaders. From leadership development programs to coaching and succession planning, she has helped build confidence, capability and opportunities for staff across the nursing workforce.
Through her collaborative leadership, commitment to excellence and dedication to the CAHS values, Kellie has created lasting benefits for staff, consumers and the broader organisation. Her influence continues to strengthen community health services and improve outcomes for children and families across Western Australia.
- CAHS-wide services
Daisy Bohn, Senior Talent Acquisition Partner, CAHS-Wide services
As a senior member of the Talent Acquisition team, Daisy consistently acts, leads and makes decisions in strong alignment with the CAHS values, particularly in the context of complex, sensitive and high-risk recruitment. She brings a calm, considered and values-driven approach to her work, ensuring decisions are thoughtful, ethical and aligned with the broader needs of CAHS, its workforce and the consumers we serve.
Daisy is highly regarded for her ethical judgement, accountability and commitment to doing what is right. She ensures decisions are transparent and aligned with the needs of CAHS, its workforce and the consumers it serves, building trust and confidence across the organisation.
Through mentoring, coaching and leading by example, Daisy has strengthened capability within the Talent Acquisition team and created an environment where people feel supported to seek advice, think critically and deliver high-quality outcomes. Her leadership style reflects the values she promotes, encouraging excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement.
By consistently modelling values-based behaviour, Daisy has had a lasting impact on colleagues, stakeholders and the broader organisation. Her leadership strengthens workforce recruitment across CAHS and exemplifies what it means to live the CAHS values every day.
- CAMHS, proudly supported by HESTA
Phillippa Farrell, Program Manager CAMHS Reform, CAMHS
Phillippa Farrell is being recognised for consistently demonstrating the CAHS values through her leadership, compassion and commitment to improving care for young people and families. She leads with authenticity and respect, creating an environment where people feel valued, supported and empowered to contribute.
A strong advocate for consumer-centred care, Phillippa ensures the voices of young people and families are reflected in the design and delivery of services. Her leadership of the InfoReels project enabled young people to create resources that have improved how CAMHS communicates and engages with consumers.
Phillippa is highly regarded for her collaborative approach, positive outlook and ability to bring people together around a shared purpose. She supports teams to innovate, embrace change and deliver work that is meaningful, aligned to organisational priorities and focused on improving outcomes.
Through more than 20 years of service, Phillippa has had a lasting impact on CAMHS and the broader organisation. Her leadership, humility and unwavering commitment to the CAHS values continue to inspire colleagues and strengthen the care provided to young people and families.
Safety and Quality Champion Award
Vincenzo established the CACH Medication Safety Committee and has led the development of policies, procedures and quality improvement initiatives that support safer, more consistent medication management. His work has strengthened oversight, reduced variation in practice and improved clinical governance across services.
He has also championed improvements in antimicrobial stewardship, medication reconciliation and prescribing practices, helping ensure children and families receive safe, evidence-based care. His focus on continuous improvement has been particularly impactful in supporting better outcomes for Aboriginal children and families.
Through his leadership, collaboration and commitment to excellence, Vincenzo has strengthened safety and quality systems across CAHS Community Health. His work continues to improve clinical practice and deliver better outcomes for the communities they serve.
Vincenzo Martino, Senior Pharmacist, PCHN
Vincenzo Martino is a Senior Pharmacist who has played a leading role in strengthening medication safety and antimicrobial stewardship across CAHS Community Health. Through his commitment to quality improvement and evidence-based practice, he has driven meaningful improvements in governance, clinical safety and consumer care.Vincenzo established the CACH Medication Safety Committee and has led the development of policies, procedures and quality improvement initiatives that support safer, more consistent medication management. His work has strengthened oversight, reduced variation in practice and improved clinical governance across services.
He has also championed improvements in antimicrobial stewardship, medication reconciliation and prescribing practices, helping ensure children and families receive safe, evidence-based care. His focus on continuous improvement has been particularly impactful in supporting better outcomes for Aboriginal children and families.
Through his leadership, collaboration and commitment to excellence, Vincenzo has strengthened safety and quality systems across CAHS Community Health. His work continues to improve clinical practice and deliver better outcomes for the communities they serve.
Excellence in Acute Care Award
The Children’s Hearing Implant Program is being recognised for delivering exceptional, person-centred care to children with hearing loss and their families. As Western Australia’s largest and longest-running paediatric hearing implant service, the team is dedicated to helping children achieve their full potential in communication, education and quality of life.
Through a collaborative approach that integrates medical, surgical and allied health expertise, the team provides comprehensive, individualised care tailored to each child’s needs. Their commitment to evidence-based practice ensures children and families receive high-quality support throughout every stage of their hearing implant journey.
The team has demonstrated excellence in clinical outcomes, innovation and research, advancing knowledge in hearing implant technology, language development and long-term outcomes for children with hearing loss. They have also expanded access to care through innovative service models, including remote care options that better support families across Western Australia.
Through their professionalism, compassion and unwavering focus on children and families, the Children’s Hearing Implant Program continues to improve outcomes and change lives. Their work enables children to participate more fully in their communities and supports brighter futures for children and families across the state.
Excellence in Acute Care Award
Dr Catherine Sucher and the Children’s Hearing Implant Program (CHIP), PCHNThe Children’s Hearing Implant Program is being recognised for delivering exceptional, person-centred care to children with hearing loss and their families. As Western Australia’s largest and longest-running paediatric hearing implant service, the team is dedicated to helping children achieve their full potential in communication, education and quality of life.
Through a collaborative approach that integrates medical, surgical and allied health expertise, the team provides comprehensive, individualised care tailored to each child’s needs. Their commitment to evidence-based practice ensures children and families receive high-quality support throughout every stage of their hearing implant journey.
The team has demonstrated excellence in clinical outcomes, innovation and research, advancing knowledge in hearing implant technology, language development and long-term outcomes for children with hearing loss. They have also expanded access to care through innovative service models, including remote care options that better support families across Western Australia.
Through their professionalism, compassion and unwavering focus on children and families, the Children’s Hearing Implant Program continues to improve outcomes and change lives. Their work enables children to participate more fully in their communities and supports brighter futures for children and families across the state.
Excellence in Community Care Award
Natalie has expanded access to community health services through the development of innovative and responsive programs, including First 1000 Days playgroups, Early Parenting Groups and Drop In Clinics. Her work has helped bring care closer to families and reduce barriers to accessing support.
Families consistently describe feeling “safe, seen and heard” in Natalie's care. She combines clinical expertise with empathy, clear communication and strong advocacy, ensuring children and families receive the support they need while navigating complex health and social circumstances.
Through her leadership, innovation and commitment to person-centred care, Natalie has strengthened community health services and improved outcomes for children and families. Her work continues to enhance the quality, accessibility and experience of care across CAHS.
Natalie Miller, Clinical Nurse Specialist, CACH
Natalie Miller is a Clinical Nurse Specialist who has made a significant and lasting difference to children and families across the community through a compassionate, person-centred approach to care. Through her ability to build trusted relationships, she ensures families feel safe, supported and empowered throughout their healthcare journey.Natalie has expanded access to community health services through the development of innovative and responsive programs, including First 1000 Days playgroups, Early Parenting Groups and Drop In Clinics. Her work has helped bring care closer to families and reduce barriers to accessing support.
Families consistently describe feeling “safe, seen and heard” in Natalie's care. She combines clinical expertise with empathy, clear communication and strong advocacy, ensuring children and families receive the support they need while navigating complex health and social circumstances.
Through her leadership, innovation and commitment to person-centred care, Natalie has strengthened community health services and improved outcomes for children and families. Her work continues to enhance the quality, accessibility and experience of care across CAHS.
Consumer Experience Award
Through the establishment of a bereaved parent advisory group, Arielle has created a safe and respectful space for families to share their experiences and contribute to the future design of bereavement support services. Her approach recognises families as experts in their own experiences and ensures their voices are heard and valued.
With exceptional sensitivity and care, Arielle has guided families through conversations about loss while helping transform their insights into meaningful improvements in care. Her work ensures future families receive support informed by those who have experienced a similar journey.
Through her compassion, professionalism and commitment to consumer partnership, Arielle is shaping a more responsive and supportive approach to bereavement care. Her work will have a lasting impact on families, staff and the future of family-centred care at CAHS.
Arielle Jolly, Clinical Nurse Specialist, PCHN
Arielle Jolly is a Clinical Nurse Specialist helping redefine bereavement care for families who experience the sudden and unexpected loss of a child in PICU through the leadership of the Footprints Bereavement Project. By placing families at the centre of service design, she has created a model that is grounded in lived experience, compassion and partnership.Through the establishment of a bereaved parent advisory group, Arielle has created a safe and respectful space for families to share their experiences and contribute to the future design of bereavement support services. Her approach recognises families as experts in their own experiences and ensures their voices are heard and valued.
With exceptional sensitivity and care, Arielle has guided families through conversations about loss while helping transform their insights into meaningful improvements in care. Her work ensures future families receive support informed by those who have experienced a similar journey.
Through her compassion, professionalism and commitment to consumer partnership, Arielle is shaping a more responsive and supportive approach to bereavement care. Her work will have a lasting impact on families, staff and the future of family-centred care at CAHS.
Last Updated:
04/09/2026
