In May, the annual HESTA Nursing Awards were held at the Crown Entertainment Complex in Melbourne. The purpose of this annual event is to reward excellence and outstanding contributions within the nursing industry.

For the third year, ME Bank has been the major supporter of the HESTA Nursing Awards providing the $25,000 prize pool of education and travel grants for the three winners.

Jamie McPhee (CEO), Samm Bell and members of the National Business Development team represented ME Bank on the night. Jamie presented the awards to representatives from across the industry, who demonstrate remarkable commitment to their profession.

The 2010 winners are detailed on the Member Connect website.

Graduate Nurse of the Year: James Bonello
James is a Flinders Medical Centre emergency nurse from South Australia. James was awarded for his tireless efforts in helping recognised for his commitment to community, further education and holistic care. His nomination highlighted his work with a cancer patient requiring palliative care, his support for a client trying to quit smoking and his cultural sensitivity.

Innovation in Nursing: Jacinta Vanderpuije

Jacinta is a clinical nurse educator from Sydney’s St Vincent’s Private Hospital. Jacinta and her team won the award for a new diagnostic colour chart that helps prostate surgery patients communicate their symptoms to medical staff.

Nurse of the Year: Charlotte Collins

Charlotte is a mental health nurse from Fremantle Hospital in Perth. Charlotte was awarded for her advanced negotiation skills in crisis situations and advocacy for vulnerable patients.

The HESTA Nursing Awards recognise the skill and dedication of people working within the community and ME Bank looks forward to continuing its support in 2011.