Nursing Symposium 2026

As part of International Nurses Day celebrations, Westmead Hospital recently hosted its 2026 Nursing Symposium, bringing together nurses, midwives and healthcare professionals 

As part of International Nurses Day celebrations, Westmead Hospital recently hosted its 2026 Nursing Symposium, bringing together nurses, midwives and healthcare professionals from across the hospital to celebrate excellence in nursing and acknowledge the extraordinary contribution frontline healthcare teams make to our community every day.

The symposium provided an opportunity for staff to connect, reflect, learn and recognise the compassion, leadership, innovation and dedication demonstrated across the nursing and midwifery workforce.

Westmead Hospital Foundation was proud to be one of the sponsors of the event and honoured to sponsor all award categories presented during the symposium.

The Foundation congratulates the 2026 award recipients:

• Lifetime Achievement Award – Margaret Stebbing
• New to Practice Nurse of the Year Award – Sushmita Wanta
• Healing Heart Award – Felicity Alling
• Leadership Excellence Award – Khin Myint (Renal)
• Team of the Year Award – D4A Geriatrics
• Midwife of the Year Award – Margaret Hudson (Birth Unit)
• Nurse of the Year Award – Desireen Panfilo (B4 B/C)

These awards recognise individuals and teams who consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, teamwork, leadership and commitment to improving the experience of patients and families across Westmead Hospital.

Westmead Hospital Foundation General Manager, Dinidu Illangakoon, said the Foundation was honoured to support initiatives that celebrate healthcare professionals and acknowledge the incredible work taking place across the hospital every day.

“Our nurses and midwives are at the heart of patient care. Their compassion, professionalism and dedication have an extraordinary impact on patients, families and the wider community. It was a privilege for the Foundation to support the symposium and recognise the outstanding achievements of this year’s award recipients,” he said.

The Foundation extends its sincere thanks to all nurses and midwives across Westmead Hospital and the broader Western Sydney Local Health District for their ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional care to the community.

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