The 24 national finalists in the 2024 HESTA Excellence Awards were announced today, highlighting the outstanding achievements in the disability, allied health, aged care, and community sectors.
Close to 400 nominations from around the country were submitted. HESTA CEO Debby Blakey acknowledged all those who were nominated for their contribution to the community and praised the exceptional leadership, commitment and passion of the finalists.
“The record number of nominations we’ve had from right across the country speaks to the incredible work of so many in these sectors that makes such a critical contribution to the health and wellbeing of our community,” Ms Blakey said.
“Congratulations to all the finalists. Through their work they’ve demonstrated outstanding professional excellence and deep levels of care and compassion that’s improved outcomes for so many. Often, they’ve provided a vital lifeline in people’s toughest moments.”
“We’re incredibly grateful for their profound contributions and thank those who nominated them for helping to recognise their amazing impact. HESTA is thrilled to share their inspirational stories and achievements.”
The national awards highlight the extraordinary work of these sectors to enhance the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities. Finalists were selected across the categories of Individual Leadership and Team Excellence.
Eight winners will share in a $60,000 prize money pool – courtesy of longstanding HESTA Awards supporter ME (a subsidiary of Bank of Queensland – BOQ) – for personal or professional development or further development of processes or services in the workplace.
BOQ Group Executive of Retail Banking Greg Boyle expressed the bank’s pride in supporting the awards.
“ME is proud to support these awards, recognising all the individuals whose passion for the care of others often leads them to help our community’s most vulnerable. Congratulations to this year’s finalists,” Mr Boyle said.
The eight winners will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday 29 August 2024.
Introducing the 2024 HESTA Excellence Awards finalists:
Allied Health – Team Excellence
Jacana First 1000 Days Clinic, Monash Children’s Hospital
Monash Health
Clayton, VIC
The Jacana First 1000 Days Clinic is recognised for its work supporting infants and children aged 0-3 years at risk of developmental challenges associated with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Since opening, the clinic has assessed more than 80 children, providing early, transformative support to shape their futures positively.
PACE Program
Alpine Health & Beechworth Health Service
Alpine & Indigo Shire, VIC
The PACE Team is recognised for expanding their flexible cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program into Indigo Shire. By using telehealth and community-based care to reduce chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular hospitalisations they help patients improve their quality of life.
Western Kids Health Complex Care Team
Western Kids Health
Shenton Park, WA
The Western Kids Health Complex Care Team is recognised for enhancing the lives of children and youth with complex and invisible conditions. The team has received international recognition as an Ehlers Danlos Centre of Excellence and launched the Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, and Psychology (POP) program in 2022, helping to increase quality of life of over 50 families.
Allied Health – Individual Leadership
Pradip Chandra Bhattacharjee
Monash Health
Melbourne, VIC
Pradip Bhattacharjee, a clinician at Monash Health, has 30-plus years in emergency, intensive care, and mental health. He facilitates Trauma Informed Yoga and holistic occupational therapy programs, improving recovery for trauma-affected clients. Pradip’s initiatives align with community-focused mental health strategies, earning positive feedback and professional recognition.
Sally Harris
Bendigo Health
Bendigo, VIC
