NT Allied Health Excellence Awards

Jessie-Rose is an early-career physiotherapist at Territory Therapy Solutions who has embraced the challenges of working in the Top End with professionalism and enthusiasm. She delivers high-quality, person-centred care to clients with neurological conditions, offering interventions such as hydrotherapy, neurorehabilitation, respiratory management, and gait retraining for amputees. Jessie-Rose has shown exceptional leadership and advocacy, notably securing a pool hoist installation in Katherine to maintain hydrotherapy access. She collaborates across disciplines, supports telehealth services, and adapts her communication to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds. Her practical problem-solving includes repairing mobility equipment in remote areas and supporting carers with training and equipment use. Jessie-Rose has pursued professional development in aquatic and neurological physiotherapy and spasticity management. Her respectful, responsive care has earned praise from clients, families, and colleagues. Her initiative, adaptability, and collaborative spirit make her a standout in early career physiotherapy and a deserving finalist.

Shae Dentith is an early career occupational therapist at Milestone Movements, working from the East Arnhem Kids Hub. She delivers exceptional, child- and family-centred care with a calm, empathetic, and culturally humble approach. Her trauma-informed and neuro-affirming practice is especially valued in Aboriginal communities, where she tailors therapy to local needs. Families consistently praise Shae’s ability to build trust with children, including those who have previously disengaged from therapy. Shae actively engages in supervision, reflects deeply on her practice, and pursues training in trauma-informed care, rural paediatrics, and culturally safe practice. She goes beyond expectations to source resources and tools that enhance her understanding and support for clients. Shae is collaborative, dependable, and communicates with clarity, earning respect from peers. Her initiative and leadership are evident in her contributions to new group programs and her support for families and stakeholders. Shae’s adaptability and strong ethics mark her as a future leader in remote occupational therapy.

Jess is a Nuclear Medicine Technologist who joined the Molecular Imaging team at Royal Darwin Hospital in January 2025. She has made a significant impact on patient care, professional collaboration, and research outcomes. Jess consistently goes above and beyond, recently staying after hours to ensure a patient had safe transport. She works proactively with colleagues to improve practice and has stepped into higher-level roles when needed. Jess won an award at the national conference in Melbourne for her research presentation on potential cells for new radiotracer therapies—an advanced topic for her career stage. She is a committed mentor, supporting students and ensuring their wellbeing while away from home. As the department contact for external-led research, Jess has helped Royal Darwin Hospital recruit more imaging patients than any other Australian institution. Her initiative, compassion, and leadership make her a standout contributor to nuclear medicine and a deserving finalist.

A physiotherapist based at Alice Springs Hospital and across Central Australia, Anna’s work exemplifies innovation and impact. Her leadership in developing the Grow Us Strong (GUS) initiative has transformed neurodevelopmental screening for at-risk paediatric clients, while her role as Principal Investigator in the NTQEDIN study has advanced neonatal care through vital data collection. Anna’s introduction of the STAT triage model in pelvic health services dramatically reduced wait times and expanded culturally responsive telehealth access for Aboriginal women in remote communities—an achievement later featured by the ABC. Her commitment to upskilling teams, coordinating multidisciplinary clinics, and presenting nationally reflects a clinician deeply invested in improving health outcomes across the region. Anna’s work exemplifies excellence in rural and remote physiotherapy practice.

Tom is a highly respected pharmacist whose clinical expertise, leadership, and innovation have transformed perioperative care at Royal Darwin Hospital. He delivers safe, personalised medication advice and is known for his approachable, culturally responsive manner with patients and colleagues. Tom was involved in development of a pre-travel medication screening process for remote patients, improving safety and saving NT Health approximately $250,000. He is a key architect of a new nurse- and pharmacy-led Pre-Assessment Clinic model, reducing reliance on anaesthetists and preventing theatre cancellations. Tom actively mentors junior pharmacists and Nurse Practitioners, supports collaborative practice, and refines medication protocols to align with best-practice standards. His calm leadership, generosity, and commitment to excellence have earned the trust of surgical teams and patients alike. Tom’s impact is felt in both daily clinical care and system-wide improvements, making him a standout example of allied health excellence in the Northern Territory.

Mal is a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at Charles Darwin University whose research and quality improvement work have significantly advanced mental health care in the Northern Territory. With over 30 peer-reviewed publications, his research spans behavioural addictions and adult mental health. He has secured over $2 million in competitive funding to support research on addictive behaviours in the Northern Territory. Mal co-designed culturally safe supervision and assessment models now embedded in the Charles Darwin University postgraduate training. For more than a decade, Mal has inspired postgraduate Psychology students to value their work as scientist-practitioners and supported them in translating their work into quality publications. He is a respected educator and mentor who integrates advanced research methods into clinical training, preparing culturally responsive psychologists for remote and complex environments. Mal’s leadership in applied research and continuous quality improvement makes him a standout contributor to allied health excellence.

Rebecca is a highly respected audiologist and clinical leader whose dedication to Continuous Quality Improvement has transformed hearing health care across the Northern Territory. As CQI Manager and Audiology Team Leader at NT Hearing Services, she leads clinical audits, policy development, and service redesign to improve safety, consistency, and outcomes. Her work has refined newborn screening workflows, reduced follow-up times, and enhanced continuity of care in remote clinics. Rebecca has authored evidence-based protocols for complex services like teleotology and diagnostic assessments, ensuring statewide clinical governance. She integrates data analysis into strategic planning, driving improvements in follow-up care and reducing loss to follow-up rates. Her leadership in accreditation and standards compliance has ensured NT Hearing Services maintains a strong record of safety and quality. Widely respected for her collaborative, data-driven approach, Rebecca mentors future leaders and continues to elevate hearing health outcomes through innovation, evidence, and system-wide improvement.

James is a dedicated podiatrist at Central Australian Aboriginal Congress whose research and quality improvement work has shaped culturally safe, community-led care in Central Australia. He established and evaluated a men’s health foot clinic at Ingkintja, guided by service users, and is authoring research that may redefine culturally responsive podiatry. James is co-designing a Charcot Neuroarthropathy resource aligned with international guidelines, improving client understanding and management of this complex condition. He has led podiatry service evaluations with the South Australian Health Medical Research Institute, developed the Aboriginal Allied Health Assistant framework, and contributed to Shared Medical Appointments research. James also drives culturally responsive practice, mentors First Nations staff, and ensures clinical safety through collaborative leadership. His data-informed improvements have enhanced care pathways, documentation standards, and service delivery. James’ quality improvement and research work privileges First Nations knowledge and strengthens foot health outcomes in remote communities. His contributions exemplify excellence in allied health research and continuous quality improvement.

Tobias exemplifies allied health leadership through his sustained contributions to education, policy, research, and clinical innovation in remote health and pharmacy practice. As Senior Lecturer and Course Coordinator at Flinders University, he has transformed education for remote health professionals, improving medication safety and cultural responsiveness across Australia. Toby is the first onsite aged care pharmacist in Alice Springs, pioneering a new model of care in a high-need area. He holds influential roles, including NT representative on the Pharmacy Board of Australia and long-standing member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia NT/SA Branch Committee, advocating for remote health perspectives in national policy. Toby’s contributions have supported health professionals in the safe provision of care and medicines for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, including chairing of the Pharmacy Working Group for the Remote Primary Health Care Manuals and contributing to guidelines for pharmacists supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples with medicines management. His PhD research and leadership in community-led projects continue to shape safe, person-centred care. Widely respected for his humility and impact, Toby is a driving force behind quality improvement and workforce development in remote allied health.

Sheida Navidi is a Senior Public Health Dietitian whose leadership has transformed nutrition services across Central Australia. She began her current role in 2023, after more than a decade of experience delivering public health dietetic services to remote communities in the region. Since joining NT Health in 2012, Sheida has built deep expertise in culturally responsive care and community engagement, which now informs her leadership of a dynamic team of 5 dietitians providing public health and clinical services across 17 remote communities. Her leadership is marked by strategic vision, cultural responsiveness, and a commitment to team development. Sheida has driven improvements in interdisciplinary collaboration, client satisfaction, and culturally safe care models. She mentors junior staff, facilitates hospital-based skill development, and supports student placements to grow the future workforce. Her influence extends to national research and advocacy, including presenting at the Australian Public Health Conference and contributing to projects such as the “Sugar Sisters” initiative an ongoing, community-led effort that she continues to support through background guidance and staff capacity-building. She is also working in partnership with Monash University to support the implementation of the Stores Benchmarking Project in Central Australian stores. Widely respected for her integrity and inclusive leadership style, Sheida fosters innovation, shared accountability, and continuous improvement—making her a standout leader in public health nutrition and a deserving finalist for this award.

Angus Stead exemplifies leadership through action, collaboration, and innovation in allied health education. As Academic Lead for Social Work Field Education at Charles Darwin University, Angus manages placements for over 500 students, expanding opportunities across the NT and ensuring culturally responsive, high-quality learning experiences. He led the establishment of the Social Work in Schools program, improving wellbeing in underserved communities, and has pioneered interprofessional placements and simulations with disciplines such as occupational therapy, midwifery and paramedicine. Angus mentors placement coordinators across allied health, fostering a collaborative, supportive culture. His leadership extends to national networks, advocacy for paid placements, and workforce development projects supporting Aboriginal Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs services. Angus drives systemic change—establishing over 100 mental health placements, growing school-based sites, and building partnerships with over 25 organisations. Respected across academic, clinical, and community sectors, Angus leads with integrity, vision, and generosity, making a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the future of allied health in the Territory.

The RDH Trauma Service Allied Health Team—comprising occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and social work—delivers exceptional, patient-centred care for adults and children with significant traumatic injuries. Their collaborative approach ensures holistic physical and psychosocial support from acute care through to discharge. The team has led impactful quality improvement initiatives, including the development of evidence-based protocols for traumatic brain injury (including post traumatic amnesia), and ongoing complex domestic violence support – enhancing outcomes and staff education across Royal Darwin Hospital. Their advocacy ensures patients are discharged to safe environments that support recovery and rehabilitation goals. The team’s deep clinical expertise, compassionate care, and strong rapport with patients and families make them an essential part of trauma care in the Northern Territory. Their leadership in service development, education, and culturally responsive care has reduced readmissions and improved long-term outcomes. This team exemplifies excellence in allied health through innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to patient wellbeing.

NT Hearing Services exemplifies excellence in multidisciplinary care, innovation, and equity. This dedicated team of audiologists, nurses, and technical staff delivers culturally safe, person-centred hearing services across urban centres and 94 remote NT communities. Their work consistently exceeds national benchmarks, including a 97% newborn screening rate, and has reached over 12,000 clients through more than 27,000 ear checks. The team’s leadership in innovation was internationally recognised at the 2025 AI for Good Global Summit for their geospatial mapping project on otitis media and social determinants of health. Their collaborative model ensures timely, wraparound care and continuous service improvement. They empower families through evidence-based communication tools and culturally appropriate resources. With a strong focus on early intervention, data-driven planning, and inclusive practice, NT Hearing Services is transforming hearing health outcomes for First Nations children and communities—locally and nationally—while setting a gold standard for allied health teamwork and leadership.

The Community Allied Health Team (CAHT) delivers culturally safe, inclusive, and compassionate care to both children and adults across remote communities in the Top End and East Arnhem regions. This multidisciplinary team builds strong, trusting relationships with clients, families, and local stakeholders—ensuring care is respectful, responsive, and grounded in community priorities. Their collaborative, strengths-based approach empowers families through shared decision-making and culturally appropriate communication. CAHT’s work bridges service gaps, strengthens access, and upholds the autonomy of remote clients. The team contributes to national and international conversations, including presenting at the 2025 World Bronchiectasis Conference and participating in the Intercultural Communication Community of Practice. They also support urban teams through mentorship and clinical guidance, fostering a workplace culture grounded in kindness, humour, and mutual respect. Their leadership in service innovation, cross-sector partnerships, and evidence-based practice ensures high-quality, person-centred care—making CAHT a standout example of allied health excellence in the Northern Territory.

Steven is a dedicated prosthetist/orthotist whose innovative, person-centred approach is transforming access to prosthetic and orthotic care across the Northern Territory. After identifying a critical service gap at RDPH, he founded Kapok Prosthetics & Orthotics, the only locally based private P&O provider in the Top End. Steven delivers mobile, high-quality care to rural and remote communities, using cutting-edge technologies like 3D scanning, printing, and direct socket technology to reduce wait times and improve outcomes. His mobile van workshop allows him to assess, fit, and service devices on-site, minimising travel burdens for clients. Steven communicates with warmth and cultural sensitivity, tailoring each device to the individual’s lifestyle and needs. He also shares his expertise with health professionals and students, strengthening local capacity. Widely respected for his kindness, innovation, and commitment to equity, Steven exemplifies excellence in community practice—bringing life-changing care to those who need it most, wherever they are.

Rebekah is a passionate public health dietitian whose leadership is transforming food security and nutrition across East Arnhem. At Miwatj Health, she leads the implementation of a region-wide Food Security and Nutrition Strategy, empowering Yolŋu communities to drive culturally safe, community-led change. Rebekah has built strong partnerships with local stores, improving food environments through healthier displays, culturally relevant health promotion, and advocacy for stronger licensing. She has also championed the development of a Yolŋu Allied Health Assistant workforce and created the role of Yolŋu Allied Health Advisor to embed cultural guidance in service delivery. Rebekah’s collaborative approach is evident in her contributions to national inquiries, co-designed health education resources, and her work with the Coalition for Healthy Remote Stores. Widely respected for her integrity, generosity, and cultural humility, Rebekahis creating lasting, community-driven improvements in nutrition and health equity—making her a standout in allied health community practice.

Taygan Tucker is a dedicated Dental Therapist with over 30 years of experience, including more than seven years serving Nhulunbuy and the East Arnhem region. Often the sole therapist across vast, remote areas, Taygan delivers trauma-informed, culturally safe care to both children and adults. Recognising service gaps, she upskilled through the Advanced Diploma of Dental Therapy – Clinical Practice, expanding access to comprehensive care. Taygan’s community-centred approach includes health promotion, education, and building trust with First Nations communities, leading to improved oral health literacy and outcomes. She developed a clinical reporting system with Gove District Hospital to reduce repeat emergency visits and improve follow-up care. As a mentor to students and the only NT representative for the Oral Health Association of Australia (Oral Health Therapists Association), Taygan advocates for equity, workforce development, and remote service delivery. Her leadership, compassion, and commitment to culturally responsive care have made a lasting impact on oral health in the Northern Territory.

Brooke Venhuizen is an exceptional Senior Pharmacy Technician whose leadership, technical expertise, and compassionate service have significantly strengthened both Prison Health and Mental Health services in the Northern Territory. In a newly created role within Custodial Care, Brooke led a major redesign of medication management systems—developing SOPs, auditing processes, and implementing changes that significantly improved dispensing outcomes. Her work has improved safety, efficiency, and continuity of care in a high-risk environment. Brooke is highly organised, solutions-focused, and deeply committed to patient wellbeing. She mentors junior staff, fosters a positive team culture, and consistently models NT Health’s values of safety, responsiveness, and kindness. Her ability to balance technical excellence with inclusive leadership makes her a trusted and valued team member. Brooke’s contributions have had a lasting impact on service quality, workforce development, and patient outcomes—making her a truly deserving finalist for the Excellence in Allied Health Assistance/Technical Support Award.

Caroline is an exceptional Allied Health Assistant at Central Australian Aboriginal Congress. Her clinical skill, cultural leadership, and commitment to community-centred care are transforming foot health services in Central Australia. She provides high-quality, trauma-informed support to podiatrists, ensuring safe, efficient, and culturally responsive care. Caroline integrates First Nations knowledge into Western clinical practice, creating a ‘third space’ where cultural and clinical expertise meet. Her work privileges First Nations voices, fosters trust, and improves access to care. Caroline is a co-investigator in First Nations-led research, contributes to service design across hospital and community settings, and leads education initiatives like Ingke Arntarnte-areme for remote nurse training. She is deeply respected for her kindness, attention to detail, and ability to create a supportive environment for patients and colleagues alike. Caroline’s lived experience, cultural authority, and technical excellence make her an indispensable member of the podiatry team at Congress. Colleagues and patients agree; Caroline is too deadly!

As the sole full-time Newborn Hearing Screener at Royal Darwin Hospital, Kim plays a critical role in delivering early hearing screening to infants across the Darwin region. Working within a national framework, Kim ensures that over 97% of eligible babies receive a hearing screen before one month corrected age. Her dedication includes screening newborns in hospital, coordinating outpatient appointments, and facilitating referrals for diagnostic testing. Since joining NT Hearing in 2016, Kim has consistently provided high-quality, family-centred care, ensuring culturally safe and supportive experiences for families from diverse backgrounds. She is a collaborative team member, known for her kindness, approachability, and willingness to go above and beyond. Kim has trained new screeners, supported audiologists, and delivered education to regional health teams. Her technical expertise, commitment to excellence, and leadership in maintaining equipment and resources make her an invaluable contributor to newborn hearing screening across the Northern Territory.