General News
21 May, 2026
Celebrating the nurses who care for our communities
HEALTH services across the region have recognised the vital contribution nurses make to local communities as part of International Nurses Day celebrations. This year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” focuses on the importance of supporting and empowering nurses so they can continue delivering safe, high-quality and compassionate care.
At Beaufort and Skipton Health Service, celebrations were broadened to acknowledge the contribution of all healthcare workers.
Acting chief executive Chris Nykoluk said the day recognised the commitment shown by staff across the service.
“We really thank the whole team for all the care and support that they have given to everyone that comes through the health service through the years,” Mr Nykoluk said.
“They really, in a lot of ways, put their body on the line to really help people. We are really proud of the care and compassion that they’ve shown everyone.”
Mr Nykoluk said the day also provided an opportunity for staff to pause and reflect on their work.
“It’s pretty special to take a moment and treat ourselves, and take a moment to reflect,” he said.
At Maryborough District Health Service, which has campuses in Avoca, Maryborough and Dunolly, nurses work across acute care, aged care, maternity services, urgent care, palliative care, district nursing and a range of other services, while also helping train the next generation of nurses.
MDHS Executive Director of Care and Chief Nurse and Midwife Debbie Rogers said nurses are often the first point of contact and a constant presence throughout a patient’s healthcare journey.
“In our local communities, nurses play a particularly important role in ensuring people can access timely care close to home,” Ms Rogers said.
“Whether it’s supporting families in smaller towns, caring for older residents in aged care or responding to urgent needs in emergency settings, their work makes a real difference every day.”
Ms Rogers said this year’s theme also reinforced the importance of investing in the nursing workforce through safe workplaces, leadership opportunities and systems that allow nurses to fully utilise their skills.
“When nurses are supported and empowered, patients and the community benefits,” she said.
Acting MDHS CEO Leanne Shea said the organisation was proud of the way staff continued to adapt in the healthcare environment.
“The value of our workforce is very high and we are actually very proud of them to be able to adapt and change, because it is always a changing environment,” Ms Shea said.
