Territory nurses and midwives recognised at 2026 Excellence Awards

The outstanding work of Northern Territory nurses and midwives has been celebrated at the 2026 Northern Territory Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards, honouring professionals whose care and leadership continue to strengthen the Territory's health system.

Held at the Mindil Beach Casino Resort, the gala event brought together more than 450 guests to recognise excellence across clinical care, education, research, leadership, aged care and community service.

The Finocchiaro CLP Government acknowledged the vital role nurses and midwives play in supporting the health and wellbeing of Territorians every day, with Minister for Health Steve Edgington praising their dedication and professionalism.

Mr Edgington said the strong response to this year's awards-524 submissions across 15 categories-reflected the depth of talent across the Territory's health workforce.

"These awards shine a spotlight on the passion, professionalism and commitment of our Territory nurses and midwives," he said. "They do an extraordinary job every day keeping Territorians healthy and cared for."

He added that the event formed part of the Government's focus on "growth, certainty and security" in the health system, while recognising the essential contribution of frontline workers.

Four new award categories were introduced in 2026, expanding recognition of rural and remote care, primary and community health, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, and enrolled nursing excellence.

Among the major winners, Kelly Hosking received two honours, including Nurse of the Year and Excellence in Research/Quality Improvement through work with NT Health and the Menzies School of Health Research.

Other major awards included Midwife of the Year Kayla Kemp from Big Rivers Region, Lifetime Achievement recipient Prudence Boylan, and Rising Star Chloe Harris from Katherine Hospital.

Education, leadership and community care were also strongly represented, with recognition for teams and individuals working across remote clinics, hospitals and outreach services, including contributions supported by CareFlight NT and Charles Darwin University.

The awards also highlighted excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nursing and midwifery, rural and remote health services, and aged care, reinforcing the breadth of roles across the profession.