WSLHD nurse crowned City of Parramatta Citizen of the Year

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has taken out two major gongs at this year’s City of Parramatta Australia Day Awards ceremony at Rosehill Racecourse.

One of WSLHD’s COVID-19 screening clinics at Westmead Hospital and a neurosciences clinical nurse consultant Diane Lear became this year’s City of Parramatta Citizen of the Year in the humanity category. 

Diane, who currently works at Westmead Hospital, was recognised for her more-than-forty year career as a registered nurse, and her role as a co-founder and facilitator of the Western Sydney Brain Tumour Support Group.

Diane is also leading national associations and committees including the Australasian Neuroscience Nurses Association (ANNA) and the Neurosurgical Nurses Professional Development Committee (NNPDSC). Diane is also an honorary associate with the Sydney University Research Centre.

“I’m not sure who nominated me but I am very humbled and honoured to receive this award,” Diane said.

“I am very proud of my accomplishments as a nurse and I hope that my passion and dedication to our brain tumour support group has made a difference to the quality of life for patients and their families living with brain cancer.

“I look forward to seeing our support group evolve and continue supporting the unique challenges faced for patients with brain cancer.”

A WSLHD COVID-19 clinic at Westmead Hospital was also recognised with a leadership award at the event. 

The award was granted for excellence in active service whilst demonstrating leadership, compassion and kindness to enrich lives and inspire the community.

 COVID-19 clinic medical officer Dr Brandon Vardonk accepted the award on behalf of his team.

“We are humbled and grateful to receive the award,” Dr Verdonk said.

“The success of the clinic is a result of a combined effort of many people working together and this award is dedicated to them.”

The City of Parramatta Australia Day Awards recognised the outstanding achievements and excellence of local community members and the importance of service to the communities.​