This year, the Tasmanian Palliative Care Awards stepped onto a bigger stage as part of our 2026 State Conference at Wrest Point. Hosted by Jean Kittson AM, the Awards brought our sector together to recognise 25 finalists across eight categories. Each nomination reflected the care, commitment, innovation and kindness being demonstrated across palliative care in Tasmania.
Congratulations once again to all our winners, runners-up, finalists and nominees. It was a special evening and a wonderful opportunity to recognise the people and teams making a difference in our services and communities.
Honouring a lasting contribution
Dr Paul Dunne AM was inducted into the Joy Coghlan Honour Roll, recognising his outstanding and lasting contribution to palliative and end-of-life care in Tasmania.
Widely regarded as one of the founding figures of palliative medicine in our state, Paul has helped shape services across community, hospital and inpatient settings. His leadership, advocacy, education and generous support of others have strengthened palliative care throughout Tasmania.
Speaking about Paul’s induction, Heather Kent, CEO of Palliative Care Tasmania, said: “Paul’s contribution goes well beyond his clinical work. He has helped strengthen palliative care in Tasmania through his leadership, knowledge and generosity in supporting others. The Joy Coghlan Honour Roll recognises people who have made a lasting contribution to our sector, and Paul’s impact is one that will continue to be felt for many generations to come.”
Kindness that continues to grow
This year, the Ruth Andrews Memorial Award for Kindness was presented to Helen Woodbridge, whose remarkable 50-year career has spanned nursing, palliative care, education and community service.
As an Aboriginal registered nurse and educator, Helen has strengthened the skills of health professionals through her leadership of PEPA and championed culturally safe, respectful palliative care for Aboriginal people, families and communities.
Lisa Brown, the 2025 recipient, also returned to this year’s ceremony to reflect on what the Award has meant to her.
Lisa shared how the recognition inspired Gift of Comfort, a community project helping make hospital rooms feel warmer and less clinical for people receiving palliative care and their families. Simple touches such as quilts, soft lighting and calming scents can help create a more peaceful space during an incredibly important time.
During Lisa's speech, she said “In palliative care, we can’t always change what is happening. But we can change how someone feels while it is happening.” Lisa’s reflection was a powerful reminder that kindness does not have to be extraordinary to make a lasting difference. Read Lisa's full speech: Click Here
All professional photos from the Awards are now available. Click the button below to view and download the images.
Download the Awards Images
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