A Lismore podiatrist has been recognised at the highest level in NSW, taking out the top honour at the 2026 NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards.
Helen McGregor, from Northern NSW Local Health District, was named Allied Health Professional of the Year at the awards in Sydney, which recognise outstanding contributions from clinicians and support staff across the state.
The awards featured 35 finalists across seven categories, highlighting the breadth of work undertaken by allied health professionals across the NSW health system.
Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said the recognition reflects decades of dedication to patient care.
“I am delighted to congratulate Helen on being named the Allied Health Professional of the Year at the 2026 Excellence in Allied Health Awards,” Ms Maisey said.
“What an incredible achievement to be recognised by her peers at the state-level for her professionalism and dedication over more than 40 years as an advanced skills Podiatrist who is deeply committed to patient-centred care.
“We are truly thankful to have Helen on board with us at NNSWLHD, where she is seen as a driving force in Podiatry and a much-loved mentor by those around her, supporting colleagues and inspiring them to progress their own skills in healthcare. Congratulations Helen!”
Ms McGregor has played a key role in developing innovative programs, including multidisciplinary clinics and training initiatives aimed at strengthening wound care and improving patient outcomes.
Minister for Health Ryan Park said her work has had a lasting impact on the region.
“It was an honour to present the award to NSW’s Allied Health Professional of the Year Helen McGregor. Helen has played an instrumental role in the High Risk Foot Service at Lismore Base Hospital and fostered innovative programs like the Pedorthics multidisciplinary clinic, improving access to custom footwear for local community members,” Mr Park said.
“Helen has also been a great support to her colleagues – recognised as a dedicated mentor and educator by her peers.”
Ms McGregor said she was surprised by the recognition and credited her colleagues.
“The award is such great recognition of not just me but Podiatry and all Allied Health professionals in Northern NSW Local Health District,” she said.
“It is a real demonstration and appreciation of the breadth and depth of knowledge and skills we use for the benefit of our patients every day.
“I was very surprised to win the award. I never consider that I do anything out of the ordinary at work and couldn’t do it without the support of all my colleagues.”
She also encouraged greater recognition of the work being done across the sector.
“We have such a big pool of experienced, skilled, knowledgeable Allied Health staff in NNSWLHD and we should celebrate their achievements,” she said.
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