A Lismore speech pathologist with 44 years of experience has been named Northern NSW’s Allied Health Professional of the Year, recognising her dedication to supporting young children and families.
Charmaine Powell received the top honour at the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Excellence in Allied Health Awards, held at Southern Cross University in Lismore on Wednesday, 14 October.
The annual ceremony coincided with national Allied Health Professions Day and celebrated the contributions of health professionals delivering essential services across the region.
Powell, who primarily works with children under five experiencing complex circumstances, was recognised for her compassionate, person-centred approach and commitment to evidence-based care.
Her dedication to mentoring and supporting the development of fellow allied health professionals was also acknowledged.
The awards attracted 66 nominations, including 13 multidisciplinary team nominations, recognising individuals and teams making a difference to patient care and health outcomes.
NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey congratulated the nominees and recipients, highlighting the essential role allied health professionals play in supporting communities.
“Congratulations to all our allied health professionals nominated for these awards. Your contribution to our community is invaluable.” said Maisey.
“Allied health professionals improve the health and wellbeing of our patients and community members in ways many people may not realise. They work across our hospitals, outpatient clinics and community health services, providing high-quality, compassionate care and support for our patients, their families and carers.
“They support patients on their recovery journeys, helping them to improve their quality of life and get back to what they like doing best. We are so grateful for all you do.”
More than 850 allied health professionals work across the district, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, pharmacists, dietitians, psychologists, social workers and radiographers.
NNSWLHD District Director Planning, Partnerships and Allied Health Kathryn Watson said the awards highlighted the expertise and dedication of the region’s workforce.
“These Awards acknowledge the passion, dedication and contribution that allied health professionals, and their support staff provide across Northern NSW.” said Watson.
“We are fortunate to have more than 850 allied health professionals working with us across a diverse range of professions in the District, often across multi-disciplinary teams.
“Each brings specialised expertise in preventing, diagnosing and treating conditions and illnesses for patients of all ages. These nominees and winners make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and communities every day and I commend our allied health workforce, Award nominees and recipients.”
2026 Excellence in Allied Health Award winners
- Allied Health Professional of the Year: Charmaine Powell – Speech Pathologist
- Aboriginal Allied Health Professional of the Year: Jane Linton – Gumbaynggirr woman and Physiotherapist
- Early Career Allied Health Professional of the Year: Lili Condon – Speech Pathologist
- Allied Health Assistant, Technician or Support Person of the Year: Kathy Smith – Speech Pathology Assistant, recognised for the second consecutive year
- Allied Health Educator of the Year: Evie Boven – Occupational Therapist
- Allied Health Researcher of the Year: Kath Dower – Radiation Therapist
- Multidisciplinary Team of the Year: NNSWLHD Child and Family Counselling Team
- Allied Health Leader of the Year: Deanna Bowen – Social Worker
Award recipients will now be eligible for nomination at the NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards, scheduled to take place in Sydney in June 2027.
Further information about allied health careers and services is available through the NSW Health website.
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