Today is International Day of the Midwife, a chance for midwives to celebrate their profession, and for all of us to recognise their hard work and contribution.

Each year, two of Lismore Base Hospitals’ midwives are honoured as Midwife of the Year and Early Career Midwife of the Year.

Midwife of the Year is named in honour of Dorothy Edwards, who passed away from cancer. Through the generosity of Dorothy’s husband, Noel established an Award and Scholarship in her name, which is also supported by Our Kids.

Dorothy Edwards Midwife of the Year Award annually recognises one midwife’s hard work and dedication at Lismore Base Hospital. The award comes with a financial scholarship for training and conferences to increase the recipient’s knowledge and expertise in midwifery.

Recipient of the Dorothy Edwards’ Midwifery Award and Scholarship is Sinead Allen, and Early Career Midwife of the Year was awarded to Roseanna Avery.

Lismore Base Hospital Midwifery Manager, Amber Dalby, said Sinead and Roseanna are both worthy recipients, and are women-and-family centred in their approach to the job.

“[Sinead] empowers women to be actively involved in their care and decision making,” she said.

“She advocates for women and families, and also her colleagues, speaking up for our safety… she promotes a positive workplace culture and leads by example.”

“Rosie has leaped enthusiastically into her career as an early career midwife, she's demonstrated determination and drive and is very women focussed.”

“She's compassionate and strives for excellence in all she does, giving above and beyond.”

Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator, Rebekka Battista, presented the award alongside Our Kids Chair, Suzette Pearce, and board member Tanya Jones.

Lismore Base Hospital Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Narelle Gleeson, thanked all the midwives present at the celebration.

“Having spent 28 years working in maternity services, one of the things that you realise as you get older, is that those women never forget.”

“It is the best job you can ever do.”

If you would also like to take part and contribute, like the Edwards Family to educational scholarships for our local paediatric and midwifery staff, please contact the Our Kids office on 6620 2705.