Big ideas, real impact and safer workplaces - our caregivers are leading the way!

26 Mar 2026

The Tony Howarth Awards for Leadership in Health, Safety and Wellbeing recognise caregivers who don’t just see opportunities for improvement, they act on them. Named in honour of our former Board Chair and current Chair of St John of God Foundation, Tony Howarth AO, these awards highlight initiatives that make a genuine difference.

This year, we’re proud to showcase caregiver-led solutions that promote psychological safety, reduce risk and enhance wellbeing across our organisation.

We received an outstanding number of nominations, each reflecting the passion and commitment of caregivers dedicated to improving both physical and mental safety in the workplace.

Our winners were formally recognised at a special awards event hosted by our Board Chair, Hon Kerry Sanderson AC CVO, Group CEO Bryan Pyne, and members of our Board.

We also extend our sincere thanks to our long-standing superannuation partner, HESTA, for their generous support of these awards since 2016.

Watch our fantastic videos below to discover the inspiring stories behind these outstanding initiatives.

Congratulations to:

St John of God Subiaco Hospital’s Perioperative Orthopaedic Technician team

Category: A solution to an identified occupational, health and safety issue

Our Perioperative Orthopaedic Technician team introduced the nimble ‘Walkie Stacker’ to eliminate the need for heavy lifting, improving workflow efficiency, and reduce physical strain.

Cate Thomas, Director Organisational Development and Improvement, on behalf of teams across St John of God Murdoch Hospital

Category: Commitment to Health and Wellbeing

A collaborative team effort across Murdoch saw the introduction of the CARE program to strengthen caregiver psychological safety and elevate the standard of safe patient care.

Sharon Smith, Registered Nurse, St John of God Healthcare at Home

Category: Most Outstanding Health and Safety Representative

Through her dedication, Sharon has strengthened workplace compliance, reduced the risk of injury, and built greater confidence amongst caregivers in maintaining a safe working environment.

Kristy Holmes, Emergency Department Area Manager, St John of God Midland Hospital

Category: Best example of Safety Leadership

Kristy’s genuine and people-centred approach has helped to cultivate a more supportive, appreciative, and psychologically safe culture within the Emergency Department.