Today, on International Nurses Day, we honour the compassionate and dedicated nurses who are at the heart of our healthcare system. Their unwavering commitment to patient and family care and support is invaluable.
This year International Nurses Day coincides with day two of National Palliative Care Week, and today in Lismore, Wauchope, and Wagga Wagga, there were several palliative care nurses supporting the Palliative Care NSW Community Conversations. These free sessions provide a safe space for individuals and families to find out more about palliative care, discuss advance care planning, explore local support services, and gain the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.
At the Lismore event, held at the Lismore Heights Sports Club in partnership with the Beating Hearts of Lismore, participants engaged in meaningful conversations, supported by Josh Cohen, Specialist Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner. In Wauchope, the CWA Hall hosted a session where Mary Trotter, Palliative Care Nurse Unit Manager from Wauchope District Memorial Hospital, helped facilitate discussions on navigating end-of-life matters and accessing palliative care services. Meanwhile, in Wagga Wagga, the RSL Club’s Pacific Room served as a venue for a session that offered resources and guidance to attendees, with support from Stephanie Dunstall Palliative Care Nurse Educator from MLHD Palliative Care Specialist Service.
The theme of International Nurses Day in 2025 is “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies”. This theme puts into focus the health and wellbeing of nurses and the critical role a healthy nursing workforce plays in strengthening economies, improving health systems, and ensuring better outcomes for communities worldwide. It is vital we care for our nurses, so they can continue to care for their communities.
As we celebrate International Nurses Day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all nurses, and in particular to those nurses working in specialist palliative care, for their quality care and profound impact on the lives of many.