NSWNMA Stronger Together Awards

The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association are pleased to announce the winners for the NSWNMA Stronger Together Awards.

These awards recognise NSWNMA members who have demonstrated our values of activism, collectivism, courage, innovation, and integrity, and a commitment to improving healthcare across all sectors in NSW, inspiring others through their work, dedication and tenacity.

Proudly sponsored by:

Darren Demmery

Grafton Base Hospital Branch 

“He’s the heartbeat of our profession, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.” 

Darren Demmery is the 2026 Member of the Year award winner thanks to his relentless pursuit of a safer, fairer, and more compassionate healthcare system. 

A staunch advocate of work health and safety, Darren’s actions helped secure 24/7 security measures in the Grafton and Maclean emergency departments ensuring a safer work environment, while also revitalising the reasonable workloads committee to address staffing concerns in his workplace. 

Willing to go the extra mile for the cause (he famously drove an enormous bus all the way to Lismore for the Value Us rally), Darren’s passion, energy, and dedication have inspired countless others to get involved in the issues impacting their workforce.  

Shirley Brown 

Mount Druitt Community Health Branch

Shirley Brown is the recipient of our Community Award for her outstanding efforts to improve health outcomes in disadvantaged communities. Having worked as a Registered Nurse for more than sixty years, Shirely has become a trusted voice in the Mount Druitt and Blacktown areas, where she advocates strongly for those often facing social or economic barriers. Shirely is described by colleagues as someone who “actively works to close the gap for the vulnerable.” and was also awarded the 2026 Public Service Medal by NSW Health for lifetime work in Aboriginal Chronic Care nursing. 

Jumaila Adal Yoonus 

Wyong Hospital Branch

With a focus on spotlighting the experiences of CALD and immigrant nurses, Juamila Adal Yoonus has consistently fought for inclusion, while empowering colleagues to speak up about unfair treatment in the workplace. By pushing for a more inclusive and supportive environment, Jumaila hopes to create the conditions for lasting change. 

James Adams 

Bathurst Hospital Branch

James Adams has been recognised as the Activism Award winner thanks to his tireless work in advocating for safe staffing and ratios within the Emergency Department at Bathurst Base Hospital. Described by colleagues as a “true leader” and a “team player,” James’s efforts make him a worth recipient.