What’s happening?
Mater Private Hospital Mackay’s Midwifery Nurse Unit Manager, Sarah Fordyce, has received the Mater Early Career Excellence Award, recognising her leadership and contributions to healthcare.
Ms Fordyce was celebrated at the annual Mater People Awards, held in South Brisbane last 11 October.
Why it Matters?
Ms Fordyce’s recognition underscores the impact of her role in delivering high-quality healthcare to the Mackay region.
Her leadership and innovative approach to managing the maternity ward ensure patients receive top-notch care close to home. Her transition from accounting to midwifery demonstrates the value of diverse skills in healthcare, particularly in regional settings where specialised services are essential.
By the Numbers
– 1 Mater Early Career Excellence Award winner in Mackay
– 12+ months of hard work leading to this accolade
– 1 Teladoc service connecting Mackay patients with neonatology experts in South-East Queensland
Zoom in
Ms Fordyce’s journey began in accounting, but a conversation with a midwife in her final year of high school led her to pursue midwifery instead.
She even completed a Master of Professional Accounting while practising as a Registered Midwife, seamlessly integrating her skills in risk management with her current responsibilities.
“My accounting experience was in risk management and is utilised on a daily basis in my role as Nurse Unit Manager,” Ms Fordyce shared, reflecting on her career path.
Her efforts have included working with local educators to enhance her team’s skills and strengthening the maternity ward’s service capabilities during peak times.
“Here at Mater Mackay, our consumers have access to the same high-quality healthcare that is provided in South-East Queensland,” she explained.
As an example, she highlighted the Teladoc service, which enables sick neonates in Mackay to receive specialist care from a neonatology team based in South-East Queensland.
Zoom Out
Mater Private Hospital Mackay’s achievements align with Mater’s broader commitment to healthcare, education, research, and support services across Queensland.
The Mater People Awards celebrate such contributions, acknowledging healthcare professionals who go above and beyond for their communities.
Local Impact
Ms Fordyce’s contributions have built a culture of excellence within the maternity unit at Mater Mackay.
“To have the recognition for the hard work and perseverance over the last 12 months means a lot,” she said.
“I will endeavour to continue the work I have started here in Mater Mackay, improve the consumer experience and ensure that every patient receives high-quality, safe, and compassionate healthcare.”
General Manager Karen Wade commended Ms Fordyce, noting that she has “gained the respect of staff, patients, and the community while demonstrating exceptional leadership skills.”
What to look for next
Ms Fordyce’s ongoing initiatives at Mater Mackay will continue to enhance healthcare services, with the hospital’s commitment to patient care excellence a guiding force as she leads her team forward.
