Deanna Stenhouse has been named Allied Health Assistant of the Year and was presented the award by Richard Griffiths from the NSW Ministry of Health. Photo: Supplied.
NSW Health has named Lake Cargelligo’s Deanna Stenhouse as its 2026 Allied Health Assistant of the Year.
Ms Stenhouse was awarded the honour at the 2026 NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards in Sydney on Thursday (26 March), for her contribution to rural healthcare and her community.
Ms Stenhouse completed her Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance in 2025 and has become a vital connector between community members and multidisciplinary allied health services.
As a health assistant, Deanna supports the implementation of care plans across social work, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and dietetics.
Ms Stenhouse said she was surprised to be named the recipient of the award but she was honoured to be recognised for her work.
“I am extremely shocked at winning the award. Although it is definitely nice to be recognised for my contribution to our community,” she said.
“Winning the award, I suppose, cements that I am providing my community with much-needed navigation with all things health, and that I am contributing positively to my team.
“Being able to help others navigate the health system and services that are available in our community, something I once found daunting, is a great feeling. It’s rewarding to know I’m contributing to our clients having a positive health journey.”
Allied Health’s Executive Director of Service Delivery Emma Field said workers like Deanna were pivotal to ensuring appropriate care was provided to patients who lived in the regions.
“In rural health, allied health assistants are not an adjunct to care; they are vital to it,” she said.
“Their contribution expands access, strengthens continuity, and enables our clinicians to deliver timely, person-centred care where it is needed most.”
Ms Field said she was proud of Ms Stenhouse’s work and she was more than a deserving recipient of this year’s award.
“Deanna Stenhouse’s award recognises not only individual excellence, but the profound impact allied health assistants have in supporting rural communities to access the care they need, close to home,” she said.
“Deanna’s holistic approach, strong work ethic and deep community knowledge have already delivered tangible benefits, improving health outcomes while strengthening trust between clients and health services.
“She plays a key part in ensuring continuity of care, particularly for clients with chronic and complex health needs. Her collaborative approach has also contributed to initiatives such as cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, helping improve access to essential services in the region.
“We thank Deanna for the work she puts in every day, often quietly, always professionally, and with an unwavering commitment to the people we serve. Her impact matters, and it is both seen and deeply appreciated.”
