Thirty finalists comprised of individuals and teams from the Townsville Hospital and Health Service have been honoured overnight for their demonstrated excellence in delivering care to North Queenslanders.
Nominees were assessed across ten categories including health safety and wellness, integrity, compassion, Rural Health Worker of the Year, and the Minister's Choice Award.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D'Ath thanked all Townsville HHS staff for their dedication, particularly during the pandemic.
"As we emerge from COVID, I can finally thank you personally for your incredible response to this pandemic.
"You oversaw vaccinations, testing, virtual wards, medi-hotel accommodation, and impatient care, all while you wore PPE during the hot North Queensland weather.
"On behalf of myself, the entire Palaszczuk Government and the people of Queensland, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your outstanding efforts."
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart acknowledged that like the rest of Australia, North Queensland was also experiencing growing pressure on the system.
"Now more than ever, you deserve our thanks and recognition for your selfless service and tireless efforts", Mr Stewart said.
Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper was impressed by the range of peer-led nominations.
"It's important that a variety of roles and responsibilities have been recognised, such as clinical nurses, surgeons, administration officers, and pharmacists who work in the wards, and all the while nominations were made by colleagues and peers", said Mr Harper.
Member for Mundingburra Les Walker said the awards highlight the Hospital's success over this past year.
"This past year has overseen some incredible health initiatives here in Townsville, and none of which would have been possible without the staff's dedication to bettering health care in the region", Mr Walker said.
