Kirsten Mitchener has been awarded the Noala Flynn AM Award for Excellence in Palliative Care Nursing at the recent Palliative Care Victoria Summit, recognising outstanding excellence and commitment in palliative care nursing.
With nominees drawn from across Victoria, this prestigious annual award highlights those who go above and beyond to make a meaningful difference for patients and families. Kirsten is the first staff member from Mercy Palliative Care to receive this honour since the award’s inception, marking a significant achievement for both Kirsten and the service.
Kirsten was recognised for her exceptional clinical expertise as a Nurse Practitioner, her strong commitment to patient-centred care, and her dedication to supporting others through education and mentoring. She has also contributed to a range of research and quality improvement initiatives, including leading Mercy Health’s recent partnership with Ambulance Victoria.
The award honours the legacy of Noala Flynn, former CEO of Mercy Hospice, whose contribution to palliative care continues to shape the sector.
Reflecting on her work, Kirsten said:
“I think on some level, every single one of us has been challenged by our own mortality. Working with people who are facing a very short life span makes you question what it is that you are doing in your life and whether it is right. The day this job doesn’t make you stop and reflect on who you are or how it affects you is the day you should stop doing it…People only die once, and it’s our job to make sure they do it well.”
We congratulate Kirsten on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for the exceptional care she provides every day.
Minister for Health, The Hon. Harriet Shing MP, with Kirsten Mitchener
