Meet our finalist: NSW Excellence in Allied Health Awards

Congratulations to Occupational Therapy Advisor and Head of Department at The Sutherland Hospital, Karleen Dumbrell who has been nominated as Allied Health Leader of the Year at the NSW Excellence in Allied Health Awards.    

Karleen is a highly regarded Allied Health leader. She has championed new initiatives which have enhanced patient care, including in the areas of falls, cognition, lymphoedema and constraint induced movement therapy.   

Karleen is dedicated to supporting pathways to Allied Health careers from high school and the Aboriginal Allied Health workforce. Through partnership with others, Karleen developed the Aboriginal Allied Health Cadetship program, and has led efforts to deliver culturally safe care to Aboriginal patients.  

Director of Allied Health, Claire O’Connor, congratulated Karleen on the nomination. 

“We are thrilled that Karleen has been acknowledged as a finalist in the NSW Excellence in Allied Health Awards. She consistently advocates not just for Occupational Therapy but for Allied Health more broadly.”   

“Karleen is authentic and passionate about improving patient care and staff experience, always using her leadership and influence to make positive organisational change,” said Claire.  

The winners will be announced in late March. Best of luck Karleen!

Published 17 February 2025