District winner now a nurse of the year

"I was so blown away, it was very emotional actually. You just work so hard and to be recognised at such a high level is incredible,” said Mrs Cossar-Denny.

Starting with assistant nursing almost 10-years-ago, Mrs Cossar-Denny said she started at the “bottom of the chain”. Being moved throughout different local health districts, she fell in love with rural and remote nursing.

“I like being part of a community and having that strong connection,” said Mrs Cossar-Denny.

In May 2022, Mrs Cossar-Denny also won the inaugural Western Local Health District Pauline Webster- Cox Graduate Registered Nurse of the Year.

“Throughout the years I have met some incredible people and have learnt some amazing things. There have just been some amazing nurses and health care professionals that have really helped shape who I am as a nurse.”

As a registered nurse for just two years, Mrs Cossar- Denny has continued to broaden her skillset. Working in emergency, and continuously going through courses to advance her skills, she most recently has become qualified in dialysis. She has worked at Gilgandra Multi-Purpose Service for the past two years. The now titled ‘nurse of the year’ doesn’t have any plans on leaving.

“I want to stay in Gilgandra and continue what I’m doing for now,” said Mrs Cossar-Denny.

“I love it here, and I’m so grateful for all of my colleagues and boss John Alchin [nurse manager] who continues to encourage everyone to do better. It’s a really rewarding place, and I hope everyone who comes through those doors feels safe and welcome.”

A virtual ceremony was held recently, where Mrs Cossar-Denny was awarded as joint winner of her category, alongside Port Macquarie’s Rachael Roach.