Recognising Leadership: Applications Open for the Colleen Blums Excellence in Nursing Award
For more than 50 years, Colleen Blums has helped shape the landscape of advanced nursing practice in Australia. Known for her leadership, advocacy and commitment to the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector, she has championed the role of nurse practitioners at every stage of her career.
That legacy is now being recognised through the Colleen Blums Excellence in Nursing Award, an initiative created to celebrate AOD Nurse Practitioners who continue to push the profession forward.
Established by Next Gen Nurse Practitioners, the award recognises outstanding leadership, innovation and commitment within the nurse practitioner community. It honours those who are not only delivering exceptional patient care, but also influencing education, research and the future direction of advanced nursing practice in Australia.
“Too often the remarkable work of nurse practitioners goes unrecognised. The Colleen Blums Excellence in Nursing Award gives us the opportunity to shine a light on those whose dedication to patients, colleagues and the profession is truly exceptional,” said Darren Smyth, Managing Director of Next Gen Nurse Practitioners.
“We know there are incredible nurse practitioners across Australia doing extraordinary work in their communities. This award provides a platform to recognise that contribution and celebrate the impact nurse practitioners have across our healthcare system.”
Named in Colleen’s honour, the award reflects the values that defined her career, dedication to improving healthcare, strengthening the profession, and supporting the next generation of clinicians. Throughout her career, Colleen has been a passionate advocate for nurse practitioners, championing their role in improving access to care and strengthening Australia’s health system.
2025 Winner, Nomusa Napier
The award is open to practising nurse practitioners across Australia who demonstrate excellence in clinical practice while contributing to the growth of the profession. This may include mentoring colleagues, advancing evidence-based care, leading innovative service models, or advocating for improved health outcomes within their communities.
Recipients will be recognised not only for their professional achievements, but for the lasting impact they are making on patients, colleagues and the broader healthcare system.
Nominations for the 2026 Colleen Blums Excellence in Nursing Award close on 26 April 2026.
Nominations are encouraged from across the AOD nurse practitioner community, shining a light on those whose work reflects the same commitment to excellence that has defined Colleen Blums’ extraordinary career.
For more information or questions about the award, please contact the Next Gen Nurse Practitioners team.
