Beaudesert Hospital’s Jennifer (Jenny) O’Connor has been named Metro South Health’s 2025 Nurse of the Year, recognised for her clinical excellence, compassion, and leadership.
In an emotional speech delivered at Beaudesert Hospital (BDH), Jenny said she was honoured and overwhelmed by the recognition.
“Thank you,” she said. “I’m so honoured and truly grateful to receive this award. It’s a very special moment for me.”
Jenny said the award wasn’t just for her but that it represented Beauy’s spirit.
“This award reflects what we do at BDH and how we do it,” she said. “I’m incredibly proud to be part of our team.”
Jenny's nursing career spans 50 years, with the last decade spent at Beauy where she said caring for others came naturally - that it was simply who she was.
“Respecting and understanding each person’s story is what guides me,” she said.
Jenny’s approach to care goes beyond the bedside, supporting her team through tough shifts, sharing knowledge to help others grow, and working to keep team spirit strong.
“When workloads are heavy or times are tough, I’m by your side to pull you through,” she said. “I share what I know to guide you, so together we can deliver safe, respectful care. That’s who I am and what I do.”
She said she believed in leading through kindness, collaboration and open communication - values that make a difference not just for patients, but for everyone she works with.
“When we work as a team, respect each other and communicate well, the outcomes for our patients and for us are so much better.”
Congratulations Jenny - your care, compassion and leadership have such a powerful impact across LBHS and Metro South Health.