TUH neonatal nurse recognised as one of Australia's best

Townsville University Hospital’s Vicky Liashenko has been named one of the best neonatal nurses in Australia after winning the Australian College of Neonatal Nurses 2026 Neonatal Nurse Excellence Award. 

Ms Liashenko was recognised for her more than 20-year career in neonatal nursing as well as her work to improve breathing for preterm babies at birth. 

She said it was a complete surprise to be presented with the award. 

“I didn’t even know I had been nominated so I was shocked to be told I had won the award,” Ms Liashenko said. 

“It’s cliché to say, but you don’t go into this line of work chasing recognition and it is very humbling that people have taken notice of the work I have done. 

“Ever since I was a little girl all I have wanted to do is help sick babies get better and working as a neonatal nurse has been a dream come true.” 

Ms Liashenko was presented with the award on International Neonatal Nurses Day and said the support had been overwhelming. 

“I have been getting so many wonderful messages from colleagues, parents, and also some of the kids that I used to look after who have now grown up,” she said. 

“They’ve all congratulated me on the achievement and it has just been really special. 

“I have even had people reach out to me who were babies when I cared for them in neonatal intensive care more than 20 years ago.” 

Ms Liashenko said she considered herself very lucky to be doing something that she loved. 

“I see people during one of the most vulnerable points of their lives and being able to support them and help their babies get better and see them go home is really rewarding,” she said. 

“It can be a tough job but I am surrounded by an amazing group of nurses and doctors who are always there for me. 

“I am very thankful to have won the award and for the ongoing support from everyone around me.”