News & Events: Media Releases

Joondalup Health Campus Nurse Wins Prestigious Mental Health Award

11 October 2011

Joondalup Health Campus Nurse Therapist, Mr Mark Morton, was named the 2011 Mental Health Employee at the Mental Health Commission Good Outcome Awards.

Recognised for his leadership skills, collaboration with colleagues and integrity, Mr Morton was also commended for his compassion, demonstrating caring towards patients and carers and contributing to best practice.

Mr Morton is honoured to win such an outstanding award.

“I believe in fostering optimism, setting up networks of support and focusing on the person as being their own expert on the road to recovery. For these beliefs to be recognised at one of the states most prestigious awards is a truly humbling experience.”

Mr Morton has worked as a nurse therapist at the Mental Health Unit at the Joondalup Health Campus since 2007. Based in Rockingham, he chooses to undertake a daily 140km round-trip to work at Joondalup because of the great team approach in the Mental Health Unit.

Over the past four years, he has played a pivotal role in the unit working with colleagues to set up new programs and initiatives. He runs a weekly mindfulness group which encourages patients to use techniques to explore themselves and their illness.

He has completed additional training in drug and alcohol care and treatment, cultural awareness and mindfulness in order to help patients.

Joondalup Health Campus Chief Executive Officer, Mr Kempton Cowan says Marks outstanding achievements reflect the Campus’s commitment to encouraging staff to innovate and explore new ways of working.

“It’s great to see our staff receive external recognition for the dynamic work they are doing.”

Mr Morton was among nine people presented with awards at a ceremony in Perth this week in front of over 200 mental health professionals and dignitaries including the WA Governor General, Premier and Minister for Mental Health