This week her dedication was rewarded when she was announced as the Western NSW Local Health District's Allied Health Professional of the Year Award.

Over the years, specific disciplines within the Local Health District have had awards of excellence voted by their peers, however, 2021 is the first time NSW Western Area Health has hosted a district event to acknowledge the wonderful work of health professionals.

It is also the first time the Ministry of Health have co-ordinated a formal acknowledgement to excellence in Allied Health at a state level, with a State awards ceremony occurring in early 2022.

Ms Loneragan's first position following graduating, was at Royal Prince Alfred commencing on February 14, 1966. Since then, there have been some momentous occasions; Libby can recall being part of treating the first scoliosis patient, and the first patient to receive a tricuspid heart valve replacement.

After spending several years working in metropolitan service, she moved to Bathurst in 1969 to work as a full time physiotherapist at the Bathurst Hospital's new and innovative Rehabilitation Centre providing both inpatient and community group therapy programs. She still works as a physio for Bathurst Health Service.

In being selected for the award, Libby's commitment to supporting, empowering, and up-skilling those surrounding her was acknowledged, as was her advocacy for evidence-based practice, focus on value-based healthcare, and provision of safe, quality and compassionate patient care.

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A spokesperson for Western NSW Health said the category was extremely competitive.

"Libby has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning over 56 years in physiotherapy, working in numerous specialities and services over many rural and metropolitan services within this time," they said.

"Libby has been part of significant changes to best practice models of care over this time becoming an expert change manager and champion to ensure patients receive the best patient centred care to achieve their goals.

"She has been committed and passionate to advocating for not only physiotherapy, but allied health, rural and regional healthcare, locally and nationally," they said.

Ms Loneragan was also on the establishment committee and is an inaugural member of SARRAH - Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health which is now nationally recognised as a peak body representing rural and remote allied health.

She was also the physiotherapy advisor for WNSWLHD for nine years and a member of the Physiotherapy Allocation Committee for almost 20 years.

In selecting her as the winner, her peers said her dedication to obtaining positive outcomes for her patient and constant self-improvement to implement innovative practices to our rural and often remote communities stood out.

As for Libby, she said what she finds the most satisfying aspect of her career is her contribution to mentoring.

"Encouraging and inspiring others, both physiotherapist peers and team members within the interdisciplinary team," she said.

Her colleagues said new graduates and students have benefited and learnt from Libby's real life practical experience, teachings, knowledge, resilience and wise counsel.

"Libby is kind, caring, who is always willing to share her experience and skills. She welcoming to all staff, regardless of their discipline or role within the facility."

As the winner of the Allied Health Award, Libby will automatically go on to represent the local health district in the State's Excellence in Allied Health Awards.

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