The Rehab Star Awards made a triumphant return in 2025, recognising the outstanding achievements of student nurses and their exceptional preceptors who guide them in rehabilitation settings. This year, the awards shone a spotlight on the dedication and passion of Western Sydney University students and their mentor at Lakeview Rehabilitation, a facility committed to nurturing the next generation of nursing professionals.

Among the awardees were Student Nurse Jo and Student Nurse K, both of whom received Rehab Star Awards for their exceptional clinical performance during their placements at Lakeview Rehabilitation. Their compassion, dedication to patient care, and commitment to learning set them apart in a challenging and dynamic clinical environment.

Equally celebrated was Rehab Nurse Komal, who received her first Preceptorship Award. Nominated by both students, she was named “Star Preceptor” for her remarkable mentorship, which combined calm, expert guidance with a sense of humour that made learning enjoyable and impactful.

“Nurse Komal made us feel comfortable from the start,” said Jo. “She maintained a calm presence, even on busy shifts, and somehow managed to make us laugh while teaching us. Her depth of experience made us eager to learn more.”

Student Nurse K added, “Her guidance fostered an environment where asking questions and growing were encouraged, and that made all the difference in our learning journey.”

Nurse Komal’s recognition was not only celebrated by her students but also by her peers at Lakeview Rehabilitation, who are incredibly proud of her achievement. Her award is a reflection of the positive, supportive culture that Lakeview Rehabilitation fosters – a culture that places a strong emphasis on mentorship and the development of nursing talent.

Lakeview Rehabilitation is taking the future of nursing seriously – by creating a learning environment where student nurses are valued, guided, and empowered. The facility’s investment in mentorship and professional development is clearly paying off, as shown by this year’s outstanding Rehab Star honourees.

The Rehab Star Awards highlight the importance of mentorship in healthcare and serve as a reminder of the vital role that guidance, experience, and compassion play in shaping the next generation of nursing professionals.

Congratulations to Student Nurses Jo and K, and to Nurse Komal – our Rehab Stars!