Sue Morey wins Hero Award for a lifetime of dedication to respiratory health

Nurse leader and long-time respiratory health champion Sue Morey has been named the 7NEWS Health Hero at the 2025 WA Health Excellence Awards.

Sue’s extraordinary career spans over 50 years, where she’s worked tirelessly to improve the lives of people living with lung disease. From the wards of Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital to the boardrooms of research organisations, Sue has made her mark as a nurse, leader, advocate and champion for respiratory research.

She has provided compassionate care to countless patients battling chronic respiratory illnesses like cystic fibrosis and mesothelioma. In 2004, her dedication was recognised nationally when she received the Order of Australia Medal for her contribution to respiratory medicine nursing.

Sue has also played a critical role at the Institute for Respiratory Health. Over the years, she’s served as a board member, chairperson and is now the organisation’s Patron. Her leadership helped grow the Institute’s research footprint and strengthened the connection between science and patient care. She’s been a passionate voice for the power of clinical research and trials to change lives.

Lung transplant recipient Caz Boyd, who nominated Sue for the award, credits her with saving her life.

“Sue not only saved my life when I had pneumococcal pneumonia and kidney failure but she also made sure I was cared for in every possible way,” said Caz. “She goes beyond the role of a nurse. She’s a visionary and a tireless advocate for people like me.”

Sue’s inspiring story has been captured in the recently published book Making a Difference: The Life and Career of Sue Morey. It shares her journey from the early days of nursing to becoming one of WA’s most respected voices in respiratory care.

The 7NEWS Health Hero Award is part of the WA Health Excellence Awards which celebrate individuals and teams working to make healthcare better for all Western Australians.

This recognition reflects what many have known for years – Sue Morey is a true health hero. And a huge congratulations to all the finalists and winners on the night.

Photo – Sue Morey – front and centre.

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