Behind every tiny fighter in the NICU or Special Care Nursery are the extraordinary nurses who go above and beyond every single day, offering care, comfort and compassion to families navigating the most emotional of beginnings.
At Earlybirds, we see and celebrate these incredible individuals. That’s why we created the Earlybirds Neonatal Nurse Awards ~ a special annual moment to recognise and reward one outstanding nurse with a little well-deserved pampering.
A Token of Our Gratitude
This year, one lucky nurse will receive a Retreat Yourself Spring 'Relax & Renew' Retreat Box plus a $100 Pamper Gift Card ~ the perfect way to unwind after so many selfless shifts. And because care goes both ways, we are also giving away a second Retreat Yourself Box to one lucky nominator.
Every nominated nurse will receive a personalised nomination award, a heartfelt keepsake acknowledging the difference they’ve made in the lives of the families they’ve supported.
Why These Awards Matter
Each year, 1 in 7 babies in Australia requires life-saving care in a NICU or Special Care Nursery. Families in these environments experience uncertainty, exhaustion and fear, but standing beside them are the nurses who bring light, reassurance and stability.
From gentle hands adjusting tiny leads to kind words spoken at just the right moment, NICU and SCN nurses truly embody strength and compassion. These awards are our way of saying thank you for everything you do.
How to Nominate
If a nurse made a lasting impact on your journey, someone who helped your family feel supported, seen or hopeful, we’d love to hear your story.
How to enter: Complete the nomination form on our website
Nominations close: 19 November 2025
Winner drawn: 20 November and announced on 22 November 2025 — Earlybirds’ 23rd birthday!
Prizes: The winning nurse receives a Retreat Yourself Box + $100 pamper gift card; each submitted nomination also has the chance to win a Retreat Yourself Box.
All nominations will be published on our website (unless you request otherwise), and the winner will be contacted via their hospital manager.
Celebrating Our Everyday Heroes
Founded by a NICU mum, Earlybirds has spent over two decades designing for and supporting families with premature and small babies. We know firsthand how much these nurses mean, how they transform fear into hope and hospital stays into stories of care, courage, and connection.
Founder Lynda's son Jackson with his NICU nurse Lucy in 2001
This year, we’re proud to celebrate them once again. Nominate a nurse who deserves a little extra love, recognition and relaxation because they truly are the heartbeat of every NICU.
Submit your nomination today: earlybirds.com.au/pages/earlybirds-nicu-nurse-awards
