Monday, 8 June 2026
Celebrating Excellence at the ASA2026 Gala Dinner
The 32nd Annual ASA Conference Gala Dinner, held as part of the ASA2026GC Conference, brought together sonographers from Australia, New Zealand and around the world on the Gold Coast to celebrate excellence, achievement and leadership in sonography.
ASA CEO Tony Coles and ASA2026GC Conference official ambassador Lisa Hackett, FASA, welcomed guests and reflected on the passion, professionalism and purpose that continue to drive sonography forward.
The evening’s highlight was the presentation of the 2026 ASA Awards of Excellence, which recognise outstanding contributions across clinical practice, research, education and volunteer service.
2026 Awards of Excellence
ASA was delighted to acknowledge the following recipients for their outstanding contributions to patient care, innovation and leadership in their region.
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NSW – Jane McCrory
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New Zealand – Sumi Shrestha Taylor, FASA
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Queensland – Heath Edwards, FASA
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South Australia – Dannielle Ghezzi
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Tasmania – Jarrod French
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Victoria – Amy Clough, FASA
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Western Australia – Shani Watts
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Northern Territory - Linzi Ashli
Other major award recipients included:
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Rural and Remote Sonographer of the Year – Tim Ovens
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Emerging Sonographer of the Year – Stephanie Maconachie
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Tutor/Clinical Supervisor of the Year – Emma Godrik
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Researcher of the Year – Gary Lui
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Sue Caitcheon Volunteer of the Year Award – Kate Russo, AFASA
New Fellows in 2026
Fellowship is the highest level of ASA membership and recognises individuals who have demonstrated sustained and significant contributions to both the profession.
The evening celebrated the induction of seven new ASA Fellows: Ian Schroen, Heath Edwards, Narelle Kennedy, Alison White, Margaret Condon, Angela Farley and Emma Jardine.
Pru Patten Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award
The evening culminated with the presentation of the Pru Pratten Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award (PPMLAA), the ASA's highest honour. The award recognises a sonographer whose exceptional contributions have made a lasting impact on both the profession and the association throughout their career.
This year's recipient was Tristan Reddan, FASA, whose outstanding contributions span research, education, mentorship and service to the sonography profession. A Clinical Associate Professor and respected researcher, Tristan completed a PhD at QUT in 2019 and has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed publications, including influential work on artificial intelligence in sonography and health equity for First Nations children. Through his teaching, research supervision and professional leadership, he has helped shape the next generation of sonographers. His longstanding commitment to the ASA includes 15 years on the Queensland Branch Committee, service on the Annual Conference Convening Committee and leadership of the Research Special Interest Group (SIG).
Following the formal proceedings, attendees enjoyed an evening of networking with peers, forging new professional connections and taking to the dance floor for the iconic Nutbush.