Jill Boehm appointed AM for her significant service to community health

CBD resident Jill Boehm, who has made a lifelong commitment to improving the health of those around her, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM).

Ms Boehm, a nurse since 1971 after completing her training at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, was recognised for her “significant service to community health” in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales.

“When I received the news of my honour, I was immediately humbled and emotional to think that the people I had worked with for 10 years had nominated me for this award,” she said.

“My thoughts went to the Illawarra Local Health District (ISLHD) of NSW, to my colleagues, executives, and staff that I had worked with so closely as the deputy board chair for 10 years.”

Throughout her career, Ms Boehm ran a cancer charity, which included a not-for-profit hospital and accommodation facility for several years, caring for country NSW cancer patients.  

She was also appointed as an inaugural member of the Cancer Institute (NSW) board and appointed as a board member for the Cancer Council NSW.

She and her husband returned to Melbourne two-and-a-half years ago to spend time with family. 

Ms Boehm, who received a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2007, said: “I have always felt that my strength lies with my advocacy and support of patients and families and have continued to use those skills throughout my professional life.” •