Celebrating the 2024 CDEs of the Year

ADEA is excited to announce the launch of a series of feature articles celebrating the 2024 CDE of the Year award recipients. The winners, who were announced at the Australasian Diabetes Congress in August in Perth, have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving diabetes care in their communities. This initiative aims to showcase their incredible achievements and contributions. Each feature article will be rolled out and added across the coming weeks, highlighting the diverse and innovative approaches each CDE has taken to support people living with diabetes, fostering better health outcomes across Australia. The awards are run by ADEA with financial support from global research-based pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly.


Australian Capital Territory CDE of the Year: Isabel Reeves honoured for transforming lived experience into innovative diabetes care

Isabel Reeves’s journey into diabetes education and care was inspired by her own experience of being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 10 when she lived in America.

‘I was not allowed to leave the hospital until I was injecting by myself, but they couldn’t think of anything that might help a child other than to give me an orange and a needle!’ she said.

This early experience motivated her to become a CDE and empower others with practical, supportive strategies.

‘It was pretty early on that I knew I wanted to help others like me to realise that diabetes does not have to be a death sentence, and it doesn’t have to rule your life,’ she said.

Her dedication has now earned her the title of ACT CDE of the Year for 2024.

Building a private practice

Ms Reeves’s career began in private diabetes education at a general practice, but recognising the need for a more affordable and supportive approach, she established her own business, InRange Diabetes, in 2016 to better serve people living with diabetes.

The move allowed her to create a personalised and accessible service, providing clients with the care they needed when public health options were not suitable.

‘I have done some time working for a health district in a community health space, which has been a nice part-time role to expand my experience,’ she said.

‘Over the last three years, I have completed my Master of Nurse Practitioner, which is probably the climax of it all.

‘I am now able to work the way I want at my private practice full-time for the clients I want to see and that is exciting.’

A focus on client empowerment

Ms Reeves emphasises the importance of supporting clients at every stage of their journey.

‘Seeing the improvements you can make in someone’s life through helping them manage their blood glucose levels and reduce the rollercoaster is just priceless,’ she said.

Reflecting on her career, Ms Reeves feels a sense of pride in her recent transition to running her practice full-time.

‘I feel so blessed to have clients who are on this journey with me and have been with me since the beginning,’ she said.

‘It’s always my absolute pleasure to support them.’

Receiving the ACT CDE of the Year award was an unexpected but affirming moment for Ms Reeves.

‘I have been working really hard this year and it is heartwarming to get this award,’ she said.

‘I am so appreciative that somebody has nominated me for this award — it gives me faith that the private practice move is really the right thing and that there is support behind me.’

Looking to the future

Ms Reeves is focusing on expanding her practice and refining her specialisation in type 1 diabetes and complex type 2 cases.

‘Primarily type 2 cases that need further investigation and may be latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) wrongly diagnosed as type 2,’ she said.

Recognising the mental health impact of diabetes management, especially in rural and remote areas where support is often limited, she aims to increase access to diabetes technology as a means to alleviate some of the burden people face.

To achieve this, Ms Reeves plans to run pharmacy clinic days offering bulk-billed appointments for people living with type 1 diabetes.

She also aims to demystify diabetes technology and private health insurance options, providing practical solutions that can enhance quality of life and help people manage their condition.

Celebrating support and mentorship

Ms Reeves acknowledges the invaluable support of her family and mentor, Liz, throughout her career.

‘Liz has been a good friend, faithful supporter, and knowledgeable mentor and I could not have done this without her encouragement,’ she said.

‘Colleagues I have met along the way have also been amazing supporters, connections and friends; they have helped me to think through ideas and implement some wonderful things to specialise in type 1 diabetes.’


Northern Territory CDE of the Year: Deborah Aberasturi honoured for dedication to diabetes care in the Top End

Deborah Aberasturi’s journey into diabetes education began in the Hyperbaric Unit at Royal Darwin Hospital, where her work naturally progressed to the high-risk foot service and Diabetes Education Unit as part of a multidisciplinary team. With so much exposure to chronic diabetes complications, Ms Aberasturi formed strong relationships with people living with diabetes over long periods, which inspired her to pursue credentialling as a CDE. She said her inspiration for becoming a CDE came from wanting to help people understand how to manage their condition more effectively.

Adapting to diverse community needs

Living and working in the Northern Territory, Ms Aberasturi appreciates the privilege of supporting people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds, each with different priorities, housing situations, and health literacy levels. ‘Learning to listen to our patients about what is important to them helps us to provide meaningful support with their diabetes self-management,’ she said. Ms Aberasturi has found that offering friendly reminders and non-judgemental follow-ups has been key to improving client engagement in managing their diabetes.

Celebrating progress and successes

For Ms Aberasturi, one of the highlights of her career is supporting people living with diabetes through their highs and lows, celebrating their successes, starting with the smallest of wins. ‘Helping patients and their families through ups and downs gives us an intimate snapshot into their lives. I feel this is such a privilege,’ she shared.

A team effort and a meaningful honour

Receiving the Northern Territory CDE of the Year award reflects the entire diabetes team’s dedication to patient care, Ms Aberasturi said. ‘This award reflects our whole diabetes team’s effort in caring for our patients in the Top End,’ she said, adding that everyone on the team consistently goes the extra mile.

Inspiration for the future

Looking forward, Ms Aberasturi is inspired by her mentor, Nurse Practitioner CDE Cherie Whitbread, who has encouraged her to pursue further studies to become a Nurse Practitioner herself.

Support and guidance for new diabetes educators

Ms Aberasturi acknowledges the support she’s received from her mentors throughout her career, including Teresa Hyatt, who played a significant role in helping her achieve her credentialling, and Elizabeth Watkins, her manager, whom she describes as the team’s biggest advocate and cheerleader. ‘Liz has nurtured a team that truly cares for all our patients and our colleagues. It’s a true pleasure to be part of such a supportive team,’ Ms Aberasturi said.

For new health professionals entering diabetes education, Ms Aberasturi emphasises the importance of listening to people living with diabetes to understand what is most important to them and their concerns. She also advises to ask them ‘to show you how they do it’. ‘It can be very insightful!’ she said.


Western Australian CDE of the Year: Merle Taylor recognised for leadership in diabetes education and empowering people living with diabetes

Merle Taylor’s passion for helping people manage their diabetes has been the driving force behind her career, earning her recognition as Western Australia’s CDE of the Year.

Ms Taylor’s journey began as a practice nurse, where she created chronic disease care plans, often for people living with diabetes.

Feeling she wasn’t adequately trained to educate people on self-management, she pursued a Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education at Curtin University, completing it in 2011.

Since then, she has focused on supporting people living with diabetes in primary care.

Focus on primary care

In the primary care environment, Ms Taylor supports people at various stages of their diabetes journey—from the newly diagnosed to those who have lived with diabetes for more than 50 years.

This environment allows her to provide ongoing support, ensuring people have the resources they need to manage their condition.

‘Helping the newly diagnosed to navigate the self-care realm and understand the condition is a priority for me,’ Ms Taylor said.

‘For those who have lived with diabetes longer, I aim to help them with management strategies, update them with new technologies and recent medications to give them better tools for self-care going forward. Sometimes, I just listen.’

Client success stories and career highlights

The moments that stand out most for Ms Taylor are the positive stories her clients share.

‘One client I referred to an exercise program told me that after eight weeks, she could pull herself up the ladder at the pool without being pushed from behind. Her strength was so much better,’ she said.

After 14 years working in diabetes, Ms Taylor is particularly proud of working at Black Swan Health for the past nine years supporting people with diabetes in a community setting.

Mentoring other diabetes educators has also been a career highlight, as she helps them pursue their careers and develop two-way supportive relationships.

A surprise honour

Receiving the WA CDE of the Year award came as a complete surprise for Ms Taylor.

‘I am truly honoured—I love my work and have never had a day when I didn’t want to go to work,’ she said.

‘I care for my clients, encouraging them to self-manage and supporting them in their efforts.

‘When I started my postgraduate degree, I just wanted to be the best diabetes educator I could be.’

Looking ahead

As she nears the end of her working life, Ms Taylor plans to continue in diabetes education within primary care.

She’s also transitioning into teaching, helping enrolled nurses at a VET college care for people living with diabetes.

‘I want these nurses to leave their training with a better understanding of patient care than I left mine,’ she said.

Advice for new diabetes educators

Ms Taylor is grateful for the support of her principal GP, Dr Laura Carija, who provided financial support and job flexibility early in her career.

She also credits Black Swan Health for support over the past nine years.

For those starting out, Ms Taylor offers this advice: ‘Get your mentor and work closely with them. Find a work environment that supports you. But mostly, listen to your clients, work with your clients, and keep up to date so you can share your knowledge with clients and other healthcare professionals. Be a team player.’


Tasmanian CDE of the Year: Margaret Arvier recognised for improving diabetes care and championing change in her community

For Margaret Arvier, improving diabetes care on Tasmania’s North West Coast has been a driving force during her career, earning her recognition as Tasmania’s CDE of the Year.

A practice nurse for many years, Ms Arvier quickly noticed gaps in diabetes care and felt more could be done. Inspired by the transformative role of diabetes educators, she explored different care models and realised becoming a CDE was her calling.

Motivated by her community’s challenges

Ms Arvier reflected on her community, saying, ‘I live on the North West Coast of Tasmania, and our region is noted for its low incomes, limited health literacy, high levels of chronic disease, and poor health outcomes—as well as large numbers of people living with diabetes’.

She was particularly concerned about the high rate of amputations among the diabetes population and felt compelled to act.

‘I have noticed over the years that many health professionals have a limited understanding of these issues and do not communicate well with those patients with the greatest health needs,’ Ms Arvier said.

‘I have aimed throughout my career for empathy, some common ground, negotiation of one or two goals, humour, and kindness.’

Championing diabetes care during pregnancy

One of the highlights of Ms Arvier’s career has been her focus on managing diabetes during pregnancy.

She has been actively involved in vital research related to this area, significantly impacting both her professional growth and care.

Special honour as she prepares for retirement

Receiving the Tasmanian CDE of the Year award is particularly meaningful as Ms Arvier approaches retirement.

Reflecting on her career, she feels honoured by the recognition but remains humble about her contributions.

‘This award feels very special to me as I head into retirement,’ she said.

Celebrating teamwork

For Ms Arvier, her work wouldn’t have been possible without the support of her colleagues at the North West Diabetes Centre.

‘The entire team is such an energetic, dedicated, supportive, and respectful group of people to work with,’ she said.

‘I feel honoured to have been a part of this team for the past 15 years.’

Advice for the next generation of CDEs

As she prepares to retire, Ms Arvier offers advice to new health professionals entering diabetes education.

‘I would strongly encourage new diabetes educators to have at least one professional mentor to assist with their lifelong learning goals and remain generous with their sharing of information with those who will follow us in this profession,’ she said.

Her legacy of dedication, empathy, and a commitment to improving diabetes care will continue to inspire future generations of educators.


Victorian CDE of the Year: Claire Gatto recognised for advocating local diabetes services and supporting her community

For more than two decades, Claire Gatto has been a driving force behind improving diabetes care in her regional town, earning her recognition as Victoria’s CDE of the Year.

Ms Gatto’s journey began in Switzerland, where she completed her nursing training and gained experience in medical and surgical wards before specialising in haemodialysis and renal nursing.

Her work in both chronic and acute settings deepened her understanding of the importance of prevention in managing chronic kidney disease.

In 2000, she moved to Australia and continued her career in acute care before returning to haemodialysis.

However, she soon realised that preventing kidney disease and improving diabetes care needed to be her priority.

A decisive moment came when she attended a renal nursing conference, where a session run by a CDE left a lasting impression.

‘Her enthusiasm, dedication, and will to share her knowledge won me over,’ Ms Gatto said.

‘Our local CDE, who later became my mentor, was also instrumental in my decision to enrol in the Graduate Certificate of Diabetes Education and then work towards credentialling.’

Caring for her community in regional Victoria

Having lived and worked in her regional town for 22 years, Ms Gatto understands her community’s unique needs.

Her approach to diabetes care is built on listening, advocacy, and supporting people in managing their condition.

‘My work is about caring for people with diabetes, helping them develop the knowledge, skills and tools they need to manage on a daily basis,’ she said.

‘But before that comes listening—understanding where they come from and where they want to go—as well as advocacy.’

She recognises that more work is needed to improve local access to essential diabetes services and continues to advocate for her community.

Celebrating small victories and team achievements

Rather than one standout moment, Ms Gatto finds joy in the daily victories of her clients achieving their goals.

‘Another important part is how our team has rebuilt itself after a few years of short staffing, and how each team member brings special skills and qualities,’ she said.

Award is an ‘immense honour’

Receiving the Victoria CDE of the Year award came as a surprise for Ms Gatto, who didn’t know she had been nominated.

‘I know there are many CDEs who work with enormous dedication but may not get noticed,’ she said.

‘This award is an immense honour, and I do not take it lightly.’

She acknowledges the support of her family, mentors, and colleagues—who all played a significant role in her journey.

Remaining committed to care

Ms Gatto remains committed to expanding diabetes services locally, aiming to secure a visiting endocrinologist, improve access to diabetes technologies, and enhance continuity of care between inpatient and community settings.

Advice for new health professionals

To new health professionals entering diabetes education, Ms Gatto offers this advice: ‘Stay open and learn from others—people with diabetes, DEs, other health professionals.’

‘Invest in continuous education, get to know the community you work in, and most importantly, listen,’ she said.

Her dedication to her community and advocacy for improved local services have made her a leader in diabetes care.


Queensland CDE of the Year: Susan Carbone recognised for empowering communities and pioneering holistic diabetes care

Susan Carbone, one of Queensland’s CDE of the Year, has dedicated her career to reshaping the delivery of diabetes care.

Inspired by her own experience with an autoimmune disorder and her time in intensive care, Ms Carbone brings compassion, innovation, and leadership to her role.

A personal journey to diabetes care

Her journey began at 18 when she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, an experience that ignited her passion for healthcare.

After becoming a registered nurse, she worked in the Intensive Care Unit, regularly caring for people living with diabetes during episodes of acute diabetes emergencies.

‘This inspired me to become a CDE to help support people living with diabetes in the community,’ Ms Carbone said.

‘I was hoping I could not only help prevent those diabetes-related hospital admissions but also provide support to people trying to navigate the management of a chronic condition.’

Championing diabetes care for First Nations communities

Ms Carbone’s commitment to diabetes care has flourished through her leadership role at the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH).

Here, she leads a compassionate team of CDEs, focused on delivering innovative diabetes care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Brisbane area.

Her approach is defined by collaboration and innovation.

‘Over the years, I have been fortunate to have worked with very passionate and like-minded health professionals, including at Diabetes NSW and QLD and now the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health,’ Ms Carbone said.

‘My network of colleagues and friends have all been exceptional and supportive role models, which has allowed me to grow and build my confidence as a CDE.’

She has developed successful interdisciplinary diabetes care clinics that provide a more person-centred, strength-based, and holistic approach to care.

Addressing workforce shortages and mentoring future CDEs

One of Ms Carbone’s key achievements has been her contribution to workforce development.

Recognising the shortage of CDEs, particularly in community clinics, she has actively worked to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals becoming CDEs.

Through her work with the University of Technology Sydney, she is helping shape the future of diabetes care.

‘I have joined forces with UTS to contribute to the development of the CDE workforce and regularly mentor diabetes educators working towards their credentialling,’ Ms Carbone said.

A humble honour

Receiving the Queensland CDE of the Year award (one of two for the state) is a proud moment for Ms Carbone, though she remains humble about her achievements.

‘I am very honoured to receive this award for doing something that I enjoy and feel passionate about,’ she said.

‘I acknowledge the wider diabetes workforce and colleagues who have supported and inspired me to grow as a CDE.’

Looking to the future

Ms Carbone is committed to continuing her work in workforce development and finding new ways to support people living with diabetes.

‘I believe as CDEs, our role is to walk alongside the person living with diabetes on the journey they are on,’ she said.

‘We need to take a strengths-based approach, removing judgement or efforts to “fix people”.’

‘Though we specialise in diabetes, we are not the experts in how people wish to lead their own lives; we need to learn to let go of control.’

Her passion and dedication will no doubt continue to influence and inspire the future of diabetes care.

Celebrating the 2024 CDEs of the Year

ADEA is excited to announce the launch of a series of feature articles celebrating the 2024 CDE of the Year award recipients. The winners, who were announced at the Australasian Diabetes Congress in August in Perth, have demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving diabetes care in their communities. This initiative aims to showcase their incredible achievements and contributions. Each feature article will be rolled out and added across the coming weeks, highlighting the diverse and innovative approaches each CDE has taken to support people living with diabetes, fostering better health outcomes across Australia. The awards are run by ADEA with financial support from global research-based pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly.


Australian Capital Territory CDE of the Year: Isabel Reeves honoured for transforming lived experience into innovative diabetes care

Isabel Reeves’s journey into diabetes education and care was inspired by her own experience of being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 10 when she lived in America.

‘I was not allowed to leave the hospital until I was injecting by myself, but they couldn’t think of anything that might help a child other than to give me an orange and a needle!’ she said.

This early experience motivated her to become a CDE and empower others with practical, supportive strategies.

‘It was pretty early on that I knew I wanted to help others like me to realise that diabetes does not have to be a death sentence, and it doesn’t have to rule your life,’ she said.

Her dedication has now earned her the title of ACT CDE of the Year for 2024.

Building a private practice

Ms Reeves’s career began in private diabetes education at a general practice, but recognising the need for a more affordable and supportive approach, she established her own business, InRange Diabetes, in 2016 to better serve people living with diabetes.

The move allowed her to create a personalised and accessible service, providing clients with the care they needed when public health options were not suitable.

‘I have done some time working for a health district in a community health space, which has been a nice part-time role to expand my experience,’ she said.

‘Over the last three years, I have completed my Master of Nurse Practitioner, which is probably the climax of it all.

‘I am now able to work the way I want at my private practice full-time for the clients I want to see and that is exciting.’

A focus on client empowerment

Ms Reeves emphasises the importance of supporting clients at every stage of their journey.

‘Seeing the improvements you can make in someone’s life through helping them manage their blood glucose levels and reduce the rollercoaster is just priceless,’ she said.

Reflecting on her career, Ms Reeves feels a sense of pride in her recent transition to running her practice full-time.

‘I feel so blessed to have clients who are on this journey with me and have been with me since the beginning,’ she said.

‘It’s always my absolute pleasure to support them.’

Receiving the ACT CDE of the Year award was an unexpected but affirming moment for Ms Reeves.

‘I have been working really hard this year and it is heartwarming to get this award,’ she said.

‘I am so appreciative that somebody has nominated me for this award — it gives me faith that the private practice move is really the right thing and that there is support behind me.’

Looking to the future

Ms Reeves is focusing on expanding her practice and refining her specialisation in type 1 diabetes and complex type 2 cases.

‘Primarily type 2 cases that need further investigation and may be latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) wrongly diagnosed as type 2,’ she said.

Recognising the mental health impact of diabetes management, especially in rural and remote areas where support is often limited, she aims to increase access to diabetes technology as a means to alleviate some of the burden people face.

To achieve this, Ms Reeves plans to run pharmacy clinic days offering bulk-billed appointments for people living with type 1 diabetes.

She also aims to demystify diabetes technology and private health insurance options, providing practical solutions that can enhance quality of life and help people manage their condition.

Celebrating support and mentorship

Ms Reeves acknowledges the invaluable support of her family and mentor, Liz, throughout her career.

‘Liz has been a good friend, faithful supporter, and knowledgeable mentor and I could not have done this without her encouragement,’ she said.

‘Colleagues I have met along the way have also been amazing supporters, connections and friends; they have helped me to think through ideas and implement some wonderful things to specialise in type 1 diabetes.’


Northern Territory CDE of the Year: Deborah Aberasturi honoured for dedication to diabetes care in the Top End

Deborah Aberasturi’s journey into diabetes education began in the Hyperbaric Unit at Royal Darwin Hospital, where her work naturally progressed to the high-risk foot service and Diabetes Education Unit as part of a multidisciplinary team. With so much exposure to chronic diabetes complications, Ms Aberasturi formed strong relationships with people living with diabetes over long periods, which inspired her to pursue credentialling as a CDE. She said her inspiration for becoming a CDE came from wanting to help people understand how to manage their condition more effectively.

Adapting to diverse community needs

Living and working in the Northern Territory, Ms Aberasturi appreciates the privilege of supporting people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds, each with different priorities, housing situations, and health literacy levels. ‘Learning to listen to our patients about what is important to them helps us to provide meaningful support with their diabetes self-management,’ she said. Ms Aberasturi has found that offering friendly reminders and non-judgemental follow-ups has been key to improving client engagement in managing their diabetes.

Celebrating progress and successes

For Ms Aberasturi, one of the highlights of her career is supporting people living with diabetes through their highs and lows, celebrating their successes, starting with the smallest of wins. ‘Helping patients and their families through ups and downs gives us an intimate snapshot into their lives. I feel this is such a privilege,’ she shared.

A team effort and a meaningful honour

Receiving the Northern Territory CDE of the Year award reflects the entire diabetes team’s dedication to patient care, Ms Aberasturi said. ‘This award reflects our whole diabetes team’s effort in caring for our patients in the Top End,’ she said, adding that everyone on the team consistently goes the extra mile.

Inspiration for the future

Looking forward, Ms Aberasturi is inspired by her mentor, Nurse Practitioner CDE Cherie Whitbread, who has encouraged her to pursue further studies to become a Nurse Practitioner herself.

Support and guidance for new diabetes educators

Ms Aberasturi acknowledges the support she’s received from her mentors throughout her career, including Teresa Hyatt, who played a significant role in helping her achieve her credentialling, and Elizabeth Watkins, her manager, whom she describes as the team’s biggest advocate and cheerleader. ‘Liz has nurtured a team that truly cares for all our patients and our colleagues. It’s a true pleasure to be part of such a supportive team,’ Ms Aberasturi said.

For new health professionals entering diabetes education, Ms Aberasturi emphasises the importance of listening to people living with diabetes to understand what is most important to them and their concerns. She also advises to ask them ‘to show you how they do it’. ‘It can be very insightful!’ she said.


Western Australian CDE of the Year: Merle Taylor recognised for leadership in diabetes education and empowering people living with diabetes

Merle Taylor’s passion for helping people manage their diabetes has been the driving force behind her career, earning her recognition as Western Australia’s CDE of the Year.

Ms Taylor’s journey began as a practice nurse, where she created chronic disease care plans, often for people living with diabetes.

Feeling she wasn’t adequately trained to educate people on self-management, she pursued a Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education at Curtin University, completing it in 2011.

Since then, she has focused on supporting people living with diabetes in primary care.

Focus on primary care

In the primary care environment, Ms Taylor supports people at various stages of their diabetes journey—from the newly diagnosed to those who have lived with diabetes for more than 50 years.

This environment allows her to provide ongoing support, ensuring people have the resources they need to manage their condition.

‘Helping the newly diagnosed to navigate the self-care realm and understand the condition is a priority for me,’ Ms Taylor said.

‘For those who have lived with diabetes longer, I aim to help them with management strategies, update them with new technologies and recent medications to give them better tools for self-care going forward. Sometimes, I just listen.’

Client success stories and career highlights

The moments that stand out most for Ms Taylor are the positive stories her clients share.

‘One client I referred to an exercise program told me that after eight weeks, she could pull herself up the ladder at the pool without being pushed from behind. Her strength was so much better,’ she said.

After 14 years working in diabetes, Ms Taylor is particularly proud of working at Black Swan Health for the past nine years supporting people with diabetes in a community setting.

Mentoring other diabetes educators has also been a career highlight, as she helps them pursue their careers and develop two-way supportive relationships.

A surprise honour

Receiving the WA CDE of the Year award came as a complete surprise for Ms Taylor.

‘I am truly honoured—I love my work and have never had a day when I didn’t want to go to work,’ she said.

‘I care for my clients, encouraging them to self-manage and supporting them in their efforts.

‘When I started my postgraduate degree, I just wanted to be the best diabetes educator I could be.’

Looking ahead

As she nears the end of her working life, Ms Taylor plans to continue in diabetes education within primary care.

She’s also transitioning into teaching, helping enrolled nurses at a VET college care for people living with diabetes.

‘I want these nurses to leave their training with a better understanding of patient care than I left mine,’ she said.

Advice for new diabetes educators

Ms Taylor is grateful for the support of her principal GP, Dr Laura Carija, who provided financial support and job flexibility early in her career.

She also credits Black Swan Health for support over the past nine years.

For those starting out, Ms Taylor offers this advice: ‘Get your mentor and work closely with them. Find a work environment that supports you. But mostly, listen to your clients, work with your clients, and keep up to date so you can share your knowledge with clients and other healthcare professionals. Be a team player.’


Tasmanian CDE of the Year: Margaret Arvier recognised for improving diabetes care and championing change in her community

For Margaret Arvier, improving diabetes care on Tasmania’s North West Coast has been a driving force during her career, earning her recognition as Tasmania’s CDE of the Year.

A practice nurse for many years, Ms Arvier quickly noticed gaps in diabetes care and felt more could be done. Inspired by the transformative role of diabetes educators, she explored different care models and realised becoming a CDE was her calling.

Motivated by her community’s challenges

Ms Arvier reflected on her community, saying, ‘I live on the North West Coast of Tasmania, and our region is noted for its low incomes, limited health literacy, high levels of chronic disease, and poor health outcomes—as well as large numbers of people living with diabetes’.

She was particularly concerned about the high rate of amputations among the diabetes population and felt compelled to act.

‘I have noticed over the years that many health professionals have a limited understanding of these issues and do not communicate well with those patients with the greatest health needs,’ Ms Arvier said.

‘I have aimed throughout my career for empathy, some common ground, negotiation of one or two goals, humour, and kindness.’

Championing diabetes care during pregnancy

One of the highlights of Ms Arvier’s career has been her focus on managing diabetes during pregnancy.

She has been actively involved in vital research related to this area, significantly impacting both her professional growth and care.

Special honour as she prepares for retirement

Receiving the Tasmanian CDE of the Year award is particularly meaningful as Ms Arvier approaches retirement.

Reflecting on her career, she feels honoured by the recognition but remains humble about her contributions.

‘This award feels very special to me as I head into retirement,’ she said.

Celebrating teamwork

For Ms Arvier, her work wouldn’t have been possible without the support of her colleagues at the North West Diabetes Centre.

‘The entire team is such an energetic, dedicated, supportive, and respectful group of people to work with,’ she said.

‘I feel honoured to have been a part of this team for the past 15 years.’

Advice for the next generation of CDEs

As she prepares to retire, Ms Arvier offers advice to new health professionals entering diabetes education.

‘I would strongly encourage new diabetes educators to have at least one professional mentor to assist with their lifelong learning goals and remain generous with their sharing of information with those who will follow us in this profession,’ she said.

Her legacy of dedication, empathy, and a commitment to improving diabetes care will continue to inspire future generations of educators.


Victorian CDE of the Year: Claire Gatto recognised for advocating local diabetes services and supporting her community

For more than two decades, Claire Gatto has been a driving force behind improving diabetes care in her regional town, earning her recognition as Victoria’s CDE of the Year.

Ms Gatto’s journey began in Switzerland, where she completed her nursing training and gained experience in medical and surgical wards before specialising in haemodialysis and renal nursing.

Her work in both chronic and acute settings deepened her understanding of the importance of prevention in managing chronic kidney disease.

In 2000, she moved to Australia and continued her career in acute care before returning to haemodialysis.

However, she soon realised that preventing kidney disease and improving diabetes care needed to be her priority.

A decisive moment came when she attended a renal nursing conference, where a session run by a CDE left a lasting impression.

‘Her enthusiasm, dedication, and will to share her knowledge won me over,’ Ms Gatto said.

‘Our local CDE, who later became my mentor, was also instrumental in my decision to enrol in the Graduate Certificate of Diabetes Education and then work towards credentialling.’

Caring for her community in regional Victoria

Having lived and worked in her regional town for 22 years, Ms Gatto understands her community’s unique needs.

Her approach to diabetes care is built on listening, advocacy, and supporting people in managing their condition.

‘My work is about caring for people with diabetes, helping them develop the knowledge, skills and tools they need to manage on a daily basis,’ she said.

‘But before that comes listening—understanding where they come from and where they want to go—as well as advocacy.’

She recognises that more work is needed to improve local access to essential diabetes services and continues to advocate for her community.

Celebrating small victories and team achievements

Rather than one standout moment, Ms Gatto finds joy in the daily victories of her clients achieving their goals.

‘Another important part is how our team has rebuilt itself after a few years of short staffing, and how each team member brings special skills and qualities,’ she said.

Award is an ‘immense honour’

Receiving the Victoria CDE of the Year award came as a surprise for Ms Gatto, who didn’t know she had been nominated.

‘I know there are many CDEs who work with enormous dedication but may not get noticed,’ she said.

‘This award is an immense honour, and I do not take it lightly.’

She acknowledges the support of her family, mentors, and colleagues—who all played a significant role in her journey.

Remaining committed to care

Ms Gatto remains committed to expanding diabetes services locally, aiming to secure a visiting endocrinologist, improve access to diabetes technologies, and enhance continuity of care between inpatient and community settings.

Advice for new health professionals

To new health professionals entering diabetes education, Ms Gatto offers this advice: ‘Stay open and learn from others—people with diabetes, DEs, other health professionals.’

‘Invest in continuous education, get to know the community you work in, and most importantly, listen,’ she said.

Her dedication to her community and advocacy for improved local services have made her a leader in diabetes care.


Queensland CDE of the Year: Susan Carbone recognised for empowering communities and pioneering holistic diabetes care

Susan Carbone, one of Queensland’s CDE of the Year, has dedicated her career to reshaping the delivery of diabetes care.

Inspired by her own experience with an autoimmune disorder and her time in intensive care, Ms Carbone brings compassion, innovation, and leadership to her role.

A personal journey to diabetes care

Her journey began at 18 when she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, an experience that ignited her passion for healthcare.

After becoming a registered nurse, she worked in the Intensive Care Unit, regularly caring for people living with diabetes during episodes of acute diabetes emergencies.

‘This inspired me to become a CDE to help support people living with diabetes in the community,’ Ms Carbone said.

‘I was hoping I could not only help prevent those diabetes-related hospital admissions but also provide support to people trying to navigate the management of a chronic condition.’

Championing diabetes care for First Nations communities

Ms Carbone’s commitment to diabetes care has flourished through her leadership role at the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH).

Here, she leads a compassionate team of CDEs, focused on delivering innovative diabetes care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Brisbane area.

Her approach is defined by collaboration and innovation.

‘Over the years, I have been fortunate to have worked with very passionate and like-minded health professionals, including at Diabetes NSW and QLD and now the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health,’ Ms Carbone said.

‘My network of colleagues and friends have all been exceptional and supportive role models, which has allowed me to grow and build my confidence as a CDE.’

She has developed successful interdisciplinary diabetes care clinics that provide a more person-centred, strength-based, and holistic approach to care.

Addressing workforce shortages and mentoring future CDEs

One of Ms Carbone’s key achievements has been her contribution to workforce development.

Recognising the shortage of CDEs, particularly in community clinics, she has actively worked to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals becoming CDEs.

Through her work with the University of Technology Sydney, she is helping shape the future of diabetes care.

‘I have joined forces with UTS to contribute to the development of the CDE workforce and regularly mentor diabetes educators working towards their credentialling,’ Ms Carbone said.

A humble honour

Receiving the Queensland CDE of the Year award (one of two for the state) is a proud moment for Ms Carbone, though she remains humble about her achievements.

‘I am very honoured to receive this award for doing something that I enjoy and feel passionate about,’ she said.

‘I acknowledge the wider diabetes workforce and colleagues who have supported and inspired me to grow as a CDE.’

Looking to the future

Ms Carbone is committed to continuing her work in workforce development and finding new ways to support people living with diabetes.

‘I believe as CDEs, our role is to walk alongside the person living with diabetes on the journey they are on,’ she said.

‘We need to take a strengths-based approach, removing judgement or efforts to “fix people”.’

‘Though we specialise in diabetes, we are not the experts in how people wish to lead their own lives; we need to learn to let go of control.’

Her passion and dedication will no doubt continue to influence and inspire the future of diabetes care.