Two Eastern Bay coaches have been named finalists in the Health Coaching Australia and New Zealand Association Awards of Excellence.

Ashlee Sturme and Olivia Stubbs are among 14 finalists recognised for their dedication to health and wellness coaching. There are six award categories, with Ms Sturme nominated for the Health Equity Award, and Ms Stubbs up for Health & Wellness Coach in a Healthcare Setting gong.

Ms Sturme, who has led initiatives to elevate health coaching as a professional healthcare option, said the nomination reflected her commitment to bridging health and education, working across both physical and mental wellbeing.

“We’re whole people who need wellness solutions that address the multifaceted issues we face in society – for our children that can be poverty, trauma, access, disability, neurodiversity, nutrition and movement.

“It’s what I advocate for in running our bush school – our children need more green time, not screen time, and the science backs it for emotional, physical, mental and spiritual health, as well as learning and education.”

Ms Sturme delivers workshops and presentations for educators and boards on wellness, so they can create healthier spaces for children.

The nomination, she said, highlighted the growing recognition of health coaches, who fill a vital gap in supporting people to move from knowing what to do to achieving real wellness outcomes.

Ms Stubbs, a PreKure-trained health and mental fitness coach, works in primary health. “Each day, I support six to eight patients through coaching sessions focused on improving cholesterol and diabetes levels, achieving sustainable weight loss, navigating food intolerances, overcoming sugar addiction, and building strong social support systems,” she said.

She also offers private coaching and runs courses on perimenopause and menopause.

Being named a finalist, she said, was deeply meaningful: “It’s recognition of the mahi we do, and it’s incredibly rewarding. It shows the impact we’re making on whaiora, whānau, and the wider community is being seen and valued.

“Coaching one person doesn’t end with that individual. The knowledge they gain ripples outward, into their homes, their relationships, and their communities.”

Winners will be announced at an awards gala in Brisbane tomorrow.