St John of God International Health, Learning and Development Programs Manager James Somerville, has been awarded a prestigious 2026 Bullwinkel Scholarship from the Australian College of Nursing Foundation, recognising his leadership in strengthening nursing capability in Australia and Timor-Leste.
James was one of twenty-two registered nurses from across Australia selected this year for the highly regarded Bullwinkel Scholarships program. Each year, twenty-one scholarships are awarded in memory of the Australian Army nurses killed on Bangka Island in 1942, with one scholarship honouring the sole survivor, Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel.
Driven by a strong commitment to health equity, James is passionate about empowering local clinicians and strengthening systems that enable long-term, community-led improvement.
James’ scholarship was awarded in memory of Lieutenant Lorna Florence Fairweather, ensuring her story and service continue to inspire contemporary nursing leaders.
St John of God Director of International Health and Registered Nurse, Jenny Tait-Robertson said James’ selection to continue Lieutenant Fairweather’s legacy, spoke volumes about his dedication to nursing, his natural leadership, and his commitment to ongoing professional growth.
“In his role with St John of God International Health, James leads the design and delivery of development programs in Timor-Leste that strengthen clinical capability, build leadership confidence and support a sustainable local health workforce,” she said.
He also partners closely with nurse leaders and multidisciplinary teams to develop contemporary, evidence-informed learning initiatives that promote safe, high-quality care in diverse and often low-resource environments.
As an Australian Army Reservist, the scholarship holds particular personal significance for James. It represents not only professional recognition, but a strong connection to a legacy of service, courage and leadership – values that continue to guide his work.
“Being selected as a Bullwinkel Scholar is an incredible honour,” James said.
Through the scholarship, James will undertake the Nurse Unit Manager Leadership Program, further enhancing his ability to mentor emerging leaders and influence system-wide improvement.
