Rural Nursing Scholarship Program

Growing up in a regional community I have seen first-hand the importance and impact that rural hospitals have on communities.   They have demonstrated that there is more to healthcare then just providing medical services; that it provides community support.   The sense of community is an important factor for me as I have grown up assisting the community through many services projects, such as Lions Australia and the Australian Mentoring Experience (EIME).

It was through these programs that I demonstrated my passion for serving others and was inspired to become a health professional.  the community has attracted me into rural nursing as it demonstrated a holistic approach to health and the benefits a community can have on an individual’s health and well being.

I have grown up in a rural community and I always wanted to give back to this community. I am married to a dairy farmer, and we have 2 children and live on the family farm.  I have always lived in the Gippsland region near Maffra and experienced a wonderful rural upbringing and I want the same for my children. I am currently working within my local rural community in an aged care facility as an enrolled nurse. While in this role I care for the elderly, building a rapport with them and their families, communicating effectively, and I have the confidence to speak up and advocate for them if something was not right.

From my experience as an enrolled nurse, I decided I wanted to give more back to my community holistically and clinically so I decided to complete my Bachelor of Nursing degree.

Since a young age I always knew I wanted to be a nurse. Growing up my younger brother spent a lot of time in and out of hospitals due to illnesses and allergies. The many hospital appointments and procedures opened my eyes to the industry and it is here I became fascinated with the nursing career. Being surrounded by such a caring, loving, and supportive environment made me idolise these nurses and passionate in thinking that’s what I wanted to do with my life. I was born and raised in the local Sale and Maffra community which I also attended school and played for local community sporting groups. I love the community I live in and wouldn’t of had it any other way. After graduating high school I started my bachelor of nursing degree at federation university Churchill campus.

Throughout my degree I spent majority of my 800 placement hours within local community hospitals within the area.