Territory nurse pays it forward

Territorian Zoe Boyle dreamed of being a florist or marine biologist when she grew up, but it was a Charles Darwin University (CDU) nursing degree that opened her eyes to the world of opportunities within the NT’s own healthcare system.

Ms Boyle, 33, has dedicated her career to Darwin Private Hospital ever since she joined as a graduate nurse over a decade ago.

Now a Clinical Nurse Educator, she finds fulfillment in paying forward the knowledge, support and expertise she once received as a nursing student by guiding and mentoring new graduates.

“I knew there was no other university that could provide such a stable stepping stone onto my dream career, and keep me close to my family at the same time,” Ms Boyle said.

"I'm proud to be a CDU graduate and now giving back to my community means I can help shape the next generation of healthcare professionals."

It’s healthcare professionals like Ms Boyle who have been recognised for their dedication in a formal plaque at Darwin Private Hospital this week – one of many to be established in healthcare settings across the Territory.

CDU Faculty of Health Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Dominic Upton said the Territory has unique health challenges that can be addressed by healthcare partnerships and facilities prioritising diverse needs.

“CDU’s partnership with Darwin Private Hospital delivers on mutual benefits in areas of workforce development, education, training and research collaboration,” Professor Upton said.

“We’re working together to advance community health and wellbeing by maintaining the pipeline of graduates into meaningful employment. Graduates who stay in the Territory give back sevenfold because they are already familiar with our practices and population.

“By providing contemporary training through CDU’s Centre for Better Health Futures and CDU Menzies School of Medicine and industry connections like Darwin Private Hospital, students can achieve their career goals and help ensure our healthcare system caters for all Territorians.”

Since signing a Memorandum of Understanding in 2014, the private hospital has provided just over 1,000 nursing and midwifery student placements, with 130 students starting this year alone.

Darwin Private Hospital Acting General Manager Vanessa Frewin said the collaboration with CDU has not only strengthened the quality of education for these students, but also enriched the hospital’s graduate program with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

“We are immensely proud of our ongoing partnership with CDU, and the increasing number of students who choose Darwin Private Hospital for their placement, which is a significant milestone in their education,” Ms Frewin said.

“We remain dedicated to this partnership and look forward to continuing our role in shaping the future of healthcare together through education, research and employment.”