How long have you been with Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service?
Seven years.
How do you describe what you do?
My role as Point of Care Clinical Coach - Mental Health is to identify the key education priorities and support the amazing cohort of staff we have across both IPU sites. I focus on making sure the education we offer matches the clinical skills our staff need, based on the consumers we’re working with and the current skill mix across the teams.
What's best about your job?
I’m passionate about supporting our mental health teams by tailoring education to whatever is happening on the wards in real time. I believe the best learning happens when sessions are fun, interactive, and memorable. I love being able to create experiences that build skills and confidence for all staff across both IPU sites.
What was your path into health care?
It’s no secret that my decision to become a mental health nurse comes from a deep well of lived experience. Throughout my childhood, I had many interactions with the health system, with my mum, a nurse educator, showing me firsthand the power of compassion, knowledge, and care.
Today, my greatest passion lies in showing up authentically and building genuine, meaningful connections with consumers. I believe that true healing begins when people feel truly seen, heard, and valued — and it's this belief that continues to guide everything I do.
What does being part of a team mean to you?
Being part of a team feels like being part of an extended family to me. Like any family, we sometimes disagree like siblings, but at the end of the day, we always look out for each other... much like siblings do!
I genuinely love my team and the unique skills and strengths that each person brings to the table. There’s a real comfort in knowing that no matter where I fall short, there’s always someone there who is the missing puzzle piece — ready to step in and support both me and the work we’re doing together, which is exactly what I would do for them.
When you're not at work, you are...
When I’m not at work, I’m a protective mother, a loving wife, a sarcastic sister, and a comedic friend. I love spending time with my family and creating unforgettable memories.
You'll often find me enjoying a good horror movie night - usually while casting a few spells in my lounge room for good measure!
What do you enjoy about living in Wide Bay?
I’ve lived in the Wide Bay area for over 30 years and have witnessed its incredible growth, even though I still see it as a small town at heart.
While change can sometimes be challenging, one of the best parts of being a local is having the opportunity to support the people I grew up with on their recovery journeys. It’s a privilege to be able to connect with them on a deeper level and truly understand the community I serve.
Tell us a fun fact about you.
I’m an Entomologist and the owner of a small business where I create and sell entomology art.
I work with preserved insects — because somehow, when you frame them beautifully, it’s considered art and not a cause for concern. Nothing says “unique decor” quite like a perfectly displayed deceased insect.
What music are you listening to most right now?
Stevie Nicks.