Graduate nurses and midwives join South Metropolitan Health Service’s Rockingham Peel Group

A cohort of nearly 30 nursing and midwifery graduates are boosting health services in the Rockingham and Peel regions. The 28 graduates, who were mainly recruited via the online recruitment process Grad Connect, have joined the South Metropolitan Health Service’s Rockingham Peel Group, which includes Rockingham General Hospital and Murray District Hospital. Group nursing and midwifery director Heather Pearce said each graduate would be mentored in their first year of practice. “Our nurses and midwives all share a passion to make a difference to people’s lives and we are committed to ensuring that our graduates are supported as they embark on their careers,” she said. “The transition to practice graduate program features specialty streams, including maternity.” Graduate registered nurse and local resident Lisa McNab said it was an easy decision to apply for a placement at Rockingham General Hospital because she had seen the excellent care family members had received at the facility. “To get the opportunity now to be here for my career is really rewarding and the greatest part is that you are working to help people,” she said. “I’m starting on the medical ward and I’m hoping to also get the opportunity to work in the emergency department in future.” Ms McNab said she was attracted to a career in nursing because the environment was fast-paced and ever-changing. “To be able to provide care and help, that is the most important thing,” she said. “Even though it’s quite challenging, the physicality of the work keeps me engaged and motivated. “I’d encourage anyone thinking of this as a career to just go for it. “It’s more rewarding than you would think, it’s humbling and gives you a good insight, and has changed my whole perspective on life.”