Next generation of health heroes join frontline

With Queensland needing almost 12,000 new nurses and midwives by 2025, the next generation of healthcare heroes have graduated from Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing program.

More than 120 student nurses graduated in a ceremony at St Laurence’s College after completing 18 months of study and practical training at Mater’s South Brisbane campus.

Executive Director Mater Health Donna Bonney said new nurses would play a vital role in caring for Queenslanders for many years to come.

“COVID-19 has highlighted just how important nurses and other health professionals are to the community,” she said. 

“New Enrolled Nurse graduates are needed right across the healthcare industry and I know this group has a bright future ahead of them.

“These new nurses will go on to work in Mater hospitals and other hospitals across Brisbane, Queensland and beyond.”

According to Jobs Queensland, the state will need 87,000 nursing and midwifery professionals by 2025, up from almost 75,000 today.

Graduate Lachlan Shorey sold Mazda's and helped people with insurance claims, but it wasn't until he enrolled in Mater Education's Diploma of Nursing that he found his true calling. 

The 23-year-old has graduated as an Enrolled Nurse and can't wait to make a difference to the lives of others. 

The former Mareeba local said his family encouraged him to give it a go. 

"My grandma has just retired from nursing after a 35-year career at the Mareeba Hospital, so she inspired me to become a nurse, too," he said.

"I love helping people and making them smile when they're at their worst point." 

Mr Shorey has already secured a graduate position at Mater Private Hospital Brisbane.

"I was lucky enough to get a job on the Haematology and Oncology ward where I've been working for the last five weeks," he said.

"I like to keep the patients lively and improve their day with a conversation."

If you’re interested in a career in healthcare, applications are now open for the next intake of Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing. 

Apply today to start studying in Brisbane in October 2022 and Townsville in January 2023: https://mater.li/ApplyForDoN