First Responder becomes first in her family to graduate

For almost a decade, Beverly has acted as a First Responder, providing emergency medical care for the people of her home base on Coochiemudlo Island. In May, she added another 'first' to her name, becoming the first in her family of nine brothers and sisters to graduate with a tertiary qualification. 

Beverly initially studied nursing through Mater Education a decade ago but opted not to apply for registration due to family responsibilities at the time. Her new qualification will now see her able to fulfil her career goal of becoming a nurse.

“Being around medical professionals as an honorary ambulance officer piqued my interest in what happens on the other side of the ambulance, not just at the point of emergency. Nursing is a career that I have always wanted to pursue, and I am motivated by helping others in whatever way I can. With this qualification, I am able to move from the voluntary work that I have loved into a long-term career where I can grow both personally and professionally.”

The moment was made all the more special thanks to Uncle Barry Watson - who delivered the Welcome to Country for the event - providing Beverly with a small gift to recognise her as the only First Nations student graduating with the cohort.

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