From paddocks to patient care
After decades working in animal health science and for government regulatory authorities as a meat inspector, 48-year-old Mount Walker resident Matthew Pigram felt it was time for a change.
“I wanted to find something that fulfilled me as a person. I’ve got family who work in healthcare, and I thought: why not human health? We’re all animals, I suppose you could say,” he said.
Having completed his Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance with Mater Education in Springfield, Matthew has discovered a passion for supporting patients as they recover from surgery or illness.
“I did my placement at Mater Private Hospital Brisbane’s Rehabilitation Unit where I was dealing with people that are sick, and they are grateful for that help and the intervention that the hospital is providing. Getting to support that is incredibly satisfying.”
While re-entering the classroom can be challenging for some mature-aged students, Matt said he was grateful for the support of his cohort and the camaraderie they developed over the six-month course.
“They accepted me, and I accepted them. There was no ‘oldies over here, young ones over there’. We all just slotted in together,” he said.
“I really enjoyed the anatomy and physiology side of things - learning how the human body works, homeostasis and how it all keeps us going.”
Matt’s biggest inspiration for pursuing allied health was close to home—his dad.
“He was a hard worker, community-oriented, in the rural fire brigade, volunteered for the show society and always giving back to those around him. This career feels like a way of giving back too,” he said.
Matt’s next step? Hopefully one day working at Mater.
“That’s the end goal,” he said.
“To be able to help people every day and come home to my family. That’s what I want.”
Matt said people shouldn’t fear taking on a career change later in their working lives.
“The support I got at Mater Education was great. It’s local, you don’t have to travel far. Springfield is one of the growth areas in Queensland, and it’s only going to continue to grow.”
“It’s a great place to pursue a healthcare career right now.”
