After nearly five decades, beloved Bayside nursing leader Katie Jefford is set to retire, leaving a legacy of advocacy, leadership and compassionate care across Queensland Health.
Katie began her nursing training in 1979 and said she had “no regrets”.
“It’s been an amazing profession. Incredible friendships are formed, and a deep sense of purpose comes from caring for others.”
Katie's advice to future nursing leaders is to continue to be passionate about improving health services and caring for your patients.
"Foster and mentor nursing and midwifery staff so they enjoy coming to work and providing the care they signed up for. Be inclusive and respectful of knowledge and experience.”
Katie joined Bayside Health Service in 2013 and played a key role in driving major expansions.
She led the opening of the Paediatric Emergency Department and the Wynnum Manly Community Health Centre Gundu Pa, as well as the Redlands Satellite Health Centre to name a few.
Currently serving as Assistant Director of Nursing Medicine and Emergency at Bayside Health Service, Katie said the greatest changes over the years had been the growth of nursing leadership and support roles to strengthen patient care.
“The community has helped drive growth and better health access to health services at Bayside during the past 13 years,” she said.
Katie looks forward to travelling and finally having time for herself.
"No more 5am alarms or long commutes," she said.
Director of Nursing and Midwifery Amanda Garner said Katie’s contribution to Bayside and the profession had been extraordinary.
"Katie leaves every service stronger than she found it," Amanda said. “She has mentored generations of nurses and midwives with kindness and wisdom, always advocating for patients and staff. Bayside Health Service is better because of her.”