For Samantha Golledge, a nurse and midwife at Logan Hospital, a career in healthcare wasn’t just a choice — it was a calling nurtured by a lifetime of stories, family values, and a deep sense of connection.
Growing up, Samantha spent countless weekends at Mooloolaba beach with her grandparents. As she played in the sand, her grandfather would sit beside her, sharing stories of his days in medicine. One story stayed with her more than any other: a long, complicated night attending the birth of a baby boy. Days later, the grateful young family returned with a simple basket of fresh eggs — a token of their immense gratitude.
"At the time, I thought it was such a funny gift," said Samantha.
"But as I grew older, I realised it wasn't about the eggs, it was about trust, respect, and the deep human connection that sits at the heart of healthcare. It taught me that the way we show up, with compassion, kindness, and humility, can last a lifetime."
That lesson became a cornerstone for Samantha's career. Inspired by the passion and dedication she saw in her grandfather and her wider family — many of whom also work in healthcare fields — Samantha pursued a dual degree in nursing and midwifery. Now, five years into her career at Metro South Health, she works across both disciplines, caring for patients at some of the most vulnerable and transformative moments of their lives.
"I genuinely love my job,"
"Every day is different. You walk into a new situation, meet new families, and have the chance to make a real difference.
“Midwifery, especially, is so special. It's such a happy, intimate time in people's lives, and it's a privilege to be trusted to share in it."
The influence of her grandfather Dr John Golledge, looms large in her career. Dr Golledge served as the Medical Superintendent at Princess Alexandra Hospital (PA) from 1973 to 1993 before becoming Regional Director of the Brisbane South Regional Health Authority. His contributions to Queensland Health were immense: from improving hospital cleanliness and facilities, reducing overcrowding to boost patient outcomes, recruiting top specialists like Dr Russell Strong, and overseeing the hospital’s first liver transplant in 1985. His leadership helped PA evolve into a recognised centre of excellence in healthcare and medical research.
Even now, as his memory begins to fade with age, Dr Golledge still vividly recalls stories from his time at PA — tales of being called in on stormy nights, fighting for better equipment, and celebrating medical milestones. Samantha often finds herself swapping stories with him, bridging their two generations of healthcare experience.
"My Poppy’s memory for those early years is still so sharp. He'll still ask me what’s happening in birth suite and then share a story from decades ago. It's incredible to have that connection,"
As Dr Golledge approaches his 95th birthday in May, Samantha and her family are determined to celebrate his extraordinary legacy. They are gathering photos, articles, and memorabilia from his time at PA to create a lasting tribute to a man who not only helped shape Queensland Health, but also inspired a new generation of healthcare workers within his own family.
"In so many ways, I'm just one thread in the fabric he helped weave," said Samantha.
"The compassion, the commitment to excellence, the belief in teamwork — it's all there, passed down through stories, memories, and now through our work."
Today, Samantha carries her grandfather’s legacy forward, not just through her technical skills, but through her compassion, her curiosity, and her unwavering dedication to making a difference every single day.
"I can't imagine doing anything else,"
“Healthcare is about being part of something bigger than yourself. And for me, it’s also about honouring the people who showed me the way."