Metro South Health’s latest group of Deadly Starts trainees have crossed the finish line, ready to launch their careers and make a difference in healthcare.
Last week we celebrated the graduation of 23 trainees – the latest cohort in a program that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to start a career in health.
For Abbey Unterheinner (Mununjali), an Assistant in Nursing trainee, the experience has inspired her next steps.
“Just do it. Follow your dreams if you think healthcare is your calling. Just go for it,” she said.
Abbey plans to continue her studies at university or join a paramedicine cadetship.
Locklyn O’Loughlin (Quandamooka) made history as Metro South Health’s first Aboriginal Primary Health Care Worker trainee.
Locklyn is now enrolled in a Certificate IV in Primary Care and hopes to progress to a diploma.
“Helping my community was the best part of my traineeship,” he said.
Khasydi Little (Githabul), who is already engaged in a paramedicine cadetship, found the most rewarding part of the traineeship was connecting with patients.
“Just sitting with patients and listening to them is the most rewarding part of the job,” she said.
And Rhylee Davis (Bidjara), an operational officer (wardie), enjoyed supporting patients directly.
“It was great to help the patients when they can’t help themselves. It’s a great opportunity, just give it a go,” he said.
Metro South Health’s Director of HR Governance, Renee Staats, said the organisation was proud to grow the Deadly Starts program this year as part of its commitment to increase the number of staff members who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
“Our region has large First Nations communities with strong histories and cultures, and we want to make sure our workforce reflects that,” she said.
“We’re already seeing the benefits with several of our trainees going on to tertiary study in the health industry or as employees in Metro South Health.
“I’d like to thank everyone involved – from our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Directorate, to our HR team, to the hospitals and services that welcome the trainees – for making this program such as success.”
Congratulations to all this year’s graduates – Metro South Health looks forward to seeing you continue to make a positive impact in healthcare and your communities.