PA Hospital graduate nurse Ella Boatfield has been named the 2026 Metro South Health International Nurses Day Graduate Nurse of the Year, recognising an outstanding first year of nursing and a commitment to compassionate, patient-centred care.
Originally from Toowoomba, Ella relocated to Brisbane to pursue her goal of working in a tertiary hospital.
“I had heard great things about the PAH graduate program, and every nurse from Toowoomba who had worked at PAH spoke so fondly of their experience,” she said.
“I was offered a position in Urology and grabbed it with both hands. Getting my foot in the door at PAH was all that mattered.”
As a bedside nurse, Ella says no two shifts are ever the same.
“Every patient requires something different. Getting to know each patient and understanding what they need as an individual is the priority of every shift.”
Ella said one of the most rewarding aspects of nursing is being part of a team dedicated to delivering the best possible care.
“Every staff member at PAH plays an important role in patient care, and being part of that larger multidisciplinary team is incredibly fulfilling,” she said.
“Teamwork can turn a really hard day into one that still feels meaningful and rewarding.”
Reflecting on her graduate year, Ella said the transition from student to registered nurse was both challenging and transformative. Her advice to first-year nurses is to prioritise self-care.
“There is only so much you can learn as a student – the real learning begins during your graduate year,” she said.
“Be kind to yourself and look after your mental health. If you're struggling with the transition, reach out to the amazing Graduate Support Program; they’ll have your back.”
Ella says she is honoured to receive both the PAH and Metro South Health International Nurses Day Graduate Nurse of the Year awards this year.
“I feel so grateful to the entire Ward 4A team for supporting me throughout my graduate year, especially my fellow graduates, Sheila, Katie and Nichole.”
Congratulations Ella!