HUNTER New England Local Health District has welcomed 237 new graduate nurses and midwives to its workforce, providing a boost to local health services across the District, including hospitals at Moree, Gunnedah, Armidale and Tamworth.

The graduates join the District under NSW Health’s GradStart program, the annual state-wide intake of graduate nurses and midwives.

The program facilitates graduates gaining experience in a variety of clinical settings, including emergency departments, acute services, maternity services, hospital clinics, and a range of other specialities.

HNELHD chief executive, Tracey McCosker, welcomes the newest cohort of graduate nurses and midwives to the District.

“Nurses and midwives play a vital role in our health service and new graduates are an important part of our future,” Ms McCosker said.

“We’re committed to supporting their professional development and appreciate that they have chosen our District to start their careers.”

Executive director Clinical Services, Nursing and Midwifery, Elizabeth Grist, said the graduates will be embedded in multidisciplinary teams alongside experienced staff who will support them to gain the skills and knowledge required to care for the District’s diverse communities.

“This marks the beginning of a rewarding journey in healthcare for our new nurses and midwives,” Ms Grist said.

“As they embark on this next chapter, they are joining a network of experienced and compassionate colleagues who are there to guide and mentor them all the way.”

For more information on NSW Health careers in nursing and midwifery, visit Careers in Nursing and Midwifery