Having lived in the Blue Mountains for over 30 years, Chris Boothroyd has a strong commitment and ties to his local community.
His journey began as a student at Hawkesbury Western Sydney University, then soon after accepted his first position at Nepean Hospital. There, he discovered a strong interest in emergency nursing, which, despite a rocky start, became a cornerstone of his career.
After a period working in patient safety with the Local Health District, Chris transitioned to his current role as Clinical Nurse Consultant at Blue Mountains Hospital, where he has been since 2020, and in the nursing industry for almost 16 years now.
"I love working in my local community, not only because it's close to home but also because your patients are your family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours."
As part of his role, Chris is passionate about education, specifically delivering training and mentorship to both new and experienced staff, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide high-quality care.
"One of my primary goals is to make sure the Blue Mountains team receives the same level of education and support as their counterparts in the larger hospitals."
Chris believes that by fostering a supportive learning environment, staff can deliver exceptional care to the local community. He describes the culture at Blue Mountains Hospital to be deeply collaborative.
"At Blue Mountains Hospital, we have close-knit relationships among staff, which enhances teamwork and communication. This supportive atmosphere extends beyond the clinical staff to include Allied Health professionals, administrative teams, and domestic services staff."
His dedication to the Blue Mountains team ensures staff wellbeing is prioritised. He acknowledges the importance of support systems, whether through casual tearoom chats or more formal debriefing processes.
Chris' own way of unwinding involves enjoying the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains with his family, playing soccer, and engaging in community activities.
For those considering a career in health, Chris encourages everyone to choose an area you're most passionate about.
"The field offers countless opportunities to grow and make a difference."
