The compassion of the nurses who supported Eloise Houghton through her own health battle has inspired her to become the 100th Townsville nurse trained by Mater Education.
The 24-year-old is now working at Mater Private Hospital Townsville and is urging others to think about a future in nursing – with enrolments in Mater's next Diploma of Nursing completely free thanks to the State Government's Fee-Free TAFE initiative.
Eloise, of Idalia, Townsville, began considering a career in nursing in 2019 when she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.
"I was actually working in an administration role at Mater during that time," she said.
"Seeing the nurses who helped me through that time of my life, taking the time to teach and educate me through type one diabetes really inspired me.
"They ignited a spark within me to help others with lifelong illnesses."
Mater Education launched its Diploma of Nursing course at Mater Private Hospital Townsville in 2020 and many of its 100 graduates are now working in healthcare across North Queensland.
Students on Mater Education's Diploma of Nursing course graduate as Enrolled Nurses in just 18 months. The next fee-free course begins in July.
Eloise said she was enjoying every day of her new nursing career in the medical unit at Mater Private Hospital Townsville.
"I really enjoy caring for patients who can't care for themselves, but also connecting with their families and supporting them in tough times," she said.
"I find it so rewarding to talk to my patients and help make their days better."
Mater Education's Lead Educator Tara Walton said its Townsville students enjoy a unique training experience.
"Our connection to Mater Private Hospital Townsville is highly valuable," Ms Walton said.
"We connect the hospital and classroom environments to ensure our students learn through immersive, real-world experience."
