TRAVEL program supports Sharny to get out and explore country WA

Registered Nurse Sharny Harberger is getting out and about in country thanks to WA Country Health Service’s TRAVEL program.

The TRAVEL Program offers nurses a unique experience in both career development and a working adventure with three country rotations over 12 months, through a variety of rural and remote settings.

WA Country Health Service Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery Maria Flynn said the program was just one of several successful initiatives designed to support nurses to achieve their career goals while promoting a positive work/life balance.

“We currently have 12 nurses undertaking TRAVEL program in Geraldton, Kununurra, Narrogin, Albany, Northam, Broome, Warren Health Service in Manjimup and Esperance,” Ms Flynn said.

“The program has been really well received, with another five nurses set to commence over the next six months.

“Two of our current TRAVEL nurses are enjoying it so much they’re now in their second year and one of those is planning to continue on for a third year.”

Originally from Victoria, Sharny has worked the past few years in the Northern Territory before taking the opportunity to work and explore country WA.

“From the first phone call I had with the TRAVEL program team, they’ve made the experience about what I wanted to achieve both professionally and personally within the 12 months,” Sharny said.

“The team have supported my goals and made the transition into WA nursing easy.”

Sharny said the rotations were giving her a chance to work with different teams in a variety of clinical settings.

“Broome Regional Hospital has a great crew, the staff are all friendly and supportive, they make you feel like one of their own as soon as you arrive.

“The general ward has a great diverse range of presentations to further develop nursing skills and a great learning environment to facilitate the development,” Sharny added.

“Being in a smaller hospital allows you to have a better connection with all of the multidisciplinary team.” 

Sharny said the program had also provided the opportunity to explore some of WA’s most iconic locations.

“I feel very fortunate to be able to see so much of WA. 

“My first stop was Broome, now I’m on my way to Geraldton and most likely finish my last rotation in Albany.

“I absolutely loved it in Broome, the lifestyle is relaxed and everyone is so welcoming which makes it feel like home.

“The camping spots are magical, I have tried my best to explore them all on days off, but with so many here, it was impossible to do in four months, I’ll just have to come back to do so.”

If you’d like to find out more or apply to for the TRAVEL program, contact: WACHSNurseManagerWorkforceInitiatives@health.wa.gov.au