Speech pathologist’s student placement lays foundation to return to the country

WA Country Health Service Speech Pathologist Danyelle Grime began her six-month placement in Geraldton in 2024 and enjoyed the experience so much that she returned to regional WA – this time with her sights set on Northam.

Now, after two months in Northam, Danyelle said it’s the learning opportunities and the supportive teams that drew her in.

“I love the opportunities you get. There are always people willing to teach you, or let you observe something new, and each day is different.

“I also really enjoy being able to work with so many people and disciplines in a closely knit team. Everyone is always willing to explain things to me as I learn, and it means I learn something new every day,” she added.

Working in speech pathology in country WA has also given Danyelle diversity in her work.

“In my role I get to do outreach to different towns, work in the clinic in Northam, and on the wards,” she said.

“Being able to see young children in the morning, and older people in the afternoon, working with someone on swallowing one day and working with a lisp the next – there’s a really wide range.”

Looking to the future, Danyelle hopes to stay in the country and recommends it to anyone who’s looking for a change.

“I’d hope to still be working in the country for the next couple of years. I still have a lot to learn here, and even if one day I head back to a metro area to practice, I think working in the country will be a valuable experience to hold onto.

“I’d always say to give it a go! You’ll gain a lot of experience from even a short time working in the country.”

Want to follow in Danyelle’s footsteps? Visit: Allied health and health science careers