Augusta Clinical Nurse Manager fired up by new volunteer role

For many WA Country Health Service staff members, supporting others doesn't end when a shift finishes.

That is certainly true for Augusta Hospital Clinical Nurse Manager, Colin Bristow, on his recent appointment as Captain of the Augusta Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service.

Colin's new leadership role is a great example of the dedication and community spirit that is so often demonstrated by our country healthcare workers.

Balancing the responsibilities of being a Clinical Nurse Manager with volunteering in emergency services requires commitment, resilience, and a deep desire to help others.

Whether caring for patients at Augusta Hospital or leading local emergency response efforts, Colin continues to make a significant contribution to the safety and wellbeing of the Augusta community.

“It felt terrific that the brigade trusts me with such a responsible role,” Colin said.

“I was surprised but felt very supported by my brigade that they have confidence in my skills to lead them.”

Having been with WA County Health Service since 2007 and a volunteer firefighter for an impressive six years, Colin admitted he’s drawn to roles that require “thinking on your feet, getting solutions quickly and working in a team to achieve shared goals”.

From newcomer to community hero, Colin said joining the Augusta Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service was more than fighting fires; it was about finding his own place.

“When I moved to Augusta, I didn’t know a lot of people, and I wanted to give back to the community like I have in other places.”

“I looked at the different types of volunteer organisations, and Augusta Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service was quite attractive for a couple of reasons; to meet new people and an opportunity to learn new skills.”

Emergencies can turn lives upside down in an instant, which is why Colin is proud of the role he plays when it matters most, with his dual roles strengthening his commitment to improving essential services for Augusta locals.

“It’s a small community, which often feels that it doesn’t get the best of the best.”

“I want to make sure that my community is thriving, that everyone knows they can rely on excellent health services and that emergency services are there in their time of need.”

Before relocating to Augusta, Colin spent much of his career working in the Pilbara and Great Southern regions but was seeking to get, as he put it, “a bit of South West experience under his belt”.

With his initial aim to work in country healthcare for a couple of years, Colin ended up loving it so much that he decided to put down his roots and stay in Augusta for the long haul.

“As I’ve been working, I’ve enjoyed the country experience and the diverse range of people that we care for and work with – it’s very collaborative.”

While modest about his own achievements, Colin says it’s the team on the ground who deserve all the praise and recognition for going above and beyond every day. 

“I’ve got a fantastic team. They always strive to deliver a high level of care, work well with each other and want the best for the patients, residents and the community.”

“Even before I became captain, being a Nurse Manager at WA Country Health Service allowed me to communicate with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services about the workings of the health service.”

His unique perspective and cross-agency experience have helped Colin share valuable insights with fellow volunteers at a local level, including the ins and outs of hospital operations during an emergency.

With his captaincy appointment highlighting the close connection between WA Country Health Service and the community, Colin has embraced this opportunity in the region he now calls home.

Colin credited WA Country Health Service for his training and leadership experience, which have translated seamlessly to his Augusta Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service role.

“For healthcare, it’s an exciting, beneficial and satisfying career.”

“You have lots of options to work in many various fields within WA Country Health Service and the world.”

“It’s always exciting and there are lots of learning opportunities in health.”

Across country WA, many WA Country Health Service staff volunteer with organisations such as the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, and St John WA, stepping forward to support their communities and reflect the values of service, teamwork and compassion that are such a significant part of rural healthcare.

Keen to see more people involved, Colin had a simple yet heartfelt message for anyone thinking to lend a helping hand in keeping their community safe.

“Volunteering with emergency services is very rewarding and I would encourage anyone to get involved.”

“It doesn’t matter if you’re an office worker or a shift worker,” Colin added.

“As a volunteer, you can participate when you’re available, it’s a great role and everyone can contribute in some way.”

Are you interested in a healthcare career with hometown heroes like Colin?

Discover rewarding careers with WA Country Health Service on jobs.wa.gov.au and experience the best of country life.

Perhaps you’d like to take on a challenge, give back to those around you and volunteer your time towards a safer state?

Check out dfes.wa.gov.au/careers-and-volunteering to find the right volunteering opportunity for you.