Final year ECU nursing student, Aleisha, recently completed a 6-week rural placement at Kalgoorlie Health Campus’ Paediatric Ward through the Goldfields UDRH, describing it as among the most rewarding and enriching experiences of her nursing studies.
To students considering a rural placement in the Goldfields, she wholeheartedly encourages you to say yes! “It is a lifechanging experience that will challenge and support you while shaping you into a stronger, more capable nurse. You will walk away with new skills, greater confidence, deeper cultural awareness, and a real sense of belonging. Kalgoorlie doesn’t just offer learning – it offers community.”
By supporting students like Aleisha from partner universities such as ECU, the GUDRH connects more students with the Goldfields, where they contribute to local services, join community life, and discover the confidence and skills that come from practising in a rural setting.
Hear what Aleisha has to say about her time in the Goldfields and the support she received from the Goldfields UDRH team:
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Being away from the city helped me slow down and truly reflect on who I am – not only as a student nurse but as a person. I discovered how resilient and adaptable I can be, especially when working in a new setting and engaging with a regional community. The placement gave me space to grow – not just professionally, but personally.
Standout Moments Outside the Hospital
One of the most unforgettable moments of my placement was the opportunity to join the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) on a remote clinic on the Nullarbor. Witnessing first-hand how healthcare is delivered in some of the most isolated parts of Australia was incredibly eye-opening and humbling.
Another standout was taking part in the UDRH’s Cultural Education program, gaining a deeper understanding of Aboriginal history in the area. Learning directly from local Aboriginal educators, these lessons will stay with me for the rest of my career.
Professional and Clinical Development
Working on the paediatric ward in Kalgoorlie provided many hands-on opportunities. I was encouraged to use my initiative and apply critical thinking in a way that isn’t always possible on metropolitan placements. From managing hydration plans and supporting families, to observing rare presentations not often seen in city hospitals – it was a fantastic learning environment.
I also received extra training in respiratory management and symptom identification, with a strong focus on acute asthma in children. This was particularly valuable given the higher prevalence of respiratory illness in rural settings. Additionally, I attended education sessions on rheumatic heart disease, which helped me better understand the unique health challenges facing regional and Aboriginal communities. These learning opportunities were deeply enriching and often not readily accessible in a metropolitan setting.
Compared to city placements, the pace in Kalgoorlie was more holistic and patient-centred. I wasn’t just another student – I was included as part of the team and trusted with responsibility. The rural setting encourages broader clinical thinking and strong communication across disciplines, which has helped me become a more well-rounded nurse.
Feeling Welcomed in Kalgoorlie
Kalgoorlie is such a welcoming place. From the moment I arrived, both the hospital staff and the community were warm and supportive. There is a strong sense of community pride and genuine interest in students. I never felt like a visitor—I felt like part of something.
The Goldfields UDRH staff were phenomenal. From the initial welcome to regular check ins and debriefs, I always felt supported and cared for. One moment that really stood out was when a UDRH staff member reached out after a particularly emotional shift just to check in – it meant so much and reminded me I wasn’t alone.
Images: a selection of Aleisha’s water colour paintings she completed while on her placement in Kalgoorlie, and on a visit to Esperance in her downtime.
