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Heading to your nursing or allied health placement with the Goldfields University Department of Rural Health (UDRH)? Whether you’re buzzing with excitement or feeling a bit nervous, good preparation will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to know to pack smart, settle in quickly and make the most of your time in the Goldfields.
Your packing made easy
First up, work through your official Pre-Placement Checklist. It covers all the essentials, so you won’t be that person who forgot a phone charger or decent walking shoes.
The good news? Student accommodation is fully kitted out. You’ll have:
- Your own bedroom with a king single bed, linen, towels and a study desk.
- Shared living areas with lounge, dining and smart TVs.
- A fully equipped kitchen (yes, there’s a coffee machine and even an air fryer).
- Laundry facilities with detergent, baskets and coat hangers.
- Air-conditioning in every bedroom and communal area.
- Wi-Fi via Curtin Wireless and Eduroam.
- Bikes and helmets for getting around.
Basically, all you need is your personal items, clothes and any special comforts from home.
Looking after your mental wellbeing
Placements can be full-on, especially when you’re away from your usual support network. Our Student Wellbeing Advisor will check in regularly, and you’ll get vouchers for the local recreation centre – perfect for a gym session, group class or swim after a busy day.
You can also start learning a bit about the region. Australia’s Golden Outback is a great place to find local attractions and events to attend in your down time. The friendly UDRH team will also keep you up to date on what’s happening in town during your stay. Between your work, you can check out historical sites, art galleries, museums or even catch a local festival.
Remember, your wellbeing matters.
Your first day
Orientation is mandatory and worth every minute. If your placement is in Kalgoorlie, you’ll get:
- A tour of the Curtin Kalgoorlie and Rural Health campus.
- An introduction to the accommodation and support staff.
- Information on social activities and community events.
- A city tour of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, possibly including local health organisations.
You’ll also complete a Cultural Education session, which may also involve an on Country experience. This will give you valuable insight into the Aboriginal history, culture, traditions and languages of the region — an important part of providing culturally respectful healthcare.
Tips from past students
- Finish your assignments before you arrive! You’ll want your downtime free for exploring.
- Don’t expect boredom. Students often say there’s more to do than they imagined.
- Connect with your housemates. End-of-day debriefs can turn into deep friendships.
Your placement is more than just a tick on your course requirements. It’s a chance to live somewhere new, meet amazing people and grow personally and professionally. Pack well, stay open-minded and make the most of every moment.
To learn more about doing a rural placement at the Goldfields University Department of Rural Health (GUDRH), visit the website.
