RDN’s 2021 Sydney Boarding Schools' Rural Health Careers Forum

At an event in Sydney’s Upper North Shore yesterday, RDN helped Sydney boarding school students learn how they could contribute to rural health.

In partnership with Pymble Ladies’ College, RDN hosted the second Sydney Boarding Schools’ Rural Health Careers Forum, aimed at showing students the benefits and rewards of a rural health career. 

Sydney boarding students had the opportunity to learn first-hand from health professionals who are providing vital services to rural communities across NSW.

The event included keynote speakers such as the Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women, The Hon. Bronnie Taylor MLC, Rural Director of Medical Services for Western NSW LHD, Dr Shannon Nott, and CEO of the Country Women’s Association of NSW, Danica Leys.   

This marks the second such Forum held by RDN and Pymble Ladies’ College, with the first occurring in 2019.

Then Pymble Ladies’ College student, Mia Shortis, attended the 2019 Forum and she was inspired by the event to explore a career in rural health.

“I am currently completing my nursing degree at Monash University and am getting as much experience as possible within rural areas,” she said.

“The 2019 Forum expanded my knowledge and interest in health and helped guide me in my pursuit of a career in nursing.”

The Forum is an initiative of the RDN Future Workforce team, which aims to ensure there is a pipeline of young professionals entering the rural health workforce.

“It’s so encouraging to see Mia and other Sydney boarding school students taking such an interest in rural health. Young professionals are vital to ensuring the sustainability and viability of health services in rural communities,” said Future Workforce Manager Chris Russell.

Pictured: The panellists, keynote speakers and RDN team at the 2021 Sydney Boarding Schools’ Rural Health Careers Forum.