Temora Bush Bursary a big hit!

“I would definitely consider moving to a town like this and this placement has only cemented my view on that.” 

Second-year nursing student at the University of Notre Dame, Somerset Lewis, recently spent two weeks on a Bush Bursary and Country Women’s Association (CWA) Scholarship Program placement in Temora, where she explored the daily life of community nursing.  

“The hands-on experience I’ve gained in Temora is the best I’ve had so far,” said Somerset.  

“Thanks to the environment at the Temora Medical Complex and the attitude of the nurses I have worked with, I can honestly say that I’ve learned more here than I had in other places last year.” 

Funded by local council and administered by NSW Rural Doctors Network (RDN), the Bush Bursary placements provide an immersive experience, showcasing a range of clinical experiences serving rural communities, in hopes of inspiring a future rural career. 

Also completing her placement in Temora was University of Notre Dame medical student, Brittany Keyser, who spent time with local GP Dr Rachel Christmas.  

Brittany says in other placements, a student like herself might not have had as much time with a GP as she did with Dr Christmas.  

“I had the privilege of working right across the spectrum, from witnessing the officiating of a death certificate to attending a birth.  

“I loved the dynamics of the community, the range of people that you treat and the collaborations between allied health, specialists and other doctors,” said Brittany.  

The Bush Bursary placements are made possible with the funding and participation of nineteen rural councils. Temora Shire Council Mayor, Cr Rick Firman OAM says the Council is proud to participate in the Bush Bursary program for another year, and feel blessed to have two students put their hands up to come and be part of the Temora community for two weeks.

“Our staff compiled a schedule that provided the students with exposure to the various local health services that align to their chosen career path, including the GP surgeries, hospital and community centre. The schedule also includes opportunities for the students to engage with the wider community through Council’s youth program and other social events.

“It is our hope that from participating in the Bush Bursary program that Council entices students to consider Temora Shire as a place to live and work upon graduation,” said Mayor Firman. 

Thanks to Temora Shire Council for its support of this important program. To find out more about the Bush Bursary Program, visit the webpage.