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Every year, Albury Wodonga Health's Graduate of the Year Awards recognise graduate nurses who have demonstrated exceptional compassion, professionalism and commitment during their first year of practice. Meet the inspiring recipients and learn more about the journeys that have shaped their careers so far.

For Jade, nursing has been all about following a lifelong passion.

After completing a final student placement on Surgical Ward 2 in Albury Hospital, she joined Albury Wodonga Health as an Enrolled Nurse in 2023. In the same week, she also began studying a Bachelor of Nursing to become a Registered Nurse.

"It was an absolute whirlwind, but being able to learn in real time while caring for patients made the experience incredibly rewarding."

Having grown up in the region, staying local to study and work was an easy decision for Jade.

"It was always important to me to continue both my employment and studies locally so I could give back to the community that raised me, and AWH has allowed me to do exactly that."

While she discovered a love for bedside nursing and the supportive team on Surgical Ward 2, her long-term goal has always been midwifery, a passion she’s now pursuing through further study.

"Caring for people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives is a privilege. Whether someone is unwell, frightened or simply needs a friendly face, being able to provide compassionate care is one of the most rewarding parts of the profession."

Although she hadn't originally planned to apply for a graduate program and was happy to stay on Surgical Ward 2, encouragement from colleagues led her to take the leap. 

“I'm so grateful to those who encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and follow my dreams.

“Throughout my graduate year, I had the opportunity to work alongside incredible teams in Wodonga Emergency Department, Women's Surgical, and District Nursing.

“I was supported every step of the way, challenged to grow professionally, and made lifelong friendships that have helped shape me into the nurse, student, and person I am today.

One of the biggest lessons has been learning that it's okay not to have all the answers.

"There will always be someone with more knowledge or experience, and that's something to embrace rather than fear. Staying curious, continuing to learn, and leading with empathy and kindness makes even the most uncertain situations easier to navigate."

Balancing shift work, study and family life has been one of the greatest challenges, but her children remain her biggest motivation.

"I hope that by following my own dreams, I show them that with hard work, resilience and determination, they can become anyone or anything they aspire to be."

Being named AWH's Graduate of the Year came as a complete surprise to Jade.

"It was completely unexpected and an incredible honour. It's a recognition I am deeply proud of, but I also know I was surrounded by an amazing group of graduates who should all be incredibly proud of what they achieved. Congratulations to everyone who completed their graduate year. I can't wait to see where your nursing journeys take you.”