Some nursing careers are measured in years, but Robyn’s spans continents. Born in Africa, she built her professional life in critical care in the UK before settling in New Zealand with her family, where she has lived for the past 17 years. Three years and nearly 15 contracts after her first placement with Affinity, she is now RAN (remote area nurse) Robyn, working across remote Australia. Along the way she has moved from rural health services to Northern Territory emergency departments, and on to some of the country’s most remote communities.
Robyn’s pathway to remote area nursing
After what she calls the ‘Covid blip’, Robyn felt ready to travel again, but still needed to earn. A good friend who had started agency nursing two years earlier became the catalyst, and Robyn signed on to explore more of Australia while putting her critical care skills to work.
Her first Affinity contract was at a multi-purpose health service in south-west Queensland, where everything from the airports to the accommodation was a new experience. Robyn quickly found her feet, thanks to staff who were ‘so welcoming’ and locals who were ‘keen to show off their town with pride’, something she describes as ‘humbling and very appreciated’.
Wanting to see more of the country, she moved into Northern Territory emergency departments. She says ‘The pace and equity of the presentations were a huge challenge… however the Aboriginal culture was entirely unique and fascinating with basic understanding and appreciation.’
After a few contracts, some extra courses and a conversation with her Affinity Specialist Andrew, she agreed it was time to try remote area nursing. Her first contract was in a very remote central Australian Aboriginal community.
The freedom to practice independently
Remote nursing can be daunting, but for Robyn it is also where her clinical skills have room to shine. With the nearest major town sometimes four to six hours away, remote nurses become the first and often the only point of care. That means drawing on advanced assessment and diagnostic skills, and applying evidence-based treatment guided by the comprehensive Remote Services Manuals that each state provides.
For a nurse with Robyn’s critical care background, that autonomy is the appeal. It is a chance to put every skill she has spent years honing to work, in a community that really needs them. ‘This freedom to be more independent in the clinical setting was a huge drive for me personally,’ she says.
But independence doesn’t mean working alone. Robyn says the experienced colleagues who quickly become friends make all the difference, and she remains deeply grateful to the professionals who continue to do an amazing job in very extreme environments.
Meekatharra: small town, big heart
Robyn’s recent contracts have been at Meekatharra Hospital in remote Western Australia, caring for local Aboriginal communities, mining sites and caravanners criss-crossing the country in the dry season. The facility has a substantial ED, long-term beds, a paediatric community hub and visiting health services.
It’s a place she has clearly taken to heart, and she believes the key to a happy contract lies in the people around you.
‘In small rural hospitals, your colleagues quickly become family and are your main go-to in a crisis. Supporting each other is vital, as is respecting the permanent staff and gaining valuable advice regarding their community, which is vital for a happy contract!’
Away from the ward, her days off are simple, with daily walks alongside a friend and a dog.
What’s next: a more personal approach for women
Looking ahead, Robyn plans to keep building her skills and deepening her understanding of the communities she works in. She has also identified a gap in care. She believes women in remote communities would benefit from a more personalised approach, and she is considering female-only courses to help fill it.
Robyn’s honest take
Remote area nursing may not be for everyone. The workload can be high-stress, and working alone and on call in a remote community takes preparation and resilience. But for Robyn, the rewards outweigh the challenges. ‘The people and communities you will meet and the places you will go will be an unforgettable experience,’ she says. ‘Enjoy the journey!’
She also credits Affinity for the support that has carried her through. From her very first contract, she says, they have offered continued support and understanding, especially during times of doubt, and have matched her with contracts that suit her.
Where could your nursing career take you next?
From critical care to remote area nursing, Robyn’s journey shows just how many opportunities travel nursing can open up. Whether you’re ready to explore remote nursing or looking for your next regional contract, Affinity Nursing can help you find opportunities that match your experience and career goals.
Travel nursing with Affinity offers:
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Nursing contracts across rural, regional and remote Australia
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Opportunities to expand your clinical skills and experience
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Personalised guidance from a dedicated Affinity Specialist
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Access to professional development through Affinity Clinical Education
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Ongoing support throughout your placements
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Flexibility to explore new places and communities between contracts
Ready for your next nursing adventure? Join Affinity Nursing and discover where your skills could take you.
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