State member for Bathurst Paul Toole has taken the time to highlight the breadth of health courses available at Bathurst TAFE in light of an increased demand for health care employees to support the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
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With semester two set to get underway at Bathurst TAFE next week, Mr Toole said there's a range of opportunities available for interested persons to pursue a career in the health industry.
"What we're seeing during COVID-19 is the fact there'll be a lot of opportunities open over the next five years in the health care sector," he said.
"TAFE NSW is allowing people to upskill themselves to ensure they're ready to join an industry where demand is continuing to increase."
The courses include nursing, community services, mental health, aged care and short courses in first aid and CPR.
Mr Toole said the spotlight on the health care industry has grown during the COVID-19 period, with an uptake in people interested in pursuing a career in the sector.
"The second round of courses are set to commence in September this year, and this is an opportunity for young and mature age students to get on board and work towards a health-related career," he said.
"These individuals have a great responsibility in looking after and caring for others in our community and as a family member, we can feel confident and safe that our loved ones are receiving the right level of care from health professionals."
Local registered nurse Kane Horan, who completed a Certificate III in Individual Support [Ageing] and a Diploma of Nursing at Bathurst TAFE, said nursing has become a rewarding career for him after four years as a chef.
"The best thing about being a registered nurse is that sense of accomplishment in playing a role in the recovery of a patient who has entrusted you with their care," Mr Horan said.
Mr Horan, who works in the emergency department at Bathurst Hospital and has since completed a Bachelor of Nursing at Charles Sturt University [CSU], said the role requires a great deal of compassion.
"The main reason why I really like my job is the ability to offer a sense of empathy and understanding to each patient," he said.
"It's all about making their hospital stay as comfortable as it can possibly be, because it's a scary time for most."
Mr Horan said the role has taken him everywhere from remote outback communities to aged care and mental health facilities, and recommends the career path to anyone with a passion for helping others.
"A health career can drive you in many different directions," he said.
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Sam Bolt
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
