Nine North Queensland nurses have accepted sponsorships and have officially started studying for a Master of Nurse Practitioner or Graduate Certificate (Primary Healthcare) at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). 

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), in partnership with QUT, is funding the scholarships for the nurses from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Collinsville, and Moranbah. 

Three of the nurses have enrolled to complete the Master course, while the others are enrolled to complete the Graduate Certificate, which is necessary to progress and be eligible to complete the Master of Nurse Practitioner course. 

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Sean Rooney said the scholarships would help the nurses advance their skills, ultimately enhancing the delivery of primary health care services within the North Queensland region. 

“We are proud to partner with QUT to fund the scholarships and congratulate the recipients,” Mr Rooney said. 

“These scholarships have been designed specifically for nurses working in general practice, primary health care, and Aboriginal Medical Services.  

“It’s encouraging to know that many of the Graduate Certificate recipients have stated their intent to use this qualification as a pathway into the Master of Nurse Practitioner course at a later date.” 

Katrina Hughes, a registered nurse at Hyde Park Medical Centre in Townsville, is completing the Graduate Certificate and intends to use it as a pathway into the Master of Nurse Practitioner course. 

“I’m enjoying the course and I know advancing my skills will benefit our patients,” Ms Hughes said.  

“Once I finish the Graduate Certificate, I’d like to go on to study to become a nurse practitioner. 

“Hyde Park Medical has been really supportive of me studying for the Graduate Certificate, with my practice manager and the practice principal writing letters of support. 

“They have also been supportive as I balance my work, studies, and family.” 

Registered nurse Sarah Stevenson, who works at Pioneer Medical Centre in Mackay received a scholarship to study a Graduate Certificate. She also plans to use it as a pathway into the Master of Nurse Practitioner course. 

“I am passionate about nursing and making a positive difference in people’s lives,” she said. 

“The scholarship for the Graduate Certificate will enable me to upskill so I can provide the highest level of care to our patients. 

“I am thankful to Pioneer Medical Centre for supporting me with the scholarship and my studies.” 

Mr Rooney said a second round of scholarships would be announced later this year as part of NQPHN's ongoing commitment to empower health professionals in primary care. 

“This is important progress for the upskilling of primary care nurses in North Queensland,” he said.