November 1, 2024#WeAreNorthern
As we mark a milestone of one year since the amalgamation of Northern Health and Kilmore District Hospital, we sat down with Amanda Byrne, Clinical Education Coordinator at Kilmore, to discuss her journey, her passion for education, and what keeps her motivated.
Q. Could I start with your coffee order, please?
Cappuccino – but I’m not too fussed, any coffee will do.
Q. You are the Clinical Education Coordinator at Kilmore – what does the job entail?
As the Clinical Education Coordinator at Kilmore, I plan and manage undergraduate student placements, and work with the education team to provide a supportive environment with appropriate learning opportunities for our students.
We also manage the postgraduate, graduate, refresher and re-entry nurses across the organisation and facilitate the in-service education program for both clinical and non-clinical team members. My job also offers the opportunity to be involved in some amazing quality improvement projects too, which is a part of the job I love!
Q. What is your favourite memory since working here?
My favourite memories come from the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to work with and the patients and families I’ve cared for over the years. I started in the Emergency Department at Northern Hospital shortly after it opened, later moving to Kilmore District Health’s Urgent Care Centre and then to the Education team. I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with some amazing people. I enjoy being part of the Education team at present, we work very well together. I’ve also sort of come full circle to be part of Northern Health again!
Q. How do you relax after a long shift?
Going for a walk with a friend and my dog is a favourite, generally debriefing and talking about the week while getting some fresh air and sunshine is great (I don’t do it enough!)
Q. What is something that most people would not know about you?
I grew up in the Kilmore/Broadford area, my first job was working in my family’s shop, the corner milk bar in Broadford.
Q. What is your favourite destination to travel?
I love to travel and have recently started exploring more of Australia instead of heading overseas at any opportunity! The Sunshine Coast is a favourite, but I’m excited to discover more of South Australia and Western Australia.
