What draws a nurse from North Carolina, USA, to travel halfway across the world? For emergency department (ED) nurse Meg Galloway, the answer lies in her love of exploration, connection, and making a difference.
Healthcare Australia (HCA) recently had the pleasure of speaking with Meg about her nursing career, her Australian adventure, and why travel nursing became one of the best decisions of her life. Her story is a testament to the unique opportunities and fulfilling experiences travel nursing can offer.
Discovering Nursing
Meg’s passion for nursing began at a young age. “When I was 15, I visited nursing homes to lend a hand to carers. Simple acts, like giving residents ice cubes, brought so much appreciation,” she recalls fondly. One patient with Alzheimer’s left an indelible impression, singing “Amazing Grace” in both French and English. “It was then I realised I wanted to pursue nursing and dedicate my career to caring for others,” Meg shares.
Years later, Meg specialised in emergency nursing, driven by her desire to help people during vulnerable moments. One of her career highlights was saving a man’s life after he experienced a major heart attack in the ER. “It was my first day in triage, and I’ll never forget it,” she says. “That feeling of making a difference stays with you forever.”
Why Australia?
For Meg, the decision to move to Australia stemmed from a fascination with its wild, untamed beauty and its laid-back way of life. “I’d always been curious about the country, though I’ll admit I was a bit scared of the infamous snakes!” she says with a laugh.
With assistance from HCA’s supportive team, particularly Michelle from the travel nursing division, Meg’s transition to Australia was seamless. “Michelle was fantastic. She was there for me every step of the way, making the process smooth and stress-free,” Meg explains.
Beginning Her Australian Adventure
Meg’s Australian journey began in the bustling city of Brisbane, where she worked in the emergency department of Prince Charles Hospital and later in the ICU at St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital. “The welcoming teams at both hospitals made the transition easy. I formed friendships that I still cherish today,” she recalls.
But Meg’s spirit of adventure wasn’t confined to hospital walls. Equipped with camping gear and a surfboard, she embarked on a road trip down the picturesque Great Ocean Road to Sydney. “Working as a travel nurse with HCA gave me the flexibility to explore and earn at the same time,” she points out.
Broadening Horizons
While in Sydney, Meg settled in Bondi Beach and explored work opportunities in various healthcare settings. This included a post at Royal North Shore’s psychiatric ward, a challenging yet rewarding experience that helped her grow in her practice.
Meg also embraced HCA’s travel nursing opportunities, taking up placements in Geraldton, WA. “Geraldton had a smaller community vibe that felt like home,” she observes. Travel nursing placements allowed her to experience autonomy, build relationships with friendly locals, and immerse herself in the unique charm of each destination.
Comparing Nursing in the US and Australia
Although healthcare systems share many similarities between the US and Australia, Meg did notice some notable differences. “There seem to be more residents and doctors involved in patient care here, and the pay is better in Australia!” she says.
For Meg, the workload felt balanced, allowing her to focus on her patients while also enjoying the lifestyle Australia is known for. “The flexibility of travel nursing provided the best of both worlds,” she adds.
A Memorable Journey
Since her Australian adventure, Meg has continued to explore the world, including taking a job in Hawaii and travelling through Asia. Now back in the US, she reflects on her time with Healthcare Australia as a pivotal chapter in her life and career.
“Working as a travel nurse with HCA was the best thing I’ve ever done,” she affirms. “It’s rare to find an opportunity where you can grow professionally while having an adventure. I felt supported every step of the way and would love to return in the future.”
Thinking About Travel Nursing in Australia?
Inspired by Meg’s story? Travel nursing offers a unique chance to explore Australia while making meaningful contributions to healthcare. Whether you’re drawn to the country’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, or welcoming communities, HCA is here to help you transform your goals into reality.
Take the first step toward your Australian adventure. Contact Healthcare Australia today to learn how we can support your travel nursing dream.
