Newcastle, nestled on the stunning New South Wales coastline, offers the perfect blend of professional opportunities and lifestyle perks for nurses seeking flexibility, growth, and relaxation. Travel nurses, in particular, are finding Newcastle to be a standout destination where they can thrive in their roles while enjoying all that this vibrant coastal city has to offer.
Recently, the Healthcare Australia (HCA) Newcastle team sat down with Alice Vandommele, a Critical Care Agency Nurse currently working in Newcastle. From her early days in nursing to her adventures across Australia and abroad, Alice shares her inspiring story and why Newcastle is the ultimate destination for a balanced life as a nurse.
Why Choose Nursing?
For Alice, the decision to pursue nursing came naturally. Coming from a family of nurses, she was surrounded by warm and compassionate role models. Reflecting on her decision, Alice shares, “I guess nursing chose me, in a way. I’ve always had a caring personality and an eye for detail.”
Her career began at Townsville Hospital in Queensland, where she explored areas such as surgical care, rehabilitation, and cardiothoracic nursing. She even completed a three-month stint on Palm Island. Afterward, Alice narrowed her focus, spending five years in cardiac nursing before deciding she was ready for her next big challenge.
A Journey of Growth
Alice didn’t limit herself to one speciality or location. After cardiac nursing, she ventured overseas for two years before returning home to pursue Critical Care Nursing. This openness to learning and adapting has defined her career.
“In ICU, I care for some of the most unwell patients,” Alice explains. “From adjusting medications to managing ventilators and providing wound care, the work is dynamic and demands constant focus. But as challenging as it is, it’s incredibly fulfilling.”
For Alice, travel nursing brought excitement back into her routine. Over the years, she’s worked in a diverse range of facilities across Queensland, Sydney, Newcastle, and even Saudi Arabia. Each placement, she says, offered unique opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.
Why Choose Travel Nursing in Newcastle?
Newcastle is more than just a work destination; it’s where opportunities meet lifestyle. Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant food scene, and welcoming community, the city provides a balanced experience for nurses seeking flexibility.
“Shift work can actually be advantageous here,” Alice says. “While everyone else is busy at work, I use my weekdays to avoid the crowds. It’s the perfect time to run errands, catch up with friends over coffee, or just enjoy a slower pace of life.”
Newcastle also offers an impressive variety of healthcare facilities. Alice has worked at hospitals across the region, including Lingard Private, Calvary Mater, Newcastle Private, and Lake Macquarie Private Hospital. She emphasises that while each facility has its own culture, nursing care remains a universally rewarding experience.
The Perks of HCA
Alice’s connection with HCA has been an integral part of her travel nursing career. She frequently picks up shifts through the agency, funding her overseas explorations and enjoying the freedom to work on her schedule.
“With HCA, the flexibility is unmatched,” she says. “I can pick up one or two shifts a week to save for my next trip, or work more intensively depending on my goals. It’s great for nurses who like variety and flexibility.”
Advice for Aspiring Travel Nurses
Alice’s insights for new nurses and those considering travel nursing are as valuable as her career experiences.
- Stay Humble and Open: “Never think you know it all. Each patient will teach you something new if you take the time to listen.”
- Pace Yourself: Travel nursing offers plenty of excitement, but it’s important to maintain balance. Alice adds, “Longer contracts give you time to settle in, learn the facility’s dynamics, and truly connect with the staff and patients.”
- Use Travel Nursing Wisely: With employment options across Australia, you can integrate work with lifestyle. For Alice, agency nursing lets her explore different roles while enjoying the flexibility to manage personal goals.
- Consider Newcastle: “The work-life balance here is unbeatable,” Alice notes. “It’s easy to see why more nurses are choosing Newcastle for its opportunities and laid-back lifestyle.”
Why Newcastle Stands Out
For nurses considering their next professional adventure, Newcastle offers something truly special. With Healthcare Australia, you’ll find agency and permanent roles customised to suit your skill set and preferences.
Benefits of nursing in Newcastle include:
- Access to a wide range of shifts–perfect for those seeking flexibility.
- A strong sense of community, both in and outside workplaces.
- The opportunity to explore everything from beautiful coastlines to local culture during your downtime.
Whether you’re looking to fill your schedule with extra shifts or want a permanent position, the Healthcare Australia Newcastle team is equipped to help you find the perfect fit.
Take the Next Step
Thinking about making Newcastle your next nursing destination? Whether you’re a seasoned travel nurse or just dipping your toes into flexible work arrangements, Newcastle has the lifestyle, career opportunities, and community to make your nursing experience truly rewarding.
Contact our Newcastle team at 02 4952 4888 or register with HCA today. Your next adventure could begin here!
