From AFL sidelines to studying nursing

Christine is studying a Bachelor of Nursing (HED007), a journey that started in an unexpected location, the sideline of junior AFL games.

“I was doing first aid and then what they called being a trainer… You’re doing the first aid, you’re doing the strapping… basically looking after the health and welfare of the players,” said Christine.

What began as a volunteer role helping with kids’ matches grew into more than twenty years supporting community sport. Christine later worked with higher levels of AFL, all the while her passion for health care continued to grow.

“About six years ago a friend of mine said, ‘would you like to do a course in aged care?’ So I did my Certificate IV and became a carer,” she said.

While working in aged care, nurses recognised her potential and encouraged her to keep studying.

“During that time the RNs and the ENs kept saying to me, ‘you’d be perfect at this, you need to upgrade your skills,’” said Christine.

Encouraged by their support, Christine enrolled in a Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121).

“I loved it, absolutely loved it. The diploma was the best thing I’ve ever done,” she said.

By the end of the course, Christine realised she wasn’t ready to stop there.

“When I got towards the end of it, I thought to myself, ‘well, you’ve gone this far, lets just keep going,’” explained Christine.

She decided to continue her studies and enrol in the Bachelor of Nursing (HED007) to become a registered nurse.

“The RN course has been just as fantastic,” she said.

“To be able to do both courses through TAFE Queensland and not have to change institutions has been absolutely wonderful - to have that continuity of teaching.”

Christine says the support she’s received from her teachers has played a big role in her journey.

“The knowledge that they have, and they impart to us is just phenomenal,” she said.

After decades spent raising a family and volunteering in her community, Christine has found a new sense of direction through nursing, and she hopes her story inspires others to follow their dreams.

“It’s given me purpose again,” she said.

“Jump! Jump, and go and do it.”