Media release

The graduates have shown remarkable resilience. While completing the qualification they’ve juggled study, work and family commitments while undertaking 500 hours of practical placement across hospitals and community care providers. Their achievements reflect both strong personal determination and a deep commitment to improving health outcomes in their communities.

Among them is 37-year-old Yaltara Penrith. Yaltara studied alongside her mother, Candy Kilby, sharing the journey into healthcare together. She said she was inspired to pursue a career in health after witnessing the level of care her 80-year-old grandmother needed.

“Having been closely involved in supporting my grandmother’s care, I’ve experienced how much difference culturally safe healthcare makes in our community,” says Yaltara.

“Through this course, I’ve gained the skills and confidence to deliver more holistic and informed care, not just for the patients I’ll work with, but for my community as a whole.”

The course equips students to provide integrated, culturally informed primary healthcare. This includes conducting physical health assessments, supporting social and emotional wellbeing and promoting healthy lifestyle changes. It also includes implementing healthcare plans and safely supporting medications as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Classmate Steven ‘Shorty’ Creighton, 59, enrolled after 5 years working as a wards person at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital. When he saw first-hand the impact of quality care, he returned to study after thirty years.

“It was enjoyable and rewarding, but challenging,” Shorty said. “There’s a lot of content, and as I hadn’t studied in a long time, it was a big step. The support from our teachers and other students was amazing. If you needed help, someone was always there.”

Shorty previously worked in hospitality before moving into health. He said the qualification will open new doors as he looks towards the next phase of his career.

Several trained graduates including Yaltara, Candy and Shorty already work in local health services. Their success is a clear demonstration of the positive and immediate impact this training can have not only on students' career opportunities, but on the health of the community.

Media contact: Rachel Ecclestone, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000."

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