Wednesday night, scores of TAFE NSW Diploma of Nursing students from across the Ballina Shire celebrated their graduation from their 18-month course in front of friends and family at TAFE NSW Ballina.

With nursing one of the occupations expected to see the highest rate of skills shortages in northern NSW between 2018 to 2021, the graduates are equipped with the skills they need to fill enrolled nursing positions at local hospitals and care facilities.

All enjoyed more than 50 guests cheering them on for their dedication to education in earning their Enrolled Nursing qualification, which enables them to explore a career in areas such as Acute Nursing, Aged Care Nursing, Rehabilitation Nursing, Mental Health Nursing and as a pathway to study Registered Nursing.

In addition to family and friends, other guests at the ceremony included local employment agencies and industry partners such as St. Vincents Private Hospital and Florence Price Gardens RSL Lifecare Ballina. Speakers included TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Allied Health and Nursing and Registered Nurse, Gabrielle Rodda as well as TAFE NSW Relieving Head Teacher and Registered Nurse, Colleen Gaudron.