Our High School to Health Careers Program (HSHCP) trip to Nhulunbuy was a huge success!
HSHCP gives health students from around the country an opportunity to experience the Northern Territory, and for us to showcase this part of Australia as a place to live and work.
During our journey, we were joined by Benji the teddy bear, 5 medical students, and 2 occupational therapy health from Students Association for Rural and Remote Health, Flinders NT and GPSN Flinders.
The group undertook a cultural experience in Yolngu culture where they learnt about the history, kinship system and culture of the Traditional Owners. The cohort travelled to Bawaka, 60km south of Yirrkala and the ancestral lands of the Gumitj people.
On the second day, they interacted with students at the Teddy Bear Clinic, which informs primary school age children about health careers. Over 120 high school students and 100 primary school students attended the workshops.
They also joined interactive session with health organisations such as Menzies School of Health Research, St John NT and Flinders NT.
“Many of our students had preconceptions about living and working remotely,” said Health Workforce Development Manager Donna Green. “This trip showed that there are pathways available for allied health practitioners to grow professionally and personally.”
The week has been an amazing experience, and we hope we’ve inspired more future health professionals to consider starting their careers in the NT!
“Whether or not they decide that this is an option for them, they will at least return home with greater understanding and cultural knowledge, and an experience that they will never forget.”
