Nursing wasn’t Steph Bastian’s first career choice.
Coming from a family of paramedics and nurses, Steph was set on paving her own path. So, fresh out of high school, she went into mining as a geology assistant, before moving into mine rescues.
“I was the medic in the team. I undertook a few competitions and really enjoyed it,” she said.
“My colleagues always asked me if I was a nurse, so I decided I would give it a crack. After my first placement I realised nursing was the right choice.”
Originally from Cobar, New South Wales – 712km northwest of Sydney – Steph moved to Ballarat in 2019 to complete a Bachelor of Nursing at Australian Catholic University. After completing placements in Ballarat, Horsham and Wangaratta, and attending an open day hosted by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation, Steph landed on establishing a career at Bendigo Health.
“What stood out for me was the amount of people available to answer questions. And they remembered me when I came back for an open day at Bendigo Health. And I love the hospital, it’s a great service for the area. That’s what drew me here,” she said.
Though Steph was due to commence her graduate year in 2022, she and her partner welcomed a baby girl into their lives.
“Being a parent is challenging, but it makes you realise you’re a lot stronger than what you thought you were. And it’s a lot like nursing I’ve realised. You’ve got to feed them, treat them if they’re sick. Every day is different,” she said.
With Charlotte entering day care, Steph immediately resumed her pursuit of a nursing career, thanks to Bendigo Health holding a spot in this year’s graduate program.
“If they weren’t so flexible I wouldn’t have been able to pursue this career,” she said.
Since January, Steph has been working in orthopaedics, helping people regain movement after undergoing major surgery.
“Being a new grad and working in a busy ward can be scary but everyone has been really supportive,” she said.
“I love being here, meeting new people every day, and helping people who are at their most vulnerable. It’s pretty humbling.”
In August, Steph will transfer to the Children’s Ward for her second rotation – an area she says will complement her love for children.
For now, though, she is happy to keep an open mind about her career.
“I’m trying to stay flexible. Right now I’m trying to just learn the basics and find something I love that I can work and do a Masters in later on.
“One way or another I’ll be at Bendigo Health next year. Since starting I’ve gained a lot more confidence in my skills,” she said.
“Nursing is always changing so there’s always an opportunity to learn and constantly develop.”
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