Heidi Kruger's Weipa Placement Adventure

Heidi Kruger is a 4th year Occupational Therapy student at Australian Catholic University and recently undertook her final clinical placement at the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service in Weipa, with the support of HWQ's Going Rural North funding.

Heidi shared some reflections with us on her incredible adventure in the Cape York Peninsula.

“Weipa, a mining town on the west coast of the Queensland cape, is home to around 4,000 people. Known for its world-class fishing, excellent camping spots, and quadding locations, Weipa is a dream destination for adventurers.

My time in Weipa was filled with many highs and occasional lows. Each day on placement was a learning experience. I joined the team on outreach to local Aboriginal communities and enjoyed more independence than in previous placements. During my time off, I made amazing friends, both students and community members, who took me on incredible trips. I camped at Pennefather River, went boating to Red Cliffs, experienced the annual Weipa Fishing Classic, and made many more wonderful memories. Although the long hours and distance from home were challenging at times, the support system in Weipa made a significant difference.

None of this would have been possible without the financial support from Health Workforce Queensland. Flying to a remote location like Weipa is expensive and initially deterred me from undertaking this placement. However, Health Workforce Queensland provided a solution to this barrier, and I am forever grateful for their support in facilitating this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Since my time in Weipa, I have decided to work rurally as a new graduate. Australia is full of beauty, and I cannot wait to explore it while building the career of my dreams.

My advice for students considering a rural placement is: DO IT! Approach the experience with an open mind and be willing to try everything, both clinically and personally. And pack a raincoat—when it is wet season, it is wet!

Thank you again, Health Workforce Queensland.”

Heidi is pictured below with fellow occupational therapy students and medical students from JCU.

If you are a nursing, midwifery or allied health student considering a rural placement in North Queensland, we may be able to provide financial support in the near future, with thanks to support from Northern Queensland PHN. Applications for Going Rural North are currently closed, but keep an eye on our website via the button below, for upcoming placement bursary opportunities. You can also email the team directly at futureworkforce@healthworkforce.com.au.

Going Rural Bursaries

Main Image: Heidi's first day at Weipa Hospital

​"Dressed up as the "Beach Girls" for the community kindergarten fundraiser event."

​"Camping at Pennefather River with new friends."

​"After work fishing ."

​"Sunset cruise and croc spotting."

​"Friends in our backyard."