Image Credit: The Rural Clinical School WA
UDRH SW was proud to be part of the Rural Clinical School WA: Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health Careers Expo, held at Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School on Monday 23 March. The event featured more than 30 interactive stalls showcasing pathways into health careers across the South West.
The evening brought together students, parents, universities and local healthcare providers, creating a vibrant space for conversations about future study and career opportunities. From hands-on displays to one-on-one discussions, the event was designed to help high school students explore the wide range of options available within the health workforce, particularly in rural and regional settings.
UDRH SW staff Emily Jackson, Speech Pathologist and Discipline Advisor, and Wayne Goodrem, Paramedic and Discipline Advisor – accompanied by Kingston First Response Ambulance Service – spent the evening engaging with a diverse mix of students.
Emily noted that many students were unfamiliar with Speech Pathology, which opened the door for valuable conversations about the profession. She also reflected on the curiosity and enthusiasm of younger students, “They asked so many thoughtful questions and were really interested in learning about a speech pathologist’s role in swallowing. One even asked, ‘What’s the most rewarding part of your job?’”
A key theme of the evening was increasing awareness of rural and remote career pathways. For many students, this was a new perspective.
“Seeing them process rural and remote versus city was interesting, as most had not even realised there was a difference,” Wayne said. “All seemed genuinely impressed with the support UDRH SW offers.”
Beyond first-time conversations, the evening also showcased the long-term impact of UDRH SW’s outreach through primary and high school engagement. Wayne shared moments of reconnecting with students who are now pursuing healthcare pathways.
“I met a student who attended Student Futures in its first year and saw all the intubation gear. Then last year they participated in our scenario and are now intent on becoming a paramedic. Another had a similar story and wants to study nursing.”
These stories highlight the importance of early exposure, ongoing engagement, and meaningful conversations in shaping health career aspirations in the South West. The evening was not only an opportunity to connect students with careers, but also to highlight clear, practical pathways and referral points into university.
Wayne summed up the evening by reflecting: “Honestly, it was personally a very rewarding event… it’s so good to see us supporting young people in their decision-making process and helping them see what achievable possibilities they have.”
