Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital

"I love that I have my own role and responsibilities now—after being a trainee for so long, it feels great to contribute as part of the team."

Kobi is a proud Goreng Goreng and Kullili man from Brisbane. He's also an Assistant in Nursing (AIN) at our very own Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS). ⭐

Kobi’s journey started through the Deadly Start Traineeship, a program supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to gain qualifications in healthcare.

After completing his 12-month traineeship on the orthopaedic ward at the RBWH, he secured a permanent part-time role in endoscopy at STARS.

Now, Kobi plays an important role in keeping the department running smoothly. His days involve transporting scopes for cleaning and circulation, stocking supplies, and cleaning and remaking beds after patient recovery. 🙌

"For an AIN, I don’t interact with patients as much in endoscopy compared to the wards, but when I do, it makes my day feel more varied," Kobi said.

Since starting his role, Kobi has enjoyed experiencing different areas of the hospital and working alongside a supportive team. ✨

"All the staff were really welcoming, and even though I’m younger, I can still chat with my co-workers about things outside of work. It’s a great environment."

At just 17, Kobi is already planning his next steps. He will complete his Diploma of Nursing by the end of this year and start university in 2025 to begin his Bachelor of Nursing.

We can't wait to see what the future holds for Kobi and his career in nursing! 👏 ... See MoreSee Less

“Flu is more than just a regular cold. The good news is that flu vaccines are really good at stopping you from getting sick. It’s what they are designed to do.”

Dr Krispin Hajkowicz is an infectious diseases physician at the RBWH and he says already this year Australia has recorded more than 48,000 cases of influenza.

“That’s more than this time last year. Things are starting to pick up and there’s been a big increase over the last couple of weeks.”

There's more good news Queenslanders though, with everyone over the age of six months able to receive a flu vaccination for free – including those over 65 who receive a special vaccination that provides even more protection.

📣Visit: www.vaccinate.initiatives.qld.gov.au/what-to-vaccinate-against/influenza to find out more about how you can protect yourself and your family this flu season. ... See MoreSee Less

“Every day brings something new, different patients, new problems to solve, and constant opportunities to learn.”

Meet Dr Gabrielle, a junior doctor at the RBWH. 🩺

Dr Gabrielle is passionate about caring for the people and communities she grew up around. She provides day-to-day care for patients on the ward, assessing their needs, coordinating treatment and working with the team to create management plans.

“It’s rewarding to see yourself improving, especially in high-pressure situations where you realise you’re more capable than you were just a few weeks ago,” Dr Gabrielle said.

Alongside clinical skills, Gabrielle has learned that teamwork is at the heart of hospital care, with doctors, nurses and allied health professionals working closely together to make the best decisions for patients. 🏥

“The camaraderie in healthcare is something special. We all bring different strengths, and working together, we learn from each other. It’s a team effort, and that support makes all the difference.”

Her journey is just beginning, but every lesson, every experience and every patient she cares for is shaping her into the doctor she aspires to be. A big thank you to Dr Gabrielle and all the incredible junior doctors for the care they provide. ❤️ ... See MoreSee Less

“What does a good day look like for you?”

For Cath, a nurse educator at the RBWH, this simple question is the starting point for building more inclusive, affirming workplaces for neurodivergent people.

As co-lead of the Nursing and Midwifery Neurodiversity Working Group, Cath and her colleague Adam have helped drive important conversations about supporting colleagues who bring neurodiverse perspectives — recognising and utilising their strengths.

“It’s about asking the right questions, making reasonable adjustments, and making sure everyone has the tools they need to thrive,” Cath said.

Cath and Adam’s group recently launched a new workshop for RBWH’s managers and educators to build understanding around neurodiversity and inclusivity in the workplace.

Cath says the response has been incredible, with interest coming from teams across nursing, midwifery, and beyond.

Thank you, Cath and Adam, for your passion and leadership in creating a more inclusive future for everyone at Metro North. ❤️ ... See MoreSee Less

"If you’re hesitant about becoming a doctor because of the time it will take, don’t worry about the time! It will pass anyway, so you might as well spend it studying something you love.”

Meet Dr Sonya, a medical intern at the RBWH.

After studying at Griffith University, Dr Sonya moved to Brisbane to begin her internship at the RBWH, inspired by glowing reviews from friends who were already working there.

Dr Sonya is currently on her Obstetrics and Gynaecology rotation, where she also assists in theatres and supports the birth suite team, helping ensure things run smoothly for both patients and medical staff.

“The transition from university to working was a bit of a daunting one, but I feel really well supported by the team of doctors and allied health staff at the Royal."

"I love coming to work because there’s so much to learn every day. I’ve always been passionate about science and medicine and being surrounded by so many intelligent people who are experts in their fields is a privilege."

"I try to soak up whatever wisdom they share with us,” Dr Sonya said.

One moment that stands out for Dr Sonya was her first experience in the theatre, helping to perform a caesarean.

“I cried when the baby was delivered. Seeing the parents hold their baby for the first time, the mix of emotions on their faces—it was unforgettable. As doctors, we’re privileged to be part of such defining moments. That’s a privilege I’ll never take for granted.”

#WorkforusWednesday Feel inspired to take the next step in your medical career? Applications for the Intern 2026 campaign opens on Tuesday 6 May 2025.
For more information, visit www.careers.health.qld.gov.au/medical-careers/medical-internships ... See MoreSee Less