Healthcare hero Kay Cee
Outback town Hughenden is home to just over 1,000 people, and one of their newest residents is registered nurse Kay Cee Espino.
Tucked away halfway between Townsville and Mount Isa, you may not have heard of Hughenden.
Neither had Kay Cee until recently, but once she learned about the town, its people, and its health service, she was eager to see it for herself.
Kay Cee, originally from the Philippines, moved to Australia six years ago. She’s been a registered nurse since 2011 and was working in Tasmania before moving to Hughenden early this year.
She credits her nursing career and network for getting her to take the leap and move to this peaceful, welcoming pocket of the outback.
“I met a nurse who used to work in Hughenden and she spoke so highly of the team– it really struck a chord with me,” Kay Cee said.
“Her positive experience inspired me to look into moving and working there myself. I eventually did it, and I’m so glad! Everyone’s been incredibly welcoming, it’s been an amazing experience so far.”
Kay Cee at the Hughenden Festival of Outback Skies.
Kay Cee said she takes great pride donning her scrubs to take care of the Hughenden community, day in, day out.
“Being a nurse has been my dream since childhood, and I’m fortunate to be living that dream every day,” Kay Cee said.
“What I love most about my work is being able to care for people during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives.
“Whether it’s helping to improve a patient’s condition or supporting them through their recovery, I find purpose in making a positive difference in someone’s day.
“It’s a privilege to be trusted with that responsibility, and it’s what keeps me passionate about what I do.”
Hughenden Hospital.
Outside of nursing, Kay Cee has loved meeting her new neighbours and making the most of the work-life balance Hughenden offers.
She has jumped into rural life, quickly joining local volunteering and community groups – including the famous Hughenden Festival of Outback Skies - and joining in on free initiatives provided by the council.
“It’s a peaceful town, everyone here been incredibly welcoming,” she said.
“I’m really enjoying being part of the community beyond my nursing role.
“The local council provides a variety of free activities for everyone, such as aqua aerobics and exercise programs, which I love going to.
“These initiatives not only promote health and wellbeing but also help bring the community together, making Hughenden a great place to live and work.”
Kay Cee said if you’re thinking about making the leap to outback life, you should go for it!
“In a small health service like this you get a lot of support from people who are genuinely dedicated to providing quality care. I appreciate working alongside them,” she said.
“I value the teamwork and collaboration across the facility, and the management team is incredibly approachable and supportive which makes for a positive environment. Staff are always encouraged and valued.
“Having support like this makes a meaningful difference in delivering good patient-focussed care and achieving great patient health outcomes.”
Want to experience outback life as a nurse or midwife? Queensland Heath offers short-term opportunities (from two to twelve weeks) at a variety of locations across the state.
You’ll receive great pay, accommodation, and travel to and from each placement location.
There’s no reason not to give it a go!
Reach out to the Rural and Remote Connect office if you have any questions:
- phone: 07 4433 5476
- email: RuralRemoteConnect@health.qld.gov.au
The Hughenden Multipurpose Health Service is an acute facility with a 24-hour emergency and general medical care.
Visiting services include a female GP, physiotherapy, paediatrician, school oral health, speech therapy, and alcohol and other drugs support services – and plenty more.
The facility can also offer telehealth appointments for all specialised available at Townsville University Hospital – including telehealth oncology - where possible.
Hughenden, Queensland.
Get your bearings
Spot Hughenden Multipurpose Health Service in the Townsville Hospital and Health Service region.
