KATE Furlanetto’s journey in nursing began right here in Greater Shepparton, where she first heard about La Trobe University’s new Bachelor of Nursing course while she was in high school.
Excited by the prospect of studying locally, Kate enrolled and completed her undergraduate degree, training at GV Health.
After finishing her general graduate nursing year at GV Health, Kate had a brief stint in mental health, which piqued her interest. This led her to pursue a postgraduate diploma in Mental Health Nursing, eventually becoming a community case manager for vulnerable adults and older adults.
Supported by GV Health throughout her studies, Kate completed her Master’s in Mental Health Nursing and published research on cognitive impairment in general hospitals.
Almost five years ago, Kate became a Mental Health Clinical Nurse Educator at GV Health, focusing on professional development and research.
“I got to establish online learning spaces and conduct local research, which was published in the International Journal for Mental Health Nursing,” she shared. “Working here allows you to represent regional issues and think creatively about solutions.
“There’s no hurry to specialise is probably my advice,” Kate said. “The opportunities are here on our doorstep. And GV Health provides a huge range of services.
“And, you know, there’s expected growth into the future, which is only going to mean more opportunities for young people to find a position that really nurtures their learning and satisfies their curiosity.
“When you’re committed to a role and you’re passionate about what you do, the opportunities will present themselves.
“And then it’s up to you to catch them.”
GV Health’s Mental Health team provides a comprehensive range of services for community members suffering from, or at risk of, serious mental health problems requiring short and long-term treatment and support.
Services include adult, aged persons, child and youth mental health, and community.
To learn more about a career at GV Health, visit gvhealth.org.au/careers/mental-health.
Our Mental Health Workforce Navigator offers free, personalised support for newly relocating employees including housing assistance, partner employment, childcare, social groups and integration into our community. For more information contact mentalhealthcareers@gvhealth.org.au or (03) 4804 4310.
