Montana begins her nursing journey in the community that raised her
Montana Logue, a new graduate nurse at Lithgow Hospital, is finding purpose in caring for the community she has always called home.
As one of Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District’s 108 newly graduated nurses and midwives, Montana’s introduction to professional nursing at Lithgow Hospital’s Emergency Department marks the start of a career with strong connections to the people and places that have shaped her.
“I’ve had a lot of family members who have been registered nurses,” explains Montana.
“When I’ve gone into hospital myself, seeing how lovely the nurses were made me want to give back to the community that I was brought up in.”
Montana applies this passion for community and contribution to her work each day.
“It’s really rewarding,” says Montana.
“I get to see a lot of things day in and day out, and being able to give back to my community is what makes it so meaningful.”
Montana Logue, new graduate nurse, Lithgow Hospital
In Montana’s first weeks in the Emergency Department, it’s the people around her who have stood out.
“The team is probably the most memorable part so far,” she says. “They’re so supportive, passionate about what they do, and eager to teach you what they’ve learned.”
Like many new graduates, Montana is already learning what it means to care for patients at some of the most important moments in their lives.
“They come into hospital in their most vulnerable state,” she says. “That’s what drives me to help get them better and back home to their families.”
Working in a rural hospital has also given Montana a broad and varied clinical experience early in her career.
“You actually get to see more being in rural communities,” says Montana. “You get experience in areas that you might not as a new graduate in a bigger hospital.”
This exposure is helping shape Montana’s future direction, as she hopes to specialise in critical care and emergency nursing.
For those considering a similar path, Montana is clear about the benefits of starting out in a regional or rural setting.
“Do it. Take the opportunity,” she says. “Don’t think you’re not going to see anything, because you definitely will. I would choose a rural hospital over a city hospital any day of the week.”
As she looks ahead, Montana is focused on continuing to build her skills and confidence, while staying grounded in the community that first inspired her to become a nurse.