Finding Connection and Confidence in Far North Queensland

​When dietetics student Caitlin Brims began her final clinical placement at Cairns Hospital, she knew she was stepping into a unique learning environment. What she didn’t expect was how quickly she would feel connected, both professionally and personally, to the Far North Queensland community.

Supported by the Going Rural North Bursary, funded by NQPHN, Caitlin completed her two‑month placement in Cairns, working with patients from across Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait Islands.

“I was lucky enough to complete my final clinical dietetics placement at Cairns Hospital, which meant I got to treat patients from right across FNQ and the Torres Strait Islands every day".

Caitlin’s decision to undertake a rural placement in the region was shaped by her earlier experience as part of Health Workforce Queensland’s GROW Rural North Queensland program, supported by NQPHN. Through long‑term rural immersion across multiple North Queensland communities, the program supported her to deepen her connection to rural practice and community life, motivating her to return to the region for placement.

“The strong sense of local connection I felt from day one was a feeling I have only ever experienced in small country towns.”

Over the course of her placement, Caitlin became part of a close‑knit health team and experienced firsthand the impact of accessible, compassionate healthcare in a rural setting. She worked closely with patients who had travelled long distances to receive care, often from the Tablelands or further afield.

One standout moment involved collaborating with the dietitian at Atherton Hospital to ensure continuity of care for a patient returning home.

“It was incredibly rewarding to help ensure her nutrition care could continue seamlessly once she returned to her community.”

Experiences like this highlighted the strong communication networks that underpin rural healthcare, where collaboration across distance is essential.

Like many rural placements, the experience also came with challenges. Limited resources compared to metropolitan hospitals required adaptability and creativity, particularly when recommending practical and affordable nutrition options for patients preparing to return home.

Rather than seeing this as a barrier, Caitlin found it strengthened her clinical reasoning and problem‑solving skills.

Being away from her usual support network was challenging at times, but the generosity of the local community helped bridge that gap. She even reconnected with her GROW Rural billet family, spending time on the Tablelands and attending community events - a reminder of the lasting relationships rural placements can foster.

She credits her supervisor and placement team for creating a supportive and empowering learning environment.

“The regular check‑ins, constructive feedback and opportunities to practice independently really helped build my confidence. I felt trusted and capable.”

Equally important was the support provided through the Going Rural North Bursary.

“The financial assistance helped ease the stress of travel and accommodation, allowing me to focus on learning. The program’s communication and organisation made the lead‑up to placement smooth and reassuring.”

Supported by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network, Going Rural North helps remove financial barriers so students can take up valuable rural primary healthcare placements across the region.

The experience has had a lasting impact on Caitlin’s career aspirations.

“There is clear demand for allied health professionals in rural areas, and I now have a greater appreciation for the close‑knit nature of rural healthcare teams. This placement has definitely inspired me to consider rural opportunities throughout my career.”

Her advice to future students?

“Embrace the experience fully. Immerse yourself in the community, say yes to opportunities, and ask questions. Rural placements offer unique learning moments that you won’t find anywhere else.”

Information on Going Rural North can be found on our website.

Going Rural North

Pictured below: Some of the beautiful FNQ sights Caitlin has had the opportunity to explore on her weekends