In the second instalment of ICE Group’s Director Margaret Cox’s trip to Australia to meet our amazing clients, we delve into the picturesque region of Hunter New England, yet another amazing Local Health District that we are privileged to collaborate with in NSW.
Hunter New England Local Health District – “Healthy people – now and into the future”
Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD) is one of the most diverse local health districts in NSW. HNE is a unique mix of metropolitan, regional, and remote healthcare facilities, making it one of the few districts in Australia with such an attractive combination, especially for families looking to relocate. As the largest employer in the region, HNE Health services the Hunter, New England, and Lower Mid North Coast of NSW, operating over 95 facilities, including hospitals, multipurpose centres, community health clinics, and various other services.
The Hunter New England area itself is an impressive one, blending coastlines, mountain ranges and agricultural plains. No matter if you’re in a town or a city, Hunter New England offers an incredible lifestyle and family-friendly environment, with a range of schools, two leading universities and affordable living. From historical gold rush towns to beautiful beaches, there are countless places to see and things to do.
To get a sense of this diverse region, Margaret travelled to several hospitals in the HNE Health district – First up in Part. 1 of the HNELHD trip was the beautiful cities of Newcastle and Maitland, located just a 30-minute drive from each other.
Newcastle
A mere 2.5-hour drive from Sydney, Newcastle affectionately known as “Newy”, is truly a spectacular city, where you will find beaches, ocean baths, an eclectic mix of architecture, rich Aboriginal history, a renowned music and art scene and so much more.
Newcastle has everything you need to live that laid-back Australian lifestyle and is only a short distance from some must-see destinations in NSW including the Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, and the Blue Mountains.
Located in Newcastle is John Hunter Hospital, a major tertiary referral hospital for the HNE region. It handles complex and specialized medical cases and is also associated with the University of Newcastle, facilitating medical research and education. At the same location, you will find John Hunter Children’s Hospital, a major employer of paediatric-trained nurses.
“It was really great to meet the Team at John Hunter and hear about all the new developments coming on stream. Thanks especially to Elizabeth Grist and Sue Buckman for their time and all the exciting updates they shared with me” ……. “I Love the Hunter New England Region, it’s progressive, easy to get to, supports a lovely lifestyle, lovely coastal and inland scenery, and great educational institutions.“ – Margaret Cox
Maitland
Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Region, Maitland stands as a testament to the perfect blend of historical charm and modern life in Australia. Walking through the streets of this picturesque city, it becomes evident that Maitland is more than just a location; it’s a community that takes pride in its rich heritage, cultural diversity, and vibrant local spirit. Positioned midway between Newcastle and the renowned vineyards of the Hunter Valley, and nestled along the Hunter River, it really has something for everyone.
Margaret travelled the half-hour trip to Maitland Hospital from Newcastle and met with the team there.
“I really enjoyed visiting Maitland Hospital. It is a gorgeous newly built hospital, with a beautiful building design as you arrive. I found all the hospital team to be really welcoming, helpful and informative. I especially loved the artwork and decoration of the entrance foyer. I just had to take a picture!”
Opportunities at Hunter New England LHD
Explore exciting opportunities with ICE Jobs as we collaborate with an array of hospitals in Hunter New England, including prestigious institutions like the John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Tamworth Hospital, Armidale Hospital, Maitland Hospital, and more. We are actively seeking experienced nurses from a range of specialities, and we invite you to browse the vacancies.
Career Benefits and Incentives on Offer
At HNE Health, you will be part of a supportive and inclusive team that provides safe, comprehensive, and compassionate care to all the region’s communities. Whether you are learning from leading clinicians, enhancing your skills rurally and expanding your knowledge, HNE Health can support you at every stage of your career. Incentives are on offer to help you with the move to Australia and the application, please enquire for more details.
Interested? Here is what to do next!
- Submit your CV via our website or email us at nurse@icegroup.ie
- We will contact you to discuss your experiences and opportunities that may be suited to you.
- Meet online with a hospital in Hunter New England if your CV is shortlisted.
- Move to Australia! With our ongoing support.
Learn more about Hunter New England
- HNE Health on YouTube
- HNE Health – NSW Health
- Visit Newcastle
- Visit Maitland
Do not forget to tune in next week as Margaret makes the journey north to visit the beautiful city of Tamworth and visits Tamworth Hospital. Tamworth is famously known for having the largest and longest country music festival in Australia and the Southern Hemisphere! Hunter New England Part 2. is not to be missed!