3min read
Locum Radiographers Anne, Aoife and Murieann
Three medical imaging professionals from Ireland exploring Australia
When Anne, Aoife and Muriann packed their bags in Ireland and set off for regional Australia, none of them could have predicted the incredible journey ahead. What began as a search for professional growth and unique adventures quickly turned into something even more meaningful – unforgettable friendships, career-defining experiences, and a deep connection with community.
Medical imaging and radiography can be an intellectually stimulating and highly rewarding field, offering strong earning potential, growing demand, and diverse career pathways. But what many don’t realise until they step into locum placements in Australia is just how much broader the experience can be. From expanding clinical skills and contributing to communities in need, to exploring unique, photo-worthy destinations, regional and remote Australia offers opportunities you simply can’t find anywhere else.
We recently checked in with the trio to hear how their time with Affinity Allied Health in Western Australia is going – and we get the feeling they’re embracing every moment!
1. All three of you qualified and commenced your radiography careers in Ireland. What led you to come and work in Australia? Were you friends before you arrived, or have you met along the way?
We all qualified in Ireland together, however this is our first time all working together and we are enjoying the experience. We all came to Australia at different times and were fortunate enough to get this locum placement together.
2. What made you pursue travel contracts in regional Australia? What are you enjoying the most about it?
It was always a goal of ours to pursue a contract in a regional Australian site. We were excited to broaden our clinical experience while exploring more remote locations and cultures. We are really enjoying the diversity of cases, the challenges that are often faced by teams working in smaller areas with limited resources while also availing of the opportunity to build strong connections with both patients and colleagues alike.
3. How has your time been at Hedland Health Service?
Our time at Hedland Health campus as locum radiographers has been both professionally rewarding and personally enriching. The supportive team environment and diverse caseload contributed to a highly engaging placement. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the community’s healthcare and collaborate with such dedicated professionals.
4. What does your typical workday look like? What equipment is in use there?
There are four of us working on the floor and we all start and finish at different times to have the department adequately staffed for the demand. On average there might be between thirty to forty patients done in a day, some patients with multiple exams.
We work together as a team, completing the x-rays and CTs as they come in through ED, the wards or as outpatients, protocolling and cannulating outpatients, ensuring the rooms are adequately stocked and the department kept clean. There are two Siemens x-rays rooms, one is brand new, a 64 slice Philips CT scanner, one Shimadzu portable machine and a GE theatre machine. A wide range of vendors across the department.
5. What have you gotten up to in Port Hedland/WA while on contract?
We have explored the area finding the hotspots like Pretty Pool and Rays. We joined the gym to stay fit while up here, there are a few to choose from. The public pool is nice to chill out at and cool down in the heat.
We hired a car on two separate weekends and went to Karijini National Park and Broome. Both places are a must see if staying in Port Hedland and were the highlights of our stay.
6. Any hobbies you bring with you while on contract to relax between shifts? What makes you feel at home while travelling for work?
Reading to relax, getting time away from the busier cities to get some Netflix time. Any type of exercise between shifts, there are gyms, tennis courts, basketball courts, AFL teams and much more. We had more time to make phone calls to whoever we needed. It has been really nice to slow down and be present.
7. What has been the highlight of working with Affinity so far?
The highlight has definitely been how smooth and supportive the whole team has been. Affinity made the whole locum placement process easy, from organising the placement to checking in along the way. It meant we could really focus on work and enjoying the area.
8. Do you have a favourite photo from your travels? What’s the story behind it?
Our favourite photo is from Karijini National Park. The scenery there is just breath-taking and so different to anywhere else we have worked or travelled. Another standout memory was spending time in Broome, watching the sunset over Cable Beach.
9. What advice would you give other allied health professionals who are thinking of using their skills out in regional and rural Australia?
Just go for it, and go in with an open mind! You’ll grow so much professionally, because regional placements often give you experiences and responsibilities you wouldn’t have in metro hospitals. It’s a chance to combine career growth with unforgettable adventures.
Ready to change your perspective? If you are skilled, supportive, and want to genuinely make a difference, Allied Health travel contracting is where you’ll shine. Register with Affinity today and start your adventure.
Know an allied health professional who lives and breathes adventure? Refer a friend today and receive a reward!* 💸
*T&Cs apply. See offer for more details.
You may also like:
