The shire’s hospitals will welcome new nursing graduates when they begin their careers across southern NSW this year. The Southern NSW Local Health District has recruited 45 new nurses this year, who will be deployed at hospitals from the Eurobodalla to Queanbeyan, Cooma, Goulburn and Bega. A NSW Health spokesperson said the demand for nurses was higher than ever, with hospitals cutting back on recruitment of nurses on 457 visas and instead ramping up a home-grown workforce. “Trends show, with the right support and opportunities, more nurses are willing to stay and work locally, reducing the need for international recruitment,” the spokesperson said. Chief Executive of the health district, Janet Compton, wished the graduates well for the beginning of their careers. “Starting a new career is exciting, particularly after the incredible study, effort and sacrifice the students have put in,” Ms Compton said. “I wish all of our nurse graduates well at the start of this challenging new journey. Trends show, with the right support and opportunities, more nurses are willing to stay and work locally, reducing the need for international recruitment. – NSW Health spokesperson “The new group of graduates are well placed to develop their skills under the strong guidance of the experienced nurses we have in the district.” Ms Compton said the district would value the contributions of the new recruits. An additional five nurses, which will included three midwife graduates, will being work later in the year. Source