In Episode 3, Season 1 of It Takes Heart, we sit down with physiotherapist Judy Chesney, whose career has taken her from private practice to the unique world of locum travel work. Since 2021, Judy has embraced life on the move, taking her expertise to remote communities across Australia. From the tropical climates of Thursday Island to the rugged outback of Mount Isa, Judy’s adventurous spirit and commitment to patient care shine through.

“I’ve always been interested in the human body,” Judy shares early in the episode, describing her transition from studying teaching to physiotherapy. She found her true passion after taking anatomy classes, which felt both natural and engaging to her.

Judy’s role as a rural generalist physio has exposed her to a wide variety of healthcare settings, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. “You just have to kind of fake it till you make it,” she advises, offering valuable insights for graduate physiotherapists considering rural roles. Her advice underscores the importance of adaptability, especially when resources are scarce, and the stakes are high in remote locations.

While Judy has worked in many memorable places, she recalls her time on Thursday Island as one of her most extraordinary experiences. “The view from the window was the ocean. It was just incredible,” Judy reminisces, painting a vivid picture of her time in this isolated but breathtaking part of Australia. Working in remote locations like this has offered Judy the chance to deeply connect with Indigenous and rural communities, where healthcare can be a lifeline.

But it’s not just the scenic landscapes that have left an impression on Judy—it’s also the sense of community and the people she’s met along the way. “It’s amazing how many people who start off doing a locum end up as a permanent resident,” Judy notes, highlighting the lasting impact rural placements can have on both healthcare professionals and the communities they serve.

Judy also opens up about her passion for staying active and healthy during her locum assignments, even in remote areas. “If there’s a swimming pool, I’ll go swimming. Sometimes I take my bike with me,” she explains, emphasizing how important it is for her to integrate physical activity into her routine, regardless of her location.

Her stories highlight the significance of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and building trust within these communities to make a lasting impact. Judy mentions, “I try to get involved a little bit so that they can see I’m there to be part of the community.” This connection helps Judy deliver meaningful care and fosters trust in areas where healthcare professionals are often coming and going.

Watch Episode 7 of It Takes Heart for dives deep into the challenges and rewards of locum life, with Judy offering practical advice and heartfelt stories from her diverse career.

More About Judy Chesney’s Charity of Choice: St George Triathlon Club

In addition to her dedication to healthcare, Judy is an advocate for community engagement and health promotion. As a guest on the It Takes Heart podcast, she selected the St George Triathlon Club as her charity of choice. The club is dedicated to encouraging fitness and fun in the small town of St George, running events and activities that bring the community together. Learn more at www.battleonthebalonne.com.

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In Episode 3, Season 1 of It Takes Heart, Sam Miklos and Kate Coomber sit down with David Maxwell, a dedicated remote and emergency nurse with a passion for cultural understanding in healthcare. Since 2018, David has been working in rural and remote communities across Australia, focusing on primary health care and chronic disease management. His journey, which began with a career in hospitality in England, took a life-changing turn after a rugby teammate introduced him to nursing.

David shares his powerful perspective on the importance of empathy, clear communication, and cultural respect in providing healthcare. He emphasises that nursing isn’t just about clinical skills but also about understanding the unique cultural contexts of the communities he serves. Whether he’s in the far reaches of Queensland’s Northern Peninsula or in communities like Wilcannia and Bamaga, David highlights how cultural sensitivity can make a profound difference in patient care.

David’s approach to nursing is deeply rooted in cultural awareness. He explains how every community is different, and understanding the local culture is key to building trust. One memorable moment in the episode is when David reflects on how learning from local communities has shaped his practice:

“It’s more about understanding people and where they’re coming from and what it is they want, rather than just focusing on clinical outcomes. You have to give them choices in their care.”

David’s dedication to learning and respecting local customs extends beyond his medical practice. He describes his experience in Bamaga, where he sought permission from community elders before taking on a full-time role. This practice of seeking approval from local leaders not only deepened his connection to the community but also showcased his commitment to working within the cultural framework of the region.

Throughout the episode, David emphasises that being a successful remote nurse is about more than just medical expertise. It’s about being adaptable, flexible, and most importantly, empathetic. He shares how providing patients with even small choices—such as which arm to receive an injection in—can give them a sense of control and dignity, especially in communities where healthcare options are often limited.

“In some of these communities, you’ve got to provide people with options, even when they feel like they don’t have any. It’s about giving them control in situations where they may feel vulnerable.”

David’s passion for healthcare extends beyond his work in rural nursing. After surviving prostate cancer, he launched Planet Prostate, a local initiative in Cairns to raise awareness and funds for men’s health. He discusses the importance of bringing attention to prostate cancer, which affects one in five men in their lifetime. Through Planet Prostate, David hopes to inspire conversations around men’s health, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare can be challenging. His goal is to make prostate cancer awareness as common as breast cancer awareness, highlighting that early detection and open dialogue can save lives.

David’s journey from hospitality to healthcare, his deep connection to rural communities, and his commitment to cultural respect make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of healthcare and community. His story serves as a powerful reminder that nursing is about much more than clinical skills—it’s about empathy, cultural understanding, and making a lasting impact in people’s lives.

Watch Episode 7 of It Takes Heart for David Maxwell’s inspiring stories and practical insights into remote nursing.

More About David Maxwell’s Charity of Choice: COUCH (Cairns Organisation United for Cancer Health)

COUCH is dedicated to improving health care services for Cairns and Far North Queensland residents diagnosed with cancer. The organisation focuses on providing support and reducing the burden for families who often have to travel long distances for treatment. Learn more at COUCH’s website.

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In Episode 6, Season 1 of It Takes Heart, hosts Sam Miklos, CEO of cmr, and Kate Coomber, Head of Talent and Employer Branding, sit down with the inspiring Dr. Sonia Henry. Sonia, a former physiotherapist turned rural GP and author of Put Your Feet in the Dirt, Girl, takes us on a journey through the dusty roads of remote healthcare, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of city life for more meaningful connections in some of Australia’s most underserved regions.

“I never thought I’d end up so passionate about remote Australia, but that’s the beauty of life—you never know where you’ll end up.”

Sonia shares how the COVID-19 pandemic redirected her life path. Originally intending to move overseas, Sonia found herself exploring the vast expanses of the Kimberleys and Northern NSW instead. She speaks with passion about the unexpected beauty of the outback, but also about the healthcare disparities affecting remote Indigenous communities.

“There’s this myth of air support arriving quickly, but the reality is far different. You do your best, but without the right equipment and support, it can be difficult.”

Sonia recounts the challenges of being the solo doctor in isolated areas, where access to specialists and basic imaging can take hours or even days. She discusses the contrast between urban and remote healthcare, highlighting the systemic issues that put many remote communities at risk. Her stories shine a light on the real struggles healthcare providers face in these regions.

“I think what makes GP work so unique is that human interaction. It’s not just about clinical decisions, it’s about connecting with people and understanding their stories.”

Throughout the episode, Sonia reveals what makes general practice in rural settings so special—her meaningful patient interactions. With patients often coming to her in their most vulnerable moments, Sonia explains how deeply these experiences shape her passion for healthcare. The connection she forms with her patients is the heartbeat of her work, and it’s clear that these human interactions drive her commitment to serving remote communities.

“You see things in remote Australia that are hard to believe—leprosy, secondary syphilis. It’s like a different world, and it’s heartbreaking.”

Through her stories, Sonia highlights the shocking healthcare disparities in remote Indigenous communities. From seeing rare conditions like leprosy to dealing with a lack of basic medical resources, Sonia paints a vivid picture of the critical need for systemic change in these regions. These heartfelt anecdotes underscore the urgency of better healthcare infrastructure and support for remote areas.

The conversation also touches on Sonia’s second passion – writing. Sonia opens up about the challenges of balancing life as a full-time GP and published author. Her book Put Your Feet in the Dirt, Girl is a testament to the strength and resilience of both healthcare workers and the patients they serve in Australia’s most remote regions.

“Doctors need better support, especially in rural settings. The system is tough, and the challenges are only getting harder.”

The episode wraps up with a deep dive into doctor wellbeing, particularly in rural and remote settings. Sonia emphasizes the pressures that healthcare professionals face in these isolated areas and the importance of mental health support. Her personal experiences shed light on the need for systemic changes to create a more sustainable environment for doctors working in challenging locations.

Watch Episode 6 of It Takes Heart to dive into an inspiring conversation about the realities of remote healthcare and the power of human connection.

More About Dr Sonia’s Charity of Choice: MBA NSW

Dr. Sonia Henry supports the MBA NSW, an organisation providing counseling, case management, and financial assistance to doctors in crisis across NSW and ACT. MBA NSW aims to help doctors and their families recover from illness, accident, or mental health conditions, ensuring they return to well-being and independence. Learn more about their work at www.mbansw.org.au

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In Episode 3, Season 1 of It Takes Heart, hosts Sam Miklos, CEO of cmr, and Kate Coomber, Head of Talent and Employer Branding, sit down with the married RN duo, Helen and Nigel Naylor, whose careers have spanned across Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and the Middle East. They explore the unique challenges and rewards that come with their diverse nursing experiences, highlighting the couple’s nurturing approach and the supportive community they create wherever they go.

Delve into Helen’s firsthand experiences in Kalbarri, where the absence of on-site doctors demands high autonomy and adaptability from healthcare providers.

“Nursing is lifelong learning, it always has been… You have to adapt to different areas, policies, and guidelines. It’s about continuous learning and being able to practice effectively in different settings”

Helen Naylor

Nigel brings insightful commentary on healthcare leadership and the pressures faced when adapting to new environments, particularly when working on short-term contracts. Their stories showcase the importance of flexibility, quick decision-making, and leadership skills in unfamiliar settings, offering valuable lessons for those working in or considering remote and international healthcare roles.

“We treat people like they should be treated… If it was our kids somewhere foreign, we’d want someone looking out for them too. Healthcare is a family.”

Nigel Naylor

Throughout the episode, Helen and Nigel open up about the personal motivations that drive them, particularly staying connected with family while living and working far from home. They share unique stories of living in Australia, from encounters with local wildlife to the implementation of a “snake policy” in rural healthcare settings, giving listeners a glimpse into the everyday realities of life Down Under.

The episode wraps up with Helen and Nigel sharing heartwarming anecdotes about the family-like atmosphere among agency nurses, culmanting with in valuable advice for healthcare professionals considering a life and career in Australia.

Watch Episode 4 of It Takes Heart for an engaging and insightful conversation, sure to brighten up your day!

More About Helen and Nigel’s Charity of Choice: The Western Australian Nurses Memorial Charitable Trust

Helen and Nigel support the Western Australian Nurses Memorial Charitable Trust, which awards grants to nurses and midwives to advance healthcare through education, research, practice, and management across all health arenas in Western Australia.

Visit www.wanursestrust.com.au for more information.
As Helen’ and Nigel’s charity of choice, cmr will donate $500 to Western Australian Nurses Memorial Charitable Trust.

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It Takes Heart with Dr. Dinesh Palipana, a limitless life.

In Episode 3, Season 1 of It Takes Heart, hosts Sam Miklos, CEO of cmr, and Kate Coomber, Head of Talent and Employer Branding, explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Dinesh Palipana, an incredible human being. As an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) recipient and Queensland Australian of the Year, Dr. Dinesh Palipana is a living demonstration of breaking down society barriers, particularly in the world of medicine. He was the first medical intern in Queensland with quadriplegia and has reshaped the potential for not only graduating from medical school with a disability but also working as an emergency doctor.

Born in Sri Lanka in 1984, Dr. Palipana’s early years were shaped by civil war, corruption, and poverty. These experiences became the lens through which he encountered some of the biggest events in his life. In 2010, while in medical school, his car spun out of control on the Brisbane motorway, leaving him with a spinal cord injury. His medical training halted instantly, and the following years were spent recovering as a patient.

Dr. Palipana’s journey is one of remarkable resilience and determination. Today, he is a lawyer, a founding member of Doctors with Disabilities Australia, and has completed a clerkship at Harvard University. He is also a senior lecturer at Griffith University, a spinal cord injury researcher, and works in the emergency department at Gold Coast University Hospital. Additionally, he serves as a senior advisor to the Disability Royal Commission and as an ambassador to the Human Rights Commission’s Includability Program.

In this episode, Dr. Palipana opens up about his battle with depression, a struggle that began long before his spinal cord injury. Drawing inspiration from icons like Stephen Hawking and Christopher Reeve, his narrative underscores the importance of mental resilience and gratitude. He recounts his transformation from feeling paralysed by depression to celebrating life’s simple pleasures and remarkable milestones, including writing his first book, ‘Stronger’, which is being adapted into a TV series.

Discussing the evolving landscape of the healthcare system, Dr. Palipana’s insights inspire us to champion inclusivity and empathy in medicine. This episode promises to leave you motivated to support and empower diversity, challenging societal perceptions, and inspiring future generations to break barriers.

Content Warning: Mental Health Issues 
We are excited to bring you this inspiring story, but with that, comes the guests  truthful account of his mental health challenges and paralysing depression. If you feel you could be triggered by this content, you may want to skip this episode.

More About Dinesh’s Charity of Choice: Red Dust

Dr. Palipana supports Titans Together, the charitable arm of the Gold Coast Titans rugby league club. Titans Together aims to be a community-focused, commercially motivated organization driven to make a difference in people’s lives. They actively support local schools, clubs, charities, and community organizations through programs, appearances, and donations. All donations to Titans Together drive a range of community projects across Indigenous education, inclusion projects like LEAGUEABILITY, as well as development, participation, and high-performance football programs.

Visit www.titans.com.au for more information.
As Dinesh’s charity of choice, cmr will donate $500 to Titans Together.

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It Takes Heart with India Priestley.

What happens when a nurse trades a stable job for a life on the road in a customised Land Cruiser?

In Episode 2, Season 1 of It Takes Heart, hosts Sam Miklos, CEO of cmr, and Kate Coomber, Head of Talent and Employer Branding, explore the inspiring journey of India Priestley, who purchased her “troopie” during the 2020 lockdowns. This episode delves into how her off-grid living setup has enabled her to create a whole new community on the road.

India’s story begins during the unprecedented times of the 2020 lockdowns. Feeling the constraints of a stationary life, she made the bold decision to invest in a Land Cruiser, transforming it into a fully-equipped mobile home. This episode provides a exciting glimpse into her transition from a stable nursing job to a nomadic lifestyle, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way.

Through vivid recounts of hitchhiking adventures and heartwarming patient interactions, India paints a picture of the adaptability and resilience required for remote healthcare roles. Her stories illuminate the deep personal connections formed in smaller communities and the visible impact nurses can make outside of metropolitan hospitals.

A significant portion of the episode focuses on India’s work in remote Indigenous communities. She emphasises the need for cultural sensitivity, respect, and education to bridge communication gaps and foster trust. By respecting the deep connection Indigenous people have with their land, India highlights the importance of understanding and integrating cultural practices into healthcare.

Don’t miss this inspiring new episode of It Takes Heart as we explore the extraordinary life of a nurse on the road.

More About India’s Charity of Choice: Red Dust

India supports Red Dust, a charity that inspires remote Indigenous communities through a unique ‘community-as-family’ model of health and well-being programs. These programs blend Western health knowledge with traditional cultural knowledges. For over twenty-five years, Red Dust has partnered with community leaders and Elders to build resilience in young people and foster cross-cultural understanding through training and immersion experiences.

Visit www.reddust.org.au for more information.
As India’s charity of choice, cmr will donate $500 to Red Dust.

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At cmr, we pride ourselves on a transparent recruitment process designed to ensure that we attract and retain top talent. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, our recruitment process is straightforward and geared towards providing you with a clear understanding of what to expect.

Here’s a detailed look at our internal recruitment process:

Step 1. Submit your Application

The first step in joining the cmr family is to submit your application. We’ve made this process as simple as possible. Visit our careers page, find the role that best suits your skills and experience, and complete the application form. Make sure to upload your resume and any other required documents. A well-crafted application is your opportunity to make a strong first impression.

Step 2. Application Review by our Talent Team

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by a member of our talent team. This stage involves a thorough examination of your qualifications, experience, and fit for the role you have applied for. Our talent team is dedicated to identifying candidates who align with our company values and have the potential to thrive in our dynamic work environment.

Step 3. Phone Interview

If your application stands out, the next step is a phone interview. This initial conversation allows us to get to know you better and gives you a chance to learn more about cmr. During this interview, we will discuss your background, career aspirations, and the specifics of the role you’ve applied for. This is also an opportunity for you to ask any preliminary questions you might have about the position or our company culture.

Step 4. Virtual Interview

Candidates who successfully pass the phone interview will be invited to a virtual interview. This step typically involves a video call with a member of our recruitment team and potentially your future Leader. The virtual interview is more in-depth and may include questions about your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle workplace challenges. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences in detail and how they relate to the position you’re applying for.

Step 5. Face-to-Face Interview

The face-to-face interview is a crucial part of our recruitment process. This interview will take place at our office in Fortitude Valley. During this interview, you will meet with your potential Leader.  This is your chance to see the workplace firsthand, get a feel for the team dynamics, and further demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for cmr.

Step 6.  References

Before moving to the final stage, we conduct a thorough reference check. We will request contact information for professional references who can speak to your work ethic, skills, and character. This step helps us verify the information you’ve provided and gain insights from people who have worked closely with you in the past.

Step 7.  Offer

The final step in our recruitment process is the offer stage. If you’ve successfully navigated all the previous steps, we will extend a formal job offer to you. This offer will include details about your role, compensation, benefits, and other relevant information. We believe in making this stage as smooth and transparent as possible, ensuring that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. 

At cmr, we are committed to making our recruitment process transparent, yet engaging. We understand that applying for a job can be a daunting process, and we strive to make your experience with us as positive and straightforward as possible. We look forward to receiving your application and potentially welcoming you to the cmr team. If you have any questions about our recruitment process, please feel free to reach out to our talent team at any time.

The future of work isn’t just about adapting to remote flexibility and leveraging cutting-edge technology—it’s about creating environments that inspire, engage, and bring people together.

With much of the workforce, including healthcare workers, unable to work remotely, having a workplace that aligns with workers’ needs remains vital to our well-being. We spend a third of our waking hours and more than half our lives at work. So, how are businesses embracing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rethink how we work?

Recent years have seen a shift to remote and hybrid models, with many upgrading their home offices to support their workplace needs. While these changes offer benefits like reduced travel time and flexibility, they’ve also underscored a longing for the sense of connection inherent in office environments. Employers are now exploring ways to reestablish the value of commuting to a physical workplace.

So, as we adapt to new ways of working, it’s important to craft spaces that not only accommodate but actively cultivate a sense of belonging and collaboration.

Embarking on a new chapter for the business, Cornerstone Medical Recruitment (cmr) founders, Samantha Miklos and Norbert Miklos, emphasised the importance of community when designing the new office space at cmr’s Brisbane headquarters in Fortitude Valley. In the refurbishment, they envisioned a workplace that brings everyone together, encourages collaboration, and fosters a strong sense of connection.

Their aim is simple: to create a space where our team feels valued, inspired, and connected.  A place where cmr healthcare workers comfortably pop in for a coffee, pick up a uniform or connect with their consultant. A new home for us all.

“In our future office, we want a fun, satisfying workplace that fosters a healthy culture and spirit, encouraging collaboration and teamwork around every corner. Our vision is to build a space that brings out the best in our team, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to our shared goals.”

Samantha Miklos – CEO, Cornerstone Medical Recruitment (cmr)

“The new office isn’t just about treating our candidates and employees with the latest fads—it’s about energising us all and fostering a sense of community. Practically, the space also needs to provide flexibility for the future and reflects our commitment to sustainability.”

Samantha Miklos – CEO, Cornerstone Medical Recruitment (cmr)

With this aspirational brief in mind, our design team have set out to transform the cmr office into a hub of connected neighbourhoods. Their focus is not on grandiose statements or lofty ideals but on practical solutions that enhance the everyday experience of our team members.

Their vision for cmr’s new workplace is to serve as the ‘nexus’ of the business: providing innovative spaces for creative thinking, acting as a conduit to bridge the gap between rural employees and office-based team members, and cultivating a stronger sense of community that reflects cmr’s brand and values.

The team at Geyer Design believe the future reception and town hall will embody this ethos: a company-wide meeting space for 150 people, featuring tiered seating and modular lounges, serving as hub for collaboration, connection, and celebration, where we can host events and invite our cmr community in to enjoy.

Here are some of the principles behind our new office design reflecting the evolving landscape of modern work:

Nurturing a Sense of Community
At the heart of our design is a commitment to community. We believe that creating a sense of community within the office is essential for employee wellbeing. By designing spaces that encourage spontaneous interactions and focus time for collaborative projects, we’re building a culture where every team member feels they can connect. Our new office features communal areas and open-plan layouts that are perfect for casual conversations and team meetings. By providing spaces where team members, client and healthcare workers can come together, share ideas, and build relationships, we’re creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and included.

Multi-Functionality
A modern workplace should be versatile to meet the changing needs of its occupants. Our office design includes multi-functional spaces that can be easily reconfigured for various purposes, from workshops and training sessions to social events and casual meetings. Flexibility is key to maintaining productivity and efficiency, and by providing spaces that can adapt to different activities and requirements, we’re ensuring that our office remains a dynamic environment. Whether employees need a quiet corner for individual work or a large area for team brainstorming, our office can accommodate their needs.

Sustainable Design
From the ground up, sustainability is woven into every aspect of our office design. Australian-manufactured carpets made from 100% recycled nylon, bespoke furniture crafted from reclaimed components, and acoustic panels fashioned from recycled materials. We’ve utilised acoustic panels, fabrics, and curtains, made from recycled materials (diverting upwards of 6000 PET bottles from landfill on this project), as well as other finishes such as flooring made from coconut husk waste. Many of our finishes were selected for their recycled content and ability to be fully recycled after use. While incorporating plants and repurposing existing built forms not only reduces our environmental footprint but also brings the benefits of biophilia into the workspace.

Designing for Everyone
The new cmr office is designed to provide better connections and facilities than employees might have at home, featuring more meeting rooms, additional kitchen, wellness facilities, breastfeeding and first-aid room along with vibrant social areas that enhance the overall work experience. Our office includes accessibility features, quiet rooms for focused work, and flexible workstations adjustable to individual requirements. By prioritising inclusivity, we’re actively promoting a culture of equality and respect.

Empowering Growth and Impact
But our new office isn’t just about us—it’s about the communities we serve and the impact we make. With a more enhanced space for growth and collaboration, we’re better positioned to support our clients and meet the needs of healthcare workers across Australia. From Recruitment Support to Payroll, our expanded team enables us to make a difference by providing skilled healthcare workers where they are needed most.

At cmr, we place healthcare professionals in critical roles that make a difference in our Australian communities. If you want to help us create even greater experiences for our clients and healthcare workers, get in touch our talent team on talent@cmr.com.au to hear about our rewarding recruitment and operational roles.

At certain points in life, the flame that once fuelled our passion may flicker, leaving us feeling stagnant. Burnout or injury can extinguish the brightest flames of passion, leaving professionals feeling trapped in the routine. For dentist Dr. Ellen, this feeling loomed heavy until she ventured into locum work.

As Ellen approaches the one-year anniversary since transitioning into locum work, she reflects on how the versatile recruitment opportunities have reignited her love for dentistry and brought newfound joy and flexibility to her young family.

“After nearly a decade in private practice, I found myself really craving more. More travel, more opportunities for education, more growth, and more connection with others in the profession.”

“Being part of the cmr community has really provided me the opportunity to work, travel and continue an education program that’s expanded my advancing skills in general dentistry. This role has given me the opportunity to expand and develop my leadership skills… I work in a management role now and I get to work with this fantastic team.”

“It’s allowed me such wonderful opportunities to meet and connect with so many dentists and health providers right across Australia. I’ve been completing a virtual hands-on CPD fellowship the whole time, and the connection within cmr has just helped me pursue my vision of providing quality oral health to all people”.

What makes Ellen’s journey truly inspiring is the involvement of her family, embarking on a journey from Brisbane to WA in a campervan to relocate for her first placement.

“This placement with cmr has seen me be able to take my whole family 5500km right across the country! That alone was an adventure full of adventures. My kids thoroughly enjoyed it.” Ellen recounts with enthusiasm.

“But once we got here, it’s been fantastic to work on this huge project that’s now seen the opening of access to public dental GA services within the local Regional Hospital.”

“This means that the local community have general dental treatment under anesthetic, where they previously were having to travel hundreds and hundreds of kilometres.”

“It’s so wonderful to see these things being developed here in the town and to be part of that is just something amazing to see.”

One of the significant benefits of locum work for Dr Ellen has been the flexibility it offers. As a mother, wife, and dedicated professional, Ellen appreciates the freedom to craft her schedule and prioritise family time.

“Working as a locum with cmr allowed me and my whole family to find flexibility,” Ellen affirms.

“We found as a family post, COVID, post lockdowns in particular, and as a family unit, we were struggling with the daily grind. We hadn’t travelled, we hadn’t gotten out, we were stuck in a rut. We knew we needed to find something different.”

“We’ve been able to travel. We did a year of homeschooling with our kids, which was amazing to take them out of this sort of stagnant environment where they were really struggling and they were able to flourish, find things they were interested in and now trialing back in a school. This school is amazing, and my husband has been offered work at the hospital.”

With the flexibility afforded by locum work, Ellen and her family have seized the opportunity to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes.

“If I want time off, we go, OK, well, we’ll pick a contract for this long and then we have a couple of weeks break before we do the next one. And it just works so well for our family. And financially, we’re still getting the bills paid, the mortgage paid.”

Ellen’s journey serves as a testament to resilience and adaptability, navigating the challenges life throws your way, and rekindling your passion amidst new adventures. “To think 12 months ago… I’d crashed off my mountain bike… to finding so much joy and passion for what I do. It’s been a real journey,” Ellen reflects.

As Ellen and her family continue to embrace the locum life with zest and enthusiasm, if they have inspired you to embark on your own journey of discovery, growth, and fulfillment, please get in touch!

Here at cmr, we love creating happy communities, and our team is at the heart of everything we do. 

That’s why we’re delighted to share some exciting news about the growth that’s been quietly unfolding behind the scenes at Cornerstone Medical Recruitment! 

To kickstart the new year, we welcomed 10 new staff members to the cmr family in January 2024 – increasing to 94 team members and marking a 47% growth in cmr personnel since December 2022.  

Spanning both specialist medical recruiters and operational roles, this expansion is a testament to our dedication to ensuring that every member of our growing cmr community receives the utmost support.

CEO Samantha Miklos emphasises our commitment to maintaining a sense of connection within the growing organisation, stating, “We will continue to focus on improving our systems in 2024, along with a stronger emphasis on connection with you, our healthcare worker community. It is important to me that as Cornerstone grows in size, we don’t lose the feeling of connectedness to each other.”

Our growing team of specialist recruitment consultants are supported by our in-house finance, compliance, travel, marketing, and HR teams who have been carefully expanding to better serve our community of cmr healthcare workers which grew significantly in 2023. 

Be a part of our journey – join our growing community today!