Profile: RN, paramedic Greg Hobson returning to CQU to upskill

Nursing Review's sister site Campus Review recently profiled Greg Hobson, a nurse and paramedic with a passion for giving back to the community and the coastal lifestyle. The interview offers an insight into what motivates young healthcare professionals.

NR: Where are you based and what do you do?

GH: I'm from Peregian Beach on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. I work as an advanced care paramedic with the Queensland Ambulance Service, where I've been since 2003.

What is your educational background?

Bachelor of Nursing (Griffith University 1996–98); Diploma of Paramedic Science (2003–06) and, as an RN, I have re-entered nursing at Central Queensland University (2016).

Why did you choose this path of study?

Always enjoyed the healthcare focus. I have worked in the industry for almost 18 years now and enjoy the support that healthcare professionals can provide to the community and one another. The CQU Registered Nurse Re-Entry Course has provided a great opportunity to regain my registration via distance education, which allows focus on study, work and family life.

Your career has vacillated between nursing and paramedics: why this course?

I realised the importance of maintaining my nursing qualifications for my future within the healthcare industry. I love my job as a paramedic, however, I see an opportunity to make use of knowledge and skills obtained from both professions.

Why is this important to you?

I believe there is both a need and opportunity for suitably qualified professionals in the pre-hospital environment within the health sector. I guess the goal of reducing impact on hospitals and, more directly, emergency departments, is an area of focus that could be improved upon. Now that the Queensland Ambulance Service has been incorporated under [Queensland] Health, there are new initiatives and opportunities in this area.

What’s next in your academic career?

Firstly, looking to consolidate my nursing practice and to incorporate the two professions. I would consider completing a short course in education in the future.

What book are you reading at the moment?

Breath by Tim Winton.

What are your three favourite films?

Star Wars series
Pulp Fiction
And I am watching more TV series these days, loving Game of Thrones, Luther and House of Cards.

What was your first concert? And what was your most recent?

First: Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals at Festival Hall.
Last: Splendour in the Grass at Byron Bay.

What’s the best holiday you’ve been on?

Hard to split them, all amazing for different reasons: Honeymoon in Vietnam, surf trip through the Mentawai islands in Sumatra, and Fiji with family and close friends.

What’s your favourite food and drink?

Can't pass up an amazing pizza coupled with a Coopers Pale Ale – all in moderation though!

What’s your ultimate Sunday Funday activity?

Early surf and beach hang with family and friends, or fishing if the weather suits. Easily pleased living on the Sunshine Coast!

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