TAFE Queensland celebrates healthcare heroes and future leaders

Terri Aspery’s journey to completing the Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) has been one of perseverance, dedication, and a drive to make a difference in her community.

The ceremony, held at the All-Saints’ Theatre, St Andrew’s Catholic College in Redlynch with over 380 attendees, highlighted the accomplishments of students across a variety of fields, including health services, nursing, and hospitality management.

Terri’s story stood out as an inspiring example of how education can transform lives and create opportunities.

With over a decade of experience as an Assistant Nurse for Queensland Health, Terri saw firsthand the importance of nursing interventions in improving patient outcomes. This inspired her to pursue her Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) as a pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse.

“I’ve seen so many different types of care and conditions during my time as an Assistant Nurse, and I was fascinated by the interventions nurses could provide,” Terri said. “That’s what motivated me to take my career further and study nursing at TAFE Queensland.”

Terri described her experience in the diploma program as transformative, preparing her for the challenges of registered nursing.

“The Diploma of Nursing polished my knowledge and helped me understand the importance of evidence-based practice in healthcare,” she explained. “It has been incredibly beneficial in helping me advance my skills and confidence in the field.”

One of the standout aspects of the program for Terri was the hands-on training.

“TAFE Queensland’s hands-on approach to training was invaluable,” she said. “The practical skills and support from our teachers made such a difference—they really pushed us to take our learning further and prepared us for real-world situations.”

Terri also reflected on the role of Fee-Free TAFE funding in making her educational journey possible.

“Fee-Free TAFE came at the perfect time for me,” Terri said. “Without it, the financial burden of studying, travelling, and accommodation would have been a major obstacle. It gave me the incentive to pursue my nursing qualification and follow my dream.”

Since graduating, Terri has continued her work with Queensland Health and is now focused on advancing her career in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, as well as exploring opportunities in subacute care.

“Nursing is about commitment, respect, and providing care to help people transition from being unwell to well,” Terri said. “It’s an honour and a privilege to be part of that journey.”

The Cairns region’s aging population, projected to grow to over 330,000 by 2046 with nearly one-third over the age of 65, highlights the critical demand for skilled healthcare professionals.

Programs like the Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121) and Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (HLT33115), offered through Fee-Free TAFE initiatives, are essential in addressing the region’s growing reliance on nursing, aged care, and health support services.

Terri also credits her late mother for inspiring her journey into healthcare.

“My mum always told me nursing would be rewarding, though it wouldn’t be glamorous,” Terri said. “She said it would teach me so much about health and life, and I know she’d be proud of how far I’ve come.”

The Cairns graduation ceremony celebrated students from a wide range of study areas, with the top three courses including Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (HLT33115), Diploma of Nursing (HLT54121), and the Certificate IV in Kitchen Management / Diploma of Hospitality Management (SIT40521 / SIT50422) dual award.