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Miles Hospital is celebrating a major win for rural healthcare with three local nurses graduating as registered nurses through Darling Downs Health ‘growing our own’ program.
Local nurses Renae Volker, Susan Statham, and Kassandra Ehrlich have recently graduated as registered nurses through the program to advance their careers while strengthening the clinical expertise at Miles Hospital.
The grassroots nursing initiative, designed to support local staff in becoming qualified registered nurses, is proving to be a vital strategy in strengthening rural healthcare services and building a sustainable workforce.
Darling Downs Health Director of Nursing at Miles Hospital, MeeMee Steinberg, said the program is a source of pride and a practical solution to the challenges of rural staffing.
“Growing our own workforce in a small rural community can be highly beneficial for Miles Hospital,"
Darling Downs Health Director of Nursing at Miles Hospital, MeeMee Steinberg
“It allows for staff commitment and a strong culture fit within our facility. When staff members complete their registered nurse degrees, it shows their dedication not only to the profession but also to our community.”
“By supporting our own, we ensure our nurses have a deep understanding of the community’s needs and are invested in providing quality healthcare. This sense of ownership enhances the patient experience and helps us maintain staffing levels.”
With more than two decades living in Miles and a lifelong commitment to healthcare, Renae Volker knows firsthand how local roots and strong support can shape a successful nursing career.
“If you have the support, you can do anything,” Ms Volker said.
“It’s a rewarding career and working in a small community means that patients are more comfortable because they know me as a local.”
Susan Statham, who lives on a property 35 kilometres outside of Miles, commenced her nursing career as an enrolled nurse five years ago and brings local insights to her nursing role. Susan credits the program for supporting her to complete placements and stay engaged in her studies.
“Miles is a supportive facility with great staff and management,” Ms Statham said.
“Being a local means that I understand the challenges our patients face—and I’m here to help.”
Kassandra Ehrlich, a mother of two who relocated to Miles with her family, balanced study with parenting.
“I wanted to progress in my career and continue supporting other rural families’ health,” Ms Ehrlich said.
“Advancing my career in a rural facility means I can ensure patients receive the continuity of care they deserve.”
By supporting local talent, Miles Hospital is building a resilient, community-connected workforce ready to meet the region’s evolving health needs.
Darling Downs Health supports staff throughout their studies by rostering around placements and facilitating Study and Research Assistance Scheme (SARAS) leave applications.
Three more nursing staff at Miles Hospital are on track to graduate as registered nurses in 2026 as part of ‘growing our own’.