Lots to love as small-town move has big impact on dedicated midwife

Cootamundra Hospital nurse and midwife Bianca Jones recommends a life and career in a small regional town. Photo: Murrumbidgee Local Health District.

Bianca Jones was doubly smitten with Cootamundra when she decided to move to the town.

“I suppose Coota charmed me in more ways than one because it was not long before I relocated there for love, to be with my future husband,” Bianca said.

The Cootamundra Hospital registered nurse and midwife was born and raised in Albury and completed her studies at Wodonga TAFE before fulfilling her student placements in Cootamundra, Albury and Cowra.

Bianca was recently nominated as a finalist in the 2023 Murrumbidgee Local Health District Excellence Awards for Midwife of the Year.

The registered nurse of 13 years said the recognition was a ”lovely” surprise and humbling.

Bianca is always keen to learn new things and she became a midwife five years ago.

“I am enjoying the more personal relationships we can build with our women during such an important and sometimes vulnerable time in their lives,” she said.

“Working in a smaller regional town allows us to deliver care that is unique, personal and professional.

“We know all our women, and they know and trust us because we are managing their care both pre- and postnatally, which is special.”

No two days are the same for Bianca in her role. She loves the variety it offers her.

She is not bound to the walls of the ward but has the opportunity to be exposed to an array of experiences.

Bianca said the dedicated team at Cootamundra Hospital had the breadth of experience to help the community.

The nurses came across new challenges and opportunities every day, which enabled them to demonstrate their professional skills.

“We really do foster educational opportunities for our nurses, and career progression is there for you if that is what you are seeking, but without all the hassles of city life,” Bianca said.

“It is definitely worth establishing yourself in a regional area like Coota. There are so many opportunities here and the community really does look out for each other.”

Bianca said a career in a small regional town allowed workers to spend more time with their family and friends.

“There is time here to enjoy your career, but more importantly there is time to be with your family and friends, where you can actively participate in what is going on around you and really enjoy the opportunity to make memories to last your family a lifetime,” she said.