Nursing with Purpose | Sandra’s Journey to Occupational Health Excellence
At MAYDAY Healthcare, we’re proud to work with nurses who lead with passion, purpose, and professionalism. One such nurse is Sandra, whose impressive journey from hospital wards to the frontline of occupational health nursing is both inspiring and timely. We are lucky to have Sandra on team MAYDAY and I loved having the opportunity to…
At MAYDAY Healthcare, we’re proud to work with nurses who lead with passion, purpose, and professionalism. One such nurse is Sandra, whose impressive journey from hospital wards to the frontline of occupational health nursing is both inspiring and timely. We are lucky to have Sandra on team MAYDAY and I loved having the opportunity to sit down with her to learn more about her career and her passion for Occupational Health.
Sandra has dedicated much of her career to working within occupational health, helping working Australians stay safe, well, and supported on the job.
Siobhan and Sandra on a recent catch up!
A Career That Chose Her
Sandra’s story begins in Brisbane, where she faced a pivotal decision early in life.
“When I was at school, it was either teaching or nursing,” she recalls. “I was accepted into the Royal Brisbane Hospital and being a Brisbane girl, that was it. The rest is history.”
She started out in traditional clinical nursing roles, gaining broad experience across hospitals. But over time, she was drawn to something different, something more proactive.
“What really appealed to me about occupational health nursing was the preventative side. You’re helping people avoid injury or manage health conditions in a way that lets them stay at work, or return to work safely. It’s a very human, very holistic role.”
Sandra on her Nursing Graduation.
Stepping into Occupational Health
Occupational health nursing has taken Sandra into all kinds of industries, mining, manufacturing, and even hospitals where staff clinics are increasingly recognising the value of dedicated health professionals on site.
“It’s a very unique space within nursing,” she explains. “There’s not a lot of visibility, but there’s enormous impact. Employers rely on us to support their staff and manage risks and yet, we’re still not formally recognised as a speciality by AHPRA.”
Each year when Sandra re-registers as a nurse, she has to select “Other” when identifying her speciality.
“That’s frustrating. There are categories for mental health, emergency, aged care… but not occupational health. And yet we’re essential in so many industries.”
Recognition and Advocacy
Despite the systemic oversight, Sandra’s work has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, she was formally acknowledged through the ANZSOM Occupational Health Nurse (OHN) Recognition Program, and was honoured at the ANZSOM Awards for her contributions to the profession.
“It was such a lovely moment,” she says. “To be recognised by peers in your speciality that means a lot. It’s validation that this work matters.”
Sandra is also passionate about encouraging others to get involved and give back to the profession.
“I always say, get out there, join your professional group, volunteer,” she urges. “You only get out of it what you put in, and being active in these groups is how we build strength and visibility.”
Sandra recieving her ANSZSOM Occupational Health Nurse Recognition
Looking Ahead: ANZSOM 202Conference
Sandra is particularly excited about the upcoming ANZSOM Conference, taking place October 19–22, 2025 at The Langham, Melbourne.
“It’s shaping up to be a fantastic event. The program includes some excellent speakers, and it’s a great opportunity for networking and professional development,” she says. “If you’re even slightly curious about occupational health nursing, this is the event to come to.”
Why This Work Matters
In her day-to-day, Sandra focuses heavily on return-to-work programs, injury management, and WorkCover cases. She highlights the importance of compassion and communication in her role.
“You hear of people who’ve been on WorkCover for two years and never once heard from their employer. That’s just not right,” she says. “People need to feel supported, not forgotten. And that’s what we do in this field.”
Sandra’s journey is a reminder that nursing isn’t just about hospitals, it’s about meeting people where they are, including in the workplace. Through advocacy, mentorship, and service, she continues to shape the future of occupational health nursing.
“There’s still a lot of work to do in terms of recognition, but we’re getting there,” she says. “I’m proud to be part of that.”
Want to learn more about occupational health nursing or explore opportunities in the field? Contact MAYDAY Healthcare today. And don’t forget to check out the ANZSOM 2025 Conference in Melbourne this October!