Joel warmly welcomed at hospital
The first member of Margaret River Hospital's nursing graduate program says he loves his new life in Margaret River.
Joel Cooke, 24, was the first graduate registered nurse selected for the hospital's one-year transition to professional practice program, and admits he was lucky to score the posting.
"I love the lifestyle down here," he told the _Times _.
Mr Cooke finished his studies at Notre Dame University and applied for the single Margaret River position, along with many of his classmates.
"I saw Margaret River had one, so I thought that would be perfect," he said.
Now six weeks into the job, Mr Cooke said the hospital's doctors and nurses were more open and welcoming than Perth doctors.
"Everyone's been really down to earth and really encouraging," he said.
Mr Cooke said his program included stints in emergency medicine, midwifery and mental health.
"You've got to get to the core of what nursing is about," he said.
"Making sure the patient is safe and comfortable."
Mr Cooke said he looked forward to working in the emergency department, and eventually in a high-tech coronary care unit.
