More than caregivers: How supporting nurses strengthens communities

Written by Puneet Melvin, Ozcare Douglas Facility Manager.

What happens when we truly care for our nurses?

That’s the question at the heart of this year’s International Nurses Day theme – Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies.

It is something I have lived every day while working and living in regional and northern Queensland.

In places like Townsville, Ingham and the Tablelands, nurses aren’t just health workers – we’re part of everyone’s story.

We care for the parents, neighbours and the community members who often built the towns we serve. When we are supported, the whole region thrives.

My inspiration is very personal. 

From a very young age, I knew I wanted to work in the medical/nursing field. 

Growing up, I watched my mum lead teams of over 100 nurses and doctors, always showing what it truly meant to be compassionate, resilient and kind. 

As a gynaecologist, she was dedicated to women’s health. One of her favourite sayings was: “Let education be your first priority – house chores will teach itself when life asks for it”. 

She inspired me to give back to the community in a meaningful way.

In 2015, I started my journey at Ozcare, a not-for-profit aged care provider in Queensland.

I was a third-year nurse in Port Douglas after doing my degree at ACU.

It’s been a decade of growth through clinical and leadership roles.

Today, I proudly serve as the Facility Manager of Ozcare Douglas right here in Townsville. 

This path has been shaped not just by education and effort, but by belief. 

My employer supported me to mentor others through great opportunities – leading teams who provide genuine, heartfelt care.

For me, nursing is about creating impact and nurturing others to reach their full potential.

I knew nobody when I arrived in Australia 18 years ago at the age of 16. 

But I quickly learnt the Australian way of life. I now make it my mission to help others do the same.

Ozcare runs a unique International Nurses Program, welcoming people from places like the Philippines, India and South Africa. 

Some started as carers with no qualifications and now hold Diplomas or nursing degrees. 

They’ve become great clinicians, gaining an understanding of Australian culture, values, aged care expectations, and how to connect with compassion.

That’s what nursing is all about: helping others, listening to their stories, and leaving a little bit of yourself behind in every life you touch.

That kind of growth benefits everyone and builds a stronger, more skilled workforce right here in the north.

This International Nurses Day, I celebrate not just my journey, but the collective strength of all nurses who lead, care, and inspire.