Katrina's four decades of nursing celebrated at Townsville University Hospital

For 40 years Katrina Roberts has embraced every opportunity presented to her while working in healthcare.

The Townsville Hospital and Health Service (HHS) director of nursing newborn, children, and adolescent services was one of 600 Townsville HHS staff members with more than 9880 years of healthcare experience between them who were recently recognised for their length of service with Queensland Health.

Ms Roberts said while she had been in several roles over the years, her dedication to helping people had never changed.

“For most of my career I have worked with women and children which has been very special,” she said.

“Nursing and midwifery have provided me with amazing opportunities for personal and professional growth.

“It is a privilege to provide care and support to our children and families in our local community and across north Queensland and it’s rewarding to see patients living happy and healthy lives.”

Ms Roberts started her career in healthcare in 1984 as a student nurse.

She said there had been many changes to healthcare and one of the biggest had been the adoption of new technologies and equipment to provide care.

“While the technology has helped us monitor and care for patients, the fundamentals of providing care have not changed, with a focus on kindness and compassion still at the centre of it all,” she said.

“I’ve been fortunate in my career, starting in the children’s ward and later specialising in midwifery and neonatal nursing, eventually moving into leadership and management.

“It’s been a privilege to spend my career working with and being supported by wonderful colleagues and teams.

“It has also been a great honour to provide the same support now through mentoring and supporting others in their careers.”

Townsville HHS chief executive Kieran Keyes said Ms Roberts had positively touched countless lives during her career working with women and children.

“She continues to show great dedication to helping others and her willingness to take on new challenges is inspirational,” Mr Keyes said.

“Katrina is an asset to the health service, and her leadership and expertise have been instrumental in providing exceptional patient care.

“I want to congratulate her and the more than 600 Townsville HHS team members for their years of hard work and dedication.”