Bundaberg student gets flying start to nursing career
Published on 25 August, 2005
Bundaberg’s Jeff Davie is one of only four Australians, and the only Queenslander, this year to become an airforce Nursing Officer by gaining a RAAF nursing scholarship.
The scholarship offers Jeff guaranteed employment in the field of nursing and also makes it possible for him to enter his desired field of aeromedical evacuation upon completion of his nursing studies at CQU Bundaberg, due at the end of 2006.
Mr Davie said he was looking forward to completing his degree while gaining clinical experience, before starting his RAAF career.
He is also looking forward to attending a one-week familiarisation course at Officers’ Training School (OTS), RAAF Base Williams (Point Cook) in Victoria. The purpose of the course is to introduce undergraduates to basic military protocols, including rank recognition, saluting, mess decorum and elementary drill.
Following completion of his studies, and of two years of clinical experience in a civilian hospital, Mr Davie will return to OTS for Initial Officer Training. The major elements of this course involve introduction to military life, Air Force Values and attitudes, Ground Defence and Weapons training, Leadership and Personal Development, Communication Skills and Air Force Operations studies.
The Air Force sponsors suitable applicants to undertake tertiary studies at a civilian university. The Air Force will authorise payment of all compulsory fees for the year in which sponsorship commences and continuing for the duration of the approved course of study. The Air Force will also pay tertiary institution fees and student contribution charges for as long as the student remains in the Service.
Successful applicants are usually appointed to the rank of Officer and paid at that rank while studying full-time, with increments granted on successful completion of each year of study.
Undergraduates are members of the Permanent Air Force and as such, all normal entitlements are available. ENDS.
For details contact Jeff Davie on jeffsharondavie@interworx.com.au or 0428 333 543 or 07 4151 8748. or alternatively contact the Defence Recruitment Cell on 131901 .
Photos: Jeff Davie currently flies with the Sunshine Coast Rescue Helicopter Service (ENERGEX) in Bundaberg as a volunteer crew man which has contributed to his flying experiences.