Among them was Inverell’s Amanda Bussell who completed the one-year Postgraduate Diploma of Midwifery, while working and learning on-the-job from experienced midwives.

The program allows the midwives-in-training to study in their hometowns and other centres within the immediate region, while getting exposure to a wide variety of clinical experiences.

Ms Bussell said it has been a very positive course and a great learning experience.

“I had lots of on-the-job support from GPs obstetricians in Inverell, but I mostly learnt a lot from the women I was taking care of,” she said.

All of the graduates which includes Melanie Williams from Armidale, Belinda Pinchen from Moree and Emma Allan from Tamworth plan to continue working with rural maternity units in the region.

Ms Bussell said she was working towards starting in Inverell within the next couple of months.

“It will be great to be able to work locally and not have to move to extend my career,” she said.

“I’ve also got a Masters in Nursing for Advanced Clinical Education so it would be good to work in Anti-Natal Education through the local hospital in the future.”

“I’m looking forward to starting a career in midwifery and I would like to thank the midwives and doctors for their support over the past 12 months.”