General News
11 March, 2025
MDHS names its top student
Cassie Owen, a single mother of three, never thought she would become a nurse. But with determination, hard work and support from her community, she has not only achieved her dream but has won the Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) Student of the Year award.
Ms Owen started her career at MDHS eight years ago as a sterilisation technician. Now, after studying a Diploma of Nursing at Bendigo TAFE’s Maryborough campus, she’s ready to begin her new role as an enrolled nurse in perioperative services.
Ms Owen’s achievement was further recognised with a prestigious award at the 2025 Bendigo TAFE Industry Excellence Awards, the first-ever partnership award between MDHS and Bendigo TAFE.
Her inspiring journey shows that with perseverance, anything is possible.
“While I often doubted myself, believing my dream of becoming a nurse was out of reach everything changed when I enrolled in a nursing course at Bendigo TAFE’s Maryborough campus,” Ms Owen said.
However, her journey was far from easy. Six months into her studies, Ms Owen tragically lost her father.
“The sudden and traumatic loss was devastating but I found solace in studying,” she said.
“I found comfort in being able to learn about what happened medically. It helped me understand the situation and gave me the words to explain it to my family.”
Despite facing profound personal challenges, Ms Owen pushed forward. Her dedication and active participation in class discussions, assessments and initiatives were recognised by teachers and classmates.
“My classmates’ support was invaluable. Learning together gave me a solid support system that helped keep me motivated during the tough times,” she said.
Ms Owen’s positive attitude, teamwork and commitment made her the ideal candidate for the MDHS Student of the Year Award.
“I didn’t even know the award existed, but when I had a chat with my teachers and educators they all said I deserved it,” she said.
Having worked in healthcare for years, Ms Owen said she was inspired by the nurses she worked alongside.
“Their dedication and passion motivated me to pursue nursing,” she said.
“The nurses I work with really inspire me. Their commitment to patients and the profession made me want to step into the role myself.”
Ms Owen said she’s excited to begin her career as an enrolled nurse in perioperative services.
“I am particularly fascinated by the human body and have a strong interest in pre and post-operative care, which aligns with my future role,” she said.
“The course provided a variety of experiences across different healthcare settings, which is what made it extraordinary.
“The preceptors during placement were so supportive and gave me hands-on experience that helped me see nursing from all angles.
“I also appreciated and highly valued the flexibility that the TAFE course offered at Maryborough, enabling me to pursue my dream of nursing while staying local and managing my responsibilities.”
Looking back, Ms Owen acknowledges the challenges but remains grateful for the support and the opportunity to pursue her dream.
“There were times when I doubted I could complete the course but now I can say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I would absolutely recommend the course to anyone,” she said.
Find out more about the Bendigo TAFE Diploma of Nursing course in Maryborough at bendigotafe.edu.au.
Learn how you can connect people to great care at MDHS at mdhs.vic.gov.au.