The outbreak of COVID-19 and the chance of a senior finance role at Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton brought Meghan Royes back to her hometown after travelling and working around the world for more than 10 years.
“I always knew I wanted to return back home, but I think the COVID-19 pandemic made me realise what I wanted a little sooner, and when I saw the job at Mater come up I knew I had to go for it,” Ms Royes said.
“It’s so nice to be back home and able to see my family and friends, I have missed the quiet and relaxed vibes Rockhampton has to offer plus I love living so close to the beach again.”
Ms Royes is not alone in returning to her hometown with the Regional Mover Index finding Rockhampton had a 4 per cent population rise over the past year, and a 17 per cent increase in the March quarter alone.
Having returned to her hometown and taken on the role of Operations and Finance Manager at Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton, Ms Royes has brought more than a decade of skills and experience from working for the mining and resources industry in London and elsewhere.
“I am excited for the new responsibilities, and to work in a place which is focused on helping people,” she said.
“In my new role at Mater I will focus on community engagement, promoting sustainable business practices and optimising our service models to improve patient experience, especially in the maternity unit.
“I am keen to get out into the community, meet people and hear insights from our customers on how we can implement new ideas into the hospital.”
Mater Private Hospital Rockhampton Executive Director Sue Thurbon said the community had much to offer young people who decided to return to their roots.
“I am thrilled for Meghan to join the team and bring with her the skills and experience she has gained working around the world in different industries and sectors,” Ms Thurbon said.
“I think it’s great to see Rockhampton locals returning home, the community has so much to offer young people like her and we are looking forward to having someone bringing a fresh perspective to our hospital team.”