Lesley’s Story: Finding Purpose and Connection in Remote Nursing

For nurse practitioner Lesley, nursing has never been just a profession, it’s been a lifelong calling shaped by community, curiosity, and compassion. After more than four decades in healthcare and years of experience in rural and remote settings, she’s found the perfect balance of freedom and fulfilment working with DNA Healthcare. 

Now on assignment in Bourke, NSW, Lesley job-shares her role with long-time colleague and friend Margaret, flying in and out on a two-weeks-on, two-weeks-off rotation. Together, they deliver vital primary care to the community through the Bourke Aboriginal Corporation Health Service, and they wouldn’t have it any other way. 

“Remote nursing is just the most brilliant nursing you can ever do,” Lesley says. “You get to see the whole of Australia, the places no tourist ever will.” 

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Finding Her Feet with DNA

Before partnering with DNA, Lesley managed her own contracts – a process she describes as chaotic and time-consuming. Managing payroll, invoices and logistics alone took time away from the work she loved most, caring for patients. 

That changed when she connected with Martin from DNA, who now works with his team to coordinate her placements and supports her on every assignment. 

“Since I started with DNA, I tell everyone  don’t bother doing it yourself,” she laughs. “Martin’s such a great negotiator, and we’ve never gone backwards, only forwards.” 

For Lesley, the partnership means more than convenience. It’s about trust, safety and wellbeing. DNA’s genuine care for its nurses has allowed her to focus fully on patient care, knowing that the details (from pay to placements) are handled. 

“That trust build-up, knowing someone’s got your back, that’s the best part,” she says. 

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Job Sharing: A Partnership Built on Strengths

Lesley and Margaret have worked side by side for almost a decade, bringing complementary expertise to every placement. Margaret leads on women’s health and pregnancy care, while Lesley focuses on chronic disease management and minor procedures. The combination makes them an invaluable team in any rural setting. 

Their collaboration in Bourke wasn’t by chance, it was something DNA helped make happen. Martin recognised the importance of their partnership and found an opportunity that matched their shared goals and rhythm. 

“He asked for our wish list, and he did the rest,” Lesley says. “We both wanted to commit to one community, not just fly in and out. That’s exactly what he delivered.” 

Through this approach, they’ve been able to build lasting relationships within the community by running health days, supporting local initiatives and fostering a genuine sense of belonging. It’s proof that agency nursing doesn’t have to mean constant change. With the right placement, it can bring stability and connection too. 

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From the Ward to the Outback

Lesley’s career spans over 20 years as a nurse practitioner, a role she helped pioneer in Australia. Having spent years in acute care and renal medicine, she eventually made the shift to primary health, drawn by the desire to help people earlier in their healthcare journey. 

“I wanted to move upriver,” she explains, “to stop people reaching end-stage kidney disease and heart failure. That’s where primary care and remote work come in.” 

Eighteen years later, she’s still inspired by the diversity, independence, and sense of purpose that remote nursing brings. From the Gulf Country to the Central Coast, each location has deepened her appreciation for Australia’s people, culture, and landscapes. 

“Once you go remote, you’ll never go back,” she says with a smile. “You just fall in love with the work, the people, the country.” 

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Connection Through Culture and Creativity

Beyond healthcare, Lesley is an artist, a weaver and carver who uses creativity as a bridge to connect with the communities she serves. Gathering ochres, weaving grasses and sharing techniques have become a powerful way to build trust and cultural understanding. 

“Art’s an icebreaker,” she says. “It’s like talking football, it helps you connect and learn from each other.” 

Her artistry is more than a hobby; it’s part of her holistic approach to care by healing mind, body and spirit. 

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Ready to write your own remote story?

Whether you’re an experienced nurse practitioner or looking to try something new, DNA Healthcare Recruitment can help you find your ideal placement, safely, seamlessly and with genuine support at every step. 

Explore remote nursing opportunities with DNA Healthcare Recruitment