Melanie’s ambition knows no limit

Once an orderly at Mater Hospital Brisbane, Melanie Tolo-paepae was inspired by the compassion and dedication of the nurses she worked alongside. 

The Forest Lake resident decided to follow in their footsteps and enrolled in the Diploma of Nursing with Mater Education last year. 

The 43-year-old busy wife and mother had not opened a textbook for more than 20 years when she embarked on her new qualification. 

“I believed that I could do it and I had a great support system from my husband, my children and my wider family,” she said. 

“I feel like it’s a testimony to anyone that’s out there. You can do it.” 

While Mrs Tolo-paepae’ has worked in customer service roles in the past and as a pathology lab technician, she said nothing has come close to the fulfilment she experiences from helping people as a nurse-in-training.  

“I love meeting new people and supporting them any way I can,” she said. 

Having completed her final placement, Mrs Tolo-paepae has gained hands-on experience across several specialties, including oncology, theatre nursing, and maternity, during the 18-month course.

After graduating, Mrs Tolo-paepae hopes to work as a theatre nurse at Mater, on the same wards where she once worked as an orderly.  

“I get a thrill out of supporting the operating team and seeing surgery first-hand. To have a role like that would be amazing,” she said. 

Reflecting on her journey, Mrs Tolo-paepae said she has developed an unwavering belief that ‘the sky is the limit’. 

“If you’re thinking about becoming a nurse and studying with Mater Education, just do it. Don't doubt yourself. Take a leap of faith, you’ve got this.”