Somerset Lifetimes 2020

ALUMNI

APTLY AWARDED ALUMNA RECEIVES ROYAL RECOGNITION Julia Crilly OAM Class of 1994 Making a difference in the worst day of a person’s life is what motivates Somerset College alumna, Julia Crilly (Class of 1994). As a Professor of Emergency Care in a joint appointment between Gold Coast Health and Griffith University, Julia has this year been recognised for the difference she has made to the lives of those she cares for. At the Queen’s Birthday 2020 Honours list, Julia was awarded the esteemed, Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to emergency care nursing. On being awarded such a high honour, Julia says, “I am truly humbled and honoured. To me, this is a reflection

Source: Gold Coast Health.

of the many outstanding individuals I have had the opportunity to work with over the past two decades who deserve much credit here. The support from my colleagues, friends, and family (mother Liz, father Ross, and brother Nick) has been instrumental. I am thankful to the people who took the time to nominate me and to the Governor-General for approving the award.” The global pandemic highlighted to the world the tireless work front line health care workers carry out, each day. Speaking to the Gold Coast Bulletin (Meet the woman changing the face of Gold Coast healthcare, 27 June 2020), Julia says, “Nurses have an inherent interest in wanting to help others – at times like this it’s what we do – so it’s so nice to see the community appreciate that.” She continued, “An important part of my role is to encourage and support others, to mentor them to think critically and seek out the best evidence that’s out there and apply it to their clinical practice so we’re delivering the best care to our patients.” Julia Crilly demonstrates the Somerset College values, nurturing individuals who maintain a global outlook and achieve personal success.

The Alumni Chapter

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