LEAP OF FAITH
Sometimes the best experiences lay outside your comfort zone — just ask Icon Cancer Care Townsville’s Georgina Whelan.
Originally from Adelaide where she completed her Nursing degree, Georgina Whelan moved to Townsville in 2002 after deciding a sea-change would be good for the soul. For the last four years, she’s been managing the Townsville Icon Cancer Care centre.
“It was a massive learning curve moving from a nursing to a management role, where I was managing teams of people, financial reporting and business development,” Georgina says.
“It was very much outside of my comfort zone but has led to the most rewarding position of my career.”
Georgina has been a Registered Nurse for over 22 years, with the majority of this time spent in cancer care. She’s always loved oncology nursing and supporting patients and their families through one of the most challenging times of their lives.
“We become almost like extended family, having shared many stories about life’s ups and downs,” Georgina says. “What drives me every day is ensuring the highest standards of care and that the capabilities of our service match anywhere across the country.”
Georgina has also recently completed a Master of Business Administration program.
“Getting a business degree was something I never thought I’d achieve in my lifetime, but I managed it in 16 months while working full-time,” Georgina beams.
WHAT DRIVES ME EVERY DAY IS ENSURING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF CARE AND CAPABILITIES OF OUR SERVICE MATCH ANYWHERE ACROSS THE COUNTRY.
GEORGINA WHELAN
“It was a massive commitment while still giving my all to my job and my two beautiful boys. I guess it proves that when you put your mind to something, anything is possible.”
And life doesn’t look like slowing down any time soon for Georgina, with another Icon Cancer Centre opening in Mackay. The centre will offer medical oncology, haematology and radiation oncology and is set to start consulting patients late this year.
“It will be challenging to manage two cancer centres simultaneously but I’m looking forward to being able to deliver personal cancer care to the Mackay community,” Georgina says.
“The Mackay centre will also offer radiation oncology services, so I now have the opportunity to learn another side to our business.”
Icon Cancer Care Townsville
9-13 Bayswater Rd, Hyde Park
4795 7100
www.iconcancercare.com.au