December 12, 2025#WeAreNorthern
Meet Julia Edward, Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Northern Health.
Q: First, let’s start with your coffee order?
A: Flat white with one sugar, simple and perfect to start a busy day.
Q: Tell us about your journey at Northern Health?
A: My journey with Northern Health began in 2018 in the Emergency Department, where I continue to work proudly today. Before that, I worked at Bundoora Extended Care as a Division 2 Nurse, which gave me valuable early experience in teamwork and patient care.
With support and encouragement from my colleagues and mentors, I pursued my Postgraduate studies in Critical Care, which I successfully completed in 2022, beginning through the University of Melbourne and completing with the University of Technology Sydney. Balancing study, work, and family life as a single mum was not easy, but it strengthened my determination and commitment to nursing.
After completing my postgraduate qualification, I took on several travel nursing roles across Australia, including Mackay (Queensland), South Australia, and Launceston (Tasmania), working as a Critical Care Nurse in diverse settings. These experiences broadened my clinical skills and deepened my understanding of patient-centred care.
Now, I have been selected to work at The Alfred ICU while continuing my role at Northern Health Emergency Department, which remains close to my heart.
Q: What is the best part of working at Northern Health?
A: The culture of teamwork and genuine care. Everyone supports one another and works together to provide the best outcomes for patients. It truly feels like a family.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about your role?
A: Emergency nursing is not only about responding quickly, but it’s also about calm thinking, empathy, and helping people through some of their most vulnerable moments.
Q: What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career so far?
A: Perseverance and self-belief make anything possible. Every challenge can become an opportunity for growth if you keep moving forward.
Q: How do you like to spend your weekends or time off?
A: I enjoy gym workouts, bike rides, swimming, and long walks. They help me stay grounded and energised.
Q: Who or what inspires you most?
A: I am inspired by my patients, mentors, and colleagues. Each of them reminds me daily that compassion and resilience define the heart of nursing.
