Clara Rudd grew up in Dalby, a small town in Queensland, with her parents and three older brothers. With a sense of adventure, she moved to Sydney to start a new chapter at the University of Sydney, diving into university life and the challenges of living on a residential campus for the first time.

Adapting quickly to her new surroundings, Clara embraced her studies in Speech Pathology and student life in Sydney. For the first few years, things went smoothly, but as the world grappled with the onset of COVID-19, her plans took an unexpected turn. During her third year of university, she was on one of the last flights out of New South Wales before Queensland closed its borders. Faced with the prospect of completing her studies online, Clara decided to take a break and seize an opportunity closer to home.

Clara joined the Western Downs Regional Council, taking on a role in rural healthcare that would shape her future. “Working in regional health opened my eyes to the real challenges many people face,” she says. “Although it was difficult at times, the experience was incredibly rewarding. I saw firsthand the impact of limited resources and how even small changes could make a big difference.” Her time at the Council solidified her commitment to healthcare and fueled her determination to complete her studies once the borders reopened.

With her passion for rural healthcare reignited, Clara returned to uni, eager to finish her Speech Pathology degree. As she resumed her studies, a new opportunity arose: a contract role in disaster management. The position allowed her to make a tangible impact while also earning the funds she needed to support her upcoming clinical placements.

Once she had completed her remaining units, Clara embarked on the first of two six-week placements. She had specifically requested a rural or regional setting, and she was thrilled to be assigned to Noah’s Inclusion Service in Nowra. The organisation not only helped her find accommodation but welcomed her with open arms. “I felt so cared for and supported from the very start,” Clara recalls. “My clinical lead, Ruth, was incredible, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”

The six weeks flew by, and at the end of her placement, Noah’s Inclusion Service discussed the possibility of Clara joining their New Graduate program. Without hesitation, she accepted the offer, knowing that she had found the right place to begin her career. Clara packed up her apartment and moved south, excited to start her new life in Nowra.

“I already knew it was the best place for me to work,” Clara says. “When I moved down, every single team member reached out to check in on me, offering to introduce me to their families so I could start building friendships.”

Clara didn’t just settle into her new job – she embraced life in her new community wholeheartedly. She joined a local ladies’ choir, quickly finding a welcoming group of grandmothers and mothers who made her feel right at home. Through house-sharing, team sports, and yoga, she connected with lifelong friends and discovered just how much the region had to offer.

“The biggest misconception is that there’s nothing to do in small towns,” she explains. “You just have to give it a go, and you’ll find there’s so much happening.”

The New Graduate program at Noah’s Inclusion Service has been invaluable in helping Clara build her skills and confidence as a Speech Pathologist. Weekly mentoring sessions, professional development opportunities, and involvement in new program rollouts have all contributed to her growth. “I’ve felt so supported, and it’s allowed my confidence in my own ability to grow,” she shares. “The mentorship and opportunities here have made all the difference.”

Clara has one piece of advice for anyone considering a move to a regional town: “The city will always be there, but the quality of life down here is just better. You have nothing to lose – just go for it.” Her experience shows that taking a chance on a regional lifestyle can offer not only career fulfillment but also a genuine sense of community and well-being.

Clara’s story is a testament to the rewards of stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing regional life. Whether it’s the supportive community, meaningful work, or the quality of life, moving to a rural town can offer experiences that city life simply can’t match.