ASHLEE Hicks’ journey to GV Health began with a lifelong interest in medical imaging and a desire to work in healthcare.
Originally from Nathalia, Ashlee completed her Bachelor of Medical Imaging at Deakin University in Geelong before undertaking specialist ultrasound training in Swan Hill.
She spent nearly four years building her skills there, gaining hands-on experience in a busy regional setting.
For Ashlee and her husband, returning home was always part of the plan. “We both grew up in this area,” she said. “We moved away to gain experience, but we always wanted to come back.”
Now working as a sonographer at GV Health, Ashlee enjoys the variety her role offers, from routine abdominal scans to musculoskeletal imaging and obstetric ultrasounds. “No two days are the same,” she said.
“We see a wide range of patients and conditions, which really helps you grow your skills.”
Ashlee says working in a larger regional service has helped her develop both clinically and professionally.
“There’s more variety, more complex cases, and people from many different cultural backgrounds,” she said. “It’s great for communication, learning, and confidence.”
After recently returning from 12 months of maternity leave, Ashlee says the support from her team made the transition back to work seamless.
“Everyone has been incredibly supportive and flexible,” she said. “It makes such a difference, especially when you’re starting a family.”
For Ashlee, working in regional healthcare is about giving back to the community she grew up in.
“I’m a country girl at heart,” she said.
“Access to healthcare isn’t always easy in rural areas, so being able to support country people really matters to me.”
To learn more about career opportunities in medical imaging at GV Health, visit https://www.gvhealth.org.au/careers/career-sonography/or explore current vacancies online.
