A new era of nursing leadership arrives at Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals

Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals (BMDH) has appointed a new Director of Nursing and Midwifery – Ms Marie Baxter.

Marie joins the hospital from Western Australia, where she has been the Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery for Western Australia Rural and Country Health Services.

“I feel very fortunate to have been appointed this role; I am excited to support the growth and development of the nursing and midwifery team,” Marie said.

“At the end of the day, what I want is a happy, sustainable nursing and midwifery workforce.

“My role is fluid and ever-changing, but essentially I am the bridge between management and nursing and midwifery staff. I need to marry what our nurses and midwives need with what the district needs so we can be aligned and meet all our objectives.”

Marie started her nursing career in the UK and brings with her extensive management and operational experience across both metro and regional health as well as community services with a strong passion for exemplary nursing care. 

“I knew I wanted to be a nurse from the age of 12 and I wanted to be the best nurse I could be.

“By the time I left the UK in 1995, I was a senior nurse but did not expect to get into that role when first arriving in Australia as I didn’t know the healthcare system.

“I worked my way back up in Australia – this gave me a very holistic view and an authentic sense for the nursing scene.”

Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals’ general manager Ned Katrib said the appointment of this role will set Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals on a pathway to a bright future.

“We’re very excited to have Marie join our team as we continue to drive excellence in care and service delivery,” Ned said.

“We are committed towards embedding a culture of compassion, capability and innovation across Blacktown and Mount Druitt hospitals.”

A special thank you to Ms Cheryl Trudinger who has been acting in the position for the last few months and will now commence in her new role of Operation Nurse Manager Medical.

Welcome to western Sydney Marie!