Katrina makes her younger self proud

For three decades, Charters Towers Health Service director of nursing Katrina Ford has built a career defined not by a single specialty, but by the belief that every role in healthcare has the power to change lives.

Katrina’s first steps into nursing came in 1991, when she picked up casual assistant nursing shifts at Eventide while studying at James Cook University. 

“By 1993 I had moved to the old Mosman Hall Hospital, now the Charters Towers rehabilitation unit, working casually during my third year of study,” Katrina said. 

“And a year later I returned to complete my graduate year, later being made the project officer for Project 300, aimed at helping long‑term consumers move into community accommodation. 

“That role showed me early on that nursing wasn’t just about clinical care, but about dignity and opportunity.” 

After spending time as a case manager in community mental health, Katrina returned to Mosman Hall Hospital in 1999 before moving into clinical governance, an area she would shape for nearly two decades. 

“In 2002 I became the district quality coordinator for the Charters Towers Health Service district, and in 2006 I stepped into a role as the inaugural patient safety officer,” Katrina said. 

“I didn’t set out to work in governance, but once I started, I realised how much impact you can have behind the scenes.” 

Today, Katrina continues to support clinicians through her role on the Queensland Health Open Disclosure Faculty. 

“Helping clinicians have honest, compassionate conversations with families is something I care deeply about,” she said. 

In 2021 Katrina stepped into a role she never expected to love more than any other, director of nursing for the Charters Towers Health Service. 

Katrina said leading her hometown health service had been both humbling and deeply personal. 

“I often say I’m the most un‑clinical nurse in the building,” Katrina said. 

“But what I bring is 19 years of governance, patient safety experience, and a lot of compassion, which guides me every day.”

Health service chief executive Kieran Keyes said Katrina had made a real difference to the community and health service.

“Katrina has influenced not only the patients in her community but also the many colleagues who have benefited from her leadership and kindness over 30 years,” Kieran said.

“I first met Katrina when I was acting as the district manager in Charters Towers in the early 2000s and Katrina was the quality coordinator.

“Ever since that time Katrina has impressed as one of those special souls that just make our health service better through whatever role they hold.”

Reflecting on 30 years in healthcare, Katrina said her younger self would be proud.

“As an undergraduate, I had this corny idea that I wanted to make a difference one day,” Katrina said. 

“What I have discovered in my different roles in healthcare over 30 years is that everyone who shows up makes a difference in people’s lives.”

Katrina Ford was recognised for her 30‑year milestone at the 2025 length-of-service event at the Charters Towers Health Service.