Each month JustPhysio would like to recognise one of our locums for their personal achievement and commitment to the Physiotherapy Service!

Name: Carlie

Current position: Band 6 Physiotherapist

Personal achievements: I am currently working in a busy transition ward, aimed at discharging people who have been in hospital to the appropriate location. The role requires the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team to ensure the best outcomes. This role comes with the satisfaction that you're helping people get home. For the past four years I worked as a musculoskeletal physiotherapist in country Australia, so it's been quite different working back in a big hospital!!

Enjoy about being a locum: The best thing about being a locum for me has to be meeting new people. My colleagues are from all walks of life, great for drawing on a wealth of experiences, and making lasting friendships. Having come from a MSK background, it's been both good (and a little scary !), to rehash the acute skills in a hospital setting. I like the flexibility that comes with being a locum, as it enables me to work and travel, without being fixed into a long-term contract.

Most memorable moment: My favourite part of being a physiotherapist is that we can make a really positive change in people's lives. One of the most challenging rotations I did as a new grad, was in the spinal unit at Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney. Here we saw people who'd had acute spinal injuries, right through to their discharge. I was fortunate to work with a highly motivated man with an incomplete spinal injury. He could not stand up unsupported initially, but after months of rehab he walked out of the hospital, independently, nil aids. It was his birthday and I'll never forget that great feeling.

If I could take three items:
- A solar powered kindle with Bear Grylls survival guides (and a few easy reads too!)
- A Swiss Army knife
- And.... A packet of Tim Tams that never runs out!