In Episode 3, Season 1 of It Takes Heart, we sit down with physiotherapist Judy Chesney, whose career has taken her from private practice to the unique world of locum travel work. Since 2021, Judy has embraced life on the move, taking her expertise to remote communities across Australia. From the tropical climates of Thursday Island to the rugged outback of Mount Isa, Judy’s adventurous spirit and commitment to patient care shine through.

“I’ve always been interested in the human body,” Judy shares early in the episode, describing her transition from studying teaching to physiotherapy. She found her true passion after taking anatomy classes, which felt both natural and engaging to her.

Judy’s role as a rural generalist physio has exposed her to a wide variety of healthcare settings, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. “You just have to kind of fake it till you make it,” she advises, offering valuable insights for graduate physiotherapists considering rural roles. Her advice underscores the importance of adaptability, especially when resources are scarce, and the stakes are high in remote locations.

While Judy has worked in many memorable places, she recalls her time on Thursday Island as one of her most extraordinary experiences. “The view from the window was the ocean. It was just incredible,” Judy reminisces, painting a vivid picture of her time in this isolated but breathtaking part of Australia. Working in remote locations like this has offered Judy the chance to deeply connect with Indigenous and rural communities, where healthcare can be a lifeline.

But it’s not just the scenic landscapes that have left an impression on Judy—it’s also the sense of community and the people she’s met along the way. “It’s amazing how many people who start off doing a locum end up as a permanent resident,” Judy notes, highlighting the lasting impact rural placements can have on both healthcare professionals and the communities they serve.

Judy also opens up about her passion for staying active and healthy during her locum assignments, even in remote areas. “If there’s a swimming pool, I’ll go swimming. Sometimes I take my bike with me,” she explains, emphasizing how important it is for her to integrate physical activity into her routine, regardless of her location.

Her stories highlight the significance of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and building trust within these communities to make a lasting impact. Judy mentions, “I try to get involved a little bit so that they can see I’m there to be part of the community.” This connection helps Judy deliver meaningful care and fosters trust in areas where healthcare professionals are often coming and going.

Watch Episode 7 of It Takes Heart for dives deep into the challenges and rewards of locum life, with Judy offering practical advice and heartfelt stories from her diverse career.

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More About Judy Chesney’s Charity of Choice: St George Triathlon Club

In addition to her dedication to healthcare, Judy is an advocate for community engagement and health promotion. As a guest on the It Takes Heart podcast, she selected the St George Triathlon Club as her charity of choice. The club is dedicated to encouraging fitness and fun in the small town of St George, running events and activities that bring the community together. Learn more at www.battleonthebalonne.com.

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