Life at Burnside Hospital
At Burnside Hospital, our people are at the heart of everything we do. From nurses and doctors to support staff and volunteers, every team member plays a vital role in delivering exceptional care with compassion.
But what’s it really like behind the scenes?
We asked our staff to share their own experiences — the challenges, the proud moments, and what makes working at Burnside so unique. Their stories reflect not only a workplace, but a community where individuals are valued, supported, and given the opportunity to grow.
Brooke Fitzsimons
Registered Nurse - Von Rieben South/North
Brooke began her journey at Burnside Hospital in 2020 on our COVID health screening desk, before completing her TPPP the following year. Her early rotations gave her experience across both Von Rieben North and Von Rieben South wards, working closely with orthopaedic patients and developing a strong foundation in nursing care.
By 2022 Brooke was a Registered Nurse on the wards, and since then her career has continued to grow, with roles including Team Leader, High Dependency Unit Support, and most recently, a Clinical Educator. Beyond Burnside, Brooke has also worked as an Allied Health Assistant in Play Therapy, supporting children with disabilities, an experience that deepened her empathy and adaptability as a nurse.
For Brooke, what makes Burnside truly special is the team around her. “The people I work with are so supportive, and that has contributed to any success I’ve had in my career so far,” she says. She values the camaraderie and encouragement within her team, which flows into the way patients experience care.
Known for her friendly and approachable nature, Brooke believes that building rapport and creating a safe, open space is essential for patients to feel involved in their care. She brings warmth and energy to her work, striving to be the upbeat, familiar face that patients, students, and colleagues alike can rely on for support.
Jane Marsh
Brian Fricker Oncology Centre Manager - Oncology
Jane has spent over a decade providing exceptional care to patients at Burnside Hospital, and her journey has been nothing short of inspiring. One of her proudest moments came in 2009 when she was awarded the Premier Nursing Scholarship, becoming the first private nurse to do so with Burnside’s support. “I had the opportunity to travel to New Zealand and Georgia to explore endometriosis treatments, and even went to the renowned MD Anderson Hospital in Texas to look at breast care,” she shares. Her recommendations led to the implementation of school-based education and survivorship programs in South Australia, programs that are still running today.
When it comes to patient care, Jane says, “Each person is treated as an individual with all the frailties that make us beautifully human.” Her approach combines compassion and humour, often finding light in the most difficult of situations. “I had a patient who called her breast cancer surgery ‘Delores de-lumps coming out party’ – it was a moment that really showed her strength,” Jane recalls with a smile.
Jane’s work environment at Burnside is one of camaraderie and mutual support. “I’m blessed to work with the most dedicated, compassionate, and humorous people—it truly makes coming to work a joy,” she says. This team spirit, she believes, is what helps patients feel like they are part of the Burnside family.
Looking toward the future, Jane is excited about Burnside’s growth and the new centre that will soon be underway. “I hope my legacy will be a wonderful unit filled with compassionate staff where patients always feel supported,” she reflects. With retirement on the horizon, Jane’s impact on Burnside will be remembered for years to come.
Madison Young
Sleep Centre Manager - Sleep Centre
Madison joined Burnside Hospital in 2021 as the Sleep Centre Manager, and from the start, she knew it was the right fit. "Burnside is known for its excellence in the sleep industry, and I saw it as a step forward in my career," she says. However, it’s the hospital’s culture that truly stands out for her. "I feel a sense of pride every morning when I put my uniform on. The workplace culture here is second to none."
For Madison, the most rewarding part of her job is seeing the immediate, life-changing results for patients. "Sleep health is such an important part of a person’s overall well-being, and being part of a team that helps people lead healthier lives is incredibly gratifying." Her dedication to patient care is clear, and she’s proud to be part of a team that tailors unique care plans for each individual. "We really listen to our patients and make sure they get the best possible care."
Beyond patient care, what makes Burnside so special to Madison is the camaraderie within her team. "We’re a close-knit unit. The support and loyalty we share with one another makes all the difference," she says. "It’s refreshing to see everyone helping each other out. It’s one of the things that makes Burnside such a great place to work."
Looking ahead, Madison is excited about the future growth of the hospital and the opportunity to expand the Sleep Unit. "Burnside is growing, and that means more opportunities to help more people. I’m thrilled to be part of that journey."
Jency George
Registered Nurse - Oncology
Jency joined Burnside Hospital in March 2013, drawn to oncology for the opportunity to support people and their families during such a vulnerable time, and inspired by the hospital’s strong reputation for compassionate, patient-centred care. For Jency, the most rewarding part of the job is making a real difference in someone’s cancer journey, whether it’s guiding a patient through treatment or offering comfort through a smile, reassurance, or simply listening. A memory that stands out is when a patient’s family thanked her for the calm she brought to their loved one during chemotherapy, a reminder of how powerful nursing can be beyond the clinical side.
Jency strives to treat each patient as an individual, creating a safe and reassuring environment through clear communication, humour, and presence. “I will never forget one patient who told me, ‘You made me feel human again,’” Jency recalls, “and that’s something I carry with me.” This same sense of care is reflected in her team, who she describes as a second family, always supportive, quick to step in, and ready to share a laugh. Patients notice that teamwork, and it builds a sense of trust and calm.
While oncology can be emotionally challenging, Jency has learned to lean on her colleagues, debrief when needed, and focus on the positive impact they make every day. Since joining Burnside, she has grown not only in her clinical skills but also in resilience, empathy, and leadership. Looking ahead, Jency is excited by the future of oncology care, with new treatments, more personalised approaches, and a growing focus on survivorship. “I look forward to continuing to grow alongside the department and supporting patients through every step of their journey.”
Your career
at Burnside
With an uncompromising commitment to patient care and our dedication to nurturing a dynamic, team orientated, collegial environment, Burnside Hospital is truly a great place to work.