DJ NUM
When talking with patients, Acting Nurse Unit Manager Andrew Nielsen from Sutherland Hospital never struggles for conversation topics, as patients find the 26 year old nurse fascinating.
“I’m a male nurse, which is a talking point in an industry dominated by women, I’m 6 foot 5 inches tall, which people always notice and I work as a DJ as my second job, so there is always something interesting to talk about,” Mr Nielsen said.
Becoming a nurse was a natural choice for Mr Nielsen, who became interested in health while learning first aid as a volunteer surf lifesaver and was drawn to nursing due to his caring nature. However, nursing wasn’t his first career as he began working as a DJ while he was in high school.
“Nursing and DJing are so different from each other but they are both passions of mine and I love them both,” Mr Nielsen said.
Luckily, the two roles have been able to come together at Sutherland Hospital.
“It started when the hospital organised a huge farewell for Mrs Davison’s retirement and after that more people in the hospital knew I was a DJ. From then I was asked to DJ at hospital barbeques and events, including the Music on the Lawn events.”
Music on the Lawn is a wellness initiative the Sutherland Hospital Executive Team created during COVID-19 lockdowns. Staff were encouraged to spend their lunch breaks outside on the front lawn of the hospital and listen to music while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.
Vicki Weeden, General Manager, Sutherland Hospital, said the events were incredibly successful.
“The Music on the Lawn events were designed to provide staff with an escape from their hectic work day and give them something fun to experience at a time when none of us could enjoy things like live music and dance clubs,” Ms Weeden said.
Known as DJ Nielsen in the music industry, he said he felt honoured to be able to contribute to his fellow staff members’ wellbeing by playing a pivotal role as DJ.
“I absolutely loved these events during lockdown, it was a great way for staff to take a breather while enjoying some sunshine and tunes,” he said.
Mr Nielsen will be spinning his decks at another important event for Sutherland Hospital at the end of June, as part of the entertainment at the hospital’s Fundraising Gala event.
“I’m really looking forward to the Fundraiser, it’s a great opportunity to raise funds for the hospital and I’m very honoured to be a part of the event.”
Sutherland Hospital’s Fundraising Gala will be held on Saturday 25 June at the St George Motor Boat Club.
To purchase a table and see DJ Nielsen at the event, contact Naomi Dean or Lisa Black on seslhd-engagetsh@health.nsw.gov.au
