Finding a New Home in Griffith

When Jodie McLellan accepted a paramedic position with NSW Ambulance, relocating to Griffith meant more than starting a job. After changing careers from nursing and completing her paramedicine degree in Port Macquarie, she chose Griffith for its services, community connections and familiar rural lifestyle.

As a single mother of two, including a daughter requiring additional learning support, Jodie received prompt support from a Local Connector. Practical advice on rentals, real estate contacts, school catchments, education options and community services helped her secure accommodation during the competitive holiday period and reduce relocation stress.

Today, Jodie lives minutes from work and her children’s schools. Her daughter is thriving with appropriate learning support, while her son participates in Griffith City Band and school music programs. Greater work-life balance gives the family more time together, and Jodie volunteers with Grow Our Own industry tours to promote paramedicine careers.

“Be open-minded about giving the community time,” Jodie says. “Griffith has been welcoming, and the support made the move easier.”