This month I am joined by Sam Morey Scholarship inaugural recipient Ellie-Mae Angliss. The Sam Morey Scholarship was established in 2025, founded and administered by Footscape, and supported financially through donations from friends, family and local businesses, in celebration and loving memory of the late, Sam Morey.
The Scholarship provides opportunities for eligible La Trobe University fourth year Podiatry students to apply for $1000 and help achieve their goals of completing a clinical placement in the Northern Territory. Ellie-Mae reflects upon her recent student clinical placement at Alice Springs Hospital.
“My four-week Podiatry placement in the Northern Territory was a valuable experience that challenged me both clinically and personally. Working in Alice Springs exposed me to a healthcare environment that was very different from what I had previously experienced in Melbourne. The placement provided me with opportunities to develop my clinical skills while also gaining a greater understanding of the social, cultural and geographical factors that influence healthcare access and outcomes.
One of the most significant aspects of my placement was working with patients from remote communities, some of whom travelled up to several hours to access healthcare. This highlighted the importance of considering the individual circumstances of each patient when developing a management plan. I learnt that although a treatment may be considered the clinical “gold standard”, it may not always be practical or appropriate for a patient’s lifestyle, responsibilities or access to follow-up care. This encouraged me to think more holistically and develop management plans that were realistic and patient-centred.
The placement also strengthened my understanding of culturally safe care. I observed the importance of listening to patients, building trust and taking the time to understand their individual needs and experiences. I learnt that communication is not simply about providing information, but also about ensuring that the patient feels respected, heard and involved in their care. This experience made me reflect on the importance of avoiding assumptions and recognising that patients may have had previous experiences that influence their trust in healthcare.
Clinically, I was able to further develop my skills in wound management, neurovascular assessment, offloading and general podiatric care. I also became more confident in adapting my clinical approach to different presentations and circumstances. At times, the placement was challenging due to logistical and environmental factors, but these challenges encouraged me to become more adaptable and resourceful.
Overall, my time in the Northern Territory has had a significant impact on the type of Podiatrist I want to become. This experience has made it clear to me that I want to work in public health. I have developed a greater appreciation for culturally safe, patient-centred care and flexible healthcare. The experience has reinforced that effective Podiatry extends beyond treating a physical condition, it involves understanding the person, their environment and the factors that influence their ability to engage with healthcare. I will carry these lessons forward into my future clinical practice.”
Anthony Lewis
Chief Executive Officer