We are change-makers who care deeply about helping rural communities build and keep a strong health workforce
What Makes Us Tick
At Attract Connect Stay, our core mission is to address and overcome the unique challenges faced by rural healthcare and social care services in attracting and retaining skilled professionals. We believe in creating sustainable, thriving rural communities where health professionals [as well as other types of skilled workers relocating from out-of-region] not only want to work but also choose to live and lay down roots. Our passion lies in leveraging place-based, community-engaged, collaborative solutions and innovative strategies to close the gap in rural health access and resources.
Testimonials
Our Story
Founded by Dr. Cath Cosgrave, Attract Connect Stay emerged from ground-breaking research into the multifaceted factors affecting the attraction and retention of health professionals in rural settings. Recognising the critical role of belonging and community integration in retaining newcomer rural-based health professionals, Dr. Cosgrave developed the Attract Connect Stay Framework. This approach has reshaped how rural healthcare and social care workforce challenges are being addressed as well as leading to the development by Dr Cosgrave of the Attract Connect Stay Launchpad Program and the Establishing the Community Connector Program. Our story is one of commitment, innovation, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference in rural healthcare and social care across Australia.
Meet Our Team
Dr. Cath Cosgrave, Founder and Lead Consultant
As an accomplished researcher and Adjunct Research Fellow at QUT, Dr. Cosgrave combines her rigorous academic inquiry with practical solutions to enhance the rural health workforce. Leading the Attract Connect Stay team, she continues to contribute to strengthening the evidence base while guiding the strategic direction of the consultancy group. Her pioneering work not only addresses rural workforce challenges but also enriches rural communities, making her a vital force in the ongoing evolution of rural healthcare and social care in Australia and internationally.
Bim Rutherford, Community Connector Coordinator Coach
With a background in managing the Community Connector Program in Greater Shepparton, Bim applies her expertise in coaching, strategic planning, marketing and community engagement to support our nationwide Community Connector Impact Network’s initiatives.
Dr Anna Moran, ACS consultant from unplex
Anna is a workforce and service re-design expert. Using problem solving and data, Anna enables health and social care organisations deliver more and better care to the individuals and communities they serve. Anna is supporting Attract Connect Stay and the Community Connector Program through data and strategy activities.
Associate Professor Christina Malatzky (PhD), ACS Researcher from QUT
Christina is a sociologist and rural health researcher at QUT with expertise in organisational and rural studies, power analyses and place-conscious research. She is passionate about advancing spatial justice for rural communities and supporting the co-construction of rurally-orientated knowledges.
Peta Thomson, ACS and CCP Consultant from Bullseye Strategic Communications
Peta has headed communications, brand, product and event management divisions in the healthcare, medical equipment, aviation and entertainment sectors. Peta is supporting Attract Connect Stay and the Community Connector Program executing communication strategies and marketing activities.
Jacob Dowlan, IT Systems Administrator from JD Technology Services
Jacob is our “resident IT geek”. With a knack for innovative solutions and a customer-focused approach, he’s adept at navigating and solving diverse IT challenges. His contributions to ACS, including for example building the ACS website and creating a customised CRM for the Community Connector Impact Network, showcase his pivotal role in digitalising and streamlining operations, ensuring the ACS team stays connected and efficient.
Samara McQueston, ACS & CCP Administrative Assistant & Design Specialist
With a background in customer service and a strong foundation in health care administration, Samara provides virtual assistance to support the success of the Attract Connect Stay and Community Connector Programs and assists Dr Cosgrave in preparing resources for the delivery of the ACS training programs as well as online and face-to-face presentations and workshops.
Together, we work closely with rural health services and communities to implement effective, sustainable solutions.
Our Growing List of Clients
Our client list includes a wide range of rural health services, peak rural agencies, local government, NGOS and community organisations that committed to improving the attraction and retention of health professionals in rural areas.
From working with community collaboration to establish their Community Connector Programs or healthcare and social care organisations to embed the Attract Connect Stay Framework, our impact is visible in the thriving rural communities we’ve partnered with.
Our work, endorsed by clients such as Western District Health Service and the Greater Shepparton City Council, showcases the positive change we’re capable of driving in rural healthcare landscapes.
Community Connector Success Stories
Local Connect is part of the Attract, Connect, Stay family, focused on place-based solutions to attract and retain essential workers and their families in Glen Innes and Inverell. The initiative supports the growth of vibrant communities by addressing workforce needs through targeted programs that enhance liveability and community connection.
Welcome to Bundaberg, led by NGO Wide Bay Kids, supports the growing population by fostering connected communities. The initiative drives health, wellbeing, and lifestyle outcomes through community-led strategies. It aims to build a cohesive, inclusive region by enhancing local services and empowering residents to thrive in the Wide Bay area.
The Southern Grampians Community Connector Program is dedicated to strengthening local communities by addressing workforce challenges. Through collaborative efforts, it aims to attract, connect, and retain skilled professionals. This approach supports the growth of vibrant regional hubs while ensuring vital services meet the evolving needs of residents and their families.
The Mid Coast faces challenges in attracting health workforce professionals, impacting local wellbeing. A committed group of community leaders launched strategies to draw, connect, and retain skilled workers. By addressing healthcare shortages, this initiative builds a resilient workforce to meet the region’s growing needs and support the community’s long-term health.
We know the importance to personally welcome and connect new residents to our wonderful community. This is why we have developed the Community Connector Program a FREE service to businesses and new-to-area professionals.
