Saving lives and chasing tries

By Isis Symes

Townsville local Siân Williams is entering the home stretch of her Bachelor of Paramedicine degree – all while preparing to run out in Cowboys colours in the 2026 NRLW season.

Born and raised in Townsville and a graduate of William Ross State High School, Siân is the first in her immediate family to attend university. 

Her pathway to higher education began with CQUniversity’s Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) program, which she completed before commencing her degree.

“I didn’t transition directly from high school to university - so STEPS gave me the foundation I needed,” she said. 

“It really helped me become familiar with the online learning environment. Having that knowledge made the move into my degree much smoother.”

Now in her third and final year, Siân says her motivation to study paramedicine stemmed from a deep desire to help others during life’s most vulnerable moments.

“I’ve always been drawn to careers where I can directly help people in meaningful ways,” she said. 

“Being able to support someone during one of the most frightening moments of their life is incredibly powerful. Whether it’s providing immediate medical care, offering reassurance, or simply being a calm presence - that opportunity to make a difference is what drives me.”

Siân said she was particularly energised by the dynamic nature of the profession.

“No two days are the same. It challenges you to think critically and apply your knowledge in unpredictable environments. I’m drawn to the fast-paced, high-pressure situations that require quick thinking and problem-solving – but at the core of it all is compassionate patient care.”

Siân says hands-on learning has been critical in preparing her for a healthcare career, especially as a self-described kinaesthetic learner.

“Healthcare is such a people-focused and dynamic field – you can’t rely on theory alone. Practical learning builds your clinical skills, but also your communication, teamwork and decision-making under pressure. It bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world practice.”

Siân said her favourite parts of the course so far had been clinical placements and residential schools, where she was able to apply theory in real-life settings across both Townsville and Cairns.

While her degree is delivered fully online, Siân has regularly accessed CQUniversity’s Townsville campus facilities and said she valued being able to complete residential schools locally – something she says makes balancing study and elite sport possible.

That balance will be tested later this year after Siân was drafted into the North Queensland Cowboys NRLW squad.

“Honestly, it’s something I struggle to put into words,” she said about the selection. 

“I was genuinely surprised and pretty emotional when I got the call. To represent the club that I’ve supported my whole life feels incredibly meaningful. It feels like I’m representing my community and the people who have supported me.”

Having only begun her rugby league journey in 2023, Siân described herself as relatively new to the game – making her rapid rise all the more remarkable.

Balancing professional sport with full-time study is no easy feat. 

During her second year, while competing at a semi-professional level, Siân often completed assessments and caught up on coursework while travelling to games.

“There were times I was studying on the bus or plane, but that’s just what comes with it - everyone has hectic lives,” she said. 

“I was proud of what I achieved and incredibly grateful for the support from my club, teammates, family and the university.”

Siân credits CQUniversity’s flexible online delivery and its Elite Athlete Program for helping her manage competing commitments.

“Effective time management, organisation and determination will be key this year. I’m passionate about both my academic and sporting careers and want to give my best to each.”

Looking ahead, Siân said she hoped to remain in the region after graduating - drawn to the rewarding nature of regional placements in both Townsville and Cairns. 

However, she acknowledges her rugby league career may also influence her next move.

For now, she remains focused on finishing strong – both on the field and in the classroom.

“I won’t take a single second for granted,” she said. 

“Whether it’s in an ambulance or on the football field, I want to keep learning, growing and giving everything I have.”