Welcome!
We hope you enjoy exploring the conference information below.
If you would like to secure your place or have any further questions please complete the enquiry form or contact the team from Education at Sea, our conference partners, on:
- 02 7908 7774
- [email protected]
IMPORTANT
Christmas Cruises Sell Fast — Don’t Miss Out! Historically, Christmas-time cruises book out fast — and this will be no different.
If you’d love to be part of this fantastic Cruise Conference, all you need is a small deposit to secure your spot. The best part? You can pay the rest off over time. Easy!
What’s So Good About Waking Up on Christmas Day on a Cruise Ship?
No cooking. No cleaning. No chaos. Your only job is to roll out of bed and decide between eggs benedict or pancakes (or have both!). The crew’s handling the feast, not you.
No family drama (unless you packed them). You can choose your company, set your own pace, and avoid the usual Christmas stress—no awkward uncles, no political debates at the table, just sunshine and serenity.
Join us for Christmas! Bring your family and friends that you want to spend Christmas with. They get to enjoy the ship while you spend time at the conference. Once the conference day is finished you can spend the rest of the time with them or in the day spa – your choice!! How fabulous!
what this conference is about
This conference explores the social, emotional, and behavioural factors that influence patient presentations during high-pressure periods, particularly the festive season.
While holidays may seem cheerful on the surface, for many patients, they trigger isolation, grief, financial stress, medication non-adherence, or escalating mental health issues.
Across 18 hours of CPD, nurses will gain practical clinical insight into these often-overlooked influences. With a strong focus on assessment, communication, critical thinking, and risk recognition, this conference prepares nurses to respond safely and compassionately to the complexity behind the presentation.
Who should attend:
- Registered and enrolled nurses in acute, aged care, community, and mental health settings
- Nurse practitioners and clinical leaders
Conference Learning Outcomes
At this conference, you will:
- Identify common health risks and social stressors that escalate during high-pressure periods, including social isolation, medication non-adherence, financial strain, and emotional distress, and explain how these influence patient presentation and outcomes.
- Apply clinically appropriate strategies to assess and respond to complex patient needs where psychosocial factors (e.g. grief, substance use, family conflict) impact health behaviour, safety, and continuity of care.
- Demonstrate enhanced communication skills for managing emotionally charged interactions with patients, carers, and families, including strategies for de-escalation, advocacy, and boundary-setting in high-stress environments.
- Incorporate critical thinking and sound clinical judgement when navigating competing priorities in practice, using real-world scenarios to support safe decision-making, accurate documentation, and compassionate, patient-centred care.
Not your typical Nursing CPD Conference
Our Presenters:
Sue Walker
RN, BN, BN (ADMIN), MPHC, MACN, Specialist Nurse Educator
Sue is the director and co-founder of the Nurses for Nurses Network. Sue is a key contributor to the online education platform Nursing CPD – a Continuing Professional Development platform to assist Nurses in meeting their annual CPD requirements.
As a Registered Nurse, Sue holds Degrees in both Nursing & Health Administration, a Masters Degree in Public Health, as well as a number of certificate courses in Psychiatry of Ageing, Gerontology, Chemotherapy Administration, & Training & Assessment. She is also an Accredited Mental Health First Aid Trainer, Mindfulness Practitioner, & Clinical Supervisor.
Sue has extensive experience as a clinician, educator, & senior manager. She has presented at local & international conferences on many topics including, key issues in healthcare, such as the psychological impact of the work that Nurses do & how the work requirements to deliver healthcare impact the health of the clinician. Other topics presented comprise of Nursing Leadership, Emergency Management, Mental health, Aged Care, Advanced Life Support, Assertiveness, Grief & Loss, & Workplace Bullying.
Sue is passionate about making a difference in how the community & Nurses experience the healthcare system.
“Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system & work in difficult environments that can take advantage of their commitment to ensuring the best possible care is delivered. To continue to meet professional & community expectations Nurses & Midwives need to acknowledge their unique contribution to health care delivery & assert their collective strength to safeguard the community & ensure their ongoing professional needs are recognised & met.
Healthcare should be delivered by competent, knowledgeable individuals to ensure the best possible experience for the recipient of that care. Nursing is a fabulous profession. The knowledge & skill of the individual Nurse will have the greatest influence on the happiness & health outcomes of each & every client”.
Conference Program:
The Conference is delivered in two formats in the spirit of adult learning. The live presentations are delivered in the Conference Room, and the online library is open one month before the actual Conference dates. The library is an essential component of the entire Conference program.
The library consists of Conference material supplied by the Presenter/s, which can include any of the following:
- Research documents
- Links to external information
- Recorded Conference presentations
- Electronic Notepads
The research documents and recorded Conference presentations form part of the Continuing Professional Development activities. They are delivered to you before the commencement date so you can start your Conference Program early. If you choose not to undertake these activities prior, there is a two-week window post the Conference where the library remains open to you. You can also undertake the library activities during the actual Conference.
Below is a snapshot of the Conference Program
Day One:
19 Dec 26 | Depart Brisbane
1530: We set Sail – make sure you are on deck to say bon voyage.
1800 – 1900: Conference Registration and Welcome Function
Day Two:
20 Dec 26 | Conference Day
Face to Face Sessions included today:
- Tis the Season for Complexity: What Patients Bring to the Bedside
- Silent Risks: How Social Isolation and Loneliness Affect Health Outcomes
- When Stress Becomes Clinical: Identifying Red Flags in Behaviour and Body
- Clinician Protect Thyself – Don’t Absorb It: How to Keep Other People’s Stress from Becoming Yours
Afternoon Self-directed via the Online Library
- Webinar: Understanding Grief in Unexpected Places: Not Every Loss is Obvious
- Webinar: Documentation and Decision-Making: Protecting Patients and Ourselves
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day Three:
21 Dec 26 | Conference Day
Morning Self-directed via the Online Library
- Webinar: Deterioration of the Mental Health Status of Patients: Recognising Symptoms and Nursing Interventions
- Webinar: Assertiveness and Personal Boundaries
Face to Face Session included today:
- Substance Use and Domestic Violence: When the Holidays Hurt
- Money, Meds, and Meals: The Cost-of-Living Crisis at the Bedside
- Managing the Family Fallout: Carers, Conflicts, and Clinical Clashes
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day four:
22 Dec 26 | Noumea, New Caledonia
0800 – 1700: Explore this port at your leisure.
Sunny Noumea is a vibrant mix of cultures and energy that’s hard not to love. As the capital of New Caledonia, it boasts some of the best weather in the South Pacific and a lively city vibe to match. Its rich cultural heritage comes alive in its museums, theaters, and art galleries—don’t miss the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre to dive into traditional Kanak culture. For stunning views of the island’s lush palms, hibiscus, and coconut trees, climb to the top of Noumea Cathedral.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day five:
23 Dec 26 | Mystery Island, Vanuatu
0800 – 1700: Explore this port at your leisure.
Mystery Island is like stepping into a storybook, untouched by modern life. There’s no electricity, no roads, and no phones—just peace and quiet. You can walk around the whole island in about 30 minutes and soak in its beauty at your own pace. Only locals from nearby Aneityum and a few visitors ever make it here, so it feels like a true escape. Stroll along the soft white sands, swim in the warm, crystal-clear waters, and snorkel to explore an underwater world that’s as pure as it gets.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day sIX:
24 Dec 26 | Port Villa, Vanuatu
0800 – 1700: Explore this port at your leisure
In Port Vila, Vanuatu’s energetic capital, you’ll be greeted by friendly Bislama-speaking locals and bustling street-side markets. Discover the hidden waterfalls of the Mele Cascades, nestled in the lush rainforest of Mele village, with plenty of gently sloping hiking trails to explore.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day sEVEN:
25 Dec 26 | Christmas Day
- Start the day with a coffee on deck, sea breeze in your hair, and the kind of calm that’s usually missing from Christmas morning. Enjoy this day with your friends and family.
1730 – 1830: Networking Session
Day Eight:
26 Dec 26 | Conference Day
Face to Face Session included today:
- The Art of Noticing: Enhancing Clinical Observation and Assessment
- Keeping It Human: Compassionate Care in a Complex World
Self-directed via the Online Library
- Webinar: When the Behaviour Is the Symptom: Clinical Reasoning in Agitation and Escalation
- Webinar: Culture, Celebration and Care: Being Mindful of Diverse Beliefs in High-Stress Periods
- Dementia, Delirium and Depression: What’s the Difference
1800 – 1900: Farewell Function
Day Nine:
27 Dec 26 | Arrive Brisbane
0630: Disembark – Safe Travels!
Inclusions
- An extensive Conference program based on current best practice
- Education content that meets the same exacting standards as anything offered in an Australian land-based program
- Conference Presenter who is excited to be able to share her skill, knowledge, and passion with Conference Attendees
- An online Conference library filled to the brim with educational content that allows you to create your own learning experience by completing pre-conference education activities
- A Registration Reception including complimentary drinks where you can meet other Conference Attendees and network with Conference Convenors and Conference Presenters
- A Conference pack that includes pen and lanyard (this is important on a cruise ship to attach your room key, which becomes your lifeline on a ship)
- The opportunity to meet as a group in various Conference Networking sessions, in one of the many fabulous locations on the ship
- A complimentary Farewell Function held on the last night of the Conference to celebrate new friendships and information gained
- A Conference Transcript that identifies each session held at the Conference, including the session synopsis and session presenters
- A Certificate of Completion identifying the CPD hours attached to the Conference Program for you to include in your CPD Evidence Portfolio
Disclaimer: The opinions and statements of facts expressed in the Papers in these proceedings are those of the Authors and do not necessarily represent those of the Nurses for Nurses Network (NfNN), the editors, the organising committee or the supporters of this conference. No responsibility can be accepted by the organisers for errors or omissions in the individual papers. Sessions are correct at time of publication. Sessions are subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond the control of the organisers. NfNN reserves the right to alter charges, cancel, postpone, change or withdraw the product or service at any time.
Registration Costs
$990.00
Please Note: Conference registration does not include accommodation or travel costs.
What are you waiting for?
This is a fabulous program – to secure your place at this Conference simply contact Education at Sea to find out about all the cabin options available.
Once you have paid your deposit, your registration is confirmed, and you can start planning your Conference getaway.
What are you waiting for?
Send Education at Sea a no obligation enquiry by filling in the form at the top of the page.
Need more info or a personalised quote?
The Nurses for Nurses Network strongly recommends customers take out travel insurance at the time of registration for an event to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may prevent them attending and thus incurring any financial loss.
The Venue:
Carnival Encounter
The Carnival Encounter is a vibrant, family-friendly cruise ship offering fun-filled holidays across stunning destinations. With exciting onboard entertainment, diverse dining options, and activities for all ages—from waterslides and live shows to relaxing spa treatments—it’s the perfect escape for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation at sea.
Let's talk about your accommodation
Unwind in a blend of style and intelligent sophistication. Our contemporary interior staterooms feature amenities such as a TV, a comfortable sitting area, and more.
Simply unpack and let the relaxation begin. Your dedicated room steward will ensure your space is cleaned and organized daily, leaving you with the simple task of getting dressed, grabbing your bag, and embarking on your adventure.
Dining Options
The foodie in you is just waiting to be awakened and delighted, and what better way than on this cruise filled with mouth-watering main dishes, irresistible desserts, and deliciousness at every turn.
With plenty of choices, the only question is: where do you even begin?
unwind And De-Stress
There are moments when you crave an escape, even from the joys of vacation. We get it – it might be a bit tricky to grasp while lounging at home, but take our word for it – having a dedicated space to unwind after a day of adventures is truly a blissful experience.
Step into a realm meticulously crafted for relaxation, from the very foundation. The Cloud 9 Spa team consists of experts (or perhaps, more fittingly, artists) skilled in the art of simply helping you chill out.
Experience a live show
Seize the opportunity to sample the array of onboard entertainment, activities, bars, and more, ensuring that when you embark on your cruise, you're fully prepared to immerse yourself in the excitement.
From captivating stage shows and laughter-filled comedy bars to vibrant live music and lively karaoke sessions, the onboard entertainment options are as diverse as they are delightful.
How Do I dress on a cruise?
Most cruise lines offer a casual atmosphere onboard. Casual attire is the norm during the day, and there is no formal dress code at night. However, many passengers choose to change into something slightly less casual for dinner.
At least once per sailing, during which passengers are encouraged to dress up. While you rarely see tuxedos or evening gowns, suits and cocktail dresses are quite common.
Additionally, ships usually host several themed nights, such as White Parties, '70s, or '80s Night, Hawaiian or even Mexican during each sailing. It’s a good idea to bring along a few themed items.
NB: Closer to your sail date you will be able to see what the exact theme nights are being held via your cruise companies app.
faqs
Can I Bring the Family?
Because a cruise is a fabulous holiday experience, your family and friends can join you on your CPD Travel adventure.
Whilst you are attending lectures, there are many activities to keep them busy, including an exceptional kid's club program.
Talk to the Team at Education at Sea, and they can organise all your and your travelling companion's travel arrangements.
What if I need kid-free time?
If you only want to mix with adults, most ships have an adults-only area, with entry only available to people over 18.
Guests will jump for joy upon discovering this private retreat where they can connect with the ocean - and disconnect from everything else.
Can you give me some tips on Cruising?
We sure can! Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or this is your first time onboard a cruise ship, our Ultimate Guide to Cruising is sure to have some valuable tips and advice to ensure you have a fantastic time on this Travel CPD adventure.
Can you organise for me to share a room with someone?
We can't promise - but we can pop your name on a waiting list, and if another person asks the same question, we can put you in contact with each other, and you can decide if you are compatible with sharing a cabin.
Contact the fabulous people at Education at Sea on 02 7908 7774 for more information.
CPD Conference Partner
Education at Sea
Education at Sea is an Australian business founded by experienced Nurses who wanted to offer a better alternative for CPD education for their fellow Nurses.
Cruise your way
to professional development
WHAT OUR ATTENDEES HAD TO SAY
Sue has a fantastic presentation style, using language that we could all understand and also using real-world scenarios to underpin the concepts being taught.
Helen
The conference topics were very relevant and interesting. The presenter, Sue who was running the sessions was awesome. She was professional and interesting to listen too involving the audience. It was great to mix pleasure with learning and not to feel the pressure of attending a conference.
Margaret
Sue was very confident, knowledgable, approachable and engaging. It was empowering to be able to glean relevant information to go on and feel confident in assisting mental health sufferers.
Tracy
I always enjoy Sue Walkers presentations. She is very fabulous at including everyone. I always enjoy Nursing CPD presentations. I’ve been attending since 2011 and have never been disappointed. I look forward to my next adventure in learning and travelling.
Donna
Sue was excellent at delivering the contents across to the participants, she was engaging and encouraging it made time pass much to fast yet managed to incorporate all she wanted to deliver and encourage us to participate in I will be looking forward to my next conference with sue as a lecturer.
Catherine
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