Tasmanian Health Organisation North nursing executive director Helen Bryan said they would welcome 42 nurses in January and April, with more to start mid-year.

In-patient facilities at Deloraine, George Town, Beaconsfield, Campbell Town, St Helens, St Marys and Scottsdale will all receive graduates, as well as the Launceston General Hospital.

Ms Bryan said the THO had taken on eight more graduate nurses than it did the same time last year, thanks in part to a state government election commitment to increase transition to practice placements.

‘‘We’ll have hopefully some more positions next year, and with a bit of luck, depending on what numbers we get, we can hopefully include Flinders Island,’’ she said.

Allison O’Halloran, of Launceston, said she was excited but nervous to start her 12-month placement at Beaconsfield District Health Service next week after three years of study at University of Tasmania.

‘‘Starting a new job, starting a new career – all of it’s quite nerve-wracking,’’ Ms O’Halloran said.

‘‘Beaconsfield was one of my preferences, and I just thought it would be really good being in a small community.’’

Deloraine District Hospital nurse unit manager Brigid Riall said staff were very excited to welcome their first graduate in more than 15 years, as they knew they could offer a wonderful placement.