Returning to work after having a child is often challenging. It was for Victorian Institute of Sport physiotherapist, Jacqui Gurr.
However, for Gurr a recent return to work after giving birth to daughter Lily has also been empowering and stimulating and not nearly as anguished as she was anticipating.
It has, she says, helped her maintain her identity beyond motherhood, making her feel more fulfilled both at work and at home.
Can you share your experience of returning to work as a mum?
“It allows me to pursue goals I had before becoming a mum,” Gurr says.
“I feel like I’m the best version of myself at work now, and the best version of myself as a mum.
“If I have a hard day at work … I get to come home to a beautiful face that lights up when she sees me. Likewise, if I have a challenging night at home, the balance comes from walking into a workplace that’s supportive and understands these challenges.”
In what ways did the VIS help your transition back to work?
“I had open discussions with my boss, Steve Hawkins, and the Director of People and Community, Daniel Simons, about balancing motherhood and work. Those conversations helped me determine what I wanted and felt comfortable with as a new mum.
“Small gestures from my colleagues kept me connected to the VIS family. While on maternity leave I was included in social events, staff meetings, and professional development days, and invited her to bring my daughter to work.
“When I came back, it didn’t feel like I had had nine months’ leave. I felt like I was there the whole time.”
What advice would you give to mums who are considering returning to work?
“I think it is essential to have a team that uplifts you, believes in you, and supports you in achieving your goals. Learning to ask for help is essential and being transparent and honest with your colleagues important. For you and them – it fosters a healthier work environment.
“You can absolutely have a career in high performance sport and be a really good mum at the same time, but that's not without a supportive team of friends and family around you.”
How did becoming a mother change your perspective on work and career aspirations?
“Becoming a mother... made me realise that my actual goal is to be the best clinician I can be.
“The additional benefits that we get from these sorts of roles, like attending major benchmark events, they're just bonuses … If I get to do that, fantastic. But if I don't, I’m still fulfilled going home to a beautiful daughter, family and husband that I love.”
“My focus has shifted from career milestones to excelling in my current role. I prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on completing key tasks within realistic timeframes.
“I think being a Mum has also made me realise that I am always learning. I find I’m motivated to ask more questions, something that is helping me be a more effective clinician and better at helping athletes reach their goals.”
What work arrangements helped you balance everything?
“I was supported with 'keeping in touch days', which helped me adjust gradually.
As I transitioned to full-time work, workplace flexibility and ongoing support, including the option to work from home for admin tasks, made balancing responsibilities manageable. The casual coffee conversations with Steve and my colleagues allowed me to reflect on my progress and regularly reassess my goals as I transitioned back into the workplace.
"I always thought I’d return part-time. But the flexible arrangements and VIS culture enabled me to come back full-time in a way I wasn't sure would be possible.”
What are you the proudest of?
“I’m very proud of the supportive teams I have at home and work, which allow me to excel as both a mother and clinician.
“I never thought I could go to Europe before the Olympics to help the VIS athletes prepare when Lily wasn't even one. But the support from the VIS, my boss, husband, and family made it possible.”
