When I’m asked incredulously by my peers- “why Bathurst”- the answer is so multifaceted it’s hard to put it in one sentence. At first, I saw the placement as a potential escape from my complicated family situation. But after the journey to the first Royal Bathurst Show I attended, I realised that rural medicine had infinities of unique experiences and opportunities to offer. One particular interaction has really stuck with me since then- a little boy proudly showing me his surgical scars from his numerous dirt biking adventures, telling me all about his experiences in hospital and the surgeries he had done. What stood out to me the most from his stories and my conversations about health with every person I have met was the resilience and resourcefulness of every doctor, nurse, paramedic, physiotherapist and community member, and the unique way in which healthcare is a collective endeavour in every regard when you’re rural, despite the relative isolation and lack of access that challenges rural healthcare.

With these inspiring glimpses into rural medicine, it would be the greatest privilege to dedicate as much of myself as possible to the rural clinical school without the additional stress of working alongside university studies as I have been over the last three years as a dental assistant, receptionist, and tutor.

From my research and discussions with clinicians and previous students at Bathurst Base Hospital, the relatively smaller patient load rurally means that it will be imperative to seek opportunities beyond what is required in a metropolitan setting. With an ARH scholarship, I know that I will have the time and energy to fully immerse myself in country life, and learn the skills and knowledge to contribute back to the rural community as a capable doctor. Aside from being able to spend as much time as possible in the hospital, it would also allow me to invest effort into my involvement with RHUWS and my position at the WSU Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society to gain a better understanding of how to tackle the adversities currently facing rural health, especially relating to women’s health and obstetrics.

Furthermore, I would love the opportunity to participate in the wonderful events organised by the Bathurst Rotary Club and be more involved with the local community to learn about their perspectives and observations about healthcare. The advantages of practising medicine rurally are undeniable to me, and I have been considering undertaking post-graduate training at a rural hospital since first year. Being a scholarship recipient will allow me to demonstrate my dedication to rural health, and help to build the foundation for a career serving the communities that serve Australia most.