The enthusiastic group of medical students representing various medical schools, and passionate about rural life and medicine, participated in the ‘Not on Your Own’ workshop and showcase, hosted by the Riverina Regional Training Hub, part of the University of Notre Dame Australia’s Rural Clinical School.
The event involved students from NSW and Victoria, and emphasised the strong sense of community in rural healthcare, showing that even in smaller towns like Finley, healthcare providers are never truly alone in delivering care.
The workshop highlighted the unique opportunities rural medicine offers, from collaborative healthcare to connecting deeply with local communities.
The weekend began at the Finley Health Campus, where students were welcomed to country by local elder Aunty Norma Gowans.
Dr Alam Yoosuff introduced them to the new Finley Medical Centre and told his story from his arrival in Finley and his collaboration with his community.
At Finley Regional Care, participants expanded their geriatric medicine knowledge under the guidance of Dr Maddie Andrews and Ruth Hayne.
A mental health session led by Dr Katrina De Marco and Jane Colwill complemented these insights, further enriching the students' understanding of rural healthcare.
On Sunday, students enjoyed a warm and personal welcome at the home of Jenny and Michael Philpot, with homemade cooking and great coffee adding a special touch.
Finley Local Health Advisory Committee chair Helen McRae and fellow members shared their insights into community health advocacy and collaboration.
Their stories, along with those of Dr Yoosuff, underscored the profound sense of purpose and camaraderie that defines rural healthcare.
Notre Dame Rural Clinical School Associate Dean Prof Michael Brydon, who is also director of the Riverina Regional Training Hub, emphasised how important these events are for medical students.
“We create these opportunities so students can form a very real understanding of how their skills as doctors can contribute to better health outcomes for regional Australia and how satisfying working in medicine as part of a rural team can be,” he said.
He thanked the Finley community for their warm and generous welcome.
As the workshop concluded, the students left Finley inspired and better equipped to embrace the challenges and joys of rural medicine.
Their journey into regional healthcare continues, shaped by a deeper appreciation for the communities they hope to serve.
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