WIDE Bay remains a key hub for regional medical training, with 33 new medical interns joining the Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service (WBHHS) for their hands-on learning experience.
The interns include 15 based in the Fraser Coast and 18 in Bundaberg, where they will spend the next 12 months working under the guidance of senior clinicians.
WBHHS Chief Operating Officer Ben Ross Edwards congratulated the new interns, emphasising the importance of nurturing local medical talent.
“Building and developing our own medical workforce is a key goal in our strategic plan,” he said.
“Our annual intern program is vital as we guide doctors in the early stages of their careers.”
At Hervey Bay Hospital, the interns are beginning their orientation program in mid-January, which includes familiarisation with local hospitals, services, and procedures.
Over the next year, they will rotate through key areas such as medicine, surgery, emergency medicine, and specialties like obstetrics, anaesthetics, and mental health.
Ross Edwards highlighted the value of having two interns who grew up locally, underscoring the connection to the community.
“Having young doctors return to their hometowns is not only professionally exciting but also beneficial for the local community.”
Fraser Coast Director of Clinical Training, Dr John Inderhaug, noted that the comprehensive orientation program is crucial for preparing the interns for their clinical roles.
“They will receive training in prescribing, medication safety, and advanced life support, among other skills, before starting their rotations,” he said.
Dr Joelle Cullen, one of the new interns at Hervey Bay, shared her excitement about returning to the region where she completed third and fourth-year placements.
Originally from Biloela, Dr Cullen is eager to contribute to the local healthcare teams.
“I’ve always been focused on regional healthcare, and now I’m excited to give back to the community that supported my training,” she said.
WBHHS is optimistic that investing in the development of these new doctors will strengthen healthcare services across the region for years to come.
