In rural and remote Australia, medical care can be limited, with distance making it difficult for emergency health services to arrive quickly. And Dr Alex Sleeman was right where it was needed – being on the scene minutes after an accident providing critical care.

It is hard to remember the fear and the uncertainty that we all felt at the time of the outbreak of COVID. But in hospitals the fear was palpable. And even more so, for rural hospitals where the loss of one doctor or nurse could result in the closure of the hospital. Rural Doctors Foundation was able to alleviate this fear by equipping over 180 hospitals with Medihoods.

In the world of emergency medical care, having the right equipment at the right time can be crucial. This is particularly so in rural areas.

Dr Louise Stone didn’t follow a planned career path; she followed her curiosity and the problems she wanted to solve, building an impressive career across multiple fields. The Rural Doctors Foundation is proud to welcome her as Medical Director.

Ainsley Kennedy discovered nursing through a desire for variety, finding purpose in patient care, supportive teams, and continual learning, despite challenges like self-doubt and burnout shaping her evolving, rewarding career journey.

A new Ear Loupe and suction system at Biloela Medical Centre is transforming ear care - providing gentler, more comfortable treatment and improving access for rural patients.