The reputation of Tamworth Hospital has lured in a record number of medical interns this year with 20 young doctors joining the fold on Friday.
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The doctors will be entering into their first year of full time medical work after nominating Tamworth through the Rural Preferential Recruitment program, which will see them stationed here for the next 24 months rotating through specialties.
Dom Horne grew up near Wee Waa before going to school at Farrer, and jumped at the opportunity to return “to the bush”, while Newcastle’s Grace Cousin’s was blown away by the allure of the hospital and town.
“I came here last year for training just to do something different but never thought I would ever want to leave Newcastle,” she said.
“I was actually a bit surprised – the hospital is incredible and the senior doctors are so keen to pass on their knowledge, while socially it has been so easy to settle in.
“I would 100 per cent like to stay here when I finish.”
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Dr Horne agreed that the new Tamworth Hospital offered a perfect place to train, and has been looking forward to living closer to his family and friends in the country.
“I always knew that I wanted to be back in the bush somewhere,” he said.
“Tamworth offers a great training pathway – I will have to move away to finish my training after the two years are up but ideally I would like to return and stay.”
Hunter New England Health executive Susan Heyman said the record intake speaks volumes of the hospital's growing reputation.
“Most of this year’s interns have chosen to return to Tamworth after completing placement here, which speaks volumes about their experiences,” she said.
“Many of them are also from Tamworth, or nearby, and are excited about the opportunity to strengthen the rural and regional workforce.”
