As 2025 comes to a close, I just want to take a moment to say a genuine thank you for everything you do for rural, remote, and First Nations communities.

This year has really shown—again—just how vital Rural Generalists (RGs) are to Australia’s healthcare system. As RGs, you’re clinicians, emergency responders, proceduralists, leaders, teachers, advocates… and often the first, and sometimes the only, point of care in your communities. You step into whatever role is needed, whenever it’s needed, and that kind of commitment really defines the very best of our profession. 

It’s been a year of big wins for RG Medicine and for ACRRM. 

We achieved formal recognition for RG Medicine, which is a huge milestone. We welcomed more registrars into Fellowship than previous years. And across the College, we’ve continued to kick goals—strengthening and expanding RG training in the regions, improving systems and programs, and advocating for a stronger, more sustainable profession. These actions and achievements truly are a collective effort, and I want to thank everyone who’s been part of that momentum. 

We’ve also grown our community and leadership opportunities. 

We held our first Supervisors Summit in Sydney, recognising the vital role supervisors play in shaping the future of RG training. We ran our first Emerging Leaders Conference on Rottnest Island in WA, helping the next generation of ACRRM RGs step confidently into leadership and representative roles.  

And of course, in October many of us came together for a fantastic RMA in Boorloo (Perth)—an energising, enjoyable few days that really showed the depth and passion of our RG community, locally, nationally, and internationally. 

Looking ahead, I’m optimistic. 

We’re building a strong calendar of member events for 2026, including the new Symposium for Rural Generalist Anaesthetists in Adelaide in February, and we’re working hard to bring our growing courses program as close to home for you as possible. With ongoing collaboration, strong advocacy, and the passion that defines our College, we’ll keep building a system that helps you continue delivering the high-quality care rural, remote, and First Nations communities deserve. 

But before we get too far ahead, I also want to acknowledge that this year hasn’t been easy for everyone. The demands on RGs remain significant, and the load can be heavy. So, as we head into the holiday season, I really encourage you to take whatever time you can to rest, reconnect, and recharge. Your wellbeing matters—to your patients, your communities, and to us as your College. 

Protecting your wellbeing is a priority for us. This year we launched the new HEART course—designed by RGs, for RGs. It’s four online modules help you reflect on what you can control and influence in your work, while also recognising the bigger factors that shape your practice. If you haven’t had a chance yet, I really encourage you to check it out. It’s practical, thoughtful, and grounded in real rural and remote practice. 

Finally, I want to wish you, your families, and your communities a safe, peaceful, and restorative holiday season. Thank you for your extraordinary service this year. I look forward to working alongside you in 2026. Take care and thank you to those who are providing healthcare where it’s most needed over the festive season.