The vital role of Rural Generalists in communities across Australia has been honoured this King’s Birthday, with four Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) members receiving national recognition for their outstanding service to rural and remote healthcare. 

ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says the College is incredibly proud to see the lifelong dedication and service of these members celebrated nationally. 

“These honours are a testament to the extraordinary impact Rural Generalists make every day in their communities.  

“Each of these recipients has demonstrated conviction, courage and compassion in delivering and advocating for rural, remote and First Nations healthcare,” Dr Martin says. 

“As a College, we are proud to support them and to celebrate their achievements.  

“Their commitment reflects the very best of our profession and of the values ACRRM stands for – innovation, inclusivity, optimism, and a deep connection to the communities we serve.” 

Recipients include: 

  • The late Dr John Charles Dyson-Berry OAM (VIC) – Recognised for service to medicine as a General Practitioner. Dr Dyson-Berry served regional Victoria for more than 30 years, including with the Lime Medical Clinic, Coomealla Health Aboriginal Corporation, and Monash University’s School of Rural Health. He was a longstanding advocate for quality rural healthcare and a Fellow of ACRRM. 
  • Dr Margaret Niemann OAM (VIC) – Recognised for her service to medicine as GP, particularly in Aboriginal and remote communities across Australia. A founding Fellow of ACRRM, Dr Niemann has made significant contributions to Indigenous health, maternal and mental healthcare, and rural medical education. 
  • Associate Professor David Rimmer OAM (QLD) – Honoured for service to rural and remote medicine. A current ACRRM Board Member and accredited GP supervisor, A/Prof Rimmer has been a leader in clinical training and rural health system development across Queensland.  
  • Dr Peter Rischbieth AM (SA) – Recognised for significant service to rural health as a medical practitioner. Dr Rischbieth is a former RDAA President, life member of the Rural Doctors Association of South Australia, and recipient of the ACRRM-RDAA Peter Graham 'Cohuna' Award. He has been a dedicated Rural Generalist in Murray Bridge for nearly four decades. 

“These doctors have not only served their communities with distinction but have helped shape the future of rural, remote and First Nations medicine through leadership, education, and advocacy,” Dr Martin says. 

The College extends its congratulations to all recipients and acknowledges their commitment to strengthening rural, remote, and First Nations healthcare across Australia.