Canowindra Welcomes 32 Doctors To Town For GP VMO Conference

Last weekend Canowindra played host to 32 rural and remote doctors, who travelled from as far as Warialda, Gunnedah and Wellington to take part in a two-day Rural GP Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) Conference hosted by Rural Doctors Network.

Working across private general practice rooms and local hospitals, the doctors had the unique opportunity to participate in a comprehensive program of learning, networking and professional development that was designed by GP VMOs, for GP VMOs.

Attendees heard from an impressive lineup of eight leading specialists from Orange who shared practical insights and the latest clinical updates across a range of disciplines directly relevant to VMO practice including ENT, infectious diseases, oncology, ophthalmology, urology, respiratory medicine and cardiology.

RDN’s Conference and Events Manager Lindsey Eifler said the GP VMO Conference offered a unique opportunity for GP VMOs to come together for relevant, practical education while catching up with colleagues in a relaxed and supportive environment.

“They could talk through real-world clinical challenges, ask non-GP specialists their burning questions, and share experiences with others who understand the realities of rural practice,” Ms Eifler said.

Canowindra also had the opportunity to celebrate one of its own during the conference.

Each year this event is held in a different rural community to bring rural doctors together and celebrate their service, and Dr Nicholas O’Ryan was honoured for the four decades he has spent serving the community of Canowindra and surrounds.

“It was wonderful to celebrate Dr O’Ryan and honour his 40-year dedication to rural medicine and the town of Canowindra, especially amongst peers,” Ms Eifler said.

“Bringing the conference to Canowindra also gave us the opportunity to showcase a wonderful rural community and enjoy the hospitality, history and country charm that towns like this do so well,” she said.

Rural Doctors Network sincerely thanks Cabonne Council for sponsoring this event.