Recognition for long-standing rural doctors

Thirty-five rural medical practitioners from across Western Australia have been celebrated for their extraordinary commitment to rural healthcare at the WA Rural Health Long Service Awards, held on 7 February 2025.

Jointly hosted by Rural Health West and the WA Country Health Service, the annual awards highlight the critical role long-serving medical professionals play in supporting the health, resilience, and wellbeing of rural communities.

The awards honour milestones of 20, 30, and 40 years in rural medicine, recognising doctors who have dedicated decades to meeting the unique healthcare needs of regional and remote areas.

This year, special recognition was given to five doctors who reached the remarkable milestone of 40 years of service: Dr Peter Carroll, Dr Raymond Clarke, Dr Michael Eaton, Dr Ian Taylor, and Dr Gerard Travers.

In addition, six doctors were acknowledged for 30 years of service, and 24 practitioners celebrated their 20-year milestone.

Rural Health West Chief Executive Officer Tim Shackleton expressed his gratitude to the awardees for their enduring dedication.

"These doctors have not only cared for generations of families in rural WA but have also been a constant source of stability and trust in their communities," Tim said.

"Their commitment to providing high-quality healthcare, often in challenging circumstances, is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s an honour to recognise their remarkable achievements through these awards."

WA Country Health Service Chief Executive Jeff Moffet commended the recipients for their unwavering commitment and contribution to country healthcare.

"Providing healthcare across more than 2.55 million square kilometres is no small feat, but these doctors have consistently stepped up to support those living in some of our most rural and remote areas," Jeff said.

"Their contributions help us improve health outcomes for country communities and strengthen healthcare delivery at our hospitals and health services.

"On behalf of the WA Country Health Service, I extend our deepest thanks for their incredible dedication, and for all that they continue to do to support regional and remote WA."

Recipients of the Long Service Awards:

20 Years of Service Award Recipients