Oh, the places you’ll go with the Community Residency Program

Resident Medical Officer Dr Ella Forkin began her journey in Kununurra as a medical student in 2022. She enjoyed her time so much that she came back for Kununurra for her second placement with the Community Residency Program. 

Growing up in Kalgoorlie, she was always drawn to living and working in the country. She came across the Community Residency Program in 2025 and commenced her first placement in Kalgoorlie in paediatrics, before returning for a second CRP term in Kununurra starting in March.

The one term only program provides structured training for junior doctors while offering a unique opportunity to gain hands-on clinical experience while living and working in regional and rural communities. 

For Ella, the experience has been both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling - allowing her to further develop her skills while making a meaningful contribution to the local community. 

"Returning to Kununurra has been such a beautiful opportunity. Coming back to a community, landscape and hospital I fell in love with as a student has been meaningful,” she said.

“It’s given me greater appreciation of the complexity of healthcare in remote areas and the rewards of helping manage patients both acutely and long term.

“I've also reconnected with friendly faces, returned to RFDS outreach clinics, re-explored the incredible Kimberley landscape and gained a deeper understanding of the many pathologies (diseases and conditions) unique to the region,” she added.

One of the many highlights for Ella during her placement has been the continuity of care. Seeing patients across the community, emergency and inpatient settings has provided her with valuable learning opportunities and helped build meaningful relationships with them and their families. 

"Working in the country has reminded me of the meaningful relationships, interesting cases and challenges rural medicine has to offer. 

“All while being surrounded by a beautiful landscape and enjoying an excellent work-life balance.

The experience has offered her greater insight into Aboriginal health, culture and community-centred care, while working closely with specialist services to support patients living in remote communities.

“Outside of work, the Kimberley lifestyle has been just as rewarding. From waterfalls and hiking trails to camping trips and sunrises, Kununurra offers a unique balance between clinical development and adventure. 

Reflecting on her journey so far, she said what began as a student placement has turned into a genuine passion for caring for country communities. 

"CRP is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in a town and community.     

“The lifestyle shows the beauty of Australia's rural and remote regions.”

For more information or to apply to the Community Residency Program visit our web page.