HERVEY BAY successfully hosted the Queensland Junior Doctor Conference (JDC), delivering a significant economic and reputational boost to the Fraser Coast region recently.
The two-day event, held at the UNISC Fraser Coast Campus, drew more than 220 medical students and 25 guest speakers from across Queensland.
Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Lachlan Cosgrove said the region is continuing to build its profile as a premier destination for major events and conferences.
“Hosting the JDC adds to a growing list of high-profile events held in the region—from AFL and triathlons to major music festivals—and brings real economic and reputational value to our community,” Cr Cosgrove said.
Curated by the AMA Queensland Committee of Doctors in Training, the conference provided a dynamic platform for early-career doctors and medical students to connect, present research, and explore future career pathways in a regional setting.
The program featured topics ranging from regional medical practice and wellbeing to financial literacy and the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare.
Participants also engaged in a unique ‘speed dating’ session with specialist doctors, offering valuable one-on-one career insights.
Keynote speaker Dr Fiona Baker, Clinical Director of Integrated Care on the Fraser Coast, reflected on her extensive medical career and highlighted the opportunities and rewards of working in regional healthcare.
She was joined by AMA Queensland President and Hervey Bay local, Dr Nick Yim.
“This event offers an ideal opportunity to start building strong connections with the future of our medical workforce,” Dr Yim said.
“It’s great to bring the JDC to the Fraser Coast, continuing a long history – following events in Cairns and Townsville – of showcasing regional medicine.
“As surgical wait times keep getting longer and access to primary care continues to dwindle, improving the health of regional communities like Hervey Bay and Maryborough has never been more important.
“We hope this event sparks something in students – whether it’s discovering a specialty they love or getting a clearer sense of where they want to make a difference.”