Connecting the Docs: What a Fantastic Year
As we move toward the close of another remarkable year, it is inspiring to reflect on the tremendous growth and success of the Connecting the Docs program. What began as a bold vision to bridge health services, practitioners, and communities has now evolved into a thriving network that has expanded from the Loddon Mallee to East Gippsland.
Interest in Connecting the Docs continues to accelerate, with small, medium, and large health services all engaging enthusiastically in the program. The appetite for collaboration has never been stronger. Each week, we see new organisations reaching out to explore how they can participate and contribute. The success we have seen this year creates an exciting foundation for what is to come, and we cannot wait to see how 2026 unfolds.
One of the highlights was the on-boarding of our Health Services in East Gippsland and visiting them was sensational. During this visit, CTD met with CEOs, industry partners, and became connected with representatives from local councils. We took part in strategic meetings, participated in site tours, and most importantly, connected with the remarkable leaders and staff who drive healthcare delivery across the region. Their commitment and local insight continues to inspire our mission to strengthen connections across the state’s health landscape.
Our partnership with Murray PHN and RVTS continues to go from strength to strength. Together, we have commenced two major strategic projects that align closely with our operational goals. These collaborations promise not only to deliver tangible results but also to deepen relationships and enhance outcomes for the communities we collectively serve. Looking ahead, we are focused on executing our project plans with precision, accountability, and shared purpose.
Our candidate register has also seen a surge of interest this year from both local and international healthcare professionals eager to make an impact. Health services have been actively engaging with the program, and placements have reflected the strength of our growing networks. While domestic interest remains strong, our continued focus on GPs, rural generalists, and specialist consultants ensures that communities in need have access to the expertise and care they deserve.
As a founding member of Connecting the Docs, it has been a true honour to witness the evolution of this program and the dedication of everyone involved. This year has been defined by collaboration, progress, and purpose, and the next promises even greater opportunities to build on that foundation. Together, we are not just connecting health professionals; we are connecting communities, strengthening systems, and shaping the future of rural and regional healthcare.
Best wishes over the festive period
Trevor Adem
Founding Member
Let us give you a snapshot of what’s been happening across our CTD community
In December, we were delighted to welcome two new employees to the team: Jo Kinder as Program Manager and George MacRae as Regional Medical Workforce Recruitment Consultant. Both bring a wealth of experience and have already begun building strong connections by meeting with partners, health services, and candidates.
Pictured here with Jo and George is our candidate, Dr Vomica, who is thriving in her new role at Echuca Regional Health.
Dr Vomica has shared positive feedback about her experience with Connecting the Docs and is currently being warmly inducted into her health service and welcomed by the local community. Jo, George, and Vomica will continue to stay connected to ensure the program provides ongoing support—well beyond placement—so that Vomica continues to feel supported and set up for success.
Connecting the Docs presents at the Victorian Healthcare Association
We were proud to support the Connecting the Docs Chair during her presentation at the recent VHA Conference. Inspiring the audience, our Chair, Kellie Byron-Gray—also CEO of Kerang District Health—captured attention by highlighting the Connecting the Docs value proposition and the innovative solutions within our partnership model.
Well done, Kellie, on a fantastic presentation.
Connecting the Docs Celebrates a Wonderful Year
In early December, the entire Connecting the Docs team—both new members and founding members—came together in Echuca to celebrate an incredible year. Joined by our valued partners, CEOs, Directors of Medical Workforce, RWAV, and Murray PHN, we expressed our sincere gratitude for everything achieved and shared our excitement for the year ahead. Celebrating our achievements together was truly tremendous. To all our candidates and partners, thank you for your continued support, and we wish you a wonderful festive period.
