Winter Clinical Skills Workshop prepares doctors for rural practice
Fifty five medical students, junior doctors and registrars gathered in Sale on Saturday 18 July 2026, for the Winter Clinical Skills Workshop held at Monash University Rural Clinical School.
Described as the ultimate skills session for rural doctors, the workshop featured six practical 30-minute stations and an airways masterclass delivered by experienced local clinicians.
Participants received hands-on training in:
eFAST ultrasound
Difficult Access and IO Insertion
Neonatal Resuscitation
Port-Partum Haemorrhage
Labour Assessment
Epistaxis Management
Basic and Advanced Airways Management
The day began with a welcome from Central Gippsland Health Service, Chief Executive Officer Ms Michele Gardner who reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting and developing rural doctors to deliver high quality care close to home.
Rural Generalist Trainee, Dr Carisa Dias who is based in Lakes Entrance, said the workshop provided valuable learning and networking opportunities.
“The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and generous with their teaching. The opportunity to meet other doctors and trainees working across Gippsland was fantastic. It not only helps us develop relevant clinical skills but also build friendships and professional connections.”
The Winter Clinical Skills Workshop was planned and coordinated by local medical students and doctors through The Network – For Doctor, By Doctors. The event was supported by the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine through the Rural and Remote Community Support Grant, Monash Rural Health and the Gippsland Regional Training Hub.
Chair of The Network, Dr Noah Pallot a Rural Generalist Trainee based in Sale, said the workshop reflected the practical realities of rural medicine.
“The day was fast-paced, highly relevant to rural practice and focused on the skills doctors need every day. With 55 participants, there was a fantastic atmosphere as medical students and doctors learnt together in small groups, supporting each other’s development. Opportunities like this are essential for building both individual capability and strong healthcare teams.”
Dr Pallot is also part of the team evaluating The Network with academic support from Monash University, School of Rural Health. It is hoped that this could be a blueprint for other areas of regional Victoria.
For further information: Julie Rogalsky, Regional Rural Generalist Coordinator 0433 818 066 or Gippsland@vicruralgeneralist.com.au