What’s happening?
In a significant development for the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), 31 first-year intern doctors have joined the team this week to begin their medical careers.
This marks the second cohort to train under the new intern training framework, which provides experience in both hospital and general practice settings.
Throughout 2025, a total of 38 interns will join Mackay Base Hospital, with some rotating to rural facilities at Proserpine and Bowen hospitals.
Why it matters?
The arrival of these doctors strengthens the region’s healthcare workforce and lays the groundwork for a sustainable medical future in Mackay and beyond.
With a structured training program across various clinical areas, these interns will gain critical skills to serve the local community while preparing for their long-term careers.
The framework encourages well-rounded development, equipping doctors with diverse experiences to support Queensland’s healthcare needs.
Local Impact
Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon celebrated the new interns, stating, “They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come.”
Additionally, Acting Executive Director Medical Services Dr Colin Feekery highlighted the supportive culture within Mackay HHS, noting that the program offers a positive environment to help interns make informed decisions about their future specialties.
By the Numbers:
– 31 interns have commenced at Mackay HHS this week.
– 38 interns in total will train at Mackay Base Hospital in 2025, with rotations at Proserpine and Bowen hospitals.
– Interns will gain experience across 11 clinical areas, including cardiology, obstetrics, orthopaedics, mental health, and intensive care.
Zoom In
The new intern training framework equips doctors with exposure to hospital and general practice environments, allowing them to experience a wide range of medical disciplines.
This innovative approach aims to nurture well-rounded medical professionals. Dr Feekery commented, “The interns will gain invaluable clinical experience, which will enable them to develop advanced skills as a foundation for their future medical careers.”
Zoom Out
Across Queensland, the demand for skilled medical professionals continues to rise, particularly in regional and rural areas.
The Mackay HHS initiative aligns with broader efforts to address healthcare gaps by building a strong pipeline of local talent.
Ms Gannon underscored the importance of these efforts, saying, “Regardless of where their careers take them, they will develop strong foundations for the years ahead from the guidance of our experienced, dedicated and highly skilled team of Mackay HHS medical professionals.”
What to look for next?
Keep an eye on the progress of these interns as they navigate their first year and make decisions about their specialties.
Mackay HHS also aims to foster retention, with the hope that many of these doctors will choose to continue serving the Mackay region in the future.