Doctor’s conference prescribes boost to the region
Hervey Bay will host the Queensland Junior Doctor Conference (JDC) this weekend, bringing both economic benefits and professional recognition to the Fraser Coast region.
Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Lachlan Cosgrove said the two-day conference, held at the UNISC Fraser Coast Campus from May 17 – 18, would attract over 220 medical students, along with 25 guest speakers from across Queensland.
“The Fraser Coast is fast gaining a reputation as a premier destination for events and conferences,” Cr Cosgrove said.
“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.
“Curated by the AMA Queensland Committee of Doctors in Training, the JDC offers a dynamic platform for early-career doctors and medical students to connect, present research, and explore career pathways in a regional setting.
“The program will cover a wide range of topics including regional medical practice, wellbeing, financial literacy, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in healthcare.
Cr Cosgrove said attendees will also have the chance to take part in a ‘speed dating’ session with specialist doctors, gaining one-on-one career insights.
“Keynote speaker Dr Fiona Baker, Clinical Director of Integrated Care on the Fraser Coast, will share highlights from her extensive and varied medical career, with a focus on the opportunities and rewards of regional healthcare.
She will be 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,” said Dr Yim.
"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.”
Cr Cosgrove said Fraser Coast Regional Council is proud to be a platinum sponsor of the conference.
“The conference not only brings a direct economic boost to local businesses—such as accommodation providers, restaurants and transport operators—but also helps position the Fraser Coast as a desirable place for medical professionals to live, work and grow their careers.
“The conference further supports Council’s vision to grow a strong, diversified economy and build better communities together.
“We look forward to welcoming students and delegates to our region and showcasing everything the Fraser Coast has to offer.”
