Medical Officer Opportunities Contents

Have you ever thought of an “Outback Medical Adventure”? 1 Location Information 2 Our Profile 3 Structure 4 Facility Information 7 Remuneration Packages 11 Testimonials 16 North West and Health Service - where the outback meets the sea 20 Local Attractions 26

Published with the assistance of

https://www.health.qld.gov.au/rrcsu

Front cover image: COPYRIGHT: © Courtesy of Tourism Queensland: Photo: Paul Ewart

ii North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Have you ever thought of an “Outback Medical Adventure”?

As Acting Executive Director of Medical and Clinical Services in the North West Hospital and Health Service, I’m finding Outback Queensland a wonderful place for young doctors to extend their skills and experience medicine in a totally different context. You will get real hands on experience, with a variety of medical challenges in rural and remote communities that will extend you and teach you, under the supervision of our committed and experienced Consultants and Rural Generalist Senior Medical Officers.

Possible career paths are varied and many for any medical officer working in NWHHS as many know the solid clinical base on which we build. We provide Rural Generalist training – from Internship to Fellowship, and certified training positions for RACP (BPT and Paediatric training) and ACEM. We provide opportunities for research and publications as well.

Rich and “hands on” experience in our region is well regarded as it represents a well-supported clinical experience which is enjoyed by the many who have passed through our facilities. So, if you want real and varied clinical experience, to work in a close multidisciplinary team and get the personalized supervision and imparting of wisdom from rural and remote practitioners then consider North West as a place to choose for a posting. Many have stayed much longer than they thought and all have had the opportunity to make a positive difference.

Dr Karen Murphy MBBS; BSc Paramedic Science, MBA, A/FRACMA Acting Executive Director of Medical and Clinical Services North West Hospital and Health Service Queensland Government

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 1 Location Information

Contact us:

Medical Workforce Unit PO Box 27, Mount Isa Qld 4825 T: (07) 4744 7141 | F: (07) 4744 4096 E: [email protected]

2 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Our Profile

The North West Hospital and Health Service is an independent statutory body overseen by a local Hospital and Health Board. We are responsible for the delivery of and health services including medical, surgical, emergency, obstetrics, paediatrics, specialist outpatient clinics, mental health, critical care and clinical support services to a population of around 32,000 people residing in a geographical area of 300,000 kilometres within north western Queensland and the Gulf of Carpentaria. Mount Isa Hospital is the main referral centre.

The North West Hospital and Health Service is responsible for the direct management of the facilities within its geographical boundaries:

• Burketown Primary Health Clinic • Camooweal Primary Health Clinic • Cloncurry Multi-Purpose Health Service • Dajarra Primary Health Clinic • Doomadgee Hospital and Community Health Centre • Karumba Primary Health Clinic • McKinlay Shire Multi-Purpose Health Service • McKinlay Primary Health Clinic • Mornington Island Hospital and Aboriginal Community Health Centre • Mount Isa Hospital • Normanton Hospital

We provide a comprehensive range of community and primary health services including: aged care assessment, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health programs, child and maternal health services, alcohol, tobacco and other drug services, home care services, community health nursing, sexual health service, allied health, oral health and health promotion programs.

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 3 Structure (mixture of full time and part time Medical Officers)

We offer a range of full time and part time (including fly in fly out) opportunities and are committed to working with you to meet your work life balance needs!

Mount Isa based • 1 x Executive Director of Medical Services & Clinical Governance • 1 x Assistant Director of Medical Services • 1 x Medical Director Integrated Services • 1 x Director of Clinical Training

Mount Isa Hospital Anaesthetics Department • 1 x Staff Specialist – Director of Anaesthetics • 1 x Staff Specialist – Anaesthetist • 1 x Rural Generalist »»General Practice – Anaesthetics • 1 x Registrar/PHO (JCCA training pathway) • 1 x Resident Medical Officer (ICU Rotational) • 1 x Staff Specialist – Director of Emergency • 5.25 x Staff Specialist – Emergency Medicine • 4 x Rural Generalist, advanced skills include: »»General Practice – Obstetrics and Gynaecology »»General Practice – Anaesthetics »»General Practice – Mental Health »»General Practice – Emergency Medicine »»General Practice – Internal Medicine »»General Practice – Paediatrics »»General Practice – Indigenous Health • 9 x Registrars/PHO (ACEM Registrar or Emergency Medicine AST pathway) • 9 x Resident Medical Officer (including recognition for CCT in Paediatrics) • 1 x Intern (Rotational) • 2 x Interns (Rotation from Mater Townsville)

4 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Mental Health • 1 x Staff Specialist – Director of Mental Health • 2 x Staff Specialist – Psychiatrist Medical Department • 1 x Staff Specialist – Director of Medicine • 1 x Staff Specialist – Medicine • 1 x Registrar (Basic Physicians training pathway - rotations) • 1 x Registrar/PHO (Internal Medicine AST training pathway) • 1 x Principal House Officer • 1 x Resident Medical Officer (Rotational) • 1 x Intern (Rotational) Obstetrics and Gynaecology • 1 x Staff Specialist – Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology • 1 x Staff Specialist – Obstetrician • 1 x Registrar (DRANZCOG Advanced training pathway) • 1 x Resident Medical Officer (Rotational) • 1 x Intern (Rotational) Paediatrics • 1 x Staff Specialist – Director of Paediatrics • 2 x Staff Specialist – Paediatricians • 2 x Registrar (General Paediatrics Advanced Training pathway) • 1 x Registrar/PHO (Paediatrics AST training pathway) • 1 x Intern (Rotational) Palliative Medicine • 1 x Staff Specialist – Director of Palliative Medicine • 1 x Resident Medical Officer (Rotational) Surgery • 1 x Staff Specialist – Director of Surgery • 1 x Staff Specialist – Surgeon • 1 x Principal House Officer (Rotation from Princess Alexandra Hospital) • 1 x Resident Medical Officer (Rotational) • 1 x Intern (Rotational)

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 5 Cloncurry Multi Purpose Health Service * • 1 x Medical Superintendent • 2 x Senior Medical Officers • 2 x Medical Officers with Right to Private Practice Julia Creek Hospital * • 2 x Rural Generalists/General Practitioners (Rotational) - advanced skills considered: »»General Practice – Mental Health »»General Practice – Emergency Medicine »»General Practice – Internal Medicine »»General Practice – Paediatrics »»General Practice – Indigenous Health Mornington Island Hospital • 2 x Rural Generalists/General Practitioners (Rotational) - advanced skills considered: »»General Practice – Mental Health »»General Practice – Emergency Medicine »»General Practice – Internal Medicine »»General Practice – Paediatrics »»General Practice – Indigenous Health Normanton Hospital • 2 x Rural Generalists/General Practitioners (Rotational) - advanced skills considered: »»General Practice – Mental Health »»General Practice – Emergency Medicine »»General Practice – Internal Medicine »»General Practice – Paediatrics »»General Practice – Indigenous Health Doomadgee Hospital • 2 x Rural Generalists/General Practitioners (Rotational) - advanced skills considered: »»General Practice – Mental Health »»General Practice – Emergency Medicine »»General Practice – Internal Medicine »»General Practice – Paediatrics »»General Practice – Indigenous Health * Shared medical model in partnership with Flinders Medical Centre and Rural Health Management Services

6 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Facility Information

Mount Isa Hospital

Mount Isa Hospital is the main referral centre within the North West Hospital and Health Service. There are 59 in- beds: 16 medical (can increase to 20 if required), 12 surgical (can increase to 14 if required), 10 day surgery, 10 paediatrics, 8 maternity, 3 special care nursery and 3 cancer care beds.

Patients from other facilities across the north west region who require specialist treatment and care are referred to either the Mount Isa Hospital or to other major within Queensland including Townsville, Cairns and Brisbane.

The Mount Isa Hospital provides ambulatory, sub ambulatory and inpatient services predominantly in the areas of accident and emergency; specialist medical and nurse led services (outpatients); general medical, including chronic disease such as diabetes and respiratory care; cardiac, including cardiac investigations; general surgical including day surgical procedures (endoscopy, colonoscopy); gynaecology; ophthalmology; obstetrics and midwifery; critical care; neonatal and special care nursery; paediatrics; telehealth (inpatient, in reach and outpatient); sub-acute care (palliative, geriatric evaluation and management); mental health and alcohol, tobacco and other drugs service; oncology; breast care service; renal; Allied Health (including dietetics, occupational therapy, podiatry, social work, physiotherapy and speech pathology) and oral health services.

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 7 Cloncurry Hospital

Cloncurry Multipurpose Health Service provides rural and remote hospital services including a 15 inpatient bed facility, 10 bed residential aged care facility, an emergency department and an outpatient department. A multidisciplinary model of care is implemented across the continuum with inpatient services supported by a Medical Superintendent and General Practice.

Community health services provide an aged care assessment team, sexual health, chronic disease management, diabetes education, mental health, alcohol and drug service, school health, child and youth health, women’s health, palliative care, physiotherapy, dietician, and optometry services. North and West Remote Health provides allied health services and diabetes education.

Julia Creek Hospital

McKinlay Shire Multipurpose Health Service (Julia Creek Hospital) provides a level two facility under the Rural and Remote Clinical Services Capability Framework. It provides rural and remote hospital services including a seven flexible stay beds, four residential aged placements, an emergency department, an outpatient department and a general practice clinic. A multidisciplinary model of care is implemented across the continuum with inpatient services supported by a Medical Superintendent.

The Multipurpose Health Service and the McKinlay Shire Council jointly fund the position of a community nurse. The facility coordinates visiting specialist services including dental. mental health, optometry, allied health. women's health and diabetes education.

8 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Doomadgee Hospital

Doomadgee Hospital is a level two remote hospital under the Rural and Remote Clinical Services Capability Framework with seven inpatient beds, providing 24-hour acute inpatient and accident and emergency care including a General Practice clinic.

Doomadgee Community Health Centre is staffed by nurses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers. The team works in partnership with hospital staff and other agencies to provide health assessments, chronic disease management and coordination of visiting services. The model of care includes clinical review, health education and promotion programs which include: Deadly Ears; Child and adult respiratory (lung health) care, provided by the Indigenous Respiratory Outreach Care Program; Women’s health and child health; Allied health services; Cardiac and respiratory services; Sexual Health; Alcohol and Other Drugs counselling; Maternal Health; Mental Health; Dental; Diabetes Education, and Renal Services.

Normanton Hospital

Normanton Hospital is a level two hospital (level one when there is no doctor on site every Monday afternoon, Tuesday and Thursday) under the Rural and Remote Clinical Services Capability Framework with 16 inpatient beds with capacity to provide respite/palliative care services. The facility provides 24 hour acute inpatient and accident and emergency care. Outpatient services include general outpatients, nurse and medical led clinics, radiology, pathology, pharmacy and dressing clinics.

Normanton Community Health consists of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and nurses. The team works in partnership with Normanton Hospital staff and other agencies to provide health assessments, chronic disease management and coordination of visiting services.

The model of care includes clinical review, health education and promotion programs which include: Deadly Ears; Child and adult respiratory (lung health) care, provided by the Indigenous Respiratory Outreach Care Program; Women’s health and child health; Allied health services; Cardiac and respiratory services; Sexual Health; Alcohol and Other Drugs counselling; Maternal Health; Mental Health; Dental; Diabetes Education and Renal Services.

The Karumba Primary Health Clinic encompasses a nurse led and visiting Medical Officer model of care. The facility provides a nurse-led 24 hour acute and emergency on-call service. requiring higher levels of care are transferred for management at a higher level facility.

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 9 Mornington Island Hospital

Mornington Island Hospital is a remote level two hospital under the Rural and Remote Clinical Services Capability Framework with eleven inpatient beds. The facility provides 24 hour acute inpatient and accident and emergency care.

Mornington Island Community Health Centre provides outpatient community health services from Monday to Friday. Mornington Island Community Health Centre is staffed by nurses and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers. The team works in partnership with hospital staff, and other agencies to provide health assessments, chronic disease management and coordination of visiting services. The model of care includes clinical review, health education and promotion programs which include Deadly Ears; Child and adult respiratory (lung health) care, provided by the Indigenous Respiratory Outreach Care Program; Women’s health and child health; Allied health services; Cardiac and respiratory services; Sexual Health; Alcohol and Other Drugs counselling; Maternal Health; Mental Health; Dental; Diabetes Education and Renal Services.

A number of other outreach services are also provided including alcohol and other drugs counselling, maternal health, mental health, dental, diabetic education, Nurse Practitioner renal services, mobile women’s health services and sexual health.

10 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Remuneration Packages

Interns and Resident Medical Officers Proposed Approximate Remuneration Package – as at 1/07/19

L1 L9 Remuneration Package* Fortnightly Yearly Fortnightly Yearly amount amount amount amount Base Salary $2,952 $77,016 $4,920 $128,362 Professional Development $144 $3,762 Allowance Inaccessibility Allowance - $34,500 $ 34,500 Mount Isa ** Superannuation $376 $9,820 $627 $16,366 BASE REMUNERATION PACKAGE $3,328 $121,336 $5,692 $182,990 Plus On-Call Paid per occurrence Recalls Paid per occurrence Overtime Paid per occurrence Shift Penalties Paid per occurrence Locality Allowance Paid as per location Leave Loading Up to 27.5% paid on leave Salary Sacrificing $17,000 grossed up taxable value Rent Free Accommodation Yes - As per HHS Policy Utilities Yes - As per HHS Policy Annual Leave Up to 6 weeks per year Professional Development Leave 2.2 week per year (N/A for Interns) Examination Leave As agreed Range of special leave types Yes Indemnity Yes http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/ Federal Government Incentives content/rural-regional-health-australia-list-programmes * Paid pro-rata for engagement period or part time employee ** - 50% paid after six month completion period and then 25% paid in three monthly installment thereafter

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 11 Medical Officer with Private Practice Proposed Approximate Remuneration Package – as at 1/07/19

MOR1-1 MSR2-2 Remuneration Package* Fortnightly Yearly Fortnightly Yearly amount amount amount amount Base Salary $5,964 $155,589 $6,888 $179,703 Professional Development $805 $21,000 $805 $21,000 Allowance Motor Vehicle Allowance $805 $21,000 $977 $25,500 Inaccessibility Allowance $34,500 $34,500 Cloncurry ** Superannuation $760 $19,838 $878 $22,912 BASE REMUNERATION PACKAGE $8,334 $251,927 $9,549 $283,615 Plus Agreed Private Practice Unlimited Leave Loading Up to 14% paid on leave Salary Sacrificing $17,000 grossed up taxable value Rent Free Accommodation Yes - As per HHS Policy Subsidised Utilities Yes - As per HHS Policy Annual Leave 5 weeks per year Professional Development 3.6 weeks per year Leave Range of special leave types Yes Indemnity Yes http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/ Federal Government Incentives content/rural-regional-health-australia-list-programmes * Paid pro-rata for engagement period or part time employee ** - 50% paid after six month completion period and then 25% paid in three monthly installment thereafter

12 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities SMOs / Rural Generalist Provisional Fellows/Rural Generalists Proposed Approximate Remuneration Package – as at 1/07/19

L13 L25 Remuneration Package* Fortnightly Yearly Fortnightly Yearly amount amount amount amount Base Salary $5,964 $155,589 $8,237 $214,897 Professional Development $805 $21,000 $805 $21,000 Allowance Motor Vehicle Allowance $805 $21,000 $977 $25,500 Attraction and Retention (35%) $2,087 $54,456 $2,883 $75,214 – Assigned Model Rural and Remote (15%) $895 $23,338 $1,236 $32,235 Inaccessibility Allowance $34,500 $34,500 Mount Isa ** Superannuation $850 $22,171 $1,174 $30,623 BASE REMUNERATION $11,405 $332,055 $15,312 $433,968 Plus On-Call Paid per occurrence Recalls Paid per occurrence Overtime Paid per occurrence Shift Penalties Paid per occurrence Locality Allowance Paid per location Leave Loading Up to 14% paid on leave Salary Sacrificing $17,000 grossed up taxable value Rent Free Accommodation Yes - As per HHS Policy Subsidised Utilities Yes - As per HHS Policy Annual Leave 5 weeks per year Professional Development Leave 3.6 weeks per year Range of special leave types Yes Indemnity Yes http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/ Federal Government Incentives content/rural-regional-health-australia-list-programmes

* Paid pro-rata for engagement period or part time employee ** - 50% paid after six month completion period and then 25% paid in three monthly installment thereafter

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 13 Staff Specialists Proposed Approximate Remuneration Package – as at 1/07/19

L18 L27 Remuneration Package* Fortnightly Yearly Fortnightly Yearly amount amount amount amount Base Salary $6,888 $179,703 $8,733 $227,843 Professional Development $805 $21,000 $805 $21,000 Allowance Motor Vehicle Allowance $804 $21,000 $977 $25,500 Attraction and Retention (50%) $3,444 $89,852 $4,367 $113,922 – Assigned Model Rural and Remote (15%) $1,033 $26,955 $1,310 $34,176 Inaccessibility Allowance $34,500 $34,500 Mount Isa ** Superannuation $1,080 $28,168 $1,369 $35,714 BASE REMUNERATION PACKAGE $14,055 $401,178 $17,561 $492,655 Plus On-Call Paid per occurrence Recalls Paid per occurrence Overtime Paid per occurrence Shift Penalties Paid per occurrence Locality Allowance Paid per location Leave Loading Up to 14% paid on leave Salary Sacrificing $17,000 grossed up taxable value Rent Free Accommodation Yes - As per HHS Policy Subsidised Utilities Yes - As per HHS Policy Annual Leave 5 weeks per year Professional Development Leave 3.6 weeks per year Range of special leave types Yes Indemnity Yes http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/ Federal Government Incentives content/rural-regional-health-australia-list-programmes * Paid pro-rata for engagement period or part time employee ** - 50% paid after six month completion period and then 25% paid in three monthly installment thereafter

14 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Staff Specialists – Emergency Medicine Proposed Approximate Remuneration Package – as at 1/07/19

L18 L27 Remuneration Package* Fortnightly Yearly Fortnightly Yearly amount amount amount amount Base Salary $6,888 $179,703 $8,733 $227,843

Professional Development Allowance $805 $21,000 $805 $21,000

Motor Vehicle Allowance $804 $21,000 $977 $25,500 Attraction and Retention (50%) $3,444 $89,852 $4,367 $113,922 – Assigned Model Emerg Department Allowance (25%) $1,033 $26,955 $1,310 $34,176 Rural and Remote (15%) $1,722 $44,926 $2,183 $56,961 Inaccessibility Allowance Mount Isa ** $34,500 $34,500 Superannuation $1,243 $32,436 $1,576 $41,126 BASE REMUNERATION PACKAGE $15,940 $450,372 $19,952 $555,027 Plus On-Call Paid per occurrence Recalls Paid per occurrence Overtime Paid per occurrence Shift Penalties Paid per occurrence Locality Allowance Paid per location Leave Loading Up to 14% paid on leave Salary Sacrificing $17,000 grossed up taxable value Rent Free Accommodation Yes - As per HHS Policy Subsidised Utilities Yes - As per HHS Policy Annual Leave 5 weeks per year Professional Development Leave 3.6 weeks per year Range of special leave types Yes Indemnity Yes http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/ Federal Government Incentives content/rural-regional-health-australia-list-programmes * Paid pro-rata for engagement period or part time employee ** - 50% paid after six month completion period and then 25% paid in three monthly installment thereafter

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 15 Testimonials

Dr Caitlin Hurlock Intern – Mount Isa Hospital

“I came to Mount Isa from Townsville where I did my medical training through James Cook University. I’d never ventured this far west before, but a friend had come out here as a medical student and raved about it. I’m really interested in the Rural Generalist pathway, which is why I chose the North West HHS as my first posting. My first rotation here was in ED, now I’m in O&G. We work in small teams which is brilliant as you get really good consultant access – intern to consultant ratios are great. We see very interesting cases, which because of our demographic, you wouldn’t see elsewhere, say in the larger metro hospitals. There’s also a great social atmosphere here with plenty to see and do! I’ve been camping in the Outback, competed in Julia Creek’s Dirt ‘n Dust – my first triathlon ever, and it was hard!! I’ve made trips to Boulia and Dajarra and I’m looking forward to camping at Adels Grove and to the raft of rodeos and campdrafts coming up in the Outback calendar.

Living in Mount Isa is very easy, with great accommodation for interns. My friend and I share a 3-bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment not far from the hospital. We certainly don’t have any problems with our five minute commute – there are no traffic jams here! I am definitely staying on in the NWHHS for another year after this, and hopefully by then I’ll know what advanced skills I want to specialize in to become a rural GP.”

16 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Dr Cameron Hoare Medical Officer with Right to Private Practice - Cloncurry Hospital

“I came to Cloncurry as a Medical officer with the right to private practice just over nine months ago, after having fallen in love with the town a few years ago. Cloncurry is a fantastic small town, which is well resourced, and connected to Brisbane, and Townsville by three direct flights a week. This is a fantastic place to learn and grow as a doctor, and I am doing my RACGP and ACCRM training here. You do not need to move for RACGP, as Cloncurry meets the diversity of practice requirements. You get to practice cradle to grave medicine, working both in the GP practice and hospital.

A house is supplied on top of a pre-tax income of over $180,000 a year. When I am not working, I am happy to play with my dog Bindi, enjoy time with my partner, or go camping or exploring. I am planning to stay here for the long term, as the medicine and lifestyle is a perfect mix.

The GP is mixed billing, and incredibly well set out, having been designed by doctors from the ground up, and is without equal in western Queensland.

I would strongly recommend Cloncurry to any registrars or GPs that are not afraid to work hard, play hard, and learn and grow as a doctor and a good person. The environment is very supportive and social, and there are fantastic social events to attend throughout the year. You work as part of a team, and do not need to worry about being socially isolated.”

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 17 Dr Stephen Cremonini Resident Medical Officer - Mount Isa Hospital

“Mount Isa Hospital is a wonderful environment to work in. The hospital both encourages and fosters training and education while actively supporting appropriate work life balance as a junior doctor. The junior doctor to consultant ratio is exceptional, ensuring a close working relationship with consultants to the benefit of your medical journey.

Outside of the hospital the extracurricular activities far exceed what is expected of a town the size of Mount Isa. From numerous sporting clubs to camping, boating and fishing there is always an option of something to do on your days off. Mount Isa Hospital is a caring and supportive workplace, one in which I would highly recommend working!”

18 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Dr Peter Radford Senior Medical Officer, Mount Isa Emergency Department

“I have worked as a Senior Medical Officer in Mount Isa’s Emergency Department for six years. In another life, I was a GP in Benalla, Victoria for almost 40 years. GP skills are very valuable in an ED such as Mount Isa’s where we have a number of Category 4 and 5 presentations. I enjoy the collegiality of ED; we have a great team and work together really well. ED gives me the opportunity to provide good episodic care in a supportive environment. I’ve had a lot of experience as a GP with different skin complaints, so any dermatology cases are usually moved in my direction.

Young doctors find Mount Isa and the North West Hospital and Health Service a very interesting place to work, with cases that are diverse and fascinating, and not normally seen in less remote hospitals. Young doctors also benefit from the support of senior staff, working in small teams, where they can get good teaching, advice and guidance. It’s a great place to learn and grow."

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 19 North West Hospital and Health Service - where the outback meets the sea

Mount Isa Location: 1,900km north west of Brisbane, 1330km north west of Rockhampton, 887km west of Townsville Flights: Brisbane 7 days a week, Townsville 6 days a week, Cairns 5 days a week. Mount Isa is serviced by Qantas, Virgin and Rex Regional Express

About Mount Isa Mount Isa is the mining capital of Queensland. Established in 1923 following the discovery of one of the world’s richest deposits of copper, silver, lead and zinc ore, the Mount Isa mine is considered one of the greatest mines in the world. Mount Isa brings out the adventurous spirit in everyone, with ample places to fish, camp, four wheel drive or to enjoy an outback sunset.

Services in Mount Isa There are several education facilities including state and private schools (prep to year 12), TAFE, special education and School of the Air. Shopping Centers (including Coles, Woolworths, Kmart and Harvey Norman), most major banks, cinema, theatre, convention centre, olympic-size town pool, a range of clubs (including the Buffalo Club, Irish Club and RSL) and a number of different places of worship.

Living in Mount Isa Mount Isa is ideal for the single professional or young couple. Over half the population is under the age of 35 years old and education is highly regarded in this mining town with over 52% of the population undertaking some form of post school qualification. The majority of Queensland Health employees at Mount Isa have reported that their social life increased exponentially when they moved to the town.

On the outskirts of Mount Isa is the Riversleigh fossil deposit, the richest and one of the most important fossil fields in Australia. Incorporated into the Outback at Isa tourism complex, the Fossil Centre shows palaeontological research being conducted on the spot. Important finds such as ‘Thingadonta,’ ‘Elvis the Pelvis’ and ‘Big Bird’ first emerged from the vats of ascetic acid in front of tourists and visitors taking the lab tour!

FACT: Mount Isa covers an area of over 43,310klm2, making it geographically the second largest city in Australia to Kalgoorlie-Boulder WA. Mount Isa has one of the most intensive air quality monitoring systems in Australia

20 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Cloncurry Location: 1,708km north west of Brisbane, 120km east of Mount Isa, 766km west of Townsville Flights: Brisbane 3 days a week

About Cloncurry Cloncurry is an important mining and cattle town located in Queensland’s North West. In 1916, it was Australia’s main source of copper with four smelters running. Today, the town supports five major mines, extracting silver, gold, copper and zinc, as well as a thriving cattle industry. A town of firsts, the Royal Flying Doctor Service launched its inaugural flight in 1928 from Cloncurry and Qantas was conceptualised in the town also. Situated on the banks of the Cloncurry River, Cloncurry is the ultimate location for those wanting an outback lifestyle.

Services in Cloncurry Education facilities including state and private schools (prep to year 12). Library, banks, Catholic, Anglican and Uniting Church, community clubs including Lions, Rotary and QCWA. Sporting clubs including pony club, rugby league, tennis, golf, bowls, swimming, basketball, netball and pistol club.

Living in Cloncurry Cloncurry is relatively warm all year round with little rainfall outside the summer months. Visit the Cloncurry Shire Council's website for up-to-date information. If you’re a history buff then Cloncurry will have some sights that are not to be missed!

FACT: The Royal Flying Doctor Service started in 1928 with their first official flight from Cloncurry to Julia Creek in response to an emergency call

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 21 Julia Creek Location: 1,633km north west of Brisbane, 260km east of Mount Isa, 650km west of Townsville, 140km east of Cloncurry Flights: Mount Isa and Townsville three times per week

About Julia Creek Julia Creek is traditionally a cattle and sheep grazing area, however the town also supports the Cannington mine, the world's largest producer of silver from a single mine. The mine also extracts lead and zinc. The town is the home to the rare and endangered 'Julia Creek Dunnart', a small nocturnal hunter found only in the Julia Creek region. Julia Creek offers a classic outback lifestyle in a friendly and family oriented community where community spirit overlooks the hardships of drought and isolation.

Services in Julia Creek State School (Preparatory to Year 7), Library, gymnasium, a number of Christian Churches and a Town & Country Club.

Living in Julia Creek Julia Creek is one of the many Queensland towns to sit above the Great Artesian Basin. Julia Creek’s flowing bore, located in the centre of town, is the result of natural pressure forcing the water to the surface. At a temperature of 400oC, the water is too hot to touch making the town’s Water Tower as much of a necessity as an attraction. The Water Tower is shaped like a 30m wine glass with the capacity to hold over 375,000 litres of water; it allows the artesian water to cool before being pumped into the town. At night, a blue light illuminates the Water Tower to create a captivating sight.

FACT: You will never run out of hot water as the town is located above the Great Artesian Basin which is a vast natural resource of flowing heated water

22 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Normanton (and Karumba) Location: 75kms to Karumba. 2,100km north west of Brisbane, 700km west of Cairns, 500km north east of Mount Isa Flights: Mount Isa and Cairns - Monday to Friday

About Normanton Normanton is a rural community situated on the banks of the Norman River in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Normanton experienced a boom in 1885 when gold was discovered at Croydon. The gold rush was short-lived; even the town’s core industry of cattle declined when the railway reached Mount Isa. Today, Normanton rides on the back of the fishing and prawning industries of Karumba and tourists desiring an ‘Outback Experience’. Normanton offers a relaxed lifestyle ideal for adventurists and young families alike.

Karumba is a major fishing port located on the mouth of the Norman River on the coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Originally a telegraph station, Karumba was formerly known as Kimberley and was once the base for the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II. By the 1970s the fishing and prawning industries boomed and Karumba became the centre of both industries for the Gulf of Carpentaria. Karumba offers a relaxed and casual lifestyle in the picturesque setting of striking sunsets, pristine beaches and clear blue waters. Karumba is one of the top bird-watching spots in Australia.

Services in Normanton State and Private School (Preparatory to Year 10), TAFE, a number of Churches. There are several sporting clubs and sporting facilities, including swimming, tennis, basketball, golf, pony club and BMX track.

Living in Normanton Normanton State School has achieved exceptional National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) results making it an outstanding remote school in Queensland.

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 23 Doomadgee Location: 2,200km north west of Brisbane, 470km north west of Mount Isa, 100km south west of Burketown Flights: Cairns and Mount Isa - Monday to Friday

About Doomadgee Doomadgee is an Indigenous community located on the Nicholson River in the far north western corner of Queensland, near the Gulf of Carpentaria. In 1936, after being decimated by a cyclone, the community moved inland to its current location. The early 1980s saw the government move to establish self-government in the community and by 1983 the Gangalidda people took responsibility for the town. Today, Doomadgee is a Deed of Grant in Trust community governed by the Doomadgee Aboriginal Shire Council.

Services in Domadgee Doomadgee has a State School (Preparatory to year 12), general store, caravan park and bank.

Living in Doomadgee There are strict regulations regarding alcohol consumption in Doomadgee.

Doomadgee is very much a remote location with limited shopping and public amenities available. However, the unique environment encourages a multitude of outdoor activities such as camping, swimming and fishing, making Doomadgee a paradise for the active couple.

FACT: The original site of Doomadgee lies approximately 100km to the north of the existing site. Now known as Old Doomadgee, the site was abandoned in 1936 just 5 years after its establishment, due to its remoteness and lack of reliable fresh water

24 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Mornington Island Location: 2,270km north west of Brisbane, 125km north west of Burketown, 700km north of Mount Isa Flights: Cairns and Mount Isa - Monday to Friday

About Mornington Island Mornington Island is a small Indigenous community part of the Wellesley Island Group in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Originally managed by the Uniting Church, the island achieved self-governance in 1978 and is now controlled by the Mornington Shire Council. The traditional home of the Lardil people, Mornington Island is rich with culture and art. The island offers a relaxed and quiet lifestyle with beautiful beaches, an abundance of fish and marine life including sea turtles and the endangered dugong.

Services in Mornington Island Mornington Island State School (Kindergarten to Year 10), supermarket, resort, PCYC, Police Station, indoor sports centre.

Living in Mornington Island Mornington Island’s perfect surroundings of white sands and clear turquoise water reflect the tranquillity of the locals. In winter, spotting dugongs, flat back turtles and dolphins will no longer be rare highlights of your day but spectacular recurrences. The best part about Mornington Island is the weather. Conventional seasons cease to exist. Forget hot and cold, wet and dry will now be your measure. The average winter day sees a top of 25 degrees and a minimum of 16.

The Mornington Island Arts and Crafts Centre brings together Indigenous artists from the Wellesley Island Group through a unified love of art. Each piece exhibited is a reflection of the artist’s soul and experiences. Information regarding each artist is available at the Centre but chances are you will run into them at the centre at some stage. For many of the artists at the Centre, this is an opportunity for them to preserve their heritage. The works created through this Centre are regularly exhibited all over Australia. For those who wish to truly understand the island Indigenous culture, the Mornington Island Arts and Crafts Centre is not to be missed.

Alcohol restrictions are in place in the Mornington Shire area.

FACT: Australia has a grand total of 8,222 islands in its maritime boarders. Mornington Island is the largest of the Wellesley Island, a group of 23 islands in the Gulf of Carpenteria

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 25 Local Attractions

Mount Isa Underground Hospital

Venture underground at Mount Isa Underground Hospital and discover how residents lived in fear of being bombed. With the advent of World War II and the bombing of the Darwin Hospital, precautions were taken to protect Mount Isa district hospital in the event of an air raid. As history will tell, the Japanese did not reach Mount Isa, therefore the Underground Hospital was not used or needed. However right up to the 1960s night shift nurses would sleep there as it was cool, dark and quiet.

As the new hospital was being built in 1959 construction damaged the Underground Hospital. The local community protested and the remainder was saved.

Vandals burnt out the timbering and in 1994 the community had to decide what to do with this unusual structure. The underground hospital was restored and has since received a prestigious award from The National Trust of Queensland for heritage restoration.

The Outback at Isa

The Award Winning Hard Times Mine, or the fantastic Isa Experience and Outback Park. Discover Australia’s ancient past at the Riversleigh Fossil Centre or many of the other exciting attractions that Mount Isa has to offer.

26 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Lake Moondarra - Mount Isa

Moondarra Dam was constructed in 1957 for the purpose of town water and industrial use. The lake’s name, Moondarra, came from a public contest held at the time. It has a surface area 2375 hectares and holds 106,000mL of water at an average depth of 6m when full.

The lake is used for various recreational activities such as canoeing, sailing, boating, skiing, swimming, picnics, and increasingly, fishing.

The lake is also the main source of freshwater for Mount Isa and a Fresh Water Lagoon was built to allow the water to naturally filter through reeds and for particles to settle out before pumping to Mount Isa.

Fish species available are Barramundi, Sooty Grunter, Saratoga, Alligator Gar, Fork-tailed Catfish, Jew, Archerfish, Spangled Perch & Sleepy Cod.

Mount Isa Family Fun Park

The Mount Isa Family Fun Park is the largest all abilities playground in Queensland!

Opened in 2009, the park cost over $4.25 million to design and build. It offers locals and visitors alike the perfect facility to play, relax, and enjoy.

The Family Fun Park is built to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their level of ability or movement. It has something for everyone, regardless of their personal interests!

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 27 Adels Grove Camping Park

Adels Grove is located 10 km from the Lawn Hill Gorge, Boodjamulla National Park and 50 km from the world heritage Riversleigh Fossil fields. Visitors have the option of camping or enjoying dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation in either furnished river tents or rooms. Relax on the licensed deck area or by Lawn Hill Creek between swims.

• Exploring - The World Heritage Riversleigh Fossils and Lawn Hill Gorge can be done self-guided or make the most of your time and hop on a guided tour of them or of Harry’s Hill sunset or an exclusive escarpment tour • Swimming - Or float around in Lawn Hill Creek, a perennial and spring fed waterway • Bird Watching - Several different environments in the area promise a wide variety of birds species. Savannah woodlands, open Savannah plains, lush rain forests and rocky escarpments to explore • Canoeing - Available for hire from reception for use at both Adels Grove and Lawn Hill Gorge. No fast water and a delightful way of viewing the gorge and creek • Fishing - Try your skill against Barramundi, Bream, Grunters, Perch, Cod, Catfish and more • Walking - Excellent short walks around Adels Grove and a further 20 km of walks in the National Park • Eat & Drink - The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner • Relax - With new friends around a campfire at night • Enjoy - A drink on the deck overlooking the spring fed Lawn Hill Creek.

28 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities Julia Creek Dirt & Dust Festival - April

From modest beginnings, today’s event brings together people from all walks of life – people from Queensland, Australia and overseas. Julia Creek, based in McKinlay Shire, is proud to host what is fast becoming Queensland’s 'Must go-to' event.

Each year the Committee aims to reproduce the highlights of the previous years and add new attractions to continually showcase the town, its people and the true Aussie outback.

Building on the success of previous years, the Festival is quickly becoming more than bulls, bikes and butts. Situated in the centre of the adventurous Overlander’s Way, the Julia Creek Dirt & Dust Festival provides the focal point in the magnificent month of April for our many visitors who gather and celebrate, before heading out to explore or work in our glorious outback.

The Julia Creek Dirt & Dust Festival now offers visitors three jam-packed days of fun and entertainment. Experience real outback hospitality when the tiny North West Queensland outback town of Julia Creek swells from 400 people to 3,000 in one weekend! See the gutsy outback triathlon teams in action, back a winner at the Artesian Express Outback Horse Races and kick on til late with nightly outdoor concerts.

Boulia Camel Races - July

This must-see event at the Show Grounds in Boulia consists of three days packed with thrilling entertainment, including the camel races. The most prominent races are the Quarter-Mile Flyer and the Camel Cup.

The event attracts people from all over the world and the town bursts at the seams with around 3000 people attending the weekend. Festivities commence on Friday night with great music and entertainment including a magic show.

North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities 29 Mount Isa Rodeo - August

The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is where the romance of the Australian Outback meets the grit of a mining town, East meets West and man meets beast. Non-stop rodeo action – bull riding, saddle bronc, bareback bronc, rope and tie, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, breakaway roping and behind the scenes tours. The legend continues since 1959.

The Isa Rodeo is more than just a rodeo – it is nothing short of a week long program of fun and festivities for all the family. Activities include the Isa Street Party, the Rodeo Queen Quest, Rodeo Ball, Brophys Boxing Troupe and the Mailman Express Sprint Time Trial. Don’t forget the Rodeo Rock of live performances and open-air concerts.

Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic - October

Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic is part of the vibrant calendar of events that makes Queensland the best address on earth. Experiences are at the core of any destination event and you will come away from the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic with some amazing Queensland memories. Events play an important role in showcasing a destination, driving visitation, fostering community pride and creating jobs for the local community.

30 North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities North West Hospital and Health Service - May 2019 | Medical Officer Opportunities