Held on Bidjigal and Gadigal Country at AH&MRC’s Little Bay campus (17–18 October), the Deadly Doctors Forum united GPs from Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) across NSW to share knowledge and strengthen connections. Delivered in partnership with the Rural Doctors Network (RDN), the event celebrated cultural leadership, clinical innovation, and community resilience.
The forum opened with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Maxine Ryan, followed by Nicole Turner (CEO, AH&MRC) and Mike Edwards (COO, RDN) reaffirming their commitment to a culturally responsive workforce. Luke Romer outlined the vision for a sustainable GP workforce in the Aboriginal Community Controlled Sector.
Inspiration and Cultural Practice
Highlights included Dr Kathryn Hutt (Doctors’ Health NSW) urging clinicians to reflect on competence and wellbeing, and Keira Edwards (AH&MRC) advocating for trauma-integrated care. Peter Cooley shared IndigiGrow’s story of cultural connection and youth empowerment. Day one concluded with a cultural dinner at the Sydney Opera House featuring chef Mark Olive (Bundjalung).
Clinical Updates
Day two focused on practical education for ACCHOs:
- A/Prof Raj Puranick presented cardiovascular risk assessment tailored for Aboriginal communities.
- Dr Yuanee Wickramasinghe (Healthdirect) discussed GP helpline use and improving First Nations referrals.
- Dr Shannon Lin demonstrated continuous glucose monitoring systems, with attendees able to trial the devices themselves.
- Dr Marion Tait (Bulgarr Ngaru MAC) shared the impact of locally led audits for rheumatic heart disease using the Menzies app.
- Dr Nigel Biggs highlighted ear health and the use of an app with otitis media guidelines.
- Naomi Hoffman, Kamilaroi woman and sexual health consultant, promoted normalising sexual health conversations.
- Dr Joe Lawler addressed liver disease drivers and multidisciplinary care.
Emergency Preparedness and Climate Resilience
Dr Monica Taylor and Dr Natalie Lindsay (Bullinah AHS) shared outreach experiences after floods and cyclones, followed by a panel with Dr Kerry Chant and Nicole Turner on climate impacts and flexible outreach models. Dr Chant also outlined NSW Health’s immunisation priorities, stressing vaccine integration, novel immunisations, and digital systems to boost uptake in Aboriginal communities.
Closing Reflections
The forum ended with a call for evidence-based practice, partnership, and culturally informed care. Participants left energised and equipped with tools to strengthen clinical practice and community impact. We thank all presenters, partners, and participants for contributing to two meaningful days of learning and connection. Presentations are available here. Join the Deadly Doctors Mailing list by filling out this Form
We look forward to welcoming everyone to the 2026 Deadly Doctors Forum!
