Gwydir GPs Honoured for 35+ Years of Long Service to Country New South Wales

Each year the Rural Doctors Network (RDN) recognises rural GPs who have achieved 35+ years’ service to remote, rural and regional communities in NSW. This year, 16 outstanding GPs were honoured with a 2024 Rural Medical Service Award. Thirteen recipients made the trip to the Manly Pacific Hotel in Sydney for the award presentation held on Saturday 30th November 2024, at the Rural GPs Conference gala dinner as part of Rural Health Month.

Each year the Rural Doctors Network (RDN) recognises rural GPs who have achieved 35+ years’ service to remote, rural and regional communities in NSW. This year, 16 outstanding GPs were honoured with a 2024 Rural Medical Service Award. Thirteen recipients made the trip to the Manly Pacific Hotel in Sydney for the award presentation held on Saturday 30th November 2024, at the Rural GPs Conference gala dinner as part of Rural Health Month.

The presentation of the Awards at the gala dinner was an important moment of recognition—few things are valued more highly by country communities than the peace of mind that comes with having a “local doctor” as part of the fabric of their community.

Dr Diana Coote – For service to Warialda
After commencing her career in Queensland, Dr Di Coote has served 35 years as a GP in Warialda, NSW. She has completed a Fertility Control course with the Australian Family Planning Association and regularly attends the Rural Health Continuing Education programs. In addition to comprehensive general practice care she has special interests in obstetric care, paediatrics, women’s health interests and counselling.

Dr Clement Gordon – For service to Warialda
Dr Clem Gordon had extensive hospital and general practice experience before commencing as a GP in Warialda in 1989. His postgraduate qualifications before moving to Warialda include a Diploma of the Royal Australian College of Obstetrics and Gynaecologists, Diploma of Anaesthetics (United Kingdom) and Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Clem has also completed Postgraduate Diplomas in Family Medicine and Rural Health. Since arriving in Warialda, his commitment to general practice and continuing medical education has continued.

Dr Chris Matthews – For service to Cessnock, Kurri Kurri and Bingara
Dr Chris Matthews has practiced as a GP in rural areas since 1973 including as a coordinator of rural training in Adelaide from 1993 to 1995.