When Dr Sophie Yeates applied for the GPRA Dr Debbie Stach Scholarship last year, she never expected to be selected. But the opportunity has since played a vital role in her journey as a GP registrar in remote East Arnhem Land, supporting her education, career development, and personal well-being.

“Receiving the GPRA NT scholarship has supported me in my journey as a GP registrar in remote East Arnhem Land by providing financial support to attend educational activities and courses, and has also allowed me to return home to see family,” Sophie shares.

The financial assistance has allowed Sophie to further her medical education while also maintaining the personal connections that sustain her in the demanding yet rewarding field of remote general practice.

“In this way, the scholarship has helped me to progress my own education and therefore further my career development, and I have learnt skills that I can bring back to put into practice in my community,” she says.

For those considering applying for this year’s GPRA NT scholarships, Sophie has simple yet encouraging advice: “I encourage all GP registrars in the NT to apply because you might be surprised by the outcome just like I was.”

Beyond the scholarship, Sophie’s experience working as a GP registrar in East Arnhem Land has been profoundly rewarding.

She highlights the opportunity to immerse herself in Yolŋu culture and develop a deep appreciation for the land and its people.

“The most rewarding aspect of working as a GP registrar in East Arnhem Land has been learning about Yolŋu culture and the land on which we work and live,” she says.

“I’ve learned so much about both medicine but also about this amazing part of the world, and I still have so much to learn and experience here.”

Sophie encourages other doctors to consider a career in rural and remote general practice in the NT, emphasising the unique blend of professional growth and adventure it offers.

“I would encourage other doctors to consider remote GP in the NT because of how rewarding and diverse the work is,” she says.

“It is rare to find this balance elsewhere. It is the perfect balance between lifestyle, adventure, and career.”

For GP registrars looking to make a meaningful impact in rural and remote communities, the GPRA NT scholarships provide an invaluable opportunity.

Sophie’s experience is a testament to the ways in which these scholarships can enhance education, support career progression, and foster an enriching professional and personal journey.

Applications for this year’s GPRA NT scholarships are now open. If you’re a GP registrar in the NT, take Sophie’s advice — apply, and you might just be surprised by where it takes you.

Find out more and apply now.