In 2023, the Northern Territory Regional Training Hub (NT RTH) delivered its Mentoring Masterclass Program, an initiative designed to enhance mentoring professional development and to foster meaningful connections within the NT’s medical community. The program, informed by focus groups, stakeholders, and previous participants, guided the redefinition and expansion of the program, ensuring that it aligned with current and evolving needs of NT clinicians.

One of the pivotal enhancements to the 2023 Program was the strategic streamlining of professional development offerings. The refinement ensured that participants received targeted, relevant, and impactful workshops that directly contributed to their growth as mentors and/or mentees. An innovative facet of the program involved inviting stakeholder organisations with established mentor-matching programs, to collaborate with the NT RTH. This approach not only enriched the program with diverse perspectives but also facilitated broader networking opportunities and the pooling of resources.

The Program comprised of three professional development workshops facilitated by the well-regarded Pam McLean Centre plus a combined panel discussion and focus group session. Renowned for providing evidence-based medical communication skills training, the Pam McLean Centre brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the program. Workshops held in both Darwin and Alice Springs, covered areas such as complex communication, the building of trust in relationships and self-reflective practices.

The NT RTH will now start planning its 2024 program and remains committed to building the capacity and quality of mentoring practices and nurturing a resilient, skilled, and interconnected NT clinical workforce.