The 2025 GP Supervisors Workshop, part of the South Australian Rural Medical (SARM) Program, brought together a passionate and dedicated group of rural medical educators last week for a day of learning, reflection, and collaboration.
Held at Bedford Park campus, the workshop offered GP supervisors from across South Australia the opportunity to connect, upskill, and share experiences in training the next generation of rural doctors.
The day began with an Acknowledgement of Country led by Larissa Taylor, setting a positive tone for the sessions ahead. From there, attendees engaged in a packed and engaging program, focused on both the science and humanity of clinical education and supervision in rural settings.
Highlights from the morning included immersive clinical simulation sessions led by Dr David Lam and Dr Peter Stuart, as well as updates on rural clinical care from Dr Natalie Payne and Associate Professor James Padley. These sessions reinforced the importance of delivering relevant, practice-ready training for medical students preparing for rural practice.
A key focus of the day was on educational practice in rural contexts. Dr Peter Michelmore, Dr Tshokey Tshokey, and Dr Kishan Pandithage shared practical strategies for teaching, assessing, and supporting learners in regional, rural and remote settings.
In the afternoon, the workshop shifted to the human aspects of supervision and supporting students through challenge and change. Dr Patrick Burgon and Dr Sophie Hamilton provided valuable insights into student wellbeing and the complexities of offering effective feedback. The final session revisited the theme of culturally informed education, with contributions from Larissa Taylor, Dr Sally Nelson, and Dr Michelmore encouraging supervisors to foster not only clinical competence, but cultural humility and social accountability in their students.
A unifying message throughout the day was the unique strength of the rural teaching community with GP supervisors—at the heart of rural clinical education. They bring the curriculum to life in towns and communities across the state and model what it means to practice medicine with integrity, curiosity, and care.
The day concluded with a networking dinner, generously sponsored by the Flinders Regional Training Hub. The evening offered attendees a chance to unwind, connect with colleagues, and reflect on their essential roles in shaping the future of rural healthcare.
The 2025 GP Supervisors Workshop reaffirmed the value of rural educators—and the vibrant communities that continue to lead rural medical education forward.