Why should I come along? What will be discussed?

Stream One

The Congress will enable knowledge sharing among health services and other organisations with a view to better deliver rural training. Join us to be part of the conversations about what is happening in Gippsland and elsewhere around Victoria.

Stream Two

Final-year medical students and pre-vocational doctors can deepen their understanding of careers in rural medicine. It will be a great networking opportunity with peers interested in the same pathways, junior doctors already on the journey and those delivering the programs. This is an exciting professional development opportunity and CV boost for rural and regional junior doctors and medical students. Certificates of participation will be provided to all attendees.

Are meals provided?

Yes, all meals and beverages are included in the ticket price. Please let us know any specific dietary requirements when you register.

Who can I network with and will I find a mentor?

There will be ample time for face-to-face networking and discussions with peers and senior colleagues, including health service representatives and Medical Colleges. You’ll also hear about the free Dr JuMP medical mentoring program which is specifically designed to connect mentees and mentors together.

Is accommodation available?

Stream One

Consultants, Registrars, Colleges, and Health Service Representatives - please book your accommodation directly. The Mantra Traralgon has agreed to provide discounted accommodation rates to Congress delegates. Please contact the Mantra directly and let them know you are attending the Congress, to receive the discount. It is recommended that accommodation bookings be made early, as room availability is limited.

Stream Two

Students & Pre-Vocational Doctors - accommodation has been subsidised by the Rural Workforce Agency Victoria and can be paid for at the same time as your Congress registration. If you have paid for accommodation with your ticket, a private room will be booked for you and details shared prior to the event. If you have an attending partner or friend and want to request a shared room, please advise sarah.renn@monash.edu.

Can I bring a guest?

Stream Two delegates (students and pre-vocational doctors) are welcome to bring a guest to dinner on Friday evening. Limited guest dinner tickets priced at $80.

What are the opportunities (and benefits) to live, work and train in regional and rural settings?

Clinicians all say they experience:

• greater autonomy and responsibility overseeing a diverse patient mix
• the variety of working in a multidisciplinary team
• access to professional development and support networks that foster skills and develop leadership
• a range of financial benefits such as rural and remote allowances and opportunity to work in the public system and set up private practice
• rural lifestyle options, including more affordable housing and benefits of living close to work
• a supportive local community which welcomes them with open arms
• accessibility of unique landmarks, recreation and natural attractions

Is transport and parking available?

Limited parking is available throughout the day. We recommend taking advantage of the free bus transfers available. A bus transfer will depart from the Mantra Traralgon on Friday morning, which will transport delegates to the Morwell Innovation Centre for the morning session. We will take care of all transfers during the day, transporting delegates back to the Mantra at the conclusion of the event.

More information on bus transfers will be provided to all delegates closer to the event.