GP Taster Weekend 2026
The People Project invites you to express your interest in attending our annual GP Taster Weekend.
Discover the realities of practicing medicine beyond metropolitan areas at our annual GP Taster Weekend, designed exclusively for 3rd- 4th- and 5th-year medical students. With rural communities across the country facing critical workforce shortages, this immersive event aims to inspire future doctors to consider meaningful and rewarding careers in these regions.
Priority is given to Year 5 students who have not previously attended, followed by consideration of all other applications.
Participants enjoy a fully funded experience, including accommodation, meals, and all program activities (travel not included). The program features opportunities to meet and learn from rural practitioners, take part in engaging networking sessions, and gain valuable insight into the unique challenges and rewards of rural medical practice.
A highlight of the event is a hands-on casualty simulation delivered Johnson First Aid, offering a practical look at emergency response in remote settings. Students will also enjoy a fun social activity designed to build connections and foster a sense of community.
Join us to explore rural medicine, grow your professional network, and experience a career path with real impact.
Speakers
Johnson First Aid Training
Casualty Simulator
Johnson First Aid Training delivers engaging, high-quality first aid training across Launceston and surrounding areas, led by some of Tasmania’s most experienced trainers with over 70 years of combined experience.
For the GP Taster Weekend, participants will take part in a hands-on casualty simulation experience designed to build practical skills, confidence, and real-world readiness.
Our trainers believe learning should be practical, memorable, and enjoyable – focusing on active participation rather than “death by PowerPoint” – so skills are retained and can be confidently applied when it matters most.
Dr Caitriona O’Sullivan
RACGP
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is Australia’s leading professional body for general practitioners. It sets the standards for excellence in general practice through education, training, advocacy, and research. The RACGP supports GPs throughout their careers, ensuring they deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across urban, regional, and rural communities. Committed to advancing general practice, the RACGP also provides guidance on professional development, clinical resources, and policies that shape Australia’s healthcare system.
Dr Jemma Allen
ACRRM | Guest Speaker
The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) is the peak body supporting doctors working in rural and remote communities across Australia. ACRRM sets the standards for rural generalist practice through education, training, assessment, and professional development. Committed to improving access to high-quality healthcare in regional and remote areas, ACRRM equips rural doctors with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care in diverse and often challenging settings.
Dr Brian Treanor
TRGP | Guest Speaker
The Tasmanian Rural Generalist Pathway (TRGP) is a government-supported program designed to train, support, and retain general practitioners in Tasmania’s rural and remote communities. TRGP equips doctors with the broad skills needed to provide high-quality, comprehensive healthcare in regional settings, offering tailored training, mentoring, and career pathways. By fostering a strong network of rural generalists, TRGP ensures Tasmanian communities have access to skilled, locally based medical care.
Dr Helena Ward
Guest Speaker
We’re thrilled to welcome Dr Helena Ward as a guest speaker at our upcoming event!
Dr Ward, a 2019 graduate of James Cook University in Townsville, has gained extensive experience across multiple clinics in Bundaberg and has contributed to medical education as a temporary lecturer at the University of Queensland. Now based in Devonport, Dr Ward brings her passion for providing inclusive, patient-centred care to the Tasmanian community.
She has a special interest in women’s health, child and family health, geriatric care, chronic disease management, and gynaecology. Dr Ward is committed to supporting patients from all backgrounds, including LGBTQI+ communities, and is excited to share her insights and experiences with attendees.
Sponsors
