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Rural Doctors Network welcomes JMOs to Orange for wellbeing weekend
21st September 2026
“It’s the only event I know of that is truly dedicated to supporting the 'workhorses' of the NSW rural health system,” – PGY2 Dr Pip Kensit.
Twenty-five Junior Medical Officers (JMOs) from Orange, Wagga Wagga, Tamworth, Dubbo and Albury came together in Orange recently for a ‘JMO Wellbeing Weekend’ hosted by Rural Doctors Network.
Rural Doctors Network's Future Workforce Program Lead Eleanor Knight said the weekend was a wonderful opportunity for JMOs to pause, reconnect and step away from the demands of clinical practice and connect with peers and likeminded individuals.
“Creating space for JMOs to focus on their wellbeing, build connections and feel supported is an investment not only in each individual, but in the strength and sustainability of the health workforce,” Ms Knight said.
“Rural Doctors Network is proud to support events like this because a healthier, more resilient and connected workforce is also fundamental to supporting the communities they care for,” she said.
As well as being given opportunities to relax and unwind, JMOs also heard presentations from speakers including the Head of Department of ED in Orange Fiona Stewert (who grew up in Orange), Cadet Alumni and Psych Reg Kirbie Storrier and ICU consultant James Basha who also grew up in Orange and did his JMO years there too.
As a PGY2 in Orange and dedicated rural health advocate, Dr Pip Kensit attended the event and described the weekend as “unreal”.
“I came away feeling genuinely recharged, supported and reminded of the importance of looking after the people who spend so much of their time looking after everyone else,” Dr Kensit said.
“It’s the only event I know of that is truly dedicated to supporting the 'workhorses' of the NSW rural health system.
“We heard from “real”, practical fellow rural doctors who understand the reality of being a country JMO and shared authentic insights into looking after ourselves throughout this journey. We relaxed with yoga, unwound over beautiful food and incredible views at Macquariedale, and laughed and connected with fellow cadets,” she said.
Dr Kensit not only attended the event, but generously shared her local insights, helping connect the group with local doctors and speakers. Her support in recommending the location for the presentations and dinner was greatly appreciated by Rural Doctors Network and helped ensure all attendees experienced the very best of what Orange has to offer.
Did you know? The significance of nurturing and fostering the future workforce in the early years of their careers through opportunities such as this and the trips and events associated with the Rural Resident Medical Officer Cadetship is no better exemplified than by the retention rate of cadets. Following the completion of their return of service in rural areas, more than 60% have continued practising rurally.
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