Rural doctors awarded for service to the profession

The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) has today announced Dr Mark Craig as the recipient of its most prestigious award, the Life Fellowship Award.

The Awards Ceremony, held at the Rural Medicine Australia Conference in Melbourne, also saw seven other rural doctors awarded prizes from College in honour of their service to the profession.

Dr Craig was a key player in the establishment of ACRRM, and an early player in achieving its recognition in the profession. His major input into position papers regarding the discipline and early curriculum development of rural medicine was integral to the establishment of the college.

ACRRM President Associate Professor Ruth Stewart said: "This is not just a top accolade from the College; this is a marker of recognition form the rural medical profession.

"We host these awards each year to signify the impact our doctors are making on medicine both nationally and internationally.

"Dr Craig was a major contributor to position papers regarding the discipline and early curriculum development of the College, and was centrally involved in earliest negotiations with specialist colleges during our establishment.

"It's fitting in a way, that Dr Craig receives this award in our twentieth birthday year as without his input, we may not have been here at all."

Dr Craig said: "I'm very proud and honoured to have my contribution to ACRRM being recognised and acknowledged.

When speaking of his fondness for rural and remote practice, Dr Craig again mentions his peers: "Meeting and associating with rural doctors around the country, both men and women of highest calibre, who I am proud to call my friends and colleagues - that's the highlight of my job, every day."

The full list of award recipients is below:

Life Fellowship Award
Dr Mark Craig

Honorary Fellowship Award
Dr Pat Giddings

Peter Graham Cohuna Award
Dr Mike Moynihan

Distinguished Service Award
Dr John Cooper
Ms Jeanette McLaren
Dr Mark Rikard-Bell

Registrar of the Year Award
Dr Teena Downton
Dr Michelle Hannan