Emma Pritchard

He has recently been introduced as the newest staff member at the South Grafton Medical Centre, but Dr Andrew Fahey is already widely known throughout the region.

Born and raised in the Clarence Valley on his family’s beef cattle property in Copmanhurst, Dr Fahey is relishing the opportunity to live and work in his own backyard.

After completing his early education in Copmanhurst and Grafton, Dr Fahey relocated north of the border to further his studies.

Upon attaining a Bachelor of Science degree, followed by a Bachelor of Medicine degree and Bachelor of Surgery degree from the University of Queensland, Dr Fahey spent several years working in the northern region of the sunshine state where he gained valuable experience in rural and regional practices and hospital training in Cairns.

When the opportunity to return to the Clarence Valley and work at the South Grafton Medical Centre presented itself, Dr Fahey was not going to let it pass.

“It’s fantastic to be back,” he said.

“This is also the first medical practice I came to as an infant, and I remember a lot of previous doctors who were here, and now I’m here as well.

“Everyone has been so fantastic and warm and welcoming.

“It’s good to be back home and to be part of the community again.”

While he had early aspirations of becoming an astronomer, Dr Fahey said pursuing a career in medicine had always been in the back of his mind.

“I enjoy helping people, talking to people and getting to know them,” he said.

“Working as a GP gives you an opportunity to do all of those things and you’re also helping to make a difference in other people’s lives.

“It’s a very rewarding career.

“It opens up so many opportunities and I’ve met and spoken with so many amazing people, and the information and knowledge you can share as well, it’s great.”

Among Dr Fahey’s special interests is Indigenous health issues and he is especially interested in working with the local Indigenous community in the Clarence Valley.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family on their expansive property, herding cattle on a quad bike, mending fences, completing yard work, and stargazing.

“It’s great being back out in the bush and looking up at the night sky, it’s so different compared to the city,” he said.

To book an appointment with Dr Fahey, please contact the South Grafton Medical Centre on 66 431 500.