Dr Bill Coorey of Grafton’s Queen Street Clinic has been named GP Synergy Supervisor of the Year for the North Coast training region, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to training the next generation of GPs.

Having completed the latter part of his own GP training in Grafton, Dr Coorey gained accreditation to train GP registrars in 2016.

Describing himself as humbled to receive the recognition, Dr Coorey good-naturedly revealed he has always thought, “when you win an award people will always expect more of you, so now I need to find ways to step it up.”

“In my sporting days I tried to be an all-rounder, general practice is the ultimate challenge of being a human all-rounder!” he said.

“There are many ways to learn in medicine, the challenges that come with supervising trainee GPs provides another avenue for learning.

“Even better is the opportunity to mentor these excellent young doctors and watch them develop into fantastic, effective doctors and indeed, human beings.

“I enjoy the process of understanding each registrar; where they are at in their training but also where they are at in their life.

“No supervisor can be effective without the tireless support of the GP Synergy medical educators, a reliable boulevard of information and guidance and the same goes for the behind-the-scenes staff that make everything happen, both at GP Synergy and Queen St Clinic.”

Mr Cameron Wilson, CEO of local general practice education and training provider GP Synergy, said GP supervisors and general practice staff are an essential part of training our next generation of GPs.

“GP supervisors play a crucial role in ensuring GP registrars develop the skills and knowledge needed to understand and meet local population health care needs,” he said.

“Across the North Coast region, there are more than 200 accredited GP supervisors.

“Although there can only be one winner, the annual Supervisor of the Year award provides an opportunity to reflect and call attention to the significant contribution and dedication of all our GP supervisors.

“GP Synergy is delighted to be able to present this year’s Supervisor of the Year award for North Coast to Dr Coorey in recognition of his commitment to excellence in general practice education and training.”