Ned Dowling
Meet Ned
Growing up in Kyneton in the Macedon Ranges, Ned Dowling has seen firsthand the challenges regional communities face in accessing healthcare. Now in his 4th year of the Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway), he reflects on the lasting impact of having the same family GP for decades. Experiencing the benefits of patient-centred, longitudinal care inspired him to pursue a career providing the same level of care to his future patients.
“I was very fortunate to complete La Trobe University’s Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medical) in Bendigo. Studying throughout the pandemic allowed me to stay close to home while continuing to work, before relocating to Shepparton to pursue the Doctor of Medicine (Rural Pathway),” Ned explained.
One of the highlights of rural study for Ned has been the opportunity to learn from busy doctors, nurses and allied health professionals while honing his practical skills in a clinical setting.
“Some of the most rewarding experiences have been spending time with bed-bound patients who may not have visitors that day, chatting with chemotherapy patients during their hours-long treatments, and checking in with patients and their families to answer questions.
As a medical student, it can be easy to become a bystander and not contribute much. But it’s just as easy to find ways to help within your capabilities and make a meaningful contribution to patient care,” Ned reflects.
Outside of his studies, Ned has embraced life in Shepparton. Through local basketball leagues, mixed netball competitions and community volunteering programs, he has formed lasting friendships while building strong connections beyond the university environment.
Moving away from home for the first time, Ned quickly found a strong sense of community and support in Shepparton.
“Coming from a town much smaller than Shepparton and moving out of home for the first time was daunting, but I felt comfortable here almost immediately. The town offers everything I need and has a large multicultural community, which has provided valuable learning opportunities, particularly in the clinical setting.
Student accommodation has also led to lifelong friendships and memories with people who can support you through the challenges of medical school, celebrate the wins, and help you switch off and enjoy life outside of study.
Being part of a small cohort, with dedicated rural staff and strong connections to local healthcare services, has meant I’ve felt well supported throughout the degree. It’s been easy to build relationships with university and hospital staff, which has helped me feel comfortable asking questions and learning from those around me,” Ned says as he reflects on his time in the Pathway.
Having spent 4 years in the healthcare system, Ned reflects on the need for doctors in regional communities.
“Programs like this help build that workforce, but they also improve care because patients often feel more comfortable speaking with someone who understands their background and experiences. For me, that connection has often come through growing up in a rural community,” Ned said.
Looking ahead, Ned hopes to build his medical career in the Goulburn Valley, where he plans to train as a medical oncologist and support cancer care across regional communities.
“Medical school is about saying yes to opportunities when they arise. If you’re even slightly interested in rural medicine, I’d encourage you to take the opportunity. Regional hospitals provide an incredibly personal and practical learning environment, with experiences that help you grow as both a student and a future doctor,” Ned explains.
Ned has accepted an intern position in Shepparton beginning in 2027, allowing him to continue working and training rurally.