Scholarship will help achieve dream of serving outback with medicine

The third year James Cook University medical student has received $6000 to help her with her studies, which her mother, Lisa Magoffin, said would be a wonderful boost for her.

“One of her great passions is to take advantage of technology to bring more services to outback regions.

“Next year she’ll be placed at Hughenden, which she’s really looking forward to.”

As an indication of the commitment required to fulfill that dream, in three years time, when the next Westech Field Days are held, Sally will be in the final year of her degree.

She was chosen from 11 applicants, and coordinator Liz Lynch said there had been a very strong field.

“It was so encouraging to see how positive young people are about the west, and to hear their ideas for years to come,” she said. “I liked that they could see a future for themselves in the region.”

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board partnered with Westech once again for the award, which is open to residents with a permanent address in the council areas of Barcaldine, Blackall-Tambo, Longreach, Boulia, Diamantina, Barcoo and Winton, aged between 16 and 21.

Chairman Rob Chandler said it was a privilege to be a part of.

Westech president Andrew Cowper said it had been a great initiative, judging by the success of past recipients.

Yaraka’s Andi-Claire Pegler was the 2014 recipient and Josh Clews of Alpha was the runner-up.