Rural GPs recognised across Australia in RACGP state awards
13 Nov 2026
Rural general practitioners have been among the major recipients at this year’s Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) state and territory awards.
The awards recognise doctors who are helping improve healthcare access and deliver essential medical services in regional and remote communities across Australia.
Northern Territory
Dr Kate Lloyd from Alice Springs was named Northern Territory GP of the Year for her work improving healthcare access across the territory.
Dr Lloyd has worked with Central Australian Aboriginal Congress in Mparntwe for 20 years, beginning her time there as a GP registrar.
She currently works at Alukura Health Service, a women's health clinic providing general practice services alongside specialised women's healthcare.
The service also works with the Congress Alukura Midwifery Group Practice, which provides culturally safe maternity care. GPs support the team by delivering antenatal and postnatal services.
Dr Lloyd has also developed additional skills in point-of-care ultrasound, intrauterine device (IUD) insertions and colposcopies.
Her award recognises her contribution to identifying gaps in healthcare, developing services to meet community needs, and supporting medical education through supervision and mentoring.
Queensland
Dr Charlotte Lovejoy, a rural generalist registrar based in Kingaroy, received Queensland's GP in Training of the Year Award.
She works at Bunya Pines Medical Centre and Kingaroy Hospital, providing ongoing patient care while contributing to acute medical services.
She was recognised for her commitment to improving healthcare in regional and rural communities. She is also completing her final Fellowship examinations.
New South Wales
Dr Benjamin Reynolds, based in Dareton in south-western New South Wales, received the NSW GP in Training of the Year award.
His work in rural and Aboriginal health was recognised, particularly his efforts to improve access to healthcare in underserved communities.
His commitment includes relocating to rural areas and supporting preventive healthcare to help address gaps in medical services.
Associate Professor Ayman Shenouda also received the Award for Service for his contribution to general practice in NSW, his community in Wagga Wagga and the RACGP.
He currently chairs the college's National International Medical Graduate Committee. His previous roles include Rural Chair from 2014 to 2020, Vice President from 2018 to 2020 and Acting President in 2020.
Tasmania
Dr Jehan Phillips was named Tasmania's GP of the Year at the state's Fellowship and Awards Ceremony.
Based in Newstead, Dr Phillips was recognised for his long-standing commitment to patients and the local community.
He has also contributed to medical education by supporting and training the next generation of general practitioners.
South Australia
Dr Ricky Stocker-Johns, who practises in Waikerie, received the GP in Training of the Year Award in South Australia.
The rural registrar was recognised for his dedication to patient care, rural medicine and medical education.
He has also supported medical students and future healthcare professionals through his involvement in training and education.
Western Australia
Dr Richard Taylor, a second-generation GP from Geraldton, was named Western Australia's GP of the Year.
His award recognises his commitment to community-based general practice and the relationships he has developed with patients and families through years of local service.
Dr Christopher Chi received the WA GP in Training of the Year Award for his commitment to rural and remote healthcare.
He was recognised for relocating with his family to serve regional communities, supporting medical training and providing care to patients.
The awards highlight the contributions of GPs working across regional and remote Australia and their role in maintaining access to healthcare in local communities.
Rural GPs recognised across Australia in RACGP state awards
Source: RACGP (newsGP) – Rural GPs recognised in the 2026 state and territory awards.