A rural rotation that changed everything for Dr Teegan McQuinn
Left to right: Dr Brodee Lockwood, Dr Sasha John, Dr Meg Lawrence and Dr Teegan McQuinn at Elephant Rock during sunrise.
For Resident Medical Officer (RMO) Dr Teegan McQuinn, ten weeks in Kununurra through the WA Country Health Service Community Residency Program (CRP) offered far more than any usual placement.
Teegan’s placement was a journey rich in clinical growth, cultural learning and unforgettable adventure.
Having previously worked in the West Kimberley, Teegan was eager to experience life and medicine on the East side of the region.
“I was keen to check out why everyone raves so much about the East Kimberley and I’m so glad I did!” she shared.
When she wasn’t on duty, Teegan made the most of her weekends - immersing herself in the natural beauty and thrills of the WA outback.
“In just ten weeks I’ve been so lucky to pack my weekends full of hiking, swimming in waterfalls, 4WDing, boating, kayaking and croc spotting,” she said.
“There’s no bad time to be here. Wet season is for chasing waterfalls and storm watching and dry season is when you can go explore and all the events begin.”
Beyond the landscapes and leisure, Teegan found the clinical opportunities to be just as enriching.
“I’ve had broad exposure across general medicine, paediatrics, theatre and remote primary care,” she explained.
“The scope of rural generalism out here is enormous. It’s deepened my appreciation for how rural GPs advocate for patients.”
With a supportive and tight-knit team by her side, Teegan found herself growing as a clinician every day.
“I’ve had fantastic one-on-one teaching and countless opportunities to expand both my clinical knowledge and procedural skills.”
A defining part of her experience was the unique cultural learning that came with living and working in the East Kimberley.
“Working in the East Kimberley also means learning from and with Aboriginal patients, which has made me a more thoughtful and culturally aware doctor,” she said.
“Just apply and give it a go. You won’t get opportunities as unique, exciting, fun or challenging as this.”
Applications for the 2026 Community Residency Program close Monday 14 July 2025.
Apply here: 2026 Rural Community Residency Program - WA Country Health Service