Darling Downs Health has welcomed a record 61 medical interns this year, marking the largest intake since the program began.

The new junior doctors will play a critical role in delivering care to patients and supporting clinical teams across the region.

They will undertake a one-year internship during which they will gain clinical experience in areas such as emergency, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, intensive care and rural medicine.

Included in this diverse group is Dr Reuben Burrough, whose journey to medicine began in the paddocks of western New South Wales.

The former agriculture scientist spent years working in rural communities and witnessed first-hand the critical gaps in healthcare access.

“The most striking example for me was where I was living, the hospital was often closed because they couldn’t get staff, and the local general practitioner was only available two days a week,” Dr Burrough said.

“That really planted the seed for me to pursue medicine.”

Drawing on years spent in agriculture, Reuben believes his ability to “speak fluent farmer” will help him build trust and break down barriers in rural healthcare.

“I’m hopeful that my agronomist experience will help me connect with the Darling Downs community.”

Reuben chose Toowoomba for its strong rural connections and opportunities for junior doctors to gain regional experience early in their careers.

Among the new interns is also Dr Emma Dann, a proud Toowoomba local who is passionate about giving back to her home town.

“I grew up here, went to school here, and while I was keen to experience the big city at first, I quickly realised how much I love living in Toowoomba,” Dr Dann said.

“It’s a great community, and I’m excited to give back as a junior doctor.”

Darling Downs Health Service Chief Executive, Annette Scott PSM, said the record intake is a significant boost for the health service.

“Over the next twelve months, these interns will play an important role in the patient journey,” Ms Scott said.

“This program gives them an excellent opportunity to interact with patients and families in practical ways while continuing to learn, with the support of their colleagues.”

The interns will rotate through urban and rural facilities, gaining experience in diverse clinical environments.

Darling Downs Health’s Executive Director Medical Services, Dr Liam Flynn, said he felt that it was important to build a strong pipeline of rural doctors, ensuring that communities across the whole region have access to quality care.

“Rural medicine is at the heart of what our health service provides to the Darling Downs,” Dr Flynn said.

“Our intern program is designed to give junior doctors hands-on experience in rural locations early in their careers. This approach strengthens their skills and fosters a passion for serving regional communities, which is critical for the future of healthcare in Queensland.”

This article appeared in On Our Selection News, 22 January 2026.