University of Tasmania alumnus Dr Chris Hughes has been recognised with a prestigious award acknowledging his service in the field of medicine.
The Wynyard GP, who completed the final years of his study at the Rural Clinical School in Burnie, is the recipient of the Young Alumni Achievement award.
The accolade is presented to alumni who inspire others in their profession or community and have demonstrated success in their chosen career.
The announcement was made at the annual Burnie University dinner held on Thursday, 4 April.
Dr Hughes grew up in Wynyard and graduated from the University with a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery in 2008.
After time furthering his career interstate, he returned to his home town to practise his profession.
In 2016, he was recognised by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) as both the Tasmanian Registrar of the Year and national General Practice Registrar of the Year.
“Being able to give back to regional Australia in the town where I was raised is particularly rewarding,” Dr Hughes said.
“The turnover of doctors in this area can be dizzying, so it's nice to provide a constant for the community.
“I used to think it was a cliché - but we as GPs get the opportunity to develop long-term relationships with our patients, and this does enrich your life.
“Of course, the wonderful people you meet and interact with in regional Australia make working here a real treat, and general practice provides infinite variety and breadth in which to find your niche.”
