This award recognises a general practitioner or rural generalist who has shown exceptional commitment to rural healthcare. The nominee consistently delivers high-quality clinical care and engages deeply with their community.
Dr Ajit Chaurasia – Finalist
Since joining Wongan Hills in 2019, Dr Ajit Chaurasia has transformed rural healthcare across the Wheatbelt through leadership, clinical excellence, and community advocacy. Beginning as a solo practitioner, he has expanded local GP services to three doctors and extended coverage to nearby towns including Wyalkatchem and Koorda, ensuring consistent access to primary care. Dr Chaurasia has improved specialist and allied health access, introduced diagnostic ultrasound services, and strengthened hospital, emergency, aged, and palliative care in the region. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his early vaccination efforts achieved one of WA’s highest local uptake rates, reflecting his proactive approach and commitment to public health. A passionate educator and mentor, he supports GP registrars, medical students, and Rural Clinical School placements, fostering high-quality learning and continuity of rural practice. Known for his compassion and innovation, Dr Chaurasia continues to build healthier, more resilient communities across the Wheatbelt and is an inspiring leader in rural medicine.
Dr Carly Roxburgh – Finalist
Dr Carly Roxburgh has served the Great Southern community since 2010, providing comprehensive care across obstetrics, general practice, emergency medicine, and medical education. As the Final Year Lead Medical Coordinator at the Rural Clinical School of WA, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of rural doctors through her teaching, mentorship, and curriculum development. Dr Roxburgh works weekly in Mt Barker, delivering holistic hospital, emergency, and aged care services, and provides specialist obstetric and gynaecological care across the region, including caesarean sections at Albany Health Campus. A passionate advocate for women’s health and pelvic pain management, she is recognised for her clinical excellence, compassion, and leadership. Dr Roxburgh inspires students and colleagues alike through her commitment to rural medicine, her contribution to numerous clinical committees, and her tireless dedication to improving regional health outcomes and education.
Dr Richard Taylor – Winner
Dr Richard Taylor has dedicated more than a decade to serving the Geraldton and Midwest communities of WA. A procedural GP with qualifications in anaesthetics and obstetrics, he provides high-quality, patient-centred care while championing the development of the rural medical workforce. Dr Taylor provides consistent on-call and after-hours support for obstetrics and anaesthetics, often responding to urgent and complex cases outside routine hours. His availability and reliability in these roles contribute to the operational stability of local maternity and surgical services. His capacity to manage high-stakes clinical situations with composure and competence enhances patient safety and builds trust within the multidisciplinary team. Since joining Panaceum Medical in 2014, Dr Taylor has also been a full-time GP and an accredited supervisor, fostering excellence through registrar education and his role as a Medical Educator with the RACGP. As Chair of the Midwest GP Network, he promotes collaboration and peer support across the region. Widely respected for his clinical expertise, integrity, and leadership, Dr Taylor continues to advance rural healthcare through teaching, advocacy, and his commitment to his community.
General Practitioner (GP of the Year) was sponsored by The Rural Clinical School of Western Australia