Dr Fred Edwards, Gippsland
I qualified in medicine at Sheffield University in Yorkshire, England in 1983 having initially qualifying as an engineer.
Within the British National Health Service I was fast tracked and worked for 3 years in a senior General Managers position as it was perceived that I had a desirable combination of both general management experience and a professional medical qualification.
I emigrated in 1990 to Australia directly to rural general practice.
I opened my own practice in 1993.
With partners, I have developed the Hazelwood group which specialises in the development of rural general practice.
I have been involved with teaching and providing appropriate general practice experience to both Monash and Melbourne University students for several years.
In the last 11 years I have been involved as a supervisor with GP Registrars at all levels and in the provision of training and career development for many International Medical Graduates.
I currently serve on the Eastern Victoria GP Training Board.
Away from medicine I am a keen cattle farmer.