For South African GP Dr Arthur Berry, medicine is a family affair. After completing his medical studies in Pretoria, Arthur worked as a medical officer in the public health system before founding a practice in partnership with his father in a rural area of South Africa.
After building a solid medical foundation in his home country, Arthur and his family decided to try living and working overseas, and originally moved to Canada. But their short time in a cold climate made them realise they needed a better fit in terms of lifestyle and weather, and so Arthur began exploring options to find employment in Australia.
“My wife and I wanted to find somewhere we could enjoy our lives outside of work, and share new experiences with our kids. Australia has a lot of similarities with South Africa in terms of climate and culture, and so we thought it would be the right choice,” says Arthur.
Arthur first contacted DXC Medical in July 2021, and has worked closely with the team to realise his dream of working in Australia, accepting a job at the Healthlink Family Medical Centre in Townsville. Following the Australian Medical Council Standard Pathway, Arthur has sat and passed his Level 2 PESCI through the Institute of Medical Education, and will now apply for the RACGP Fellowship Support Program.
“I’ve really appreciated the professional guidance from the DXC Medical team,” says Arthur.
“They’ve been so patient throughout the entire process, and the service has been really personal. I feel like they’ve taken the time to get to know us, rather than just treating me like another candidate in their system.”
Arthur, his wife Ane and their two children arrived in Townsville at the start of 2024, and have enjoyed exploring the local area, including snorkelling off Magnetic Island and visiting local swimming spots and national parks. They love the warm welcome and warm weather of the
small coastal city, which is large enough to have all of the facilities they need, yet small enough that they can get around with ease.
“Townsville has everything we need, there’s nothing we need to travel elsewhere for. Plus the culture of the place is really friendly. It’s got a great vibe,” says Arthur.
Looking ahead, Arthur is keen to explore specialist training, potentially in the area of skin cancer, after he completes his fellowship and establishes himself in the local area.
DXC Medical remains committed to finding rewarding professional placements for doctors like Dr Arthur Berry, ensuring they receive the guidance and support needed to make meaningful contributions to health care in regional and rural Australia.
We wish Arthur and his family all the best for their new life in Townsville.
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Darren Compton
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