Dr Chamath Fernando’s journey has taken him around the world from Sri Lanka via studies in the UK to Traralgon, the largest city in Victoria’s Gippsland region. He brings extensive experience in clinical practice and academia to his new role at Breed Street Clinic, where he’s excited to continue with his commitment to family medicine and make a positive difference in this thriving rural community.
Dr Chamath’s medical career began in Sri Lanka, where he graduated from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura before completing an internship at Colombo South Teaching Hospital. He gained further experience at Teaching Hospital Galle as an anaesthetist and intensive care medical officer, before transitioning into academia. For nearly a decade, Dr Chamath worked as a lecturer at his alma mater, combining patient care with teaching and research in family medicine. His dedication to the field earned him multiple postgraduate qualifications, including the MRCGP International – South Asia.
In 2023, Dr Chamath decided to pursue opportunities in Australia through the RACGP Specialist Pathway and contacted DXC Medical in December 2023. We supported him as he navigated the process of interviews, medical registration, and visa applications, culminating in his move to Traralgon in regional Victoria in November 2024.
Dr Chamath credits DXC Medical with making the process easy, as he prepared for his move.
“Jessica, Nethmi, and the entire team provided guidance every step of the way, helping me navigate a complex process from afar,” he said.
Now at Breed Street Clinic, Dr Chamath is excited to settle into his new role and explore the local community. While Traralgon’s population of around 30,000 is a big change from his previous settings where he’s worked in large hospitals and communities, he’s embraced the regional lifestyle. “The town is really pretty and has all the facilities we need. We’ve also been made to feel really welcome by the local community, it’s been a great start,” he said.
As a dedicated GP, Dr Chamath is passionate about expanding his expertise, particularly in palliative care, a field he has specialised in through postgraduate studies in the UK. He looks forward to applying his skills to benefit the local community and supporting the healthcare needs of the area.
While still settling in, Dr Chamath is exploring the region, with plans to visit nearby attractions such as Wilsons Promontory and Tarra Bulga National Park. He and his partner are also excited about establishing roots in the regional city and are enjoying its beautiful parklands, tree-lined streets, and they look forward to staying connected with their extended family in Melbourne.
Dr Chamath highlighted the importance of having a clear pathway and the right support system. “The Australian system is well-structured, but it’s invaluable to have assistance to navigate it. I’m grateful for DXC Medical’s help in making this move seamless,” he said.
We wish Dr Chamath and his partner all the best as they settle into their new life in Traralgon.
If you’re considering a GP role in regional Australia, explore our Vacancy Map and Search Jobs functions to find the perfect fit for your career and lifestyle.
For more information on anything included in this blog, please contact:
Darren Compton
0405 234 852
darren.compton@dxcmedical.com.au
Dr Muhammad ‘Imran’ Khan recently transitioned from the major international city of Abu Dhabi to the regional town of Dubbo, New South Wales. With over 15 years of experience as a GP in Pakistan and the UAE, Dr Khan has joined Western Plains Medical & Dental Centre (ForHealth), bringing a wealth of expertise to his new community.
Dr Geoffrey Zachariah’s journey from Dubai to Maryborough in Queensland is a story of seeking a better family lifestyle and embracing a slower pace of life. Dr Zachariah recently made the move from the major international city of Dubai to the quiet regional Queensland town of Maryborough with his wife and two children, where he’s discovered a deeper sense of fulfilment, both personally and professionally.
