Todd Gregory’s pathway to the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) (RFDS) has been shaped by a strong dedication to service, adaptability and a long-standing connection to rural and remote communities.
Now based in Mount Isa, Todd works across North West Queensland as a registrar rural generalist at Mount Isa Hospital, Mount Isa Medical Centre, Normanton Hospital and with the RFDS Primary Health Care team, where he enjoys both the challenges and meaningful impact of rural medicine.
Despite the passion he has for his role today, Todd didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming a doctor.
“I initially studied and worked as an accountant before moving into an IT technician role,” Todd said.
“From there, I joined the Air Force as a Communications Electronics Technician and served for eight years.
“The military taught me how to operate effectively in environments with limited resources, adapt to change, and manage whatever tasks are put in front of me in a calm and practical way. These are all skills that translate directly to remote and rural medicine.”
The role of an RFDS doctor, Todd said, is unlike any other.
“Health care that is relatively straightforward in larger centres requires significant planning, logistics and coordination when delivered to remote communities,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Todd finds the work deeply rewarding.
“I value the opportunity to provide in-person primary health care to people who might otherwise have no access to these services,” he said.
“You also get to meet the amazing people who live and work in these areas, while seeing parts of the country that few people ever experience, and that is truly special.”
As someone who served for eight years in the Air Force and was deployed twice, ANZAC Day remains a significant time for reflection and connection.
“It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by service personnel, both past and present, in ensuring the safety and security of their communities,” Todd said.
“It is also an opportunity to reconnect with people who share similar experiences.”
As dawn breaks this ANZAC Day, on 25 April, staff from the RFDS will gather with the community to honour and reflect on the service of people like Todd, whose commitment to caring for others continues well beyond their time in uniform.
