In August 2025, the Royal Flying Doctor Service opened its first bricks-and-mortar GP clinic, the RFDS Goldfields Health Centre in Kalgoorlie. Dr Ben Banwait is the Medical Director and Business Manager.
You have a lot of experience working as a GP in regional communities. What do you enjoy about working in the bush?
It’s the sense of connection. In regional communities, you’re not just treating symptoms, you’re caring for people you know, people whose stories you understand and often entire families over time. There’s a humility that comes with that responsibility. Patients place enormous trust in you, and that is something I never take lightly. I also value the resilience and generosity of regional communities. People look out for one another and it’s rewarding to be part of that fabric.
What does a typical day look like for you at the clinic?
My days are varied, which is part of what makes the role so meaningful. As a clinician, I spend time seeing patients at our Kalgoorlie clinic and also participate in the RFDS fly-out and drive-out Primary Health Care clinics across the Goldfields. These outreach clinics bring care closer to people who would otherwise need to travel long distances and they help ensure access to healthcare is equitable across the region.
Alongside my clinical work, my role as Medical Director involves overseeing clinical safety, governance and service planning. Balancing these roles keeps me grounded in both the day-to-day realities of patient care and the long-term vision of what regional healthcare can be.
What has been the feedback from patients about coming to a GP clinic established by the Royal Flying Doctor Service?
Patients often tell us how reassuring it is to receive care through a clinic run by the RFDS. We have a long and trusted history, and that trust really matters in regional communities. Many people feel comforted knowing their local GP service is connected to an organisation that understands distance, isolation and the realities of regional life.
Is there a particular area of health care that is of interest to you?
I have a strong interest in chronic disease management and preventative health, particularly in regional settings. Helping people manage long-term conditions closer to home can make a profound difference to their quality of life. As Medical Director, I’m also passionate about attracting additional healthcare options, such as allied health and visiting specialists, so communities can access more care locally.
Is there a particular health issue you see a lot of in the Goldfields?
We see a high burden of chronic illness, including diabetes, heart disease and respiratory conditions. Mental health needs are also significant. These challenges are often made more complex by distance and limited access to specialist services, which is why strong, accessible primary care is so important.
Do some of your patients drive a long way to see a GP?
Yes, for some of our patients seeing a GP involves planning an entire day around travel. This is why accessibility sits at the heart of everything we do. Our fly-out and drive-out clinics help reduce that burden and ensure people aren’t missing out on care simply because of where they live. Improving access isn’t just about geography, it’s about making healthcare work for real lives.
Why do you think it’s difficult to attract and retain GPs in regional areas?
Regional practice can be demanding. Clinicians often face professional isolation and the practical challenges of distance. Supporting safety, wellbeing and sustainability is critical. GPs need strong teams, good governance and a sense that they belong. When clinicians feel supported and connected to a clear mission, like that of the RFDS WA, they’re far more likely to stay, grow, and build long-term careers in regional communities.
