THREE exceptional healthcare professionals have been recognised for their outstanding work at the recent 2025 Victorian Rural Health Awards.
Now celebrating its 20th year, the Awards, presented by the Rural Workforce Agency Victoria (RWAV) in partnership with the Victorian Department of Health, honour the achievements of health professionals serving in rural and regional communities across the state.
There were 10 nominations for clinicians from the Goulburn Valley region, with three deserving candidates being awarded at the memorable virtual event held in June. These are:
Outstanding Contribution by a Rural Medical Specialist, awarded to Dr Ruwangi Udayasiri, Goulburn Valley Health and Shepparton Women’s Health Centre, Shepparton
Outstanding Contribution by a Rural Primary Care Nurse or Midwife, awarded to Mrs Kate Worsfold, Kyabram Regional Clinic, Kyabram
Length of Service Award (35+ Years of Service), awarded to Dr John Guymer, Wyndham House Clinic, Shepparton.
Dr Ruwangi Udayasiri is a Breast and General Surgeon, serving across multiple rural health services, including Goulburn Valley Health, Numurkah Hospital, and Kyabram Health. With expertise in breast, endocrine, and laparoscopic surgery, she is also a Senior Lecturer and Education Facilitator at the University of Melbourne’s Department of Rural Health. Dr Udayasiri is passionate about advancing rural healthcare through clinical practice, education and community advocacy.
Kate Worsfold is a dedicated Practice Nurse at Kyabram Regional Clinic, where she has provided compassionate, high-quality care for over 20 years. With a deep commitment to patient wellbeing and a wealth of experience, she plays a vital role in supporting the health of the local community.
Dr John Guymer from Wyndham House Clinic (WHC) has been involved in all areas of general practice, from delivering babies at Goulburn Valley Health and seeing disadvantaged youth at The Bridge Extension to taking medical questions as Dr Ed on regional ABC radio. He was born and educated in Shepparton and studied medicine at Melbourne University. John spent time working in Gippsland and Melbourne, becoming a partner at WHC in 1989.
John has also been the Area Medical Co-ordinator for the state DISPLAN and is now the full emergency Medical Officer (FEMO) for the region. He is involved with helping train Australian University medical students and is a valued contributor to the General Practice Registrar training program, training the future generation of doctors.
