2025 Council #1 – Perth (Boorloo)
Nicole Russell – NRHSN National Events Liaison Officer
Council 1 set a powerful tone for the year ahead, uniting over 60 passionate rural health student leaders from across Australia in Fremantle, WA. With the theme “Leading with Purpose,” the weekend was an energising and empowering experience that not only equipped delegates with practical skills but inspired them to connect deeply with their values, communities, and leadership roles.
We were honoured to begin with a heartfelt Welcome to Country by Whadjuk and Balladong Elder Freda Ogilvie, grounding us in respect and cultural connection. This set the stage for an inspiring Keynote Address by Dr Kim Isaacs, whose journey as a proud Yawuru woman and rural doctor challenged us to lead with authenticity and resilience. Her message about finding strength in cultural identity and staying grounded in community truly resonated with everyone in the room.
Throughout the weekend, students engaged in targeted workshops designed to upskill and unite rural health club representatives. From “Leading a Rural Health Club” to practical sessions on event planning, RHSV administration, and interclub collaboration, delegates left feeling more confident in their ability to deliver meaningful initiatives within their local clubs, reminding us that leadership doesn’t have to be perfect – it just needs to be purposeful.
Sunday’s sessions focused on strengthening our network through state-based collaborations and operational planning, including the formal acceptance of the 2025 Business Plan and Communications Strategy. These moments cemented our shared vision and direction for the year.
Beyond the workshops, the weekend fostered strong bonds between students, with social events at The Island giving delegates the chance to unwind, network, and celebrate their shared passion for rural and Indigenous health.
In every way, Council 1 reminded us that leadership isn’t just about what we do—it’s about why we do it. With renewed clarity, skills, and purpose, we now return to our communities ready to lead, advocate, and inspire.
Check out some testimonies from our attendees!
“NRHSN Council#1 was an unforgettable weekend! 🤩 I learned so much about First Nations health, rural leadership, and event planning- all while making amazing friends, sharing ideas and exploring the pretty Perth 🎉 such an inspiring and energising experience! ✨”
– James Joseph, President RAHMS
The NRHSN council was an extremely fun weekend. I went in not really knowing what to expect but left meeting some amazing people who I genuinely now call my friends 💕 they also had some great practical tips on leadership skills which I definitely will use this year running my uni’s rural health club!
– Shristi Chatterji, President OUTLOOK
NRHSN council has provided me with the chance to collaborate with passionate individuals dedicated to promoting rural and remote health. Together we all learned how to best lead our clubs for a stronger and more inclusive future. The guest speakers were very inspirational leaders in their fields who provided valuable insight into the disparities and differences that exist in their rural and remote health services.
Being part of the council helped me develop leadership skills, strengthen my ability to plan and delegate tasks.
It was a wonderful opportunity to network with other students who have the same passion for rural and remote health. I have made many new friends and even more memories. – Carla Stonehouse, President RHINO