General News
31 March, 2026
Following in family’s footsteps
MEDICINE runs in the blood of an East Grampians Health Service employee who has commenced his first year of medical studies in Ararat, through the Deakin University Doctor of Medicine Rural Training Stream at EGHS. Alex, the son of the late Dr Eric Van Opstal and EGHS Perioperative Unit Associate Nurse Unit Manager Jo Van Opstal, joins Stawell’s Augusta Akaogu in commencing their first year studies, and second year student and EGHS radiographer Avneet Chand.
Both Alex and Augusta are enjoying the early days of their medical studies and look forward to eventually practising in rural areas.
They will complete the first two years of their MD studies on site at East Grampians Health Service
The opportunity to study medicine while remaining connected to family and friends prompted Alex to apply for the Deakin Rural Training Stream, while Augusta was drawn to Deakin’s strong focus on community-oriented medicine and the chance to train in rural settings where doctors can make a visible difference.
Alex has a Bachelor of Biomedical Science and prior to his university studies in Melbourne and Geelong he completed all his schooling at Marian College in Ararat. During his university days he enjoyed a summer job at Best Wines in Great Western and last year worked as a ward clerk at EGHS, which he will continue to do while studying for his MD.
“I worked at EGHS as a ward clerk in 2025 where I met many wonderful, supportive people and made connections I will carry through into my medical career,” Alex said.
Augusta is Registered Nurse and has worked as an ANUM at 70 Lowe Street (EGHS) and at a GP practice in Stawell.
“Before medicine, I worked in healthcare, which gave me insight into both patient care and the broader health system, and I will continue to do some part‑time work around my study load, but keep hours limited so it doesn’t compromise my learning,” Augusta said.
Now a few weeks into their medical studies, Alex and Augusta are enjoying the support of their teachers and the small class sizes, as well as meeting new people with different experiences and backgrounds.
Both students are enjoying the course structure and their lecturers.
“The structure works well for me, especially the combination of small‑group learning and clinical skills’ sessions,” Augusta said.
“The lecturers and tutors are generally approachable and keen to support students, particularly those training rurally.
Alex agreed, saying the tutors were extremely engaged and passionate.
“They want everyone to succeed,” he said.
Challenges will no doubt surface as the students progress through their studies.
Alex said adjusting to clinical practice and the unpredictability of people were challenges he felt would arise in the future, while Augusta said managing the study load was her biggest challenge, including trying to work while studying to support herself.
“Managing life outside of medicine is another challenge,” she said.
The premise of the Deakin Rural Training Stream is to train doctors while living in their own community, with the hope that when qualified they will practice in their local community.
Augusta said she will work in the local area when she is qualified.
“I like the breadth of practice, continuity with patients, and the sense of community,” Augusta said.
People with a clinical background are encouraged to apply for the Deakin Rural Training Stream.
“Deakin appreciates the unique qualities people bring from their different careers and how they can be applied to medical practice,” Alex said.
“You can do anything if you work hard enough.”
Augusta said a clinical background is a real asset.
“Your communication skills, understanding of the system, and comfort in clinical environments will help you from day one,” she said.
“I would encourage you to back yourself, be honest about the workload, and seek support early; rural training offers rich experiences that you might not get in metropolitan settings.”
Despite a large workload, there is still time for more relaxing activities.
“Outside of my work and uni I love spending time with my friends, listening to music, going the gym, running and playing football,” Alex said.
Augusta enjoys spending time with family and the outdoors.
While only at the very start of their medical studies, the enthusiasm and dedication to their chosen profession is evident in both Alex and Augusta.
“Rural training is demanding but rewarding; you’re trusted with real responsibility and become part of the community,” Augusta said.
“If you value close‑knit teams, broad clinical exposure, and the chance to make a tangible impact, the Deakin Rural Training Stream is worth serious consideration.”
For further information on the Deakin University Rural Training Stream, go to:
www.deakin.edu.au/faculty-of-health/school-of-medicine/study-with-us/rural-training-stream