Dr Bower was sent here on a six-month placement by the Adelaide to Outback training program for GPs and chose the island over other country destinations.

“Everything so far has exceeded my expectations. The people have been very welcoming,” Dr Bower said.

She is still seeking permanent accommodation in Kingscote but when not at the clinic she is likely to be seen on a court somewhere. The fitness enthusiast plays tennis, hockey and might play netball for Kingscote Netball Club “as long as I don’t injure myself because I plan to go skiing later this year”.

Dr Tim Leeuwenburg said it was important for the clinic to have Dr Bower as a registrar.

“We have had registrars at the clinic since 2004. I was the first, then Mary Liston, then James Doube. Not only does this help prop up our workforce issues, more importantly it is vitally important to expose young doctors to rural medicine… hoping that they will return in due course,” Dr Leeuwenburg said.

“Emilie will be with us for six months. She is a fully qualified doctor with extensive hospital experience. She is a welcome addition to the team. Of course, if she likes it she may be tempted to come back to a rural community in the future!