By Elizabeth McMahon
My name is Elizabeth McMahon, and I am a newly graduated doctor in Victoria. I can say this because of AVCAT and Chatswood RSL. Becoming a doctor has been the most challenging yet rewarding experience of my life—something I will carry with me forever. The privilege of standing here today is entirely because of the support of AVCAT and Chatswood RSL.
Throughout my entire studies, I have been backed by these incredible people. Without them, I simply would not be here. I grew up in a small town where becoming a doctor felt like a distant, almost impossible dream. My father, an ex-serviceman, introduced me to AVCAT, and since then I have had this remarkable team in my corner for seven consecutive years.
When you come from a small town and face the challenge of getting into and studying medicine, having people who truly believe in you becomes the foundation on which success is built. That support has meant everything to me.
I am incredibly proud to say that I have spent the last seven years writing letters and staying connected with AVCAT and my sponsor, Chatswood RSL. I hope they can see the growth, confidence, and deep gratitude that has developed over this time.
I am currently working in a small regional town and have come away with a strong passion for rural medicine and mental health. Growing up around military families, veteran mental health has always held a special place in my heart. The doctors I have encountered in this space have been nothing short of exceptional. Moving forward, my greatest desire is to give back to rural communities and to care for our veterans. While I don’t yet know exactly what form this will take—and I know I still have much to learn—I will never forget who helped get me here.
Thank you again to Chatswood RSL and AVCAT. I look forward to staying in touch and, hopefully, making you proud.