Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service is delighted to announce the appointment of a permanent Medical Superintendent at Biggenden Hospital.
Dr Clay Rowe is returning to Biggenden Hospital in this important senior clinical role that provides both acute care in the hospital, and primary and preventive care through the general practice at Biggenden Family Medical.
"We've had some challenges with finding permanent staff for our rural hospitals in the past, so this is a great result for the people of Biggenden and the surrounding communities,” Chief Executive Debbie Carroll said.
“Local residents may remember Dr Clay from his days as the Resident Medical Officer at Biggenden, and I have no doubt they will warmly welcome him back.
“The appointment of Dr Clay as Medical Superintendent means that Biggenden residents will be able to receive continuity of care from a consistent and familiar medical team, led by a doctor who has a genuine commitment to the region.
"We extend our appreciation to Rural Health Group who have been integral in providing primary care for the Biggenden community for more than seven years. They play a vital role in supporting rural general practice, and we thank them for their work."
Dr Clay said during his training in Bundaberg, he had the opportunity to complete a rural placement in Biggenden.
“It didn’t take long for me to realise how special this community is,” he said.
“The warmth of the people, the professionalism of the hospital team, and the genuine sense of belonging I felt here made a lasting impression. Biggenden quickly became a place I cared deeply about.”
After working in other rural hospitals, Dr Clay is now ready to settle permanently in the community he loves.
“I’m delighted to be back in Biggenden — it truly feels as though I never left,” Dr Clay said.
“I’ve worked in several Wide Bay rural facilities and each has its strengths, but Biggenden has always stood out for me. The patients are wonderful, the hospital is welcoming, the staff are highly experienced, and the general practice team is exceptional. Coming back felt less like starting a new role and more like returning home.
“The Medical Superintendent role allows me to provide comprehensive care for my patients. In general practice, I support families with everyday health concerns, and I work closely with patients to help them manage their conditions such as diabetes and cardiac disease. It’s a privilege to be involved in people’s care at every stage of life.
“Preventive care is the cornerstone of what we want to achieve. We focus on keeping people well through services such as childhood immunisations, cardiovascular risk assessments, and screening programs that help detect issues early. Supporting patients to stay healthy is just as important as treating illness.
“Within the hospital, I oversee all aspects of acute care — from injuries and accidents to sudden illnesses — as well as the ongoing care of our aged care residents. It’s a role that allows me to support the community during both everyday health needs and moments of urgency.”
“It’s also particularly meaningful for me to be back supporting our junior medical staff at the hospital and general practice. Being able to return and be in a position where I can play a role in their development feels incredibly important. I’m committed to helping build a strong, local workforce of doctors, nurses, and operational staff who can continue delivering high quality care to the Biggenden and wider community.”
Biggenden Family Medical is now accepting new patients.