Rural Doctors Foundation

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Dr Sian Ford

Treating GP | Blackall and Barcaldine  

When Dr Sian Ford steps into a rural clinic, she brings with her not just decades of medical experience, but a deep understanding of what it means to live and work in remote communities. 

Her journey to becoming the Treating GP for the GPs4RuralDocs program in Blackall and Barcaldine is one shaped by resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to care.

Born and trained in Wales, Dr Ford began her career in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Paediatrics, and General Practice. But it was Australia and more specifically, rural Australia that captured her heart. She arrived in the outback Queensland town of Charleville ready to serve, and for 13 years, she did just that: as a solo GP and Visiting Medical Officer for Queensland Health. Her days were long, her responsibilities vast, but her dedication never wavered.

During her time in Charleville, she met and married her local born husband. She and her husband, Nick have three children – all thriving in their academic and personal pursuits.

Sian’s work extended beyond the clinic walls, reaching remote areas through the Royal Flying Doctor Service, where she focused on women’s health for over a decade.

Now based in Toowoomba, Sian is the Director and Principal of Middle Ridge Family Practice. She’s also a medical educator, nurturing the next generation of rural doctors. Sian is a supervisor with both with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) and Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).  

In her spare time, Sian enjoys photography, travel, culinary pursuits and spending time with her young adult offspring.

Sian’s heart remains in the bush, and her return to the field through the GPs4RuralDocs program is a homecoming of sorts.

It’s a privilege to give back to the rural communities

that have given me so much.”

- Dr Sian Ford

A privilege that is met with gratitude

“I’m honoured to be part of the GPs4RuralDocs program,” she says. “Rural health professionals often put their own wellbeing last while caring for others. This program offers a safe, supportive space for them to access care just as they deserve. It’s a privilege to give back to the rural community that has given me so much.” 

The program itself is a lifeline for rural practitioners offering confidential, independent healthcare to those who often have nowhere else to turn. With funding from Western Queensland Primary Health Network, its expansion into Blackall and Barcaldine marks a new chapter. And with Dr Ford at the helm, it’s a chapter filled with promise.

Her visits generate a feeling of gratitude. Local health practitioners know they’re not just getting a doctor – they’re gaining an advocate, a mentor, and a friend. Dr Ford’s story is one of service, but also of connection. She understands the rhythms of rural life, the challenges of isolation, and the importance of community.

In 2012, she was nominated for the Queensland Rural Remote and Regional Women’s Network Strong Women Leadership Awards in recognition of her leadership and impact. Today, she continues to lead, not from behind a desk, but from the heart of the communities she serves.

Sian's Qualifications

Awards, Honours, and Accolades

Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery 

University of Wales

Member

Royal College of  General Practitioners, United Kingdom

Diploma

Child Health, United Kingdom

 

Fellow

Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM)

Fellow

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) 

GAICD

Australian Institute of Company Directors 

Looking forward

As Dr Ford herself shared, she is “very excited to be getting involved”. 

With her compassionate approach and extensive experience, Dr Ford will make a meaningful impact in Blackall and Barcaldine. Her presence will not only provide vital healthcare to practitioners but also strengthen the resilience of the local health system.

Because we all know when rural doctors are well supported, their communities thrive.