Doctor’s long service recognised

East Grampians Health Service has recognised 30 years of service to the health service and the Ararat community by Dr Derek Pope.

Dr Pope came to Ararat initially in 1985 for a three month term as what would now be called a GP registrar.

He was invited back to join the Ararat Medical Centre practice and began work in 1986.

Over the years Dr Pope has worked as an anaesthetist and obstetrician.

He is currently a practicing GP/obstetrician working with his second generation of babies.

Dr Pope was a member of the EGHS board and visits Willaura Healthcare on a regular basis.

Outside the hospital Dr Pope is the current president of the Ararat Retirement Village and a life member there.

Socially he spends a lot of time involved in local theatre and he once attended a patient in urgent care dressed as ‘Fagin’ from ‘Oliver’ – complete with beard! He has also left the stage to treat a sick theatre-goer.

EGHS Board president Matthew Wood congratulated Dr Pope on his long service to the hospital at the Annual General Meeting.

“I thank Dr Pope for his significant contribution to the health service, being GP obstetrician and providing on-call after hours’ service that provides great assistance to keep this great service we offer,” he said.

Dr Pope was presented with a certificate of service by director of medical services Dr Eric Kennelly.

Pictured above:  EGHS director of medical services Dr Eric Kennelly (left) presents Dr Derek Pope with a 30 year service award