CWA secretary Colleen Wills said the six had, between them, contributed almost 100 years of service to the local community in the dental, medical and pharmacy fields.

One of those honoured, Dr Colleen Schultz, had provided dental services for 35 years.

Mrs Wills said while Dr Schultz wanted to retire, she was also keen to see the practice continue operating for locals.

“Colleen’s husband, Dr Bob McEwan, has been a partner in the practice for the past 10 years. Bob is originally from Canada and, after marrying Colleen in 2003, became a partner in the business,” Mrs  Wills said.

“Another dentist, Dr Noel Greacen, has practised in the Quirindi district for the past 20 years part-time and is still looking forward to returning when his health permits.

“Quirindi has been very fortunate to have the service of three qualified professionals in dentistry for so long, when, at the same time, many rural towns are starving for such a service.”

The tribute dinner also recognised Dr Sokiah Krishnan for his services as a general practitioner.

Mrs Wills said that, at a time when the district was suffering serious issues when it came to a lack of doctors, Dr Krishnan had carried the population and served as the only doctor in the district for 13 months.

The same dinner welcomed Dr Paul Saad, who had been keen to come to Quirindi to serve as a GP; his fight with bureaucracy to do that has not been an easy one.

Long-serving pharmacist Julie Tooth, who has practised for 25 years, was also recognised. 

Mrs Wills said Mrs Tooth’s commitment was important.

“There have been occasions when pharmacists in rural areas have wished to retire but also have had difficulty in attracting replacements,” she said. 

She said the branch was also very grateful to have Dr Ismail, who attended the dinner. He works in Quirindi five mornings a week and serves Murrurundi as well.

The Quirindi CWA has long been involved in health issues and for many years has offered medical scholarships to locals wanting to pursue careers in medicine and allied health.

“The Quirindi branch of the Country Women’s Association believes there is room for independent services in rural NSW, as well as medical centres such as Health One based in Quirindi,” she said.

“Competition policy should be a top priority for all businesses, including medical.

“If general practitioners wish to service their clients at local public hospitals, then VMO rights should not be an issue.”