Ready to retire from solo practice in Geelong, but not wanting to hang up his stethoscope, Dr Frank Scheelings headed 3000km north to work as a locum in remote Indigenous towns.

The 71-year-old wanted to learn more about something of which he only knew a little.

“At the time, the Voice referendum was coming up, and I felt it was important to understand a bit of real Aboriginal community and culture so I could have a better opinion as to what it is all about,” Dr Scheelings said.

“So I thought doing a remote locum would give me that opportunity and make me feel like I am doing my bit … that maybe I can make some sort of difference.”