News of the paucity of specialist medical services in rural NSW is not new, yet it has been tackled successfully in the past with amazing results (“Lack of services a crying shame”, DT, 27/8. Having a 12 month break from Westmead Hospital in 1997,l became Broken Hill’s anaesthetist and have since encouraged others to experience the joys of rural health. However, to be useful, a professional requires a critical mass of other specialists to be fully functional. At the time, Broken Hill had an excellent rotation of paediatricians from Adelaide, a full time obstetrician, surgeon, an excellent general physician and several fly-in subspecialty surgeons. Referral to Adelaide with the Royal Flying Doctor Service transportation service was also a critical backup. The hospital was also recognised for medical student placement, nurturing familiarity among the next generation of doctors. Seconding Sydney specialists to rural hotspots surely would not be burdensome on them, and in my case, has fostered a lifetime of fond memories and friends. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 28Aug2025