Gisborne Gazette
BES T NE COM WS PAP MUN ER ITY 202 5
serving the southern macedon ranges
DECEMBER 2025
Retiring after 47 years Dr Kulbir Gill has served Gisborne for 41 years After 47 years in medical practice — 41 of them in Gisborne — Dr Kulbir Gill is retiring from general practice. He arrived in Gisborne in 1984, joining Dr Rod Guy and helping establish Gisborne Medical Centre the following year. One of the most frequent questions he was asked was, “Are you going to stay?” . In those early years, Gisborne still had its bush nursing hospital. Local GPs cared for inpatients, managed emergencies, and looked after surrounding communities without permanent medical services — Bullengarook, South Gisborne, Macedon, Mt Macedon, Riddell, Hanging Rock, Woodend, and Trentham. With no MICA ambulance services, roadside and other emergencies were all part of the work — life was certainly full. Dr Stephen Newton from 1989 and Dr Heena Choksey from the mid 2000s joined the partnership and strengthened the development of Gisborne Medical Centres services. Teaching has always been central to the practice. Since 1987, medical students and GP trainees have come through its doors, many staying on to serve the region. Kulbir says it has been a joy to see former students now caring for his own patients across Victoria. His special interest in diabetes care has led to this being a significant part of his practice. He helped pioneer regional diabetes education programs in the 1990s, fostering collaboration between GPs and allied health professionals. He also practised acupuncture and enjoyed seeing his patients benefit. Reflecting on his years in Gisborne, Kulbir says, “It has been a privilege to walk alongside so many people through different stages of their lives. I’m deeply
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Gisborne Gazette June 2025
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When Dr Kulbir Gill arrived in Gisborne, it still had a functioning hospital where local GPs cared for inpatients.
grateful for the trust, kindness and insight shared with me over the years.” He thanks the many nurses, doctors, allied health
practitioners, managers and GMC staff for their collaboration and support, and sharing their experience and much fun over the years.