The John Corboy medal is the highest honour a surgical Trainee receives from RACS. It is one of RACS' distinguished awards and is awarded annually by the RACS Trainees’ Association (RACSTA).

Dr Helen Buschel was presented with the John Corboy medal at the Convocation Ceremony at the 94th RACS Annual Scientific Congress (ASC) in Perth. With a huge smile on her face as her citation for the award was read out, she received the award from Professor Owen Ung, FRACS, receiving a resounding applause from Councillors, newly inducted Fellows and those in audience.

The medal commemorates Dr John Corboy, a General Surgery Trainee from Aotearoa New Zealand, who was also the RACSTA chair in 2007 before passing away during his tenure. The award reflects everything Dr Corboy strove to achieve—outstanding leadership, selfless service, tenacity and service to Trainees of the College. This medal is presented to Trainees who embody these traits.

Currently a senior SET Trainee in Paediatric Surgery at Queensland Children’s Hospital, Dr Buschel has already established herself as a leader of remarkable integrity and influence within the Australasian surgical community.

She is widely respected as a mentor, educator, and trusted colleague, generously giving her time to support junior doctors and fellow Trainees through examinations, interviews, and challenging professional circumstances. Her commitment to others is matched only by her unwavering dedication to patient care and clinical excellence.

Beyond advocacy, Dr Buschel’s commitment to patient care and service delivery is exceptional. During her time in North Queensland, she was widely regarded as the de facto deputy director of her department, contributing to rostering, administration, education, and clinical leadership. She consistently placed patient safety and team support above personal convenience, willingly assisting colleagues at any hour and always with professionalism, compassion, and grace.

In addition to her leadership and service, Dr Buschel has built an impressive academic record, with numerous peer-reviewed publications, national and international presentations, and award-recognised research achievements.

Dr Helen Buschel embodies the values and spirit of the John Corboy Medal through her excellence in leadership, advocacy, scholarship, and compassionate service to both patients and colleagues. She is a truly deserving recipient of this honour. 

In receiving the John Corboy medal, Dr Buschel said,  “It is truly a privilege to receive this award and to have been nominated by my colleagues. I have spoken with many surgeons who worked with or knew of John Corboy, and speak highly of his contributions to RACSTA and his fellow Trainees. I am fortunate to be a part of RACSTA with so many wonderful people who dedicate their time and energy to advocating for surgical Trainees.”

Nominations for the 2027 John Corboy medal are now open. If you know an exceptional Trainee who demonstrates outstanding leadership, selfless service, tenacity, and service to Trainees, we encourage you to put your nomination here.