Southern Downs

Southern Downs offers excellent educational opportunities for families, with a range of primary and secondary schools across Warwick and Stanthorpe, including respected private institutions like SCOTS PGC College and Assumption College. The region also provides vocational training through TAFE Queensland Warwick Campus, ensuring diverse learning pathways for all ages. Smaller class sizes and a supportive community foster an engaging and personalised learning environment.

Embrace an active lifestyle in the Southern Downs, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore national parks like Sundown and Main Range for hiking, bushwalking, and camping, or enjoy water sports at Leslie Dam. The region boasts numerous parks and sporting clubs, including facilities like the YMCA Warwick Indoor Recreation and Aquatic Centre. Unique attractions like the Downs Explorer steam railway and The Granite Belt Maze offer family-friendly entertainment.

The Southern Downs delights with a vibrant dining and social scene. Discover charming cafes, country pubs, and award-winning wineries across the Granite Belt, known for its gourmet food and wine trails. Enjoy farm-to-table experiences at local restaurants like Bluebird Kitchen and Smokehouse or catch up with friends at a brewery like Granite Belt Brewery. Regular markets and community events further enrich the social calendar.

Experience the strong sense of community that defines the Southern Downs. Welcoming and inclusive, the region hosts numerous local events and festivals, such as the Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Harvest Festival, bringing residents together. With a focus on family-friendly living, you'll quickly feel at home, benefiting from a supportive network and a relaxed, rural pace of life.

As a GP in Southern Downs, you will find a rewarding professional environment with a significant opportunity for impact given the population size and existing GP numbers. Enjoy a broad scope of practice, build strong doctor-patient relationships, and contribute meaningfully to community health. The region fosters a collaborative medical network, allowing for professional growth and a fulfilling career.

The Southern Downs is supported by a comprehensive network of medical facilities. Key hospitals like Warwick Hospital and Stanthorpe Hospital provide essential services, complemented by numerous well-established general practices including Condamine Medical Centre, Stanthorpe Medical Clinic, and Warwick Family Medical. These facilities ensure residents have access to quality healthcare close to home.

Housing in the Southern Downs presents a compelling value proposition compared to major metropolitan areas. You'll find a diverse range of affordable properties, from charming rural homes to modern family residences, offering excellent value for money. This affordability allows for a higher quality of life and greater financial stability, making it an ideal place to settle down.

Partners of medical professionals can find diverse employment opportunities across the Southern Downs. Key sectors include agriculture, education (schools and TAFE), tourism (especially the growing wine region), and various healthcare support roles. Local employment services are available to assist with job placement, ensuring a smooth transition for your entire family.