Ayman Shenouda named Acting RACGP President

Associate Professor Shenouda is also the Chair of RACGP Rural and a long-standing GP in Wagga Wagga.
 
Chair of the RACGP Board Christine Nixon said Associate Professor Shenouda will carry on Dr Nespolon’s fine work.
 
‘The entire RACGP community is in mourning following the passing of our esteemed President Dr Harry Nespolon on Sunday night,’ she said.
 
‘Ayman has worked closely with Harry for years, so he is perfectly positioned to help realise Harry’s dreams and ambitions for general practice as Acting President.
 
‘I wish Ayman all the best in this role in coming weeks [and] I’m sure he will do a fantastic job in these trying circumstances.’
 
Acting President Shenouda said his highest priority is to continue Dr Nespolon’s work.
 
‘I feel privileged to be in a position where I can continue on Harry’s legacy. What he achieved during his time as President was nothing short of extraordinary and I will draw inspiration from his seemingly never-ending drive, energy and resilience,’ he said.
 
‘I worked very closely Harry throughout his tenure and will work hard every day to ensure that his objectives for improving general practice and supporting GPs are realised.
 
‘I was at the GP conference in Adelaide last year when Harry spoke so movingly about the life of a GP and why he hoped more medical students will opt for this profession.’
 
Associate Professor Shenouda said the staff and members of the college are mourning the loss of Dr Nespolon.
 
‘This is an extremely sad time for all those people who knew Harry,’ he said.
 
‘I share the sorrow of many GPs across Australia for the loss of our courageous President, who worked so hard right until the end.
 
‘Harry led the RACGP with integrity until his very last day. He always fought to best represent the interests of general practice including GPs and nurses, receptionists and administrative staff.
 
‘His commitment to the profession was nothing short of legendary. This was particularly the case during the last nine months when, despite a terminal diagnosis, he provided outstanding leadership and continued to advocate on behalf of primary care until he could no longer hold on.’
 
With general practice under pressure from the summer bushfires and COVID-19 pandemic, Associate Professor Shenouda said Dr Nespolon stood up for GPs to ensure the Government understood the crucial role primary care plays during a crisis.
 
‘We could not have asked for anything more from him. Harry gave everything he had and achieved so much,’ he said.
 
‘He will always be remembered as an extraordinary GP and a great leader. It is a huge loss for all, but particularly for his lovely family Lindy, Ella and Hannah. My thoughts and the thoughts of the entire RACGP team are with them at this time.’
 
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Harry Nespolon RACGP RACGP President