After studying medicine at the University of Adelaide in the 1980’s, a rotation to a rural practice led to a long term interest in rural medicine for Dr Graham Slaney. Following graduation, Graham spent a number of years interstate and overseas, before the pull of the mountains prompted a move to Corryong, followed by Mansfield in 1997.

The challenges with rural doctor training and supply for rural communities, led Graham to a parallel career in the Rural Doctors Association at state and national level, as well as a decade-long board membership of both the North East Victorian Division of General Practice and the Bogong Regional Training Network. Research into preventing injuries to snowboarders at Mt Buller led to a Master’s in Public Health, resulting in policy changes locally, that reduced injuries at the local secondary college. He was a founding member of the Mansfield District Soccer club in 2002, serving as president until 2009, as well as leading several community campaigns relating to health, most notable recently in relation to fast food franchises in Mansfield.

He was appointed as the obstetric lead in the Victorian Rural Generalist Program in 2020 and now works one day a week for the Department of Health to improve training for rural GPs in Obstetrics, and ultimately improve access to birthing services in rural communities.

When not working Graham enjoys his time with his wife Jeanette and expanded family of 5 children and 3 grandchildren. His other interests include free heel skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing and sea kayaking.