The moment Khyarne Biles accepted her place in the medicine program at the University of NSW (UNSW) she knew she would end up back home in Dubbo when she graduated.
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Six years later and still full of disbelief at what she's accomplished, Dr Biles is staying true to her word.
"The reality is, my heart is in Dubbo and I can't be the best person or doctor is I'm not completely happy."
Dr Biles said she was always interested in medicine, but lacked the confidence to take it on until personal experiences in year 12 made her reconsider.
"My grandfather had passed away and his experiences really bought up the possibility of pursuing medicine.
Dr Biles was also influenced by the contact her cousin Jordan, who has cerebral palsy, had with doctors, nurses and allied health professionals.
"Seeing the impact these professionals had on my family in these two particular cases really interested me as it was an opportunity to help a person, a family or a community."
She is one of five former Dubbo residents who graduated as a doctor from UNSW's Rural Clinical School.
Dr Biles said one of her biggest struggles during her time at UNSW was being away from family.
"In retrospect, without the continued love and support, as well as the casual kick up the backside from the family I wouldn't have made it," she said.
"Many times chucking in the towel was the easiest option and many times I was close to it."
Dr Biles said she was also thankful to Nura Gili, Shalom Gamarada, Balnaves Foundation and the Rural Clinical School, who she said she could not have graduated without.