Being a junior doctor can be tough - but it doesn’t have to be lonely. The Bunbury Doctors in Training Society (BDiTS) supports junior doctors in the South West with professional advocacy, free dinners, social events and a ready-made network of peers.

We sat down with BDiTS President Dr Mary Plant to learn more about the society and why every doctor in training should get involved.

Q. When and how did BDiTS start representing junior doctors in the South West?

BDiTS began in 2019 when a passionate group of junior doctors, with strong support from the hospital, came together to create a society that would represent and support their peers. It’s grown from those early days into a vibrant and active community.

Q. How big is the membership now?

We currently have 119 members, ranging from medical students to registrars and even honorary consultants. Membership is flexible - some sign up for the full year, others for a term - and we make sure rotational JMOs feel welcome too.

Q. Advocacy is a big part of what you do. How does BDiTS support junior doctors when challenges arise?

We maintain direct lines of communication with hospital executives, meeting face-to-face with them every month. Members can raise concerns anonymously if they prefer and we also have an AMA representative on hand with a direct link to further support. Whether it’s problematic supervision, intimidation, or workplace issues, no junior doctor has to face it alone.

Q. If you had to write a review of BDiTS, what would it say?

Supportive, approachable, proactive and involved. We’re here for our members and we make sure they feel it.

Q. What would a junior doctor miss out on if they didn’t join BDiTS?

Honestly, so much! From weekly afternoon teas to monthly education evenings with a free three-course dinner and drinks, discounted tickets to social events and fun term wind-ups, there’s always something happening. It’s a great way to learn, connect and unwind.

Mary’s final word…

Whether you’re rotating through the Bunbury region or here for the long haul, BDiTS is your community. Just email us at [email protected] or find out more on our website. It’s about support, advocacy, education and fun - everything a junior doctor needs to thrive!