There is a well-known story about a girl walking along a beach covered with stranded starfish. As she walks, she throws them back into the ocean one by one. A passer-by tells her there are miles of beach and thousands of starfish - she cannot possibly make a difference. The girl picks up another starfish, throws it into the sea and replies, “It made a difference for that one.”
In general practice training, supervision often works in much the same way. Supervisors may not always see the long-term impact of the time they invest in teaching, mentoring and supporting learners. Yet each conversation, demonstration and moment of encouragement can shape a future doctor - making a difference, one trainee at a time.
A recent reflection from medical student Thaariyah Oczenaschek highlights the profound impact supervision can have at even the earliest stages of a medical career. Thaariyah spent time observing and learning in the practice of GP supervisor Dr Matt Kritzinger, and credits the experience with deepening her understanding of the breadth and craft of general practice.
“I was constantly amazed by the complexity of general practice — the surgical components, the skin cancer work, the diagnostic problem-solving, and the continuity of care. One moment that stands out vividly is the Limberg flap procedure you performed on an elderly patient’s wrist. Watching how you manoeuvred the skin so precisely to ensure the incision closed perfectly was incredible. Seeing that level of skill up close made me appreciate the craft of medicine in a whole new way.”
Beyond observing procedures, the experience provided valuable insight into the everyday skills and professional behaviours that underpin excellent patient care.
“I learned so much from you, and I am grateful for how genuinely you took the time to teach me. You showed me everything from how to suture, how to correctly hold and pass surgical instruments, and how to use a stethoscope and otoscope with confidence, through to observing skin cancer procedures.
It wasn’t just the clinical skills — you also taught me about the important work that happens behind the scenes in general practice: reviewing pathology results, communicating clearly and respectfully with colleagues, and writing referral letters that are accurate, thorough, and clinically meaningful. These lessons gave me a much deeper understanding of what it truly means to be a doctor, both inside and outside the consulting room.”
Thaariyah will commence her medical studies at James Cook University in 2026 - carrying forward the inspiration and learning gained through this early exposure to general practice.
Stories like this remind us that supervision is not only about supporting registrars in training today; it is also about inspiring the next generation of doctors. Every supervisor who takes the time to teach, demonstrate, explain and encourage is shaping the future of the profession.
Like the girl on the beach, supervisors may not see the full scale of the impact they have, but for each learner they guide, the difference can be profound.