David Macintosh 5 A lifetime in medicine, guided by empathy, inquiry, and integrity

The Ngarra Grant supports and uplifts Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women pursuing a future in surgery. Established by Dr David Macintosh FRACS and administered by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), the grant reflects a simple yet powerful principle found in many Indigenous languages — “ngarra” means “standing with you.”

Each year, one recipient receives $2,700 to help advance her surgical education and career. The funding may be used for postgraduate studies, conference participation, mentoring programs, travel, accommodation, or other professional development expenses. Applicants may be final-year medical students, junior doctors, SET trainees, or Fellows of RACS who identify as both female and Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and are eligible for membership in the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA).

More than financial support, the Ngarra Grant symbolizes encouragement — a recognition that Indigenous women bring vital strength, skill, and perspective to the medical community. By helping to remove barriers to advancement, the grant contributes to a more inclusive and representative future for surgery in Australia.