Rockhampton orthopaedic surgeon Dr Ruth Varrall
Historically, orthopaedics was seen as a “man’s specialty,” built on the myth that brute strength and physical force were essential in the operating theatre.
But Rockhampton orthopaedic surgeon Dr Ruth Varrall is reconstructing that narrative, carving out a stellar career in the process.
“That you have to be strong, have to be big, have to be a man to be an orthopaedic surgeon is rubbish,” she said.
“Modern surgical technique relies on precision, not power, and if you have to hit something that hard, then you’re doing it wrong.”
Originally from the UK, Dr Varrall studied medicine at Newcastle University before completing her orthopaedic training in the Northern Deanery and ultimately travelling to Australia for two foot and ankle fellowships.
She’s now spent seven years living and working in Rockhampton and she loves every minute of it.
When asked why she gravitated to orthopaedics, her answer is simple.
“You make a real difference,” she said.
“You reconstruct something that’s been a major problem for them, and they’re very grateful. Seeing them return to enjoying life - that visible impact is why I love this work.”
Dr Varrall is somewhat of a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry.
Only 13 per cent of surgeons in Australia are female, and in orthopaedics, that figure drops to just 5.5 per cent of the workforce.
Dr Varrall is proud to be part of that small cohort and is determined to help it grow by inspiring other women to thrive in a career in orthopaedics.
“Gender-based stereotypes certainly persist,” she said.
“Patients or families sometimes assume I’m a nurse. But most of my male colleagues are welcoming, and there’s no reason women can’t thrive in this field.
“There’s nothing stopping women or girls pursuing a career in orthopaedics.”
Dr Ruth Varrall and Dr Jemma Taylor
Beyond the operating theatre, Dr Varrall is President of the Women in Medicine Society.
She co-founded the group in 2018 with Dr Preeti Patil (obstetrics and gynaecology) and Dr Annette Turley (anaesthetics) to provide networking and support for female doctors in Central Queensland.
“Over the last six years we’ve grown our network to more than 170 women, from medical students and interns through to senior medical officers, general practitioners, and other specialists in the community,” Dr Varrall said.
“We run a range of events throughout the year – it’s a mix of socialising, fun activities, and education on topics like finance and professional development to help female doctors keep on top of their game at all stages of their career.”
The Society helped Infectious Diseases Physician Dr Jemma Taylor settle into life in Central Queensland.
She’d been working as a visiting locum from Melbourne since 2023 and met Dr Varrall through the diabetic foot clinic at Rockhampton Hospital.
At the start of this year, Dr Taylor made her move to Central Queensland permanent.
“I just loved the local area and working for the health service more than I expected, and the Society had a big part in that,” Dr Taylor said.
“Everyone involved with the network has the goal of helping women in medicine succeed in the Central Queensland region, whether they are new to the profession, new to the region, or even new to the Australian medical system.”
The Women in Medicine Society is keen to support female medical professionals across Central Queensland, not just Rockhampton. Get in touch at wim@health.qld.gov.au or search 'Women in Medicine Rockhampton' on Facebook to get involved.
Dr Varrall, Dr Taylor, and Dr Patil are just three of the many incredible specialists at Queensland Health who champion women’s inclusion in their respective fields.
Their work highlights a simple truth: there is nothing stopping women from thriving in orthopaedics or any medical specialty.