23/02/2026
A Final House Call: A Letter of Gratitude
To the Families and Community of my home, The Bluff.
It is with a heart full of gratitude and a mind rich with memories that I sit down to write this letter. After more than 39 years of practicing medicine in the community I am so proud to call my home, the time has come for me to hang up my stethoscope and retire.
This is not just a professional retirement for me; it is a deeply personal transition. The Bluff is where I spent almost all of my life. I walked these same streets as a boy, and I had the unique privilege of learning the art of healing from my father, who possibly served your family before me. To have followed in his footsteps and to have been welcomed into your homes and your lives as "Ricky" has been the greatest honor. (Although I suspect some of you may have called me other things when trying to read my prescriptions—a final confession on the illegible doctor's handwriting!)
A journey like this is never walked alone. By my side from the very beginning has been my incredible wife, Jan. As a nurse and the true organizer of our practice, her care, wisdom, and unwavering support have been its backbone. She juggled the immense demands of the clinic with the beautiful chaos of raising our three children, and this practice would simply not have been possible without her. I also extend my sincere thanks to the many dedicated receptionists who have been the friendly first point of contact for so many of you over the decades; their compassion and efficiency kept our little community hub running.
I have always believed that my ability to help and heal was a gift, and I am eternally grateful to God for the grace and guidance granted to me in caring for you. It has been my humble mission to serve you not just with medicine, but with compassion, and for that, I have been continually assisted by my faith.
This practice has had a few homes, each a cornerstone of my story. It began in the Checkers shopping centre, then moved to the premises where Oxford Foods now stands, before finally settling at 204 Tara Road. That building on Tara Road holds a special place in our family history—I’ll never forget my children, during their school holidays, initially painting the entire building when we first moved in. It was a true labour of love, and in so many ways, that is what this practice has always been.
I did not just treat patients; I cared for families. I have had the profound joy of holding newborns in my hands—some of whom grew up and brought their own children to see me. I have celebrated your recoveries, shared in your worries, and done my utmost to guide you through times of sickness and health. From common colds to the most challenging moments, you allowed me to be a part of your story. You trusted me with your most precious possession—your health and the health of your loved ones. For that trust, I am eternally thankful.
This surgery was never just a building; it was a living, breathing part of our community. I will cherish the memories of house calls late into the night, the snippets of life shared in each exam room, the strength and resilience I witnessed in so many of you, and the simple, human connections that are the true heart of family medicine.
Saying goodbye is bittersweet. While I look forward to more time with my own family and pursuing long-delayed hobbies, I will dearly miss the daily privilege of being your doctor. The relationships we've built, the stories we've shared, and the trust you've placed in me have shaped who I am. You have given me a career of immense purpose and fulfilment.
The medical landscape has changed so much and continues to do so, but the need for compassion, listening, and a caring touch does not. I am confident that you will continue to be in good hands, and I leave with the comfort of knowing that the health of this community is its greatest strength. In saying this, the practice is being handed over to a new doctor who will be starting on 2 May this year. Please take the time to come and meet him and give him your support.
And so, this is my final "house call" to you all—a note to simply say thank you.
Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of your lives. Thank you for the honour of serving you, just as my father did. The Bluff will always be in my heart.
With deepest gratitude and warmest wishes for your health and happiness. I am eternally grateful for the time we have had together, and I leave you in God's good care.
Ricky
(Dr. FW Hart)
