For Dr Sim Hom Tam, delivering babies isn’t just a job - it’s part of his story. Born in East Timor and now living in Canberra, Dr Tam grew up surrounded by the power of women’s stories.
His grandmother was a traditional birth attendant, and her tales of delivering babies in remote communities left a lasting impression.
“My paternal grandfather lost two wives and a daughter during childbirth,” Dr Tam says.
“That kind of experience stays with a family. It definitely shaped my path into obstetrics and women’s health.”
Today, Dr Tam is a specialist obstetrician-gynaecologist who brings his skills, empathy and calm under pressure to the team at Cooma Hospital and Health Service, where he works one week each month.
“It’s a small unit, and that’s what I love about it. Everyone knows each other, there’s great teamwork, and people are just… friendly.”
From delivering babies to performing hysterectomies or fitting IUDs, no two days are the same. And that’s just how Dr Tam likes it.
“You’ve got to be able to expect the unexpected in rural healthcare,” he says. “Things change quickly. You have to ride the adrenaline sometimes - and enjoy it!”
With experience across Sydney, Canberra and even London, Dr Tam says the people make the biggest difference.
“Honestly, people are just nicer in rural areas. There’s a real sense of community, and that’s something I really value.”
Outside the hospital, Dr Tam is full of surprises. He’s a keen crafter, hits the ski slopes when he can, and never turns down a good karaoke session. His top local tip? Sandy’s Hot Bake for the best coffee in town - and it helps that it’s right near the hospital.
And the reason he keeps showing up, month after month? “Babies bring happiness. It’s a privilege to be part of that joy.”
Did you know?
Southern offers a range of elective surgical procedures at Batemans Bay, Cooma, Moruya, Goulburn, Queanbeyan and South East Regional Hospitals. If you’re planning surgery, ask your doctor or surgeon whether it can be done closer to home. It could mean less travel, more convenience, and the same high-quality care.
Find out more at nsw.gov.au/SouthernSurgicalServices
