After growing up in the United Kingdom, the doctor said it was a decision he has never regretted.

"Like other doctors in Leeton such as Barrie Sangster and Simon Wallace, we all came to Leeton initially for a year to have a look," Dr Pettersson said.

The shire quickly got under his skin and Dr Pettersson found himself re-evaluating his plans.

Seventeen years later he has achieved several goals afforded to him by living and working in Leeton, including opening his own practice.

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The country lifestyle has allowed him a work-life balance, as well as a great place to raise a family thanks to what he says are exceptional education facilities in Leeton shire.

"I like being part of the community," Dr Pettersson said.

"The big thing about attracting people to rural practice is that rural general practice is more complex than an urban practice.

"But it does mean you are getting to use a variety of skills."

While working in a regional centre may have some drawbacks, Dr Pettersson believes the positives outweigh the negatives.

He would love to see more doctors come to town and benefit from all the community has already given him over the last 17 years.

Shortages of doctors in regional areas isn't unique to Leeton, but Dr Pettersson said the town had so much to offer.

He said its location was a real positive - doctors can easily jump on a flight to Sydney or Melbourne and be in the city for a visit or holiday in no time at all.

Dr Pettersson addressed the on-call doctor issues at Leeton hospital, encouraging more of the town's doctors to put their hands up for the roster to alleviate the situation, saying many hands made light work.

His message for doctors considering coming to Leeton was a simple one.

"I would say to just come and try it ... there's a reason why we've all stayed," Dr Pettersson said.

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