Dr Donna Furler
Dentist

As an 18-year-old, fresh out of high school, I worked part time as a dental assistant while studying my first year of Human Movement. I was planning a career in sport or physical education however, I soon realised that I enjoyed working in dental so much that I decided to pursue this full time. I worked as a dental assistant for two years and completed a certificate in dental assisting and dental radiography. I was then accepted into a Bachelor of Oral Health at The University of Adelaide. I graduated as an Oral Health Therapist in 2005 and worked for 5 years in both the public and private sector in SA, QLD and NT and finally in a volunteer role in Timor Leste as a dental program coordinator for two years. My work in Timor Leste was definitely the impetus for further study in dentistry. I studied a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at James Cook University and graduated with honours and an academic medal in 2015. Some would say that I have taken the long road!

I love working as part of the CVFD team. It is progressive and supportive; we are encouraged to continually challenge our learning and practice and always provide high quality dental care. The two things I like most about working as a dentist are the fact that it is a very hands-on career, and we work closely with people. As a dentist working in a rural area, our scope of practice is wide and therefore, varied and interesting.

Growing up in the country, I have always played a lot of sport. I play netball for Blyth Snowtown Netball Club. I am married to Matt and we have 2 children. Our family life is wonderful and very rewarding. I also enjoy gardening, cooking, reading, travel and catching up with friends for a good chat and a wine or two.