Purpose: This study characterises the evolving interest of Australian medical students in surgical careers. By profiling exposure, mentorship, and research participation, we aim to identify motivators and barriers shaping surgical career decision-making. Methodology: Data is being collected via an ongoing, cross-sectional anonymous online survey of Australian medical students consisting of 42 questions. The instrument evaluates shifts in surgical interest, subspecialty preferences, and the impact of early clinical exposure or mentorship. It further assesses involvement in student societies and perceived hurdles via Likert-scale items. Results: In this preliminary cohort of 80 respondents (median age 22; 58.8% male; 25% preclinical; 62.5% metro), early data suggest surgical interest is high but dynamic - 53.2% currently favour a surgical career, and 51.9% report increased interest since starting medical school. General surgery had the highest proportion indicating interest (19.0%), followed by orthopaedics (15.2%). While pre-clinical exposure was reported by only 46.8%, it appears influential, with 51.9% of those exposed noting increased interest. Conversely, mentorship remains a gap, with only 26.6% reporting a surgical mentor. Research involvement (22.8%) also correlates with higher interest. Significant perceived barriers include lifestyle concerns (77.2%), competitive selection (73.4%), and demanding training (72.2%). Interest was similar between rural and metro respondents (57.9% vs 54.0%). Most respondents (72.6%) are willing to spend 3+ years as an unaccredited registrar. Key motivators include "hands-on" satisfaction (85.9%) and intellectual challenge (82.1%). Conclusions: Early findings indicate surgical interest is influenced by the quality of exposure and research. Low mentorship rates and significant lifestyle concerns suggest a need for structured support. Findings support earlier clinical exposure and formalised mentorship to improve pathway clarity.