Visiting Surgeons at Parramatta

A case involving the Visiting Surgeon’s position at Parramatta Gaol highlights the importance of the role. When this position became available in the 1880s a number of medical practitioners put forward their names for consideration and the internal departmental selection process was undertaken.

However, when the successful applicant’s details became known, the department was on the receiving end of hot words of disapproval, pointing to the new incumbent’s lack of experience and youthfulness.

Some nationalistic pride was also invoked, questioning whether the department was discriminating against local medical graduates by appointing an overseas trained doctor.

Evening News, 29 th October 1896 ober 1896

Cumberland Argus and Fruitgrowers Advocate 5 th December 1903

Parramatta Gaol