Trailblazer GP for her time

Following on from her Girls Grammar schooling, Barbara studied a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery at The University of Queensland. She graduated in 1956 and obtained her Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

Reflecting on the gender challenges during her career, Barbara recalls commonly being mistaken for a nurse instead of a doctor.

‘There were times as a young resident when I was called down to the emergency department and it was quite common for them to think I was one of the nurses,’ she said.

‘I don’t believe that assumption happens anymore.’

During her time at School, Barbara was passionate about Humanities and particularly loved learning English. It was inside the white picket fence of Girls Grammar where she gained the courage, determination and the confidence she needed to pursue a meaningful, fulfilling career.

‘I think one of the things that Grammar does so well is that they encourage,’ she said.

‘They encourage girls that they can do whatever they want if they have enough passion for it, they can pursue their dream to do things that, in the past, may not have been easy to do. Anything is an option if you want it enough.’

Barbara’s love of education only deepened throughout her career and aged 71 years old, she graduated with a Masters in GP Psychiatry at Monash University.

After an accomplished career, Barbara is now retired and living in Melbourne, enjoying the company of friends and family including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She often reflects on her time at Girls Grammar, including then Head Mistress, Miss Lilley, and her little dog, and being part of the Athletics team shouting the School war cry—which she still remembers the words to.

Barbara’s journey is an example of what is possible when we believe in how things should be, rather than accept what they are – and then be brave enough to take the unbeaten path towards the future.