Dr Peter Burke

Born in Coburg, Peter followed his paternal footsteps to the University of Melbourne Medical School, where he graduated over 50 years ago. In his postgraduate years, Peter contributed as senior lecturer to the departments of anatomy, community medicine and pathology at the University of Melbourne.

Three years working in England, in the National Health Service, resulted in Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, along with educational responsibilities for medical students, junior medical staff and nurses.

The opportunity to study for the diploma of the History of medicine and pharmacy of the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London was taken: this coveted diploma is recognised as an important teaching aid, and led subsequently to many roles, including that of vice president of the Australian and New Zealand Society for the History of Medicine, and long-time and current Specialty Editor in surgical history for the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

Peter left his role as Director of Casualty Medical Services at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne to relocate to the Latrobe Valley in 1987, where he has since occupied many senior positions, including chair of the senior medical staff at LVH, MPH and LRH.

No longer in active surgical practice, he is busy in medicolegal practice and in diverse community activities, including, as Chair of the Latrobe Regional Gallery Foundation Incorporated.

His service to the medical profession over the years has been recognised with the award of the Certificate of Community Service of the Australasian College of Surgeons, and, the rare distinction of Fellowship of the Australian Medical Association, ‘in recognition of outstanding services’.

Peter now looks forward to further contributing to his community, via the Latrobe Health Assembly.