Library honour for Peter Zelas

A passionate advocate for his patients, a humanitarian who worked in Rwanda, Malawi and Zimbabwe, an Order of Australia medallist, a teacher and mentor to generations of doctors, and a passionate advocate for consumer engagement and the expansion of Blacktown Hospital – Professor Peter Zelas OAM has retired from Blacktown Hospital with a ceremony to dedicate the hospital library in his honour.

The library, located in the Western Sydney University Clinical School, has been officially named the Peter Zelas Library, acknowledging the outstanding contribution of one of our finest clinicians, former Dean of the WSU Clinical School, and a champion of Blacktown Hospital.

Describing him as a “cornerstone” of the hospital, Blacktown general manager Sue-Anne Redmond said Peter’s imagination, humility, clinical acumen, meticulous attention to patient care, and abiding respect for his team and his patients would long be remembered.

“Peter once said that our job was to do the very best by our patients and to return them safely home to their family,” said Ms Redmond.

“The patient and family were always uppermost in his mind.

“We also owe him a debt of gratitude for our expansion, which is a reality because of his and his colleagues’ advocacy.”

Peter was instrumental in establishing the Clinical School and was a tireless advocate for the hospital, supporting quality of care, consumer engagement, and our major expansion.

He was also dedicated to the education of new clinicians.

“Professor Zelas has had a remarkable career through which he has positively influenced the lives of many, and has significantly contributed to the advancement of medical education in the Western Sydney region,” Professor Barney Glover, Vice-Chancellor and President, Western Sydney University said.

“His vision will continue to guide our decisions with respect to the Clinical School and medical education at the University.”

Speaking at the event, Peter said he was “overwhelmed”, and paid tribute to his family, patients, colleagues and staff for their unstinting support throughout his career.

“I’m so appreciative of the honour you’ve bestowed on me. It’s been a privilege to have had my career here,” Professor Zelas. said.

We wish Peter all the best for his retirement and we thank his wife Ingrid and his children for their support.

For more images from the library event, see the BMDH Project Weekly Update.