Pioneering radiation scientist farewelled after four decades

After more than 40 years serving the communities of Western Sydney, senior medical radiation scientist Geoff Sharpe has called it a day.

Today management and staff at Westmead Hospital held a farewell afternoon tea for Geoff and his family to thank him for his dedication and commitment over the years.

The medical radiation scientist has decided to retire from his clinical role so he can spend more time indulging in his other passions – photography, travel, skiing and driving fast cars.

Geoff said it was a hard decision given he very much wanted to be part of the opening of Westmead’s new Central Acute Services Building as he was central to the planning of the operating suite hybrid theatres.

Highlights of Geoff’s trailblazing career include developing new imaging techniques, new treatments for blocked blood vessels, and new treatments for liver tumours.

But despite these and other achievements, Geoff’s strongest memories are more personal.

“My fondest moment is when I met my wife Debbie at Westmead. Both our boys were born at the hospital and are now working at Westmead as casual orderlies to help support their studies,” Geoff said.

“One moment I will never forget is the untimely passing of my colleague Mahesh Prasad, who worked with me for 15 years. Together we serviced the needs of the angiography suite until his premature death.

“I have worked with some extremely dedicated and skilled people, and there have been many characters who I will never forget.

“I will miss everyone dearly and look forward to hearing about the future at Westmead Hospital directly from my family and friends.”

Geoff started at Westmead Hospital in March 1979 as a radiographer and soon progressed to senior radiographer.

He was one of three clinicians who pioneered some of the diagnostic and interventional imaging treatments used today, which have helped more than 75,000 patients over four decades.

Westmead Hospital operating suite senior radiographer Christopher Williams has worked with Geoff for 40 years and describes his sense of humour as contagious.

“Over the past 40 years, many hundreds of radiographers, radiology and vascular registrars, fellows and specialists have been schooled by Geoff in the skills of angiography and interventional radiology,” Chris said.

“No doubt he will have plenty of spare time now for his other passions, including night sky photography, Formula 1 and V8 supercars racing, travel, and driving his Mustang V8 Fastback.”