author
Sir James W. (James William) Barrett
1862–1945
A leading Australian eye surgeon and university leader, he mixed medicine, public service, and big civic ambition in a career that reached from Melbourne hospitals to wartime work abroad. His life also reflects the growth of modern medical education and public institutions in Australia.
1 Audiobook
The Australian Army Medical Corps in Egypt An Illustrated and Detailed Account of the Early Organisation and Work of the Australian Medical Units in Egypt in 1914-1915
by Sir James W. (James William) Barrett, P. E. (Percival Edgar) Deane
About the author
Born in South Melbourne on 27 February 1862, Sir James William Barrett became an Australian ophthalmologist, academic administrator, and public figure. He studied at the University of Melbourne and at King's College London, then built a long career in eye medicine in Melbourne.
Barrett was closely associated with the Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital and with the University of Melbourne, where he later served in senior leadership roles including vice-chancellor and chancellor. During the First World War he also took on major medical service responsibilities, including work connected with the Australian forces and the Red Cross in Egypt.
He was known not only as a doctor but also as an energetic publicist and civic campaigner, taking a strong interest in education, health, and public affairs. He died on 6 April 1945, leaving behind a reputation for restless public service as well as medical achievement.