Local doctor receives Order of Australia medal

Brisbane North PHN Clinicians’ Advisory Group (CAG) member, Dr Greg Thompson has received a 2019 Order of Australia medal for his contributions to community and the profession of medicine.

Dr Thompson, who has been practising from the Bardon Rainworth Medical Centre since taking over the practice in 2006, has been CAG member for twelve years.

Prior to practicing as a GP, Dr Thompson was a PE teacher in regional NSW and his lifelong interest in sports and sports medicine has seen him heavily involved in his local cricket and AFL clubs—both on and off the field.

“I’m the club doctor for the Western Magpies, I’ve been involved in cricket and coaching all my life, as well as the administrative side of things and I’ve never not been active,” Dr Thompson said.

Dr Thompson said his involvement with CAG, and more broadly with Brisbane North PHN, has helped him as a practitioner by connecting him to a wider network of GPs.

“It’s been a learning experience to be involved in the group, to help figure out how we can improve patient care and to be involved in advancing electronic health,” Dr Thompson said.

“It goes both ways too, because the support I received when I was establishing my practice in 2006 was invaluable, and not much has changed.”

Dr Thompson said receiving the honour was a great surprise and it is icing on the cake of a career he loves.

“I’m 64 now and have no plans to slow down, I love my job and I love my sport—as long as I’ve got the mental and physical capacity I will keep on going,” Dr Thompson said.

The PHN congratulates all of the GPs from Brisbane North and Moreton Bay region who received Australia Day honours.