Dr William (Bill) Barnett
(Fr 1957)
1938 - 2024

The Principal, Council and St Andrew’s College community honour the life of William (Bill) Barnett (Fr 1957) aged 85, who passed away in Sydney on 27 August.

Born in Dubbo on 12 September 1938, Bill attended The Scot’s College from 1950-1956. After graduating, he then studied Medicine at University of Sydney from 1957-1963. He resided at St Andrew's College through his University years, and was active on the Tennis team. As a Fresher, he was Cox of the Rowing VIII.

From 1960-1962, Bill was a Year Representative at College, and was named one of the “best dressed men” in 1962, according to the St Andrew’s magazine. He remained a proud Androvian throughout his life.

After gaining his degree, Bill went on to be a Resident Medical Officer at St George Hospital in 1963-1965, becoming their first Ophthalmic Registrar. He relocated to Tamworth in 1969, commencing practice as an ophthalmic surgeon, serving the community for 36 years before retiring in 2005.

Throughout his career, Bill enjoyed many impressive achievements. He was one of the first eye specialists in the Tamworth region to offer laser cataract surgery, and during the 1970's regularly flew by light aircraft to see patients in Moree and Narrabri. He also performed cataract operations in a mobile surgical bus at Gunnedah, Narrabri and Moree. Bill was a keen traveller and reader, and also undertook postgraduate studies in London, Boston and New York.

He is survived by wife Elaine, son David, daughters Sally and Kirsty and his six grandchildren.

The Barnett family is held warmly in our thoughts and our deepest sympathy is extended to all who knew Bill.

1957 College Tennis team - Bill is in the back row, last on the right.

1957 whole College photo

1960 whole College photo

1962 whole College photo