Pioneering doctor and aviator - Dr Dorothy Herbert AM (1939)

Old Girl, Dr Dorothy Herbert AM (1939) has recently been recognised by Queensland Health for her pioneering service as a doctor and aviator in Queensland. Here is their tribute:

Dr Dorothy Helena Herbert was a real high flyer! 

The Brisbane-born doctor and pilot began studying her science degree at The University of Queensland in 1939. When World War II erupted, she postponed her studies and joined the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) as a wireless operator in Brisbane. Once the war was over, Dorothy returned to university to finish her degree. 

After working as a biochemist in Queensland and Tasmania for a couple of years, Dorothy decided to study medicine. She also got her private pilot's licence and became a foundation member of the Australian Women Pilots' Association (AWPA). Dorothy spent two years at the Brisbane General Hospital (now the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital) as an intern before moving to Charleville in 1961. She was only going to be there for three months, working as a locum for the Royal Flying Doctor Service - Queensland Section (RFDS), but decided to stay on. There, she ran her private medical practice for twenty years.

In Charleville, Dorothy bought a single-engine Cessna, which she used to visit her patients in remote areas, attend medical conferences and help in emergencies. Much to the amusement of her colleagues and patients, she'd often have her Corgis along for the ride. 

In 1981, Dorothy semi-retired to the Sunshine Coast, but continued to work in general practice, specialising in acupuncture and aviation medicine. She fully retired in 1996, having notched up 2,200 flying hours in her career. She passed away at the age of 92 in 2014.

Throughout her life, Dorothy was recognised for her services to aviation and medicine with many awards. These included the Nancy Bird Walton Trophy, Member of the Order of Australia and the Centenary Medal. She was also an honorary life member of the Aviation Medicine Society of Australia and New Zealand. Dorothy is remembered as an adventurer, a medical and aviation pioneer and an inspiration to many. 

 Sources:
Medical Journal of Australia (2015). Dorothy Helena Herbert AM, BSc, MB BS, DObstRCOG (obituary)
Moreton Bay History (2021). People of Peel Island – 4 – Biochemist, Dorothy Herbert