LGH Acute Medical Unit to be renamed in honour of the late Alasdair MacDonald | Memorial Service

Dr Alasdair MacDonald has been remembered as great leader and mentor to many.

January 16

Flags flew at half-mast at the Launceston General Hospital on Monday out of respect and in remembrance of the late Associate Professor Alasdair MacDonald, the hospital’s Director of Medicine.

Alasdair died suddenly on December 25.

On Monday, hundreds of people attended a Memorial Service held in Ockerby Gardens, where he was remembered as an esteemed, respected and loved physician, colleague, mentor and friend.

It was also announced that the LGH Acute Medical Unit will be renamed the Alasdair MacDonald Acute Medical Unit, with further plans for his legacy to be recognised with an award in his name.

LGH clinician and Alasdair’s friend and contemporary Dr Scott Parkes led Monday’s Service, which included tributes from nurses, students, colleagues and his family.

Dr Stuart Guest speaking at Monday’s Memorial Service.

Alasdair was described as a leader in health who had selflessly contributed to the hospital, the Tasmanian community and nationally and internationally during many notable appointments.

“There’s no way that anyone will ever replace what he has done,” friend and colleague Dr Stuart Guest said.

“He has put his whole heart and soul into this hospital, and to Northern Tasmania.”

Royal Australasian College of Physicians records show Alasdair participated in more than 50 different committees of many years' involvement with the College.

In a statement, President Jacqueline Small said he was regarded with great affection and would be remembered for his gentle, kind and compassionate manner.

“Alasdair consistently gave generously of his expertise, wisdom, and extensive knowledge, particularly in arears of healthcare policy and advocacy,” she said. “He will be greatly missed by all.”

Dr Parkes reflected on Alasdair’s commitment to the LGH and the role he had played in securing and maintaining services including the establishment of the Acute Medical Unit - the first of its kind in Tasmania and one of only a handful in Australia.

His children Stuart, Declan, Anna and Neve described their Father as having a loving nature who put the care of others above himself. Wife Karen said the couple had met at the LGH and had been married for 36 years.

The Clifford Craig Foundation extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and work colleagues of Dr Alasdair MacDonald.