Sir Charles George McDonald (1894–1970) was an Australian physician, academic, and university administrator. He was a prominent figure in Australian medicine during the mid-20th century, known for his contributions to clinical practice, medical education, and the governance of the University of Sydney.
Early Life and Education Born in Sydney, New South Wales, McDonald was educated at St Joseph's College, Hunters Hill. He graduated from the University of Sydney with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) in 1917. He proceeded to Doctor of Medicine (MD) in 1920 and became a Member of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (MRACP) in 1938, later advancing to Fellow (FRACP).
Medical Career McDonald served as a resident medical officer at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH) in Sydney. He established a career as a consultant physician, holding honorary appointments at RPAH and the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children. He specialised in general medicine and neurology. During World War II, he served in the Australian Army Medical Corps (AAMC) with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, commanding the 2/5th Australian General Hospital in the Middle East and New Guinea.
Academic and Administrative Roles
- University of Sydney: McDonald was a long-serving member of the University of Sydney Senate, elected by graduates in 1942. He served as Deputy Chancellor from 1962 to 1964.
- Chancellor: He was elected Chancellor of the University of Sydney in 1964, serving until 1966. His tenure focused on the expansion of the university's physical infrastructure and academic faculties during a period of significant growth in Australian higher education.
- Royal Australasian College of Physicians: He was a foundation fellow and served as the College's President from 1954 to 1956.
Honours
- Knight Bachelor (1961) for services to medicine and education.
- Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) (1965).
- Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD), University of Sydney (1967).
Death Sir Charles George McDonald died in Sydney on 21 July 1970.
