Community
27 March, 2025
Dr Tim Fitzpatrick announces retirement
THE community has shown overwhelming appreciation for Dr Tim Fitzpatrick, who announced his retirement last week.
Dr Fitzpatrick, the owner of Terang Medical Clinic, issued a statement to social media last week announcing he would step in to retirement from the end of June after 34 years with the clinic.
Speaking with Western District Newspapers, he said he felt the time was right to step back from practice and enjoy time with family – in particular his grandson, Henry, who recently celebrated his first birthday.
“I just felt it was time,” he said.
“The day-to-day wears you down over time, but I’m 65 and I’ve hopefully got a few good years left outside of medicine.
“My wife (Janine) and I will do a bit of travel – we’ve got a place down in Apollo Bay closer to family, but I might do the odd locum (temporary substitute doctor) here or there.
“Apart from that, I’ll be getting the golf clubs out and seeing how we go.”
The announcement drew hundreds of comments online from well-wishers, including patients and former colleagues, offering their congratulations for all Dr Fitzpatrick had accomplished.
“I’m incredibly touched,” he said.
“I have to say – I’ve been far from a perfect person, I’ve made plenty of stuff ups in my time and let people down, so it’s lovely for so many people to get in touch.
“I’ve even heard from people I haven’t seen since 2000 or before, which has been amazing.”
Dr Fitzpatrick announced Dr Jacqueline Altree would take over as practice owner, a decision he did not take lightly but a result he strongly believes will position Terang Medical Clinic well for the future.
“She’s dedicated to the local area, is married to a local and has built a house, so she’s here to stay,” he said.
“She’s shown a real commitment and is an excellent doctor in every way, so I’m very comfortable with her taking the place on.
“I’m very happy she’s decided to stay here.”
Dr Fitzpatrick said he was proud the clinic he’s been so devoted to would remain under local ownership of someone with a strong conviction to retain the character of the practice, rather than it falling in to corporate hands.
“I’ve heard stories about corporations coming in, taking over the practice, and sacking the staff before re-employing them at a lower rate of pay,” he said.
“It loses its character.
“I’ve never worked in a practice like that, and I’m sure they’re good practices, but it would be sad for Terang to lose its own character.”
Dr Fitzpatrick expressed his thanks to the wider community, staff and patients for their support.
“I’m happy everyone will still be really well looked after – and probably better with a young, keen, fresh pair of eyes on them,” he said.
“The sun will keep coming up in Terang – it’s a strong town and a strong community, so I’m very confident all will be well.”
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