Get to know our new Chairman, Dr John Batten AM

In its 30-year history, the Clifford Craig Foundation has only had three people serve as Chairman: Dr John Morris, Associate Professor Don McTaggart and now, Dr John Batten AM, who was recently appointed.

A retired orthopaedic surgeon, John spent more than four decades at the Launceston General Hospital, working in private practice and as a senior lecturer at the University of Tasmania.

After commencing his medical training in Victoria, he came to Launceston as part of his advanced training. Recognising the LGH as one of the best he had come across, he was inspired to return and make Launceston his home.

It was during this time that his association with the Clifford Craig Foundation commenced.

In 2017 John was named president of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons – the first Tasmanian to be appointed to the role.

He held the position for two years and also served as president of the Australian Orthopaedic Association.

In 2020 he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his significant service to orthopaedic medicine and to various professional bodies.

John has served on the Clifford Craig board since 2019. Recognising the crucial role the Foundation plays in ensuring patients have access to the best care, John said he felt very honoured in his new position as Chairman.

“I think it is a great honour, to be named Chairman,” he said.

“The people who have gone before me have been very notable clinicians in this town and this hospital for many years, and their contributions to getting Clifford Craig started and its 30-year history, has been incredible.

“So it’s a great privilege, and it’s also great challenge to try and fill those shoes left before me by Dr John Morris and Don McTaggart have left. But I will do my best.”