George McWilliams
George Frederick McWilliams | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date near Geelong, Victoria, Australia |
| Died | February 12, 1907 (aged 41) Perth, Western Australia |
| Occupation(s) | Physician, military medical officer, legislator |
| Years active | 1888–1907 |
| Known for | Member of the Western Australian Legislative Assembly for North Perth (1901–1904); chief medical officer in the Second Boer War; inaugural president of the Western Australian branch of St John Ambulance |
George Frederick McWilliams (10 November 1865 – 12 February 1907) was an Australian physician, military medical officer, and legislator. He represented the electoral district of North Perth in the Western Australian Legislative Assembly from 1901 until 1904.
Early life
McWilliams was born near Geelong, Victoria, to parents Anne (née Toohey) and Wilson McWilliams. He received his education in England before returning to Australia, where he obtained a Bachelor of Medicine degree from the University of Melbourne in 1888. That same year, he relocated to Western Australia and began his medical career in York. Subsequently, he spent time in the North-West region working as a pearler and stockman prior to establishing a medical practice in Perth. Together with Mathieson Jacoby, he played a key role in founding the Western Australian branch of St John Ambulance, serving as its inaugural president.
Military and political service
During the Second Boer War, McWilliams volunteered with the West Australian Mounted Infantry as their chief medical officer. He progressed in rank from captain to lieutenant-colonel before returning to Australia toward the end of 1900. Following the death of Richard Speight, McWilliams won the 1901 by-election for North Perth, entering parliament. In April 1902, he led Western Australia's delegation representing Australia at the coronation of Edward VII held in London. He came back later that year but chose not to stand for re-election in the 1904 state poll.
Later life
After his parliamentary tenure concluded, McWilliams became a board member of Perth Hospital. Remaining unmarried throughout his life, he passed away in Perth in February 1907 at age 41 due to complications arising from gastroenteritis. His funeral at Karrakatta Cemetery was conducted with full military honours and officiated by Bishop of Perth Charles Riley.