In 1986 Professor Peter Gates became the first neurologist to move out of Melbourne and set up a regional centre of neurology in Geelong.
It was here that Professor Gates set out to pursue a career in clinical neurology, clinical research, and teaching.
The Barwon Heads resident has served as director of stroke, director of neuroscience and director of physician training for Barwon Health in a career spanning four decades.
Professor Gates was honoured with an Medal of the Order of Australia on Monday for services to neurology.
Professor Gates produced a website in 2015 that is the culmination of over 40 years of clinical practice and teaching.
He has strived to pass on his understanding and knowledge of neurology to make a complicated subject simpler and easier to understand.
Professor Gates said seeing the sudden look of understanding in the face of his students is one of the most rewarding experiences of his career.
He said the opportunity to teach those willing to learn is a great privilege and he thoroughly enjoys engaging with the bright doctors of tomorrow.
He is a dual recipient of Barwon Health’s Richard Hallowes Teaching Award.
Away from work, Professor Gates enjoys golf and is a member at Barwon Heads Golf Club.
