Mr David Read

David Read is a highly experienced Colorectal, General and Trauma Surgeon, currently serving as the Director of Trauma Surgery at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. After earning his General Surgical Fellowship in 1999, David pursued further training in colorectal surgery, completing CSSANZ post fellowship training. specialising in minimally invasive colorectal surgery for conditions such as bowel cancer, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease and rectal prolapse, David is also an accredited gastroscopist and colonoscopist and has abundant experience in hernia surgery, mainly laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is now commonly performed in emergency situations.

Prior to joining the RMH, David worked in Darwin as a rural surgeon, where he was highly regarded for 15 years. He later became the Director of Trauma and Burns at the National Critical Care & Trauma Response Centre. Owing to his expertise in the surgery of disaster and conflict, he has been deployed several times and was notably involved in responses to the Bali bombings and the Ashmore Reef explosion. In recognition of his services, David was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross after the 2002 Bali bombings. He also established the Australian Medical Assessment Team surgical field hospital, which is highly regarded nationally and internationally.

Alongside his clinical work, David has a keen interest in research, with particular focus on the effects of remoteness on cancer and trauma outcomes, Indigenous health, and the epidemiology of trauma. In his free time, he enjoys camping with his family and fishing, among other activities. David prides himself on being able to approach patient care holistically, with great sensitivity and care, and an affable Northern Territory manner. With his vast expertise, David Read is a celebrated medical professional who continues to serve an invaluable role in his area of specialization.