News
18 September, 2026
Tributes flow for ‘incredible doctor’ and ‘wonderful man’
Tributes have been pouring in for a Goulburn GP being remembered as a “true community hero”.
Tributes have been pouring in for a Goulburn GP being remembered as a “true community hero”.
The Goulburn Health Hub shared on Facebook this week that “dear colleague and friend” Dr John Egan had lost his battle with cancer.
“To our Goulburn community and the remote Aboriginal communities he served, he was so much more than a doctor,” the Health Hub said.
“He was a pillar of strength, a listener and a healer.”
Dr Egan’s colleagues said he lived his life with “boundless empathy”.
“He had a rare gift for making every single person who walked through his door feel deeply heard and valued.
“No matter how tough the day was, his legendary sense of humour and warmth could light up any room and put anyone at ease.”
They also described him as a “proud and devoted family man” and said he had left an indelible mark on the communities he cared for so deeply.
Former patients and colleagues have described him as an “incredible doctor” and a “wonderful man”.
“With his wicked sense of humour and his kind and caring manner, John became like a trusted friend who allowed us to believe in ourselves,” Cathy Heffernan said.
Kerry Fitzsimmons said he could have “written the book on empathy, service and care”.
Tania Friend said she had the privilege of working with Dr Egan professionally – but was also lucky enough to have him as her GP when he switched to private practice.
“John was one of the warmest, kindest and most caring people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing,” she said.
“His sense of humour was infectious and he had a genuine way of making everyone feel comfortable, heard and cared for.
“What made him so special was the time he gave people.
“He always took the time to listen, to understand and to care in a way that I have rarely experienced with any other doctor,” she said.
“The world has lost a truly beautiful soul.”
Maria Robinson said Dr Egan’s dedication and care “never went unnoticed”.
“His knowledge and professionalism was truly admirable but it was his warmth and humanity that made him so special.”
She said he was an “amazing” doctor “and even more wonderful person”.
· Local residents are being invited to leave messages of condolence and to share stories and memories of Dr Egan on the Goulburn Health Hub’s Facebook page. The messages will be compiled into a memory book to share with his family.
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