Dr David Durrheim - Freeman of the City

Sometimes we believe we know a person and hear tales of someone’s life in their eulogy. With Dr David Durrheim, I had the pleasure of hearing his incredible life story, detailing what has driven him to help thousands of people, including his life-saving work with children throughout his medical career. The topic of eulogy was mentioned by David’s son, Jonty, during the ceremony at Lake Macquarie City Council.

It was a reference to another amazing twist in David’s life when he suffered a heart attack in 2014 while walking and was clinically dead. Luckily, he was found on the track and through CPR and amazing follow up medical care, he was brought back to life. His near-death experience drove David to keep helping others. Most locals would recognise his face and distinctive accent as the informed voice of Hunter Health during the Covid-19 pandemic. His life of amazing service to our community was recognised by being awarded Freeman of the City. Congratulations to Dr David Durrheim and his wife Jenny.