It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our former General Manager and CEO of The Wesley Hospital, Clarence ‘Clarry’ Arbuckle on 20 November 2021. Clarry will be fondly remembered by the Wesley community for his extraordinary contribution and dedicated service to The Wesley Hospital, it’s patients, doctors and staff.

After growing up in Mareeba and Toowoomba, Queensland, and dreaming of becoming a motor mechanic, Clarry went on to have a long and successful career in accounting. Clarry was admitted to the Institute of Chartered Accountants and became a partner at his firm, J L Rawlings Bolton and Co, where he remained for 30 years specialising in family business and estate planning.

In 1977, after much deliberation, Clarry accepted the position of Financial Advisor and Board Member at The Wesley Hospital. At his Farewell Service, Clarry’s loved ones shared this decision lead to the most fulfilling and rewarding period of his life.

In 1984, Clarry was appointed General Manager, later to become Chief Executive Officer, a position he held until his retirement in 1992.Clarry leaves a great legacy at The Wesley Hospital, with much of what the hospital is known for today a testament to his tireless work and significant contribution. This includes, the Wesley’s Cancer Care Unit and the first private radiation oncology unit in Queensland, expansion of Wesley Breast Clinic, development of the Wesley Medical Centre, surgical centre, and Wesley Maternity ward, among many others.

Our Clarry Arbuckle Cardiac Unit is named in his honour.

Clarry’s family remember, “Clarry left the hospital with a reputation that was second to none, not because he wanted it to be famous or profitable but that long into the future it would continue to offer the best possible care.

In 1992, Clarry was recognised for his services to health at The Wesley Hospital with the Medal of Order of Australia.Clarry also served as a member of the Executive Committee of the Private Hospitals Association of Queensland, and together with wife Joan had a long association with the Methodist Church.

The Wesley Hospital and UnitingCare community extends its heartfelt condolences to Clarry’s wife Joan, daughters Anne, Janet, Susan and Julie, and the Arbuckle family.