A Mosman-born doctor who dedicated decades to regional healthcare has been honoured, as the Young Historical Society reflects on the contributions of Dr Charles Rowe.
Early Life and Education in Mosman
Dr Charles Rowe was born in Mosman on 31 May 1918. He has a twin brother named Richard. Dr Rowe completed his early schooling at Marist Brothers in Mosman before attending St Joseph’s College, Hunters Hill, for his secondary education. Following his schooling, Dr Rowe studied medicine at Sydney University, graduating in 1942.
After completing his medical degree, Dr Rowe began working at Lewisham Hospital, where he progressed to the role of medical superintendent. In 1943, he tied the knot with June Bremmer at St Joseph’s in Neutral Bay.
Military Service and Move to Regional Practice
After marriage, Dr Rowe served for three years as a medical officer with the Royal Australian Air Force, including one year overseas. After leaving the service, he commenced work at Dr Bertram Cook’s practice in Bulli. In August 1948, Dr Rowe purchased Dr Cook’s practice.
Dr Rowe recalled his first maternity case in Young, assisting Mrs Florence Hardy of Wambanumba during heavy snowfall. The baby delivered that day grew up to be Mrs Robyn McDonald, who later worked as a nursing aid at Mercy Hospital.
Photo Credit: Young Historical Museum/Facebook
Community Contributions Beyond Medicine
Dr Rowe was an Alderman on the Young Shire Council from 1950 to 1956. He was also appointed Deputy Mayor in his final year. That same year, he played a role in establishing and advising Alcoholics Anonymous chapters in Young and neighbouring towns.
Dr Rowe’s community involvement extended across various local organisations, including the Young Pony Club, Picnic Race Club, Parish Ball Committee, Road Safety Council, Riverine University College movement, and Riverina Region Advisory Council. He also served as a Government Medical Officer.
Beyond his medical work, Dr Rowe became the first president of the Young branches of both the National Catholic Rural Movement and the Young Rural Credit Union, while also being active in the National Civic Council. During the 1961 elections, he contested the Federal seat of Hume for the Democratic Labor Party. Unfortunately, he was not elected.
Photo Credit: Young Historical Museum/Facebook
Return to Sydney and Legacy
Prior to retiring in 1970, Dr Rowe’s practice was joined by Dr Mullany. After returning to Sydney, Dr Rowe maintained strong ties with Young, making several visits before his death in 1975. A memorial service for Dr Rowe was conducted at St Mary’s Church in Young.
His widow, June Rowe, extended a formal thank you to the community through a published notice and a personal letter to Monsignor Weissel. His son, James Rowe, donated his father’s medical bag and instruments to the Young Historical Society, commemorating his service.
Published 26-Apr-2025