‘Just call me Marie’: From GP to governor, the remarkable life of Dame Marie Bashir
The trailblazer is being remembered as a compassionate doctor who helped reshape psychiatric care for youth.
The daughter of immigrants, Dame Marie Bashir began her career as a GP in Sydney’s west, before rising to become a distinguished psychiatrist and one of NSW’s longest-serving and most respected governors.
Her death at the age of 95 was confirmed on Tuesday and she was remembered not only as a trailblazing leader but for her life’s work in reshaping psychiatric care for adolescents and for communities at the margins.
Her decision to step down from her role as governor before reaching the 15-year record of war hero Sir Roden Cutler was cited in numerous tributes.
“It reflected her humility and deep respect for those who came before her,” said NSW Premier Chris Minns.
