Queensland's new Chief Health Officer has been named as Dr John Gerrard.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said Dr Gerrard had played a leading role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic as an infectious diseases expert at Gold Coast when she announced the new appointment today.
This comes after the shock resignation of Dr Krispin Hajkowicz, who was due to take on the role from Dr Jeannette Young, on November 1.
READ MORE: Wild weather to lash three Australian states
Ms Palaszczuk thanked deputy chief health officer Dr Peter Aitken for acting in the role prior to Dr Gerrard's appointment, adding he would continue to do so in the coming weeks.
Dr Gerrard will officially commence his duties from mid-December.
"We're very proud to announce that Dr John Gerrard will become our new Chief Health Officer," Ms Palaszczuk said.
Ms Palaszczuk said Dr Gerrard was instrumental in dealing with the Ruby Princess cruise ship outbreak off the coast of Tokyo.
"I think many people will know what a crucial role he has played particularly in the Gold Coast University Hospital infectious unit where he has seen and treated some of the first patients that caught COVID in Queensland," Ms Palaszczuk said.
READ MORE: She died from a snakebite. But the real killer was her husband
Dr Gerrard has worked as a researcher and clinician for over 30 years.
"I think the Gold Coast should be very proud that Dr Gerrard has stepped up to take on this very important role," Ms Palaszczuk said.
Dr Gerrard said he was honoured to be appointed as Queensland's Chief Health Officer, acknowledging the importance of the role as the state prepares to open to the rest of Australia.
"It's also a deep and concerning responsibility to take on the role a this time, but that responsibility is made lighter by the actions of Queenslanders over the last 24 months," Dr Gerrard said.
READ MORE: New clue found in search for William Tyrrell
https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1462597045361922049"Now as we move forward things will change, and during the course of the next 12 months it's likely the virus will be introduced into Queensland.
"The main thing as we move forward is to make sure all Queenslanders are vaccinated against COVID-19.
"I look forward to working with you in the current months."
READ MORE: Austria hit with snap lockdown ahead of Christmas
