Alfred Waylen

19th-century Australian medical doctor and politician

Portrait of Alfred Waylen

Alfred Waylen (1833 – 9 January 1901) was a prominent Australian medical doctor and politician in the 19th century. He served as the Colonial Surgeon of Western Australia and was a member of the Western Australian Legislative Council.

Early life and education

Alfred Waylen was born in 1833 in England. He was the son of Dr. John Waylen, a medical practitioner, and his wife, Mary. The family emigrated to Western Australia in 1839, settling in the Swan River Colony. Waylen was educated in Perth and later returned to England to pursue his medical studies.

Medical career

Waylen completed his medical education in England, obtaining his qualifications as a physician and surgeon. Upon returning to Western Australia, he established a medical practice in Perth. In 1861, he was appointed as the Colonial Surgeon, a position he held for several years. As Colonial Surgeon, Waylen was responsible for overseeing the medical services in the colony, including the management of hospitals and the health of the population.

Political career

In addition to his medical career, Waylen was actively involved in politics. He was elected to the Western Australian Legislative Council in 1870, representing the interests of the medical profession and the general public. During his tenure, he advocated for improvements in public health and the expansion of medical services in the colony.

Later life and legacy

Waylen retired from his position as Colonial Surgeon in the late 19th century but continued to be involved in public life. He was a respected figure in the community and contributed to various charitable and civic organizations. Alfred Waylen passed away on 9 January 1901, leaving behind a legacy of service in both medicine and politics.

Related pages

• Western Australian Legislative Council
• Colonial Surgeon
• Swan River Colony