Premier pays tribute to Queensland pathology pioneer

Premier Anna Bligh has paid tribute to Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology co-founder Doctor Nicholas Nicolaides.

Dr Nicolaides and Dr John Sullivan started Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology in Brisbane in 1956.

Ms Bligh said she was saddened to hear of the respected doctor, pathologist and businessman’s passing – age 81.

“Dr Nicolaides came to Parliament House last year for the launch of the book Queenslanders All Over, by Joan Burton-Jones,” she said.

“His unique personal story is featured in the book which was compiled as part of the State Government’s Q150 celebrations.

“The son of immigrants fleeing Asia-Minor during World War II, he was born in West End in 1928.

“His father was an accomplished baker who built Queensland’s first wood-fired oven,” she said.

In 2003 Dr Nicolaides was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Medicine by the University of Queensland in recognition of his distinguished career as a pathologist and his outstanding contribution to medicine in Queensland.

“Not only was he an esteemed pathologist and successful businessman, but he was also an active member of his local community,” Ms Bligh said.

“Last year he generously donated his time to mentor Year 12 students at Brisbane State High School, sharing his experience and valuable knowledge.

The Premier said Dr Nicolaides’ legacy would live on in the business he co-founded more than 50 years ago.

“His is a great Queensland success story. What was initially a small pathology practice servicing local Brisbane families is now one of the largest pathology services in the country with more than 2500 staff.

“Our thoughts are with Dr Nicolaides’ family at this sad time.”