A commercially-minded social services executive, with a background in research, has been appointed as the Director of the Herston Health Precinct.
Dr Patrick Silvey will be responsible for the long-term strategy of the precinct built around the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and boasting world-leading partners such as QIMR Berghofer.
The Herston Health Precinct Board, in a statement, said the appointment was a pivotal moment as all precinct partners strengthened efforts to unlock the potential of “one of Australia’s most dynamic and integrated health and knowledge ecosystems”.
“Strategically located adjacent to Victoria Park and the 2032 Games precinct, we represent an unparalleled concentration of talent, healthcare excellence, research, and innovation infrastructure,” the Board stated.
It said the appointment of Dr Silvey, who is currently an advisor to the precinct and a Director at both Micha Projects and VenturePro, reflected the precinct partners’ commitment to leveraging collective strengths, expertise and resources.
The statement said Dr Silvey, who completed a PhD in Molecular Biology, brought a unique blend of commercial and postdoctoral research experience.
“For over two decades, he has fostered collaboration across Queensland’s innovation landscape, connecting innovators, funders, and institutions to secure over $2.68 billion for transformational health and research infrastructure.
“His extensive networks among precinct partners, government, industry, and research institutions nationally and internationally position him as a trusted facilitator for partnerships and growth.”
The Board statement said his connection to Herston was long-standing – from volunteering at the RBWH Red Cross Emergency Accommodation Centre in his twenties, to leading the successful investment cases for several key precinct assets.
It stated Dr Silvey would guide the precinct’s long-term strategy, aligning diverse objectives and capabilities to support partners in growing Herston sustainably as a global centre of excellence, delivering exceptional patient care, creating world-class career pathways, and attracting new partners and transformative investment.
“The opportunity ahead for the Herston Health Precinct is extraordinary – from groundbreaking research translation to next-generation infrastructure, and to inclusive and people-centred placemaking.
“As we approach 2032, we are positioned to showcase Australia’s health innovation leadership, talent, and stories on the global stage.”
