21 July 2026

Vale Professor Tony Walker ASM 

Professor Tony Walker spent his life helping people through their hardest moments.

That was true throughout his remarkable career in ambulance and emergency care. It was equally true around the PCFA Board table and in the generous way he drew on his own experience of cancer to advocate for others.

Tony joined PCFA’s National Board as a prostate cancer survivor, having been diagnosed at just 47.

He understood that treatment was not the end of the story.

Men and their families also needed clear information, compassionate support, and the best possible chance to live well beyond cancer.

That conviction shaped Tony’s contribution to PCFA. As a Director and, more recently, Deputy National Chairman, he helped guide our strategy and kept our work firmly focused on the people behind every policy, program, and statistic.

Tony brought immense authority, but never ego. He listened carefully, asked the questions that mattered, and offered counsel that was thoughtful, practical and deeply humane.

His contribution to Australian healthcare was extraordinary.

From paramedic to CEO of Ambulance Victoria, he helped transform emergency care, championed innovation and fought for the wellbeing of paramedics and first responders.

Yet those who knew him will remember more than his titles and achievements. They will remember his warmth, decency, courage, and genuine care for others.

PCFA was fortunate to have Tony beside us.

We will miss him profoundly, but his influence will endure in the work he helped shape, and in our determination to improve life for every person and family affected by cancer.

We extend our love and deepest sympathies to Tony’s wife Robyn, his children and grandchildren, and all who knew and loved him.

Vale Tony.

You made a difference — and you will not be forgotten. 

Image Above: PCFA's Deputy National Chairman Tony Walker (right) congratulates 2024 Max Gardner Award recipient Alan white.