Remembering Bob Kidman
December 09, 2025
We are saddened by the passing of former Chairman Robert (Bob) Kidman, a respected leader who guided St Andrew’s Hospital through a period of significant growth and change.
Bob served as Chairman of the Board of Governors from January 1997 to June 2002. During this time, he oversaw major developments that shaped the hospital we know today including the establishment of the St Andrew’s Hospital Foundation, officially launched on St Andrew’s Day in 2000. His commitment to strengthening the hospital’s future has proven to be one of his most enduring legacies.
Bob’s tenure coincided with an era of expansion across the organisation. These years saw:
- The launch of the St Andrew’s Hospital Breast Clinic, the first private breast-diagnostic clinic of its kind in South Australia.
- The opening of the Angiography Suite.
- The start of our partnership with Hospital Pharmacy Services (HPS).
- The opening of the East Terrace chemotherapy suite, now known as the St Andrew’s Medical Centre.
Bob was known for his inclusive, thoughtful and steady leadership. Former Patron of St Andrew’s Hospital Foundation, David Klingberg AO FTSE DUniv :
“Bob was an all-inclusive Chair who saw the Hospital through some difficult times. He was a gentleman in all dealings with staff and Board members and used his banking background to excellent effect. He saw the appointment of Stephen Walker as CEO which consolidated St Andrew’s position to become one of Australia’s leading private hospitals. We kept in touch over the years and he provided valuable advice on my retirement from business that has stood the test of time. Much appreciated. Wonderful man.”
Bob’s own words from 30 November 2000, when he launched the St Andrew’s Hospital Foundation, reflect his deep respect for the hospital’s history and his belief in its future:
“Good evening and a very warm welcome to you all to our traditional St Andrew’s Day celebrations, especially helping us launch St Andrew’s Hospital Foundation - a singular, exciting and important occasion for us… Our hospital has a long and distinguished history, having been opened in 1936 by Sister Janet Hay as a 19-bed surgical hospital. The hard work and dedication of many good people have transformed that hospital into the modern complex we know today.”
Bob Kidman will be remembered as a generous, principled and forward-thinking leader whose contributions continue to benefit our community. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues.