Kenneth Beeson Noad, always known to his friends as "Bob", was born in Maitland in 1900 and received his early education there. He later moved to Sydney where he graduated in medicine at Sydney University in 1924. He completed his residency training at Sydney Hospital, the Royal Hospital for Women, and the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children. In 1928 and 1929, he undertook postgraduate training in London and became a member of the Royal College of Physicians of London in 1929.
Back in Sydney, Bob was mentored by the distinguished physician Allan Holmes a Court, who entrusted him with his practice during absences abroad. In 1935, Bob married Eileen Ryan and was appointed honorary assistant physician at Sydney Hospital, which remained the centre of his professional life. He became honorary physician in 1948. He was a Foundation Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and later played a major role in its leadership.
During World War II, Bob served enthusiastically in the 2nd/5th Australian General Hospital in Greece and the 2nd/11th AGH in Alexandria, later serving in New Guinea. Upon returning to Australia, he commanded the medical division at Concord and remained a consultant physician at the Repatriation General Hospital. He earned his MD in 1953 for work on infectious diseases in the Middle East.
From 1951 to 1966, Bob served on the Council of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. He was on the Board of Censors from 1948 to 1962 and served as Censor-in-Chief from 1958 to 1962. He was on the Executive Committee from 1958 to 1966 and served as President from 1962 to 1964. Bob was instrumental in establishing medical education programs in South East Asia and helped organise courses through the Colombo Plan in collaboration with the University of Singapore. These programs allowed students to sit the MRACP examination in Singapore and continue training in Australia. In recognition, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of Singapore in 1973.
Early in his career, Bob developed a strong interest in neurology and became one of Sydney’s first neurologists. He formed friendships with prominent neurologists in the UK and founded the Neurology Clinic at Sydney Hospital, also serving as Honorary Director of the Northcott Neurological Centre. He was an exceptional teacher and mentor, remembered fondly by many students for his clarity and encouragement.
Bob was also a prolific writer, contributing articles to the journal Brain, and co-authoring important papers on topics ranging from cerebellar atrophy to renal stones. His style was literary and full of classical references. His article on hyperparathyroidism with Douglas Miller was considered pioneering. He also gave numerous lectures and orations, all marked by eloquence and insight.
He travelled widely, both within Australia and internationally, gaining recognition and building friendships in medical communities across Europe, Asia, and the US. He frequently visited country towns in New South Wales to provide specialist consultations, often flying in small aircraft with life-saving equipment.
Outside of medicine, Bob was deeply engaged in the arts. His home in Bellevue Hill reflected his interests in music, art, and literature. An accomplished pianist in his youth, he served on the Australian Broadcasting Commission’s Orchestra Committee. He was known for his eccentric but passionate driving, often prioritising conversation over navigation.
Bob served as President of the Medico-Legal Society (1964–1968) and was Vice-President and later Honorary Life Member of the Australian Academy of Forensic Sciences. He and Eileen were generous hosts to visiting physicians, including during the College's 25th anniversary celebrations. In 1970, he was knighted for services to medicine.
Even after retiring from public hospital duties in 1960, Bob remained active in postgraduate education, practice, and international medical collaboration. His longtime assistant, Sister Joyce Ware, managed the administrative aspects of his practice. Despite memory decline in later years, his humour and wit never faded. He passed away on 24 May 1987, after years of devoted care from his wife, Eileen.