Family and colleagues pay tribute as Hobart doctor Sandy Zalstein dies suddenly

Hobart has been left in “shock and disbelief” after the death of a “respected, adored and cherished” doctor. Here’s why he was so well loved.

Dr Sandy Zalstein was Clinical Lead for Trauma at the Royal Hobart Hospital. Picture: Mathew Farrell

THE sudden death of prominent anaesthetist and former clinical lead for trauma at the Royal Hobart Hospital Sandy Zalstein has led to an outpouring of grief and tributes from friends and colleagues.

Dr Zalstein was 53.

Dr Zalstein was raised in Melbourne and trained both as an intensivist and anaesthetist. He worked as an ICU doctor at the Alfred and Royal Melbourne hospitals before moving to Tasmania in 2012 to complete training as an anaesthetist. He was also a staff specialist anaesthetist at the RHH and the Director of Trauma Services for Tasmania.

Friends and family have described him as an intelligent, widely read, generous and kind man.

Work colleague Ben Roberts posted a personal tribute to him on social media.

“Sandy I have no words that can describe what I am feeling now. Over the years we have worked together you have been a constant support, a reliable Adviser and a friend.

“You were kind and caring to every patient and you were considerate of the nursing staff, thanks for the curries.

You were a legend and I among many others will miss you immensely.”

Another colleague said he was one of the very best at being the team leader during complex multi-trauma scenarios.

“He was very intelligent and with an excellent awareness of all factors in crisis situations,” he said.

Helen Fahy Jowett remembered Dr Zalstein as a passionate, caring man who helped transform trauma care in Tasmania.

RHH staff specialist anaesthetist Clinical Lead for Trauma Sandy Zalstein with Minister Michael Ferguson touring the Royal Hobart Hospital redevelopment in 2018. Picture: Richard Jupe

“We are heartbroken … I so admired your tenacity and drive, always striving to improve the system, which led to improved patient outcomes. I thank you for all that you gave and I hope you knew that you were loved, respected, adored and cherished by all who had the honour and privilege of knowing you. My heartfelt condolences to your family and colleagues.”

Friend Brenda Read also posted a tribute to Dr Zalstein on social media:

“We were so proud to be considered your Hobart family. You lived your life large. Your hugs were the tightest, your laugh the loudest, your smile the widest and your heart the deepest. We will miss you dearly Sandy and hope you’ve found peace.

Dr. Sandy Zalstein. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

Friend Gene Stark echoed his love for a close friend:

“The world has lost one of its brightest and kindest. There are simply no words, just shock and disbelief.”

Patients also paid tribute to Dr Zalstein on The Mercury Facebook page.

“Absolute great bloke. I was fortunate enough to be in his care during an unfortunate time. He was wonderful, he inspired confidence and trust. A job well done.Thankyou, Dr Sandy,” Roly Rolstar said.

“Lovely man, he did the anesthesia the birth of my daughter birth he tried to calm me, caring person. My deepest sympathies and condolences to family and friends,” Pam Smith wrote.

The father of three was farewelled at a funeral service in New Town late last month and buried in Melbourne on November 4.

He is survived by his wife Nicki and three children Hannah, Josh and Carmody.