Dr Antony Bolton
What motivated you to get involved in the AOD space alongside your work in general practice?
As a kid I watched family members struggle with alcohol dependence and face some pretty harsh treatment, including from healthcare providers. At the time I didn’t understand why there seemed to be nothing that could be done to help them. So, I think the curiosity has been there for a long time, and after I left emergency medicine I had the opportunity to do an unaccredited post in addiction medicine and really loved the work. So, I knew before starting GP training that I would sub-specialise and look to undergo further training.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey into general practice?
I left medical school (Newcastle University, UK) wanting to be a GP but ended up taking a very long route to get here! I moved to Australia (twice!) and cycled through various critical care specialties plus five years in emergency medicine before finally entering the AGPT programme in 2018 in Central and Eastern Sydney.
What motivated you to get involved in the AOD space alongside your work in general practice?
As a kid I watched family members struggle with alcohol dependence and face some pretty harsh treatment, including from healthcare providers. At the time I didn’t understand why there seemed to be nothing that could be done to help them. So, I think the curiosity has been there for a long time, and after I left emergency medicine I had the opportunity to do an unaccredited post in addiction medicine and really loved the work. So, I knew before starting GP training that I would sub-specialise and look to undergo further training.
The 2026 GPADD Conference is approaching – what are you most excited about for this year’s event?
Unfortunately, I will miss the GPADD Conference due to family commitments back in the UK but it’s going to be a great couple of days! The programme really is ‘the bread and butter of AOD in GP.’ Conference convener Dr Anne Saunders has worked so hard putting the event together, there are some amazing speakers lined up, and other members of the RACGP Victoria’s AOD Committee will be contributing.
Why is the GPADD Conference an important opportunity for GPs and professionals working in AOD?
Aside from the fact attendees will tick off a big chunk of their CPD hours, they will learn loads, engage in some really interesting conversations, meet real leaders in the field, and of course network with like-minded colleagues. And have fun!