Medical Forum
Perth GP receives bravery award for disarming man with an axe
A Perth GP has been recognised for his bravery in disarming an axe-weirding attacker in his clinic.
About the Author
Medical Forum
In 2023 Dr Fergus McCabe from View Street Medical in North Perth disarmed an axe-wielding attacker who attempted to kill his colleague Dr Anna Chaney as she conducted a consultation with a patient.
He was one of 22 Australians to be awarded a Commendation for Brave Conduct as part of the 2026 Australian Bravery Decorations presented by Governor General Sam Mostyn.
On the morning of the attack, Dr McCabe initially thought he was responding to a distressed patient who required help when he heard screaming.
Instead, what he found was a man who Dr Chaney had taken out a restraining order against had entered the clinic with a cardboard box containing an axe and other weapons. He was in the consulting room where Dr Chaney was with a patient.
Dr McCabe told ABC Radio that Dr Chaney and her patient had been grappling with the man in an effort to fight him off.
"I was able to grab the patient, pull her out, and then throw him across the room and get Anna behind me,” he said.
He described how he stayed with the attacker while an injured Dr Chaney crawled out of the room to staff who were able to provide first aid before police arrived.
While Dr McCabe said he was “deeply honoured” to receive the award, he said the response to the situation on the day of the attack was a collective one.
"The patient who was consulting with Dr Chaney showed exceptional courage by remaining with her and helping to protect her,” he said in a statement.
“Our doctors and staff acted together - calmly, professionally and without hesitation - to de-escalate the situation and safeguard everyone present.”
Dr McCabe said he was also grateful for the rapid response of police.
“This recognition belongs to all those who stepped forward. When good people refuse to look away, they can prevent harm and protect others.”
He said the consequences of violence against women extend far beyond the immediate and visible injuries.
“Above all, violence against women - in any setting and in any form - is never acceptable,” he said.
“We all share a responsibility to challenge such violence, support those affected and never look the other way."
The awards are made on the recommendation of the independent Council for the Australian Bravery Decorations.
Governor General Mostyn said the 54 Australians honoured across a number of categories, as part of this year’s Australian Bravery Decorations, remind us of the strength and depth of the human spirit.
“They were each confronted with danger and chose to act – removing others from dangerous circumstances, including beach and sea rescues, motor vehicle accidents and other treacherous and, often, unimaginable situations,” she said.
Christopher Bernard Healey was sentenced to 23 years' jail in 2024 after pleading guilty to attempted murder and aggravated stalking.