Where Research Meets Surgical Expertise
- PhD in Breast Cancer Research
- Fellowship-Trained General & Breast Surgeon
- Advanced Hernia & Robotic Surgery
- Colorectal & Cancer Surgery
- Regional Victoria's Specialist Surgical Care
Surgery Backed by Genuine Research Expertise
Dr Bidwell holds both a research doctorate and fellowship surgical qualifications. Before completing his medical training, he spent several years conducting research at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, focused on breast cancer biology. His qualifications and experience cover general surgery, breast surgery, colorectal surgery, cancer surgery and a range of subspecialty areas.
Areas of Expertise
Surgical care across a range of specialties
Dr Bidwell consults and operates across the following areas of surgical practice.
Why Choose Us
A Surgical Practice Built on Research and Training
Dr Bidwell holds a research doctorate alongside his fellowship surgical qualifications. His background spans laboratory research, hospital-based surgical training and advanced subspecialty fellowship — covering breast surgery, hernia repair, robotic surgery and colorectal surgery.
Research Doctorate
Dr Bidwell completed his PhD at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre before entering clinical practice, with research focused on breast cancer biology and the immune system.
Fellowship Qualifications
Dr Bidwell is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS), having completed his surgical training at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Subspecialty Depth in Breast Cancer
Dr Bidwell holds a research doctorate in breast cancer biology alongside his surgical qualifications.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Dr Bidwell was trained in both laparoscopic and robotic techniques and he uses minimally invasive techniques where appropriate.
Regional Specialist Access
Dr Bidwell consults at Wangaratta Private Hospital, providing specialist surgical care to patients across North East Victoria.
Clear, Informed Consultations
Patients receive a thorough explanation of their condition, their options and what to expect — at every stage of their care.
Your Surgeon
Dr Brad Bidwell
MBBS, BSc.(Hons), PGrad Dip Anat, PhD, FRACS
Dr Brad Bidwell grew up in East Gippsland in regional Victoria, and his path to surgery began in the lab. He earned his doctorate at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, where his research focused on breast cancer metastasis — specifically how cancer interacts with the immune system and how that understanding might open new treatment pathways.
He then completed his medical degree at the University of Melbourne before undertaking surgical training at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, with time spent in regional Victoria including Wangaratta. Following completion of his fellowship, he trained for a further two years in advanced hernia surgery, robotic surgery and colorectal surgery. He now consults at Wangaratta Private Hospital, bringing specialist surgical expertise to patients across the North East.
Qualifications & Expertise
- MBBS, University of Melbourne
- BSc. (Hons), Postgraduate Diploma in Anatomy
- PhD, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre — Breast Cancer Metastasis & Immunology
- FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons)
- Advanced training: Hernia Surgery | Robotic Surgery | Colorectal Surgery
Patient Journey
What to Expect
From your first appointment to your recovery, here is how Dr Bidwell’s team supports you at every step.
Referral
Ask your GP for a referral to Dr Brad Bidwell at Wangaratta Private Hospital. Your GP can also fax or email referral documents directly to the clinic.
Initial Consultation
Dr Bidwell will review your history, imaging and results, discuss your diagnosis clearly and outline the surgical and non-surgical options available to you.
Surgical Planning
If surgery is recommended, you will receive a thorough explanation of the procedure, what preparation is required, and what the recovery timeline looks like.
Your Procedure
Your procedure may be performed at Northeast Health Wangaratta, Benalla Hospital or Wangaratta Private Hospital. Dr Bidwell and the theatre team will ensure you are comfortable, informed and well cared for.
Recovery & Follow-Up
Post-operative care is structured and attentive. Dr Bidwell provides clear recovery guidance and follows up to ensure your healing is on track.
For Health Professionals
Information for GPs and Referring Doctors
Dr Bidwell welcomes referrals for general surgery, breast surgery, breast cancer, cancer surgery, hernia repair, colorectal surgery, skin cancer and hand surgery. He consults from Wangaratta Private Hospital and is committed to timely specialist assessment for your patients — particularly those requiring urgent oncological review.
How to Refer
Standard Referrals
Send referral letters to Dr Bidwell via HealthLink ID 2cr43dsw or email at bidwellsecretary@gmail.com
Urgent Cases
For urgent oncological review or cases requiring immediate specialist attention, please phone the clinic directly to expedite triage.
Publications
Advancing Surgical Care Through Research
Dr Brad Bidwell has a strong academic foundation in breast cancer research, with work conducted at the internationally recognised Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. His research has focused on how breast cancer spreads (metastasis), how the immune system interacts with cancer cells, and how these processes may influence future treatment approaches. This background informs a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to patient care.
Selected Publications
(Presented to highlight areas of research focus rather than for clinical interpretation)
Book an Appointment Today
Dr Bidwell consults at Wangaratta Private Hospital. Appointments are available now — ask your GP for a referral, or contact the clinic directly.