The Sturgess family has been working as dentists in Rockhampton for four generations and almost 100 years.
Dr Charles Sturgess
Dentist 1926 - 1946
Charlie worked as a dental technician before studying dentistry as a trade in Brisbane. After graduating in 1926 he returned to Rockhampton and set up a dental practice in Craigilee House on East Street.
Dr Royce Sturgess
Dentist 1942 - 1982
In 1941 Royce was amongst the first classes to graduate with a Bachelor of Dental Science from the University of Queensland. After a short period of practice with his father, Royce joined the Royal Australian Air Force. Although he hoped to become a pilot, the RAAF had a greater need for his dental skills. When Charles died in 1946 Royce was discharged from the RAAF to return home and re-open the family practice. Dental practitioners in Rockhampton at that time were a small close knit group sharing both social and educational interactions regularly.
Royce practiced dentistry through a period that saw generational change in both technology and attitudes to dental health. He was dedicated to staying at the forefront in taking up and utilising advances in equipment, techniques, materials and the changed focus of dental treatment until his retirement in 1982.
Dr Grant Sturgess
Dentist 1980 - present
After graduating from University of Queensland in 1979 Grant practiced in the hospital systems in Mount Isa and Innisfail before returning to Rockhampton in 1982.
Grant’s professional focus is helping patients achieve the goal of ‘Teeth for Life’. Drawing on forty years of dental experience, Grant offers treatment to each patient that is appropriate for their age and situation. This may include dental hygiene advice, tooth restoration, dentures, etc. By listening to each person’s needs and expectations, he is able to assist them in understanding their treatment options to achieve the best outcomes.
Grant enjoys working with patients of all ages, including aging patients who may require a different approach.
Dr Chloe Sturgess
Dentist 2016 - present
Chloe graduated with honours from the University of Queensland in 2015. She worked in Brisbane for six years before moving back to Rockhampton to work at the family practice in early 2022.
Chloe is particularly interested in evidence-based and preventative dentistry. She believes in working collaboratively with each patient to achieve the best outcome for them. She also enjoys helping people with dental anxiety to become more comfortable and confident with dental care.
University graduation photos, click to enlarge
Royce’s graduating class at University of Queensland 1941. Royce is standing second from the right.
Grant’s graduating class at University of Queensland 1979. Grant is furthest right in the photo.
Chloe’s graduating class at University of Queensland 2015. Chloe is third from the right in the back row.