Leonard Bell Cox (1894-1976), Edward Graeme Robertson (1903-1975), and the inauguration of the Australian Association of Neurologists (est. 1950)

The inauguration of the Australian Association of Neurologists 75 years ago in October 1950 was a major event in the history of Australasian neurology. Already behind many of the world centers in terms of professional organization and leadership, Australian neurology arrived rather late on the international scene, firmly establishing its professional roots a full half-century after many global counterparts. Yet from the vantage point of today, this lapse in professional formation is hardly noticeable. An important reason for this discrepancy is the determination and vision of the founding generation of Australian neurologists. Two central players in particular-Leonard Bell Cox (1894-1976) and Edward Graeme Robertson (1903-1975), both Melbournian neurologists-are frequently credited with first forming the Association. By reviewing primary sources recording their individual influences and important contributions to the Association, we come to find some of the earliest indicators of its future prosperity and success.