That legacy is now playing out in real time, with Dr Matthew Kresevic joining his father, Dr Anthony Kresevic, at Edmonton Family Medical Centre – bringing a father–son partnership to a practice that has supported local families for decades.
For Dr Anthony, a highly respected general practitioner with more than 30 years of service in the Cairns region, welcoming his son into the practice is a proud and meaningful milestone.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to now work alongside my son and see the next generation of doctors continuing our family’s commitment to healthcare in Cairns,” Dr Anthony said.
“Supporting and mentoring young doctors is something I’m deeply passionate about, as strong regional healthcare depends on investing in future generations.”
Dr Matthew, a sixth-generation Cairns local, brings both fresh perspective and a deep personal connection to the community he now serves.
“It’s a privilege to work alongside my father in a practice that has served the community for many years,” Dr Matthew said.
“Being part of the next generation of care for Cairns families is something I’m very proud of.”
As a GP, he enjoys the variety of the role – from managing chronic conditions to providing preventative care and supporting patients through acute health issues.
“As a GP, my role is incredibly varied, which is one of the things I love most,” he said.
“A typical day might involve managing chronic conditions, seeing families and children, providing preventative health care and supporting patients through acute issues.
“No two days are the same, and I enjoy building long-term relationships with patients and being involved in their care over time.”
For Dr Matthew, it’s those relationships that sit at the heart of general practice.
“Being able to see patients at different stages of their lives and help them navigate their health challenges is very rewarding,” he said.
“I also enjoy the problem-solving aspect of general practice and the privilege of being someone patients trust with their health.”
Working in a regional community like Cairns is something Dr Matthew says feels both natural and meaningful.
“I’m a sixth-generation Cairns local, so working in this region feels natural and meaningful,” he said.
“Regional communities benefit greatly from continuity of care and I value being part of a place where you truly get to know your patients and contribute to the wellbeing of the community long-term.”
The Kresevic family’s contribution to healthcare doesn’t stop there.
Dr Anthony and his wife Kerry’s youngest son, Lucas, also recently graduated as a doctor and is currently completing placement at Cairns Hospital, with aspirations to specialise in radiology.
Together, the family represents a powerful example of continuity in regional healthcare – where experience, mentorship and the next generation of doctors come together to strengthen local services.
For Dr Anthony, general practice has always been about more than medicine – it’s about people and community.
“My role as a GP is broad and varied, which is what has kept me passionate about medicine for more than 30 years,” he said.
“I see patients across all stages of life – children, families, athletes, and older adults – managing chronic disease, acute presentations, preventative care, and providing ongoing support through complex health journeys.”
Edmonton Family Medical Centre has long been a cornerstone of healthcare in southern Cairns, providing comprehensive, patient-centred care to individuals and families.
With Dr Matthew now part of the team, the practice is well positioned for the future – continuing to deliver high-quality care while maintaining the strong community connections that have defined it for generations.
Outside of work, Dr Matthew enjoys spending time with his wife Amelia and their young son Teddy, making the most of everything Cairns has to offer and adding yet another generation to a family deeply connected to the community.
For the Kresevic family, the focus remains simple – caring for the health and wellbeing of local families, now and for generations to come.
Dr Matthew Kresevic (right) has joined his father, Dr Anthony Kresevic (left), at Edmonton Family Medical Centre.