Dr Fergus Gardiner, is a health executive with experience in military, emergency, and public health leadership. Fergus led the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) national COVID-19 response. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Fergus led many public health teams throughout Australia, including during the 2019/20 bushfire season. This has included investigating disease trends and outbreaks, and the establishment of clinical interventions. 

His former role at the RFDS included being a media spokesperson, about clinical findings, trends, and national emergency situations. He previously oversaw the RFDS Public Health and Research Unit (PHRU), which supports service delivery by coordinating national public health response measures; conducting research; producing research and policy papers; and participating in research projects aimed at improving outcomes for people in the bush.