He studied medicine at Middlesex Hospital under Dr. Herbert Mayo (1796–1852), and became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons in London in January 1829.

For some years he practised at Devizes, Wiltshire, then emigrated to South Australia, arriving in the Lady Emma in December 1837.

He was an enthusiastic member of the South Australia's Voluntary Defence Force: in 1859 he was captain of the West Adelaide Rifles, and by August 1863 was lieutenant-colonel.

He was an enthusiast for physical exercise and a keen cyclist; in later life converting to a three-wheeler, in which he would regularly ride to Glenelg or North Adelaide.

[4] George and Maria's family included: Their residence was on the north-eastern corner of Franklin and Morphett streets in the city.