Alexander Skinner arrived in 1838 as surgeon superintendent on the emigrant ship Lady McNaughten.

He commenced a practise at Jerry's Plains in 1839 stating in his notice of commencement that he had extensive experience in Scotland. His wife Hughina who had accompanied him to Australia died in 1839 at Jerry's Plains. He re-married Elizabeth Shannon in 1842 at Mt. Keira.

He was listed as Qualified Medical witness for Patrick Plains in the Government Gazette in 1839 1845 1847 and 1848

In 1852 the following advertisement appeared in the Maitland Mercury:

Mr. Skinner, surgeon (formerly of Patrick's Plains and latterly of Manila, Philippine Islands) will begin practice at Grafton, on or about the 1st proximo. Mr. S. will have a dispensary where families and stations can have their medicine chests replenished. An Hospital will be opened shortly. Mr. S. has a supply of Vaccine Lymph.

Alexander Skinner died at his residence Airlie Brake near Inverell on 18 January 1899 aged 88.