The papers mainly comprise drafts of Dawson's memoir Skydoctor which relates to some of his experiences as a flying doctor with the Royal Australian Flying Doctor Service in 1954-1957. There are also trip records and diaries recording cases attended by Dawson, correspondence, memorabilia and printed material. The collection also includes certificates and documents relating to his education and family, his work as a psychiatrist and statements to the Chelmsford Royal Commission into Deep Sleep Therapy. Correspondents include Allan Vickers, James Cameron, K.G. Knight, Russel Pardoe, John Pearn, Jim Murtha, Brian Warren, Brian Crane, Ivan Neale, Pamela Indyjk, Tom House, Pat Tully and Lloyd McKay.