New and ambitious collaborations like the VCCC Alliance only succeed when people with particular zeal, courage and conviction step forward to lead. This month we recognised two such people as new Fellows of the VCCC Alliance. Emeritus Professor Linda Kristjanson AO and Ms Sophy Athan made exceptional contributions and played pivotal roles in shaping our organisation through their generous, inclusive leadership.
Sophy's journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Not too long ago, the concept of a Consumer Advisory committee was not a standard practice. In her role of Chair for nine years, Sophy has been a driving force behind our transformation into a national leader in integrating consumer perspectives into cancer research, healthcare, and education.
Linda stepped down earlier this year after seven successful years as Chair of the alliance, guiding us through a period of rapid and dynamic growth. She was instrumental in securing funding that allowed us to broaden our focus statewide, oversaw a critical transition of the alliance once the building had opened, and guided growth and development through pivotal years.
Both Sophy and Linda have been committed to good governance and a resolute focus on patient benefit. We owe them a debt of gratitude and congratulate them on this prestigious recognition.
Our recent research conference provided a fantastic platform to showcase the progress being made in cancer research and provide an opportunity to step outside tumour streams and disciplines and look at issues, challenges and opportunities through different lenses.
Several important themes emerged during the conference that I believe are worth highlighting. Firstly, the emphasis on data-driven research stood out. We are embracing the power of data to inform strategies and decisions, ensuring that our efforts are always grounded in evidence – including need. Equally important was active contribution of consumer perspectives. Applying consumer voices is critical for creating better outcomes and I was inspired by conversations and sessions like the Cancer Communities Forum that are amplifying it.
Personally I have received very positive feedback from both speakers and attendees and believe the event was a fantastic way to re-calibrate, reconnect and look to the future of comprehensive cancer care.
Thank you to everyone who joined us from Victoria, interstate and overseas. I hope you got as much from the conference as I did.
In terms of achievements, one that stands out this month is the publication of the Target TP Randomized Clinical Trial in JAMA Oncology, which investigated a highly effective protocol to target individuals at high risk and prevent thrombosis in people undergoing treatments for lung or bowel cancer.
This is remarkable for two reasons. First, the trial was the pilot of new teletrial governance protocols developed in the VCCC Alliance’s first Strategic Research Plan 2017-20, allowing the participation of several regional centres and paving the way for others to follow. This has made a significant contribution to equitable access to clinical trials for people outside the main metropolitan areas. Secondly, the trial has had important results that could influence the practice of thrombosis management both in Australia and around the world.
Congratulations to Assoc Prof Kate Burbury and Drs Marliese Alexander, Sam Harris, Craig Underhill, and the many others involved.
It’s an end of an era for Victoria, as The Hon. Dan Andrews MP steps down as Premier, having overseen major investment in health in this state over many years. This included the establishment of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, starting with the signing of the initial joint venture agreement in 2009 when he was Health Minister, through to the opening of the building in 2016, followed by further investments in the strategic plans for the VCCC Alliance.
Our unique and successful alliance structure has become a blueprint for comprehensive cancer centres in other states and provided impetus for a national comprehensive cancer network.
Mr Andrews leaves having made a lasting impact on cancer care in Victoria, and for that we thank him. We look forward to continuing this vital work with new Premier, The Hon Jacinta Allen MP; Deputy Premier The Hon Ben Carroll MP and the new cabinet.
Professor Grant McArthur AO
Executive Director
