Podcasts about melanoma institute australia

Medical Director of the Melanoma Institute Australia, Professor Georgina Long, spoke with Mark Levy about a groundbreaking clinical trial that has delivered extraordinary results for patients diagnosed with advanced melanoma.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A year ago professors Georgina Long AO and Richard Scolyer AO from the Melanoma Institute Australia were named joint Australians of the Year so, one year on, just how far have we in changing attitudes to tanning and preventing one of the most preventable cancers?Plus, as school holidays draw to an end, how much time have your kids spent on the online gaming platform Roblox? Recent research suggests it could be 137 minutes and there are concerns about what young people are exposed to there.We also talk dating over 50 and celebrate David Briggs AM from the Little River Band, who made this year's Australia Day Honour list.

A large, expanded-cohort pooled analysis of neoadjuvant immunotherapy for patients with resectable Stage III melanoma has reported very high rates of durable survival. The findings from the world’s biggest center of expertise in melanoma were announced at ESMO Congress 2024. The study included patients from clinical trials and real-world studies who had pure immune checkpoint inhibitor neoadjuvant therapy, or combinations including BRAF/MEK targeted therapy. After giving her talk in Barcelona, lead investigator Georgina Long, AO, PhD, MBBS, FRACP, Professor and Co-Medical Director at the Melanoma Institute Australia, University of Sydney, gave Oncology Times reporter Peter Goodwin the details.

About the Guest: Professor Georgina Long AO: Co-Medical Director at Melanoma Institute Australia and Chair of Melanoma Medical Oncology, Professor Georgina Long is a leading figure in melanoma research and treatment. As the joint recipient of the 2024 Australian of the Year award, her work has been pivotal in transforming melanoma. Janet Evans and Dr. Amelia Haines delve into Australia's alarming melanoma rates with Professor Georgina Long from the Melanoma Institute Australia. They discuss prevention, early detection, and cutting-edge treatments for melanoma. Georgina shares insights on the influence of social media trends, the importance of knowing your skin, and her efforts to implement a national high-risk screening program. With a mix of personal anecdotes and scientific breakthroughs, this episode offers a comprehensive look at combating Australia's 'national cancer.' Ideal for those looking to understand skin cancer risks and advancements in treatment. Key Takeaways: Melanoma Awareness and Prevention: Understand the importance of sun safety and early detection. Slip, slop, slap, seek, and slide to protect your skin. Innovative Treatments: Learn about the groundbreaking immune therapies that have significantly increased melanoma survival rates. Risk Factors and Screening: Identify what makes someone high-risk for melanoma and the importance of regular skin checks, especially for those with fair skin or a family history. Public Health Campaigns: Discover the need for coordinated, enduring public health messages to change attitudes towards tanning and sun exposure. Personal Responsibility: Emphasize the role everyone can play in melanoma prevention through behavior changes and awareness. Notable Quotes: "Achieving zero deaths from melanoma is a marathon, not a sprint." "Remember, a tan is your skin's SOS signal that it's under stress." "For every dollar spent on prevention, we get at least $4 back within the next ten to 20 years." "Immune treatments work by interrupting the handshake between a cancer cell and your immune system." "It's never too late to be sun safe, even if you're 80." Resources: Melanoma Institute Australia: www.melanoma.org.au Melanoma Risk Tool: www.melanomarisk.org.au Facebook: She Wasn't Born Yesterday Group Click here to contact Janet & Amelia or ask them a question or click here to contact the She Wasn't Born Yesterday team! She Wasn't Born Yesterday, hosted by Janet Evans, a former M&C Saatchi advertising creative and Dr Amelia Haines, a sexual and relationship therapist, who have written Australia's first book on empty nest syndrome called Empty Next. Visit Empty Nest Chicks for more resources, click here for their book, or join the discussion on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2's app, Facebook or Instagram.Support the show, a product of Hope Media: https://hope1032.com.au/donate/2211A-pod/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danielle Fischer, MIA Education Program Manager, joined Jamie & Leigh to chat about their new Sun Safe program. High schools can sign up and get their students educated about the importance of sun safety, and how to have that conversation with their peers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know Australian's have the highest rate of melanoma cases in the world?It's no surprise given our gorgeous sunshine almost year-round, but with that comes the risk of developing skin cancer. Today we meet an expert who's working closely on delivering the first vaccine to treat patients with melanoma, and the results are more than promising THE END BITS  Subscribe to Mamamia Listen: The Tough Conversation We Need To Have To Keep Our Kids Safe Get $20 off for our birthday. Click here to get a yearly Mamamia subscription for just $49. GET IN TOUCH Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice note or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au and one of our Podcast Producers will come back to you ASAP. CONTACT US Got a topic you'd like us to cover? Send us an email at thequicky@mamamia.com.au CREDITS Host: Claire Murphy  With thanks to:  Professor Georgina Long, Co-Medical Director of the Melanoma Institute Australia and the University of Sydney Producers: Claire Murphy  Senior Producer: Taylah StranoAudio Producer: Thom LionBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neoadjuvant immunotherapy is transforming patient care in the field of melanoma. New research recently presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting is set to change melanoma treatment protocols globally, and likely to have significant impact on treatment for other cancers too. In this podcast, A/Prof Matt Carlino leads an engaging discussion with MIA's Prof Georgina Long AO, A/Prof Alex Menzies and A/Prof Alex van Akkooi as they discuss the pivotal results from the NADINA trial and how this will undoubtedly change the standard of care for Stage III melanoma patients. They also discuss the practical implications for implementing this treatment regime, including relevant patient populations, toxicity, impacts for surgery and future directions. This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgical Oncologists, Pathologists, Researchers, GPs Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. It is produced by Melanoma Institute Australia. SPEAKERS A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney PUBLICATIONS Blank C, Lucas MW, Scolyer RA, et al. Neoadjuvant Nivolumab and Ipilimumab in Resectable Stage III Melanoma. N Engl J Med 2024. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2402604 Patel SP, Othus M, Chen Y, et al. Neoadjuvant–Adjuvant or Adjuvant-Only Pembrolizumab in Advanced Melanoma. N Engl J Med 2023;388:813-823. FURTHER EDUCATION Podcast: Neoadjuvant immunotherapy: Revolutionising melanoma treatment Video: The critical role of standardised pathological assessment in neoadjuvant therapy for melanoma: A guide for Pathologists Conference: 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

Biomarkers are revolutionising our understanding of melanoma by providing valuable information about a patient's unique tumour characteristics which can help guide clinical decision making. In this podcast, A/Prof Alex Menzies leads a multidisciplinary discussion on the current state of biomarker application and future prospects of biomarkers in melanoma care. They discuss emerging liquid biomarkers, such as ctDNA, MIA's personalised immunotherapy platform that is trying to predict the likelihood of response and select patients for treatment, and the role of the gut microbiome as a potential biomarker in response and toxicity. This podcast from Melanoma Institute Australia is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgical Oncologists, Researchers, GPs and other healthcare professionals. LINKS: 2024 Australasian Melanoma Conference Melanoma Risk Prediction Tools Melanoma Education Portal SPEAKERS A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney A/Prof Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Blacktown Hospital | Research Scientist, Melanoma Institute Australia and The University of Sydney Prof Helen Rizos - Cancer Cell Biologist and Research Lead in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences at Macquarie University | Faculty Member, Melanoma Institute Australia A/Prof James Wilmott - Senior Scientist, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney| Faculty Member, Melanoma Institute Australia Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (April 2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS and HEINE.

Mucosal melanoma is a rare and aggressive form of melanoma that arises from the mucous membrane. In this podcast, we focus on mucosal melanoma of the head and neck. Led by A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng, our multidisciplinary experts discuss how it differs from cutaneous melanoma, staging of mucosal melanoma, management of the disease and future treatments. The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for Plastic Surgeons, Surgical Oncologists, Dermatologists, Medical Oncologists, Pathologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney A/Prof Raewyn Campbell - Rhinologist and Anterior Skull Base Surgeon |Associate Professor, Macquarie University Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2024) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS and HEINE.

Brad Foster gives us some positive news on the experimental cancer treatment of this year's joint Australian of the Year, Professor Richard Scolyer, co-head of Melanoma Institute Australia, who was last year diagnosed with brain cancer. He also talks AFL, mushrooms, surfing, soccer and The Wiggles.

Wagga Wagga Takes 2 is happeing April 18, 19, and 20, with Kat Smith and Dionne Crook singing for Amie St Clair/ Melanoma Institute Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia has the highest melanoma rates compared to anywhere else in the world, and it's impacting thousands of families each year. For more, The Morning Show is joined by co-medical director of Melanoma Institute Australia, Professor Richard Scolyer.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last Thursday melanoma researcher Professor Georgina Long was announced as Australian of the Year, along with colleague and friend Professor Richard Scolyer. As co-medical directors of the Melanoma Institute Australia, the pair are credited with saving thousands of lives. Their pioneering immunotherapy treatments for advanced forms of the cancer have resulted in 5 year survival rates increasing from less than 5% to more than 50%. In June of last year Professor Scolyer was diagnosed with glioblastoma IDH wild-type, a cancer that is usually fatal within six to nine months. Rather than undergoing traditional treatment, Prof Scolyer decided to experiment on himself, with Professor Long designing world-first treatments based on their melanoma work.

A huge congratulations to Annette St Clair who was named as Wagga's Citizen of the Year.  Annette has worked tirelessly for the Amie St Clair Melanoma Trust and Melanoma Institute Australia for the last decade, and shared her story with Jamie & Leigh.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Co-Medical Directors of the Melanoma Institute Australia, Professor Richard Scolyer, and Professor Georgina Long have joined Ray Hadley to discuss their research on melanoma and Scolyer's cancer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diagnostic uncertainty in the context of cutaneous melanoma can have significant impact on patient care. In this podcast, our multidisciplinary experts, led by Dr Adrian Quek, discuss the challenges faced in classifying melanocytic lesions that fall into a diagnostic grey area, and explore the terminology, evolving classifications and the impact of diagnostic uncertainty on patient outcomes. From molecular changes to clinical perspectives, this engaging discussion provides a comprehensive exploration of the complexities surrounding borderline lesions, and emphasises the need for experienced multidisciplinary professionals in ensuring accurate diagnoses and ideal management. This podcast is suitable for Pathologists, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, GPs and other healthcare professionals. RESOURCES Video: How to diagnose borderline cutaneous melanocytic lesions Paper: Yeh, I. New and evolving concepts of melanocytic nevi and melanocytomas. Modern Pathology. 2020;33:1-14. Nevus/Melanocytoma/Melanoma: An Emerging Paradigm for Classification of Melanocytic Neoplasms?. Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2011;135(3): 300–306. SPEAKERS Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chatswood Skin Cancer Clinic A/Prof Robyn Saw - General Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Head of Department in Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney Prof H. Peter Soyer - Chair in Dermatology and Director of the Dermatology Research Centre, The University of Queensland Dr Andrew Colebatch - Staff Specialist in Anatomical Pathology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (November 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE. For more clinical education from MIA, sign up to the Melanoma Education Portal (melanomaeducation.org.au).

With the advent of effective medical therapies for melanoma, a pertinent question has arisen: When should we scan our patients? In this podcast, our multidisciplinary experts, led by A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng, discuss the balance of whether we should be more aggressive in our pursuit of identifying potential metastases or exercise caution to avoid unnecessary scans, radiation exposure and patient anxiety. The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncologists, Surgeons, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. RESOURCES Melanoma Risk Prediction Tools SPEAKERS A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng -  Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia, Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney  A/Prof Alexander Menzies -  Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney Dr Edward Hsiao - Radiologist and Nuclear Medicine Specialist, Mater Imaging Dr Kevin London - Nuclear Medicine Specialist, The Children's Hospital at Westmead | Clinical Senior Lecturer, The University of Sydney Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (September 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE. 

In 2022 Katherine Dunell lost her husband Brett after a long battle with melanoma. In this beautiful chat we talk about-Dealing with the reality that her husband was leaving, -Dealing with her grief and how staying off alcohol helped her process the grief and to be there for her kids as they navigate this huge change. -Having an alcohol free funeral and how that created a boundary for her and the kids. Kat had a strong practice of "musts" which included remembering to have gratitude, and the most basic things like sleep, or remembering to eat. As Kat says there is not right or wrong way to grieve. We hope that by sharing her story that it may offer some hope and support for people that are going through grief. Kat created a fundraising page for the Melanoma Institute Australia in Brett's name after he died to raise funds for research into melanoma instead of receiving flowers. The page has so far raised 28k. She also raised a further 8k by organising the first Melanoma March in Geelong, link below.https://inmemory.melanoma.org.au/page/BrettAndrewSmithAnother charity Kat would like to support is a local Geelong based charity Wombats Wish they run bereavement camps for families after the death of a parent in Victoria. https://wombatswish.org.au/donate/The book I mentioned by Zenith Virago, The Intimacy Of Death And Dying. https://www.amazon.com.au/Intimacy-Death-Dying-guidance-through/dp/1741758947The book I mention at the endThe Smell of Rain on Dust, Grief and Praise - by Martin Prechtel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, we speak to the world's leading melanoma pathologist, professor Richard Scolyer, about the tumour found in his brain earlier this year, and how he decided to see himself as a guinea pig, adapting his pioneering approach to melanoma to solving the riddle of brain tumours like his own.He's joined by his close friend and colleague from Melanoma Institute Australia, professor Georgina Long, with Good Weekend senior writer Tim Elliott hosting a discussion about cancer treatments, grief - and how you respond when death appears to be a certainty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the realm of cancer research, one persistent trend has emerged — the incidence of invasive melanoma rises steadily with advancing age. While this insidious disease remains rare in children and adolescents, it progressively asserts its presence as individuals grow older. The connection between age and melanoma incidence persists around the world, albeit with varying rates in different countries. Australia has the highest melanoma rates in the world. According to the Melanoma Institute Australia, every 30 minutes an Australian is diagnosed with melanoma and every 6 hours an Australian dies from it. Thankfully, research is making a difference. In the last decade, the 5-year overall survival rate for advanced melanoma has increased from less than 10% to more than 50%. In 2011, melanoma was Australia's 7th most deadly cancer. In 2021, melanoma was Australia's 11th most deadly cancer. In a new editorial paper, researchers John F. Thompson and Gabrielle J. Williams from the Melanoma Institute Australia at The University of Sydney discuss the intricacies of how age influences different varieties of melanoma incidence, prognosis and treatment. On August 17, 2023, their editorial was published in Aging's Volume 15, Issue 16, entitled, “The effect of age on melanoma incidence and prognosis.” Full blog - https://aging-us.org/2023/09/the-impact-of-age-on-melanoma-insights-from-recent-research/ Paper DOI - https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.204653 Corresponding author - John F. Thompson - john.thompson@melanoma.org.au Video short - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0wwfLEJGW0 Sign up for free Altmetric alerts about this article - https://aging.altmetric.com/details/email_updates?id=10.18632%2Faging.204653 Subscribe for free publication alerts from Aging - https://www.aging-us.com/subscribe-to-toc-alerts Keywords - aging, melanoma, incidence, age, prognosis About Aging-US Launched in 2009, Aging-US publishes papers of general interest and biological significance in all fields of aging research and age-related diseases, including cancer—and now, with a special focus on COVID-19 vulnerability as an age-dependent syndrome. Topics in Aging-US go beyond traditional gerontology, including, but not limited to, cellular and molecular biology, human age-related diseases, pathology in model organisms, signal transduction pathways (e.g., p53, sirtuins, and PI-3K/AKT/mTOR, among others), and approaches to modulating these signaling pathways. Please visit our website at https://www.Aging-US.com​​ and connect with us: SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/Aging-Us Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AgingUS/ X - https://twitter.com/AgingJrnl Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/agingjrnl/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@AgingJournal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/aging/ Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/AgingUS/ Media Contact 18009220957 MEDIA@IMPACTJOURNALS.COM

Sentinel node biopsy (SNB) plays a key role in assessing the prognosis of melanomas. In this fireside chat from our new SNB Training Program (Sentinel Node Biopsy: From guidelines to practice), MIA's Prof Georgina Long AO, Prof John Thompson AO and A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng discuss: the history of SNB in the management of melanoma its current role in the stratification of patients into those who may benefit from adjuvant therapies verses those for whom active surveillance is more appropriate other potential benefits of SNB, including the likelihood of SNB itself reducing the risk of nodal recurrence. This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Medical Oncologists, General Practitioners and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS A/Prof Sydney Ch'ng - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon and Head & Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor of Surgery, The University of Sydney Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney Prof John Thompson AO - Emeritus Professor of Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, The University of Sydney | Senior Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (July 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

Our latest podcast explores the innovative approach of neoadjuvant immunotherapy - administering checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy before the surgical removal of melanoma. This promising approach is creating a buzz among multidisciplinary clinicians and researchers globally as the potential benefits for melanoma patients are being realised. Although neoadjuvant therapy is well established in oncology, using immunotherapy in melanoma has revolutionised patient outcomes through significant improvements in overall survival rates. In this engaging podcast, MIA's Prof Georgina Long AO leads a discussion with multidisciplinary world leaders in the neoadjuvant space to discuss: the benefits of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy the role of the pathologist in the assessment of neoadjuvant tissue the impact of surgical decision-making as neoadjuvant becomes mainstay treatment options for treatment-refractory patients the role of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy in non-melanoma skin cancer. The discussion concludes with case studies to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Oncologists, Surgeons, Pathologists, Dermatologists, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS: Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney Prof Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander Menzies - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal North Shore and Mater Hospitals | Associate Professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Sydney A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney KEY CLINICAL TRIALS SWOG PRADO OpACIN-neo NADINA FURTHER EDUCATION The critical role of standardised pathological assessment in neoadjuvant therapy for melanoma: A guide for Pathologists Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (February 2023) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

Lentigo maligna – a subtype of in situ melanoma – presents diagnostic and treatment challenges for clinicians. In this podcast, Dr Michael Rtshiladze leads a multidisciplinary discussion to unravel our understanding of the pathology, diagnosis and management of lentigo maligna, including: clinical and histological presentation tools to diagnose and monitor lesions the impact of different types of biopsies the importance of mapping the extent of lesions the challenge of surgical management in cosmetically sensitive areas the role of radiation therapy and topical treatments when to refer your patient. The discussion concludes with a case study to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for Plastic Surgeons, General Surgeons, Dermatologists, Oncologists, Pathologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS Dr Michael Rtshiladze - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The Prince of Wales Hospital, St George Hospital and Sydney Children's Hospital Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Prof Pascale Guitera - Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Director, Sydney Melanoma Diagnostic Centre at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Professorial Research Fellow, The University of Sydney Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia | Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney RESOURCE AND REFERENCE Lentigo Maligna Patient Information Brochure Crouch G, Sinha S, Lo S, Saw RPM, Lee KK, Stretch J, Shannon K, Guitera P, Scolyer RA, Thompson JF & Ch'ng S. Clinical outcomes following surgical treatment of lentigo maligna of the head and neck. Eur J Surg Oncol. 2021 May;47(5):1145-1151. Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (December 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb and HEINE.

A leading cancer institute Melanoma Institute Australia and social media giant TikTok say they will remove any videos that glamourize tanning, as fears grow over their unhealthy and possibly deadly effects on young Australians. - Gigant društvenih mreža TikTok i vodeći institut za rak Melanoma Institute Australia kažu da će ukloniti sve video- zapise koji promovišu sunčanje, jer raste strah od potencijalno smrtonosnih posljedica sunčanja za mlade Australce.

The Melanoma Institute has launched a TikTok campaign on the first day of summer to deglamorise tanning and warn about skin cancer after doctors raised the alarm about a "sunburn challenge" trending on the app. Along with the campaign, TikTok has also banned the #sunburnchallenge hashtag all together and all videos that encourage sunburns. Matthew Browne, CEO of Melanoma Institute Australia told Oliver Peterson on Perth Live that the campaign is aimed at delivering the message to younger generations. "The message that tanning is not good, tanning is not healthy and that we must stop the glamourisation of tanning," he told Oly. "To TikTok's credit, they rang us and said we want to do something about it, so how can we help and how can we work with the Melanoma Institute to do something and drive this message to the younger generations."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite recent advances in management of primary uveal melanoma, more than half of patients develop metastatic disease – often with poor outcomes. New therapeutic approaches to metastatic disease are vital. In this podcast, A/Prof Matteo Carlino interviews fellow Medical Oncologist Prof Georgina Long AO and Ophthalmologist A/Prof Max Conway on our latest understanding of the diagnosis and management of early and advanced uveal melanoma, including: presentation and diagnostic process current treatment options and rationale for local therapy in early melanoma determining which patients are suitable for screening for metastatic disease developing a surveillance plan based on risk of recurrence the different activity of systemic therapy in uveal versus cutaneous melanoma importance of the multidisciplinary team activity of tebentafusp in advanced uveal melanoma the current clinical trial landscape. This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Ophthalmologists, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS A/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals Clinical Associate Professor, The University of Sydney Prof Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of Sydney A/Prof Max Conway - Ophthalmologist, Save Sight Institute, Sydney Eye Hospital and The University of Sydney RESOURCES Early Ocular Melanoma Patient Information Brochure Advanced Ocular Melanoma Patient Information Brochure Melanoma Education Portal Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (November 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from MSD, BMS, Novartis and HEINE.

Treating clinicians rely on pathology to help diagnose and stage their patient which fundamentally determines the treatment management plan. Therefore, it is incredibly important to get it right in the first place. In this engaging podcast aimed at GPs, our multidisciplinary experts discuss: Why can it be challenging to get the pathology right? What clinical information is important to include on the pathology request form? How is the pathology report structured? How is the specimen processed? What biopsy is key to maximising the diagnostic and prognostic interpretation of the pathology? Are partial biopsies ever appropriate? What implications does the type of biopsy have for subsequent surgery? When does a GP need to refer their patient? The discussion is concluded with two case studies to summarise key learnings. This podcast is suitable for GPs, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, Pathologists and other healthcare professionals. SPEAKERS Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and The Chatswood Skin Cancer Clinic Dr Alison Potter - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Dr Nigel Maher - McMurtrie Cancer Pathology Fellow, Melanoma Institute Australia A/Prof Alexander van Akkooi - Associate Professor in Melanoma Surgical Oncology, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, The University of Sydney Dr Niamh-Anna O'Sullivan - Specialist Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia HOST Danielle Fischer - Education Program Manager, Melanoma Institute Australia Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (June 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal. MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.

The role of pathologist in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma is pivotal to optimal patient care. With so many disciplines relying on the pathologist for accurate diagnoses and critical pathological information, we decided to reach out to our clinical melanoma community to ask them for their critical pathology questions.In this podcast, Prof John Thompson AO and Prof Fergal Moloney pick at the brain of the world's leading melanoma Pathologist, Prof Richard Scolyer AO, as they discuss:The clinical information needed to aid diagnosisThe role of artificial intelligence and computing in pathologyOverdiagnosis of melanomaThe problem of partial biopsiesDiagnosing borderline lesionsWhat is a melanocytoma and how should it be managedWhat is an irritated naevusDysplastic naevi and appropriate managementThis podcast is suitable for GPs, Dermatologists, Surgeons, Oncologists, Pathologists and other healthcare professionals.SPEAKERSProf Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of SydneyProf John Thompson AO - Emeritus Professor of Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, The University of Sydney | Member, Melanoma Institute AustraliaProf Fergal Moloney - Consultant Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Mater Misericordiae University Hospital | Clinical Professor, University College, DublinPlease note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (June 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.For more practice-changing education, visit our Melanoma Education Portal.MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.

Cancer drugs have rapidly evolved in the last decade. Alongside the significant benefits are new toxicity profiles that clinicians need to be aware of and manage.In this podcast, A/Prof Carlino interviews fellow Medical Oncologist Prof Georgina Long AO on the adverse events/toxicities associated with targeted therapies (combination BRAF/MEK inhibitors) and immunotherapies (anti-PD-1, anti-LAG-3 and anti-CTLA-4), particularly in melanoma, and how they should be managed.Some key points brought up during this deep dive in toxicity:With targeted therapies, cessation of treatment usually reverses the toxicity.Immunotherapy toxicities are driven by the immune system rather than the drugs themselves, and as such, cessation of treatment does not automatically resolve toxicity. Most toxicities need active treatment to resolve.It is crucial to educate your patients regarding temporarily ceasing therapy in response to toxicity, particularly fever.It is important to recognise that immunotherapy toxicity is not necessarily treated the same as the autoimmune disease it may mimic.Understanding the patient's history is crucial to identify if symptoms are a direct result of treatment.Ceasing immunotherapy treatment in the setting of toxicities does not mean you lose efficacy.It is important to understand the risk versus benefit when assessing your patient for re-challenge with immunotherapy after a toxicity.Medical Oncologists should have a referral network of experts for managing your patient's toxicities.This podcast is suitable for Oncologists, Emergency Medicine Physicians, GPs, Oncology Nurses and other healthcare professionals.SPEAKERSProf Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of SydneyA/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals Clinical Associate Professor, The University of SydneyPlease note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2022) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.MIA's Education Program is proudly supported through unrestricted educational grants from: MSD, Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis and HEINE.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionised care for patients with advanced melanoma and other cancers. These days around half of patients with unresectable metastatic melanoma can expect to live to five years after a regime of agents such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab. That's up to ten times the survival rate of patients a decade ago, when the chaemotherapy Dacarbazine was the front-line treatment. Over half of these patients who respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors will go on to survive long-term but it's still not possible to identify responders in advance. On top of this, some of the immune-related side-effects of therapy can be serious enough to require stopping therapy. Oncologist Matt Carlino explains how to approach the challenging conversations with patients about hopes around expectations for prognosis and quality of life. The risk-benefit equation becomes harder to balance when considering treatment for grade III or even grade II melanomas, as an adjuvant to surgery. Associate Professor Carlino also discusses the process of getting these new indications listed on the PBS, or how treatment can be funded when they are not. Guest Associate Professor Matteo Carlino FRACP (Westmead Hospital; Blacktown Hospital; Melanoma Institute Australia; University of Sydney)ProductionWritten and produced by Mic Cavazzini DPhil. Music courtesy of FreeMusicArchive includes ‘Headway' and ‘Denouement' by Kai Engel, ‘Tavern' by Sergey Cheremisinov, ‘New Times' by 4T Thieves. Music licenced from Epidemic Sound includes ‘Dusty Decks' by Soul Single Serenade. Image licensed from Getty Images.Please visit the RACP website for a transcript and supporting references. Fellows of the College can claim CPD credits for listening to the podcast and reading supporting resources. 

The field of melanoma has experienced a paradigm shift in recent years, with advancements in both diagnosis and management driving improved patient outcomes. Through the power of research, day-to-day practice continues to be transformed.In this lively podcast, two of Australia's leading melanoma experts Prof Richard Scolyer AO and Prof Georgina Long AO discuss:how melanoma management has transformed in the last decadethe challenge of diagnosing melanoma for clinicians and pathologists, and practical ways to help make accurate assessmentsthe importance of stagingwhy sentinel node biopsies are importanthow multidisciplinary care enhances patient outcomesemerging evidence on neoadjuvant treatment and how this will change the way melanoma is managedthe challenge of supportive care and where to find help.In this practical discussion, resources and further education for deeper dives into specific topics are also mentioned, with links below.This podcast is suitable for oncologists, surgeons, dermatologists, skin cancer GPs, GPs, nurses and other healthcare professionals.SPEAKERSProf Georgina Long AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Chair, Melanoma Medical Oncology and Translational Research, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal North Shore Hospital, The University of SydneyProf Richard Scolyer AO - Co-Medical Director, Melanoma Institute Australia | Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Senior Staff Specialist, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital | Clinical Professor, The University of SydneyDanielle Fischer - Education Program Manager, Melanoma Institute AustraliaLINKS TO RESOURCESMelanoma Risk Prediction ToolsProf John Thompson's presentation: Update on melanoma stagingOrder or download a pocket-sized Melanoma Staging CardProf Richard Scolyer's presentation: Melanoma near misses: Clues to diagnosisDermoscopy module: Techniques in melanoma assessmentInteractive game: DermChallenge: Management.Debate: To shave or not to shave when biopsying melanomaPodcast: Multidisciplinary management of primary melanomaPresentation by Dr Rob Rawson and Dr Michael Rtshiladze: The melanoma pathology report and its impact on clinical managementWiki melanoma guidelines: Clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of melanomaInteractive module: The current role of sentinel node biopsy in the management of melanomaDebate: The role of sentinel node biopsy is overstated in melanomaSNB Melanoma Risk CalculatorPresentation by A/Prof Robyn Saw and Dr Tom Pennington: Optimal initial management of melanoma in primary care settingsPresentation by Prof Georgina Long: Neoadjuvant therapy in melanoma: The perfect modelPodcast: Neoadjuvant therapy in melanoma with Georgina LongPodcast: The complexities of adjuvant therapy in melanomaPodcast: Management of brain metastases in melanomaHospital Support Services DirectoryMelanoma Support Service DirectoryPatient resources: Patient guides and video for early stage patients

Knowing when to use a punch or partial biopsy, and knowing how to perform these procedures well is crucial GPs should avoid a wide excision without performing the sentinel node calculation, as it will make referral for further treatment more complex for the specialist It is ok for the patients to wait 4-6 weeks for definite surgery   Host: Dr David Lim | Total time: 36 mins Guest: A/Prof Robyn Saw, Surgical Oncologist & General Surgeon; Melanoma Institute Australia; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital; Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney Register for our fortnightly FREE WEBCASTS Every second Tuesday | 7:00pm-9:00pm AEST Click here to register for the next one See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Managing in-transit melanoma can be challenging, and it presents and progresses as a heterogeneous disease. Multidisciplinary care is recommended for this complex disease to determine the optimal outcome for the patient.In this engaging podcast, our multidisciplinary expert panel – featuring a Dermatologist, Surgeon and Medical Oncologist – discuss:the clinical presentation of in-transit melanomaimportance of biopsy and imaginglocal therapy options including surgical resection, topical diphencyprone, radiotherapy, injectable agents and isolated limb infusionsystemic therapy options in the adjuvant and unresectable settings.In addition, the panel reviews a case study to put learnings into practice.This podcast is suitable for Surgeons, Medical Oncologists, Dermatologists, Skin Cancer GPs, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (October 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.SPEAKERSA/Prof Matteo Carlino - Medical Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia, Westmead and Blacktown Hospitals | Clinical Associate Professor, The University of SydneyA/Prof Robyn Saw - General Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia | Associate Professor in Surgery, The University of Sydney | Head of Department, Melanoma and Surgical Oncology, Royal Prince Alfred HospitalProf Diona Damian - Professor of Dermatology, The University of Sydney | Clinical Academic, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital |Associate, Melanoma Institute Australia

The prognostic significance of regression has long been a matter of debate. Our guest, Professor Richard Scolyer, co-director of the Melanoma Institute Australia discussed his team's recent findings on the prognostic value of regression, and the presence of regression and/or tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in primary cutaneous melanomas predicted sentinel lymph node (SLN) status and survival outcomes. Study by Scolyer et al, Histological regression in melanoma: impact on sentinel lymph node status and survival. Modern Pathology, 2021. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41379-021-00870-2. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Overview: In this episode we learn what a clinical trial is, how they are developed and why they are so important. We also learn about participating in clinical trials, factors to consider and what the process is to get involved. Speakers: Prof Mark Shackleton is the Director of Oncology at Alfred Health, a Professor of Oncology at Monash University, a Victorian Cancer Agency Clinical Research Fellow and Chair of Melanoma and Skin Cancer Trials Ltd. After training in medical oncology and at the Ludwig Institute in Melbourne, he undertook PhD studies at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and postdoctoral work at the University of Michigan, USA. He has received several major prizes for his research, most recently a 2016 Victorian Cancer Agency Clinical Research Fellowship and in 2012, he was awarded the Australian Science Minister's Prize for Life Scientist of the Year. Dr Megan Lyle is a Medical Oncologist with special interests in cancer immunotherapy, melanoma and other skin cancers and gastrointestinal malignancies.  Dr Lyle works at the Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre at Cairns Hospital, Response Oncology, Far North Day Hospital and Cairns Private Hospital. Dr Lyle also holds a senior lecturer position with James Cook University. Dr Lyle received her Fellowship from the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in 2013 having undertaken medical oncology advanced training in Newcastle, NSW. She subsequently completed a clinical research fellowship at Melanoma Institute Australia, Sydney in 2013-14. Dr Lyle is published in major international peer reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Oncology. Topics Covered In This Episode: What a clinical trial is, and why we need them Who can participate in clinical trials The types of clinical trials and who runs them Designing a clinical trial and establishing trial protocols  What is informed consent The different phases of clinical trials The role of human research ethics committees  How to find out more information about clinical trials Access to trials for remote and rural populations Increase in trials being run in regional areas Telehealth and clinical trials What is a placebo trial What happens after a trial concludes The future of clinical trials For More Information: The Spot On Podcast is brought to you by the Melanoma & Skin Cancer Advocacy Network (MSCAN) - who are providing a new, innovative approach to tackle Australia's national cancer. MSCAN engages with Australia's leading clinicians, researchers and advocates with the aim of increasing the knowledge of those affected by a diagnosis.  MSCAN is grateful to the clinicians interviewed in our podcast series. They have all provided their time and input freely and independently.    The content discussed in these episodes is for information purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please make sure you speak with a medical professional for advice relating to your own specific situation.

Overview: In this episode, we cover the fundamentals and treatment of early stage melanoma.   Speakers: Associate Professor Victoria Mar is the Director of the Victorian Melanoma Service at The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, and Adjunct Associate Professor at the School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University.  She is a board member of the Australian and New Zealand Melanoma Trials Group and the Skin and Cancer Foundation. She has authored and co-authored a number of chapters for the Cancer Council Australia Melanoma Guidelines and is Clinical Lead for the Melanoma Clinical Outcomes Registry. Emeritus Professor John Thompson was Chair of Melanoma and Surgical Oncology at the University of Sydney from 1999 to 2019 and was Executive Director of Melanoma Institute Australia from 1998 to 2016.  He has been chairman of the Australian Melanoma Management Guidelines Working Party since 2005, and was chairman of the ANZ Melanoma Trials Group from 2002 to 2013. Professor Thompson has authored over 900 peer-reviewed scientific articles and book chapters and serves on the editorial boards of several major international journals.    Topics Covered In This Episode: What exactly is melanoma and how is it caused How is it diagnosed Why Australia has high rates of melanoma Why is melanoma the most concerning of skin cancers Why it's earlier to catch melanoma early What would you expect to happen during a skin check The importance of self examination What does a clinician look for during a skin check What staging is and why it's important The differences between breslow thickness, ulceration and mitosis Why pathology tests are performed  What is a sentinel node biopsy Different treatment options for melanoma The kinds of excisions performed The types of clinicians who might perform excisions How to determine the likelihood of melanoma recurring What is involved in having a sentinel node biopsy performed Complications arising with sentinel node biopsies in regional and remote locations Exciting advancements on the horizon in the field of melanoma diagnosis and treatment   For More Information: The Spot On Podcast is brought to you by the Melanoma & Skin Cancer Advocacy Network (MSCAN) - who are providing a new, innovative approach to tackle Australia's national cancer. MSCAN engages with Australia's leading clinicians, researchers and advocates with the aim of increasing the knowledge of those affected by a diagnosis.  MSCAN is grateful to the clinicians interviewed in our podcast series. They have all provided their time and input freely and independently.    The content discussed in these episodes is for information purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please make sure you speak with a medical professional for advice relating to your own specific situation.

The Oncology Journal Club - Delivering Oncology News DifferentlyThe Oncology Podcast, brought to you by Oncology News Australia, is proud to present Episode 44 in our series The Oncology Journal Club.Welcome to this special Melanoma Update with Craig Underhill and Georgina Long.  Covering a wide range of developments including key papers at ASCO 2021.Whilst melanoma rates in older patients are improving, young Australians are now more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma than any other cancer. It's also set to be the number 2 cancer in the United States by 2050. Despite these sobering stats, the advances in this specialty in the last few years has been nothing short of phenomenal.  These advances are also relevant to other tumour types so I hope you will find value in this absolutely fascinating interview. Full bios and the list of all papers discussed are available on our website.For the latest oncology news visit www.oncologynews.com.au and for regular oncology updates for healthcare professionals, subscribe for free to get the weekly The Oncology Newsletter.The Oncology Podcast - An Australian Oncology Perspective

Melanoma has many mimics, making detection a challenge. However, early detection and appropriate management of melanoma is crucial to ensuring a patient has the best chance of survival.In this podcast, our multidisciplinary panel discuss:the clinical presentation of melanomatips to help make a clinical diagnosisunderstanding the histological features for diagnosishow to know when to biopsywhich biopsy is bestramifications of subtotal biopsieswho requires a sentinel node assessment and what does that involvewhat is involved in a wide local excision.In addition, the panel reviews a case study to put learnings into practice.This podcast is suitable for Dermatologists, Skin Cancer GPs, GPs, Surgeons, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.SPEAKERS:Dr Adrian Quek - Skin Cancer GP, Melanoma Institute Australia and The Chatswood Skin Cancer ClinicA/Prof Jonathan Stretch AM - Surgical Oncologist and Deputy Medical Director, Melanoma Institute AustraliaDr Bruna Gouveia - Dermatologist, Melanoma Institute AustraliaPlease note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (May 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.

Due to the highly aggressive nature of Merkel cell carcinoma, accurate and timely diagnosis is essential to ensure optimal management. Although our understanding of the biology of the disease has advanced significantly in recent years, a clinical conundrum still exists regarding the ideal therapeutic strategy for each patient.In this podcast, our multidisciplinary panel discuss:the pathology of Merkel cell carcinomadifferential diagnosesclinical presentationthe role of surgery and its importance in diagnosis, staging and salvagehow radiotherapy is used in the definitive and adjuvant settingsthe role of systemic therapyemerging therapies and the importance of clinical trials.In addition, the panel reviews two case studies to put learnings into practice.This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgeons, Dermatologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals.Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia.SPEAKERS:Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred HospitalDr Kerwin Shannon - Surgical Oncologist and Head and Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chris O’Brien LifehouseProf Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia |Clinical Professor, The University of SydneyDr Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist and Researcher, Melanoma Institute Australia | Fellow, Westmead Hospital

Joanne Howarth is a social entrepreneur, Founder and CEO of the insulated, environmentally friendly packaging company, Planet Protector Packaging, a company leading the way in sustainable alternative solutions to harmful plastic transportation packaging, by using sheep's wool. After studying at the University of Sydney & the University of Technology Sydney, Joanne discovered that it is not the amount of money earnt in a career, but the difference that career makes to the lives of others, to communities and to the planet. After working in distribution for Australia's largest meal-kit company, BOXED2GO, Joanne was stunned by the huge volume of wasteful, non-biodegradable Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) packaging that was and still is destroying the planet and has been the go-to for over 60 years in the industry. With the need for a sustainable alternative, Joanne founded Planet Protector Packaging in 2015. Understanding consumer concerns about packaging sustainability, Joanne established a way to provide businesses that require insulated packaging to transport perishables or delicate items with an environmentally-friendly alternative to EPS, made from sheep's waste wool. Joanne's determination and leadership has won the company multiple awards both domestically and abroad, including Joanne's 2020 achievement of being named laureate at Cartier's Women's Initiative, a prestigious global honour. Joanne's pursuit to drive positive change in the world, and her passion for raising awareness for the community through public speaking events and education beyond her role at Planet Protector Packaging, led her to become a Community Ambassador for Dementia Australia and an Ambassador for Melanoma Institute Australia.