RANZCR Inside News September 2025

Shaping Tomorrow

Why can’t you have it all?

Complete freedom.

Limitless earning potential. Real balance.

I-TeleRAD makes it possible. Let’ s Chat!

Dr Jash Agraval shares highlights from the

ASM. Plus, the latest news from our NSW and QLD branches.

Inside News is published quarterly. For enquiries, feedback or to contribute to Inside News, email editor@ranzcr.edu.au

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editor-In-Chief

Dr Allan Wycherley

Editor Arizona Atkinson

whenua and Treaty of Waitangi partners in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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Influence and the Long Game

Thanks to contributions from members and staff, RANZCR can celebrate many recent advocacy achievements, with more strategic efforts on the horizon.

Clinical radiology and radiation oncology continue to operate within a complex and changing environment. Recent Inside News articles have addressed a number of these developments, including the College’s position on the expedited pathway for international medical graduates (IMGs) and the review of accreditation arrangements currently being undertaken by the National Health Practitioner Ombudsman (NHPO). These activities are primarily led by regulators, supported by committees of government officials and senior health administrators, and place significant new burdens upon colleges and, indirectly, their members.

Despite these challenges, the College’s longstanding advocacy efforts have continued steadily. RANZCR is increasingly viewed as a trusted source of clinical and policy advice, and constructive working relationships with governments and health departments remain in place. These foundations have contributed to several significant outcomes across both faculties.

On 1 July 2025, the first stage of MRI licensing reform was implemented, replacing the machine-based licensing model with a practice-based system. Full deregulation is scheduled for 1 July 2027, at which point MRI licences will pass into the annals of history. This change reflects the outcome of sustained advocacy by the College over many years and represents a key structural reform to the way MRI services are accessed and delivered.

Where possible, we also reduce imposts upon our members. With the change from a machine-based MRI licensing model to a practicebased model, the past year has seen much welcomed removal of the requirement for members to record MRI-specific CPD activities.

Radiation oncology has similarly seen the realisation of a long-term advocacy goal, with the introduction of a new Medicare funding model in 2024. This work began in 2013 and has involved regular engagement with the Department of Health across multiple stages of development. In addition to efforts of College staff, there have also been major contributions by clinical leaders such as Dion Forstner and Gerry Adams. Since implementation of the funding model, the College has continued to provide clinical advice to support a smooth transition and address implementation issues as they arise.

In addition to these broader reforms, the College has contributed to a number of more targeted improvements. Following a formal proposal from RANZCR, Medicare funding for rectal MRI was expanded to include restaging and surveillance, beyond its initial provision for staging alone. A new Medicare item for breast markers has also been introduced, addressing a previously unfunded area of clinical practice. Lead clinicians who drove our successful activity around rectal MRI and breast markers were, respectively, Kirsten Gormly and Donna Taylor.

The College has also been actively involved in shaping national digital

Prof John Slavotinek

health infrastructure through its input into the Radiology Referral Set, developed in collaboration with the Australian Digital Health Agency. Staff and key members such as Nick Ferris continue to lead and heavily invest time and effort in this work, which supports consistent terminology and system integration across digital platforms. This is a precursor to the eventual aim of seamless access to patient imaging across Australian practices and hospitals. The inevitable efficiencies will improve the lot of our members, other healthcare professionals and most importantly, the quality of care experienced by our patients.

The College also continues to provide support in areas requiring case-by-case clinical input. In radiation oncology, this includes advising on the Medical Treatment Overseas Program (MTOP), ensuring appropriate access to international treatment options where domestic services are unavailable.

In New Zealand, recent advocacy has focused on securing funding for additional training positions in radiation oncology and clinical radiology. While we have avoided the uncertainty about funding for existing positions that was problematic last year, at the time of writing we have successfully advocated for 13 new training positions in radiology. Frustratingly, we are yet to receive a response to our requests for new positions in radiation oncology. The College is continuing to engage with relevant stakeholders to advocate for ongoing investment in the specialist training pipeline.

“Despite these challenges, the College’s longstanding advocacy efforts have continued steadily.”

These activities illustrate the breadth of the College’s advocacy work and the cumulative impact of long-term, coordinated efforts. As I hope I have illustrated, progress has been heavily influenced by the contributions of member volunteers and College office bearers, often sustained across several changes of government and policy direction. Of equal importance, I cannot overstate the significance of staff contributions to our advocacy under the leadership of Melissa Doyle and more than ably supported by Sara Hughes and other team members. Looking ahead, in this, the 90th year of the College, RANZCR’s new strategic plan provides a framework to build on our advocacy efforts. Recent achievements will serve as a foundation, and forthcoming work will align with the goals and priorities identified in the strategic plan. The College remains committed to representing the interests of members and patients through sustained, evidence-based engagement and a clear focus on the quality and accessibility of care. IN

United in Purpose

Reflecting on meaningful engagement and our commitment to supporting members throughout their careers.

Duane Findley, CEO

One of the great privileges of my role as CEO is the opportunity to hear directly from members—in clinical departments, during College events, in our various committees and Faculty Councils, or through your feedback and conversations. It can sometimes be too easy to get caught up in the day-to-day of running the College and lose track of why we do what we do every day. I know from speaking to my people at RANZCR, that connecting with our members reinvigorates them, refocuses them, and brings our purpose to life.

I’ve had the privilege in recent months to engage with our Singaporean members at their hospitals, our Aotearoa New Zealand members at our ASM, our WA members at their Branch AGM, with representatives on our committees, and many other members through calls and emails. These interactions consistently remind me of your passion to maintain the high standards of your profession and the deep pride you take in your work.

But what also stands out is something beyond the technical, and more personal: a desire to connect with your peers and colleagues.

That desire exists not only among trainees and early-career Fellows, who are navigating the complexities of professional life, but equally among our experienced members and our IMGs, who continue to seek meaningful engagement with peers and the College.

This sense of community is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. In an increasingly complex and fast-paced healthcare system, having a strong, supportive professional network is essential. And RANZCR is here to help foster that.

The College’s role, at its heart, is to support clinical radiologists and radiation oncologists throughout their careers. That means delivering a world-class trainee education and assessment program, setting clinical standards, advocating and developing policies for meaningful change with government and regulators, providing ongoing learning through training programs, CPD, and our ASMs, supporting our SIGs, our Branches, our committees, and our governing bodies at Council and Board, and offering a range of member benefits including our mental health support service. But flowing through these activities, the College also nurtures a sense of shared purpose and belonging.

RANZCR recognises the critical importance that we play in supporting our trainees, our IMGs, and our Fellows. Horizon one of our 2040 Strategic Plan focuses on member fulfillment, excellence in training and lifelong education, and being the voice of the sector. These priorities are all designed to elevate our member experience and to ensure RANZCR remains relevant and connected to you at every stage of your career.

The College has taken concrete actions to deliver these objectives. Earlier in the year we underwent a structural realignment to create three operational business units named after each of our horizon one priorities. The College has appointed a senior manager to lead the implementation of this plan and member champions have been nominated from the Faculty Councils to guide and advise on the implementation. We have created a structured planning and reporting framework that maps and tracks the key plan projects and holds our leadership team accountable. We have also scheduled regular progress reporting sessions with the Faculty Councils and the Board, so that these bodies are comfortable with our progress.

We recognise that true community requires visibility and trust, and we will continue to share progress on College strategy, advocacy and operations with our members. Some of you have recently participated in externally led surveys and focus groups and your insights will help to shape how the College evolves now and into the future.

RANZCR has a proud 90-year history that has seen the College grow and evolve in response to, and often in advance of, the changing healthcare environment, while placing our members and patient outcomes at the centre of everything we do. While the College has a justifiable pride in our history and a rich sense of tradition, we are also flexible, forward-thinking, and adaptable. With our strategic plan in place and with your support, RANZCR looks forward to an exciting future where your College meets your needs at every stage of your career journey.

Most of us are familiar with the art of procrastination, but what triggers it and how to quit doing it may be more of a mystery. Here’s what the science says.

How to Stop

procras tinating

You know you should be studying for that upcoming exam or entering your latest CPD activities into the ePortfolio, but thanks to something called procrastination, it’s not uncommon for ‘should’ to turn into ‘I’ll get around to it after I’ve done this’.

Then, before you know it, the window to take action has shrunk until you’re suddenly in a now-or-never, lastminute situation, wondering how to add more hours to the day. Sound familiar? If so, rest assured you’re not alone. While some statistics suggest one in five people are chronic procrastinators, so that procrastinating impacts every aspect of their lives, surveys also show that 95 per cent of us procrastinate at least some of the time about specific things or tasks1

The question is, why? And more importantly, how can you avoid procrastinating if it’s frustrating you or starting to affect your productivity?

Why do we procrastinate?

It would be obvious to blame laziness or poor timemanagement skills as triggers for procrastination. But in fact, studies into the science of procrastination have offered up a very different explanation.

A recently retired psychology professor, Dr Timothy Pychyl from Canada’s Carleton University, spent decades of his academic career studying why people procrastinate and the impact it can have on wellbeing. As a member of the university’s Procrastination Research Group, he discovered that it’s not a timemanagement problem—procrastination is instead an emotion regulation issue2. In other words, people tend to focus more on the immediate urgency of managing negative moods and emotions than on performing the necessary task3

For example, if you dislike, resent or even fear studying for an exam, to escape those emotions, you might procrastinate, choosing to escape the task of studying by doing something—anything— else that’s more enjoyable, instead. And we do this even when we know that completing a task—like studying—will benefit our ‘future self’, because our brains are hardwired to prefer instant pleasure for our ‘current self’. It means that procrastination is essentially a learned coping mechanism, one that’s instantly gratifying so it’s easy to keep repeating—unless we make a conscious effort not to4

How to stop procrastinating

While procrastination can turn into a habit that we do to feel better when we’re faced with a task that throws up some negative emotions, the good news is there are things you can do to start breaking the pattern and avoid procrastinating. Some are steps you can take to set yourself up for success, others are ‘in the moment’ actions you can use to help yourself stay on track.

Set yourself up for success by:

Getting some tools together. Something called ‘extended cognition’ explains why most of us find it easier to calculate a complex maths problem on paper rather than trying to solve it solely in our heads. We extend our cognition, or ability to think, by using tools, even something that’s as simple as a pen and paper. Similarly, to help curb procrastination, we can use tools to extend our will to do something. Examples include setting up a quiet study space or asking a friend to provide encouragement and accountability2 . Being organised. Make a list of all the procrastinationworthy tasks you have on your plate, noting or assigning a deadline to each one. Then, break each down into smaller, more manageable steps or tasks so they seem less overwhelming and more doable from the outset3 .

Removing potential distractions. Spend a bit of time identifying what your typical ‘go-tos’ are when you find yourself procrastinating. Is it scrolling social media? Remembering to Google that query about something random that popped into your head at 3 am? Or going in search of something to eat? Try to eliminate, or at least minimise, your distractions as much as you can before beginning a task, which could be as simple as putting your phone on silent, flicking it into aeroplane mode or even placing it out of reach2

Re-train your brain by:

Remembering to think about your next action. It’s not realistic to expect that the emotions that push you towards procrastination will simply disappear—and just trying to ignore them doesn’t work either. Instead, whenever you notice a ‘do something else’ thought creeping in, acknowledge it before forcing yourself to focus on your next ‘on task’ action, for example watching just five more minutes of an instructional exam video. Making the effort to pinpoint and then complete a small, concrete action towards your task can help you stay focused. Then, once you’ve carried out one action, think about the next one—and then the next one.

Thinking about your future self. As mentioned above, one of the drivers of procrastination is our natural preference for prioritising our current self’s enjoyment over our future self’s rewards. So, when the urge to procrastinate creeps in, try to imagine yourself in the future. Think about how staying on task now will benefit your future self, and likewise, what the ramifications of procrastinating now could be for your future self, whether it’s tomorrow, next week or next month.

Being kind to yourself. Mastering the art of banishing procrastination takes time, which means you’re likely to find yourself still procrastinating, even with this new information on board. What to do? Forgive yourself: research shows that people who do that are less likely to procrastinate in future2 IN

References: 1. https://universityaffairs.ca/features/the-pull-of-procrastination/ 2. https://carleton.ca/online/online-learning-resources/procrastination/ 3. https://healthcenter.lafayette.edu/2024/01/08/overcoming-procrastination 4. https://www.headspace.com/articles/akraisia-effect

From historic galleries to bustling markets and tranquil gardens, Melbourne has plenty to offer delegates in town for this year’s ASM.

Melbourne A Guide to

nown as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne is home to a thriving arts scene, excellent shopping, and world-class coffee and culinary offerings. And with RANZCR’s Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) being held in the vibrant South Wharf area, overlooking the beautiful Yarra River and city skyline, you’ll find plenty nearby to see and do while you’re in town.

Experience Art & Culture

The ASM home base, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, is right on the doorstep of the city’s lively arts precinct. Wander along the Southbank Promenade towards St Kilda Road to find the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). As well as hosting temporary exhibitions from world-renowned artists, the NGV International site displays an impressive permanent collection and a magnificent stained-glass ceiling atop its Great Hall. Spanning more than 50 metres, the ceiling was meticulously crafted from some 16,000 pieces of multihued, handblown glass by local artist Leonard French. Across the heritage-listed Princes Bridge at Federation Square is the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia dedicated exclusively to Australian art, including works by First Nations artists. Both

galleries offer free guided tours at 11 am daily, with no bookings needed.

See a Show

Next door to the NGV International, you can catch a theatrical or musical performance under the iconic spire of the Arts Centre Melbourne, which hosts a diverse range of acts from around the world. The Melbourne International Jazz Festival will see a number of Grammy Award-winning artists performing in October, so if you’re planning to extend your stay after the ASM, book a ticket to a show on Sunday 26 October. Lauded as the most exciting new talent in jazz, silky-voiced Samara Joy has a matinée performance alongside her octet. Pianist Hiromi will offer something a little more unconventional in the evening, blurring the lines between classical, contemporary and jazz music in her show, The Piano Quintet

Browse Historic Markets

Melbourne’s buzzing markets are also historical landmarks, and the city’s oldest is the South Melbourne Market, established in 1867. It’s just a

15-minute walk from the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and worth the visit for its quality food offerings, from freshly shucked oysters to French pastries and more. If you have the time to wander further afield, the sprawling Queen Victoria Market the largest open-air market in Australia is a 10-minute drive away. It brings together over 600 unique shops with gourmet food in a lively atmosphere. The American Doughnut Kitchen van is an institution, having traded at the markets for more than 70 years. Treat yourself to an original hot jam doughnut to see what all the fuss is about.

Get Some Fresh Air

If you prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Garden is a great place to increase your step count and enjoy some peace and quiet. Spanning 38 hectares of open space, the gardens feature more than 8,000 different plants from Australia and around the world, including a collection of rare and threatened species. If you’re short on time, for $15 you can hop on an open-air

minibus tour of the grounds. For those who want to take it slow and get an insight into the traditional uses of plants and Indigenous culture, Aboriginal Heritage Walks run on weekends for $45. While you’re in this area, look out for historic landmarks including the Observatory.

Take in the View

If you’re comfortable with heights, make time to view the Melbourne skyline from a different perspective. Located on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower, 285 metres high, Melbourne Skydeck is the southern hemisphere’s highest observation deck. Sunset is a popular time to visit to enjoy the 360-degree views, but come after dark to skip the queues and enjoy the reflection of city lights dancing on the Yarra below (last entry is at 8.30 pm daily).

Shop Around

Just beyond the hum of the Exhibition Centre, Melbourne’s CBD unfolds with an elegant mix of heritage arcades, laneway boutiques and sprawling department stores from Flinders Lane to Collins Street and Bourke Street Mall. The Block Arcade stands out as a charming example of Victorian-era architecture, with mosaic tiles and ornate arches. Among the high-end stores, The Tea Rooms 1892 serves the kind of nostalgia you can eat with a fork (if the queue isn’t too long). Need caffeine? Melbourne takes coffee seriously. Try Higher Ground for its soaring interiors and coffee that’s a feast for the senses. For a cultural detour, nearby Craft Victoria is part gallery, part retail space, filled with thoughtful contemporary design and handmade objects you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. IN

To register, view the 2025 program or book accommodation, visit www.ranzcrasm.com

Imaging Life

RANZCR member Dr Lucila Zentner was a finalist in the 2025 Archibald Prize with her work Wendy in the Gallery Here she offers an insight into how her passion for visual processing has led to dual careers as a working artist and radiologist, and shares some advice for other creatives thinking about showcasing their work.

Tell us a bit about your professional background.

I studied medicine at the University of Sydney, then moved to Victoria and completed radiology and nuclear medicine training at Royal Melbourne Hospital. Imaging was an obvious choice for me medicine through visual processing. I love it! I became a partner in Lake Imaging as my first job in regional Victoria, Ballarat. We installed the first independently owned regional PET scanner and I became a generalist with subspecialty interest in oncology and dementia PET imaging. After a two-year hiatus of working regionally, I returned to Sydney and now work for Lumus Imaging, based primarily at the Northern Beaches Hospital.

Which came first—art or medicine?

I was born an artist and am selftaught in art. After school I did an honours degree in psychology with a major in classical studies. I had an art exhibition aged 21 and dabbled in portraiture commissions but missed the sciences so came to Sydney to study medicine. I re-started painting in 2015 and soon our house looked like an art gallery and we had run out of walls. There were 50 paintings

in the farm shed so I invited a local gallery to come and let me know if they were interested in exhibiting them. It all took off from there— several exhibitions a year, landscape commissions for a community centre and hospital, portraits or florals for private collectors, and a lot of luck in art competitions. A couple of years ago my Archibald entry was chosen for the Salon des Refuses, and last year I had my first overseas solo exhibition in Singapore. Being a finalist in the Archibald this year has been a real thrill.

How do you balance being a working artist with your clinical career? Initially, painting was limited to very late nights after long work days, once the house was in order and kids were asleep. When they were toddlers I started inviting the kids into the studio and that has led to incredible sharing, increased output and collaborations they have become my muses in many ways. I now have the luxury of working part time I can keep my art commitments and still sleep. For my brain, it works really well to cycle between radiology and art. Each activity is a welcome rest from and an opportunity to desire the other.

I suffer no boredom and no burnout.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your 2025 Archibald entry, Wendy in the Gallery (below), and your relationship with the subject.

Wendy Sharpe AM is an acclaimed Australian artist who has herself won the Archibald and the Wynne prize and was the official war artist to East Timor in 1999. I met her last year and had a conversation about censorship in art. I was moved to paint her for the Archibald, so I asked her to sit for me. The painting is small and depicts Wendy looking away from the viewer, in a very modest self-contained pose where she is painting and very clearly in her own thoughts. The painting is a very different depiction of her than how she depicted herself in the self portrait that won her the Archibald.

This year we’re hosting an art contest at our ASM. Do you have any advice for RANZCR members who might be considering entering their work? The fear of ‘putting one’s work out there’, I think, comes from the feeling that art is a fairly immediate expression of one’s soul. More revealing than performing a skill that is considered somehow objective. Something we want to share but are more inclined to hide out of timidity or fear of rejection. To these people I would say, art starts conversations and leads to great friendships and ideas. Those who come to see what you do are looking for beauty and connection you are giving them a gift if they find it in your work. IN

The Golden Ticket

After a 42-year career in radiology, including 35 years as a consultant at BSWA and RPH, with 25 years as Medical Director of BSWA and 12 years as Head of Department of RPH Radiology, Prof Liz Wylie is retiring in 2025. Inside News asked her to share some thoughts on the past and future of the specialty, and some of the most important lessons she’s learnt along the way.

My parents had always really valued education, so when I got into medicine in 1975, they really encouraged me to do it. There was only one medical school in Western Australia at the time, so off I went to UWA to do my medical training. My introduction to radiology was quite serendipitous, I suppose. I was greatly encouraged by a registrar who was doing tutorials for the medical students and made the radiology case studies really fun and engaging.

So next I was an intern at Royal Perth and I joined radiology training. And I was incredibly lucky, because I worked with Turab Chakera, who was such a massive leader of radiology in Australia (and became very involved with the College) it’s true he was an amazing teacher. I feel like my whole generation got a golden ticket to radiology, really. It wasn't so competitive and there was more one on one, personal teaching.

We were also lucky enough to be at the beginning, while the technology was emerging, and then we witnessed the super specialisation of the discipline. And now I feel like I’m cheating the bullet by sneaking off when AI is coming.

But while I'm pleased as a

practitioner that I don't have to face my own personal challenge of competing against AI, it’s true that AI is actually going to make breast screening a lot safer. AI doesn't have a bad day. AI is not fighting with its husband or angry with their adolescent daughter. AI finds cancer that people don’t find.

In my role as Medical Director of BreastScreen WA, I was always really

“People mix up leadership and management.”

strong on collating and reporting incidents and complaints (in relation to interval cancers). I’ve always felt people who try to brush mistakes under the carpet or deflect blame are missing a fantastic opportunity to actually learn something. Everyone makes mistakes and it’s horrible, it’s gut wrenching, it’s shameful and you feel so gutted that you may have really robbed someone of an opportunity. But avoiding something because you're ashamed isn’t going to make anything any better, and it certainly isn’t going to make it any better for the patient. I always found it best to meet patients face to face,

set aside two or three hours, and just listen. The things that people want to know are that that we actually know that something went wrong, that we acknowledge that something went wrong, and that we are doing our absolute utmost to make sure it doesn't happen to anybody else.

For me, the really fantastic bit about working in breast imaging has been working in a multidisciplinary environment. I think the best thing you can do to work towards a long and fulfilling career is to work in a multidisciplinary environment. One where you have genuine contact with the patients, and you are an integral part of the patient's journey.

A big part of my career has been spent representing my staff and my colleagues. I think a lot of people mix up leadership and management, and believe their job is to be a conduit for the wishes of the people further up the line. I always believed my job was to fight like hell for the benefit of the patients, the benefit of the junior and most vulnerable staff, the benefit of my colleagues, and then the benefit of my institution in that order. I always say that if you put the welfare of the patient first then you can’t go wrong. IN

Reframing PDP

Professional Development Planning (PDP) shouldn’t be seen as a chore, but rather an opportunity to maintain clinical relevance and create a personal roadmap for upskilling and improving care delivery.

Simon Clarke Manager, Professional Practice

At the start of each year, many of us reflect on the year just passed and set goals for the one ahead— whether that involves New Year’s resolutions to improve fitness or aspirations for career advancement. For medical professionals, a Professional Development Plan (PDP) is a mandated component of your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) portfolio. Unfortunately, this requirement can shift perceptions from opportunity to obligation. For many, creating a formal PDP feels like another administrative task—yet another item competing with clinical care, teaching, audits, treatment planning meetings, and myriad other responsibilities. However, a well-crafted PDP is far more than a box-ticking exercise. It is a structured guide for meaningful, self-directed learning, maintaining clinical relevance, and ultimately enhancing patient care. This holds true whether you work in private practice, a regional clinic, or a busy tertiary hospital. We need to reframe Professional Development Plans. A PDP done for compliance is a task; a PDP done for growth is an opportunity. A 2015 review in Medical Education by Driessen et al. demonstrated that structured

reflection and planning—key elements of a PDP—are linked with improved learning outcomes in health professionals. Those who engage in self-directed learning plans show greater motivation and better alignment with real-world practice needs1

Personal and Professional

One common pitfall—particularly in large public hospitals—is PDPs being written around departmental needs. This approach misses the point. An effective PDP is a personal reflection of your individual strengths, areas for improvement, and aspirations for growth. Where do you want your career to go? What skills or knowledge are needed to get there? Departmental goals are addressed through strategic and operational plans led by clinical leadership—not your PDP.

A systematic review by Mann et al. found that adult learning is most effective when learners set their own goals and when activities are directly relevant to their clinical work2—both hallmarks of a strong PDP.

Beyond the Clinical

“A PDP done for compliance is a task; a PDP done for growth is an opportunity.”

While specialist clinical expertise underpins your practice, the broader healthcare environment demands additional capabilities— many of which are not formally taught. Consider areas such as teaching, mentorship, financial management (in private practice or departmental budgeting), rostering, chairing multidisciplinary meetings (MDTs), or contributing to research. Peer feedback and employer input can help guide priorities, but your PDP should also include activities that reflect your personal interests and values. Passion provides intrinsic motivation and sustains engagement throughout the year.

The Value at Every Stage

For registrars and new Fellows, the possibilities for growth may seem endless, and development planning

can be energising. But PDPs remain just as valuable for experienced Fellows. Whether you're sharing expertise through journal articles or conference presentations, joining or leading a special interest group (SIG), or exploring the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in your field, the PDP process can help channel your experience into meaningful professional evolution.

Have you reflected on the feedback you've received over the years?

A study in Academic Medicine by Sargeant et al. found that doctors who incorporate feedback into their PDPs are more likely to make lasting changes in clinical practice3

Relevance Across All Settings

It is a misconception that PDPs are most useful for hospitalbased clinicians. In fact, PDPs are particularly important for those in smaller or rural practices, where professional isolation and reduced access to structured CPD opportunities are real risks. A PDP helps maintain focus, ensures alignment with national standards, keeps clinicians abreast of technological advancements, and sustains engagement with the broader clinical community.

Moreover, as healthcare systems— public and private—face growing demands for efficiency, evidencebased practice and adaptability, the PDP provides a personalised roadmap for upskilling, leadership development, and innovation in care delivery. If you have not already, now is the perfect time to develop your PDP. Not because you have to, but because it works. IN

References:

1. Driessen EW, van Tartwijk J, van der Vleuten CPM, Wass V. Portfolios in medical education: why do they meet with mixed success? Med Educ. 2015;49(1):29–38.

2. Mann K, Gordon J, MacLeod A. Reflection and reflective practice in health professions education: a systematic review. Med Educ. 2009;43(1):61–73.

3. Sargeant J, Mann K, van der Vleuten C, Metsemakers J. Reflection: a link between receiving and using assessment feedback. Acad Med. 2008;83(3):277–82.

Join the SQSC

Experience how the College performs its day-to-day work, and help shape its priorities.

Dr Luke Wheeler, Safety, Quality and Standards Committee Chair, Auckland

Kia ora koutou katoa! You have made it this far into Inside News, which tells me you have an interest in the College and its important work. Maybe you also have an interest in continuous improvement in the way your own radiology workplace performs, and might be looking to get involved in similar work with a group of likeminded radiologists across Australia and New Zealand.

The RANZCR Safety, Quality and Standards Committee (SQSC) plays a vital role in upholding excellence in radiology. The committee focuses on developing, reviewing and promoting best practices in clinical quality,

patient safety and professional standards across Australia and New Zealand. We are currently looking for new committee members with skills and enthusiasm in this area.

The work is wide ranging and often complex but always stimulating and very clinically relevant. Over the past 12 months, this has included a complete update of the Standards of Practice for Clinical Radiology; responding to recommendations of the coroner in several cases relevant to our speciality; redesigning the IV contrast anaphylaxis wallchart; developing a position statement on Whole Body Screening with MRI; and contributing to multiple external stakeholders on imaging matters.

We are a mix of radiologists (and a lay person) from across Australia and New Zealand with a range of subspecialty interests, who all are keen to advance the pillars of quality and safety, and hence provide the very best experience of radiology to our patients. Most meetings are held online via Teams, with occasional face-to-face meetings.

While the work is sometimes contentious, we try to approach it with an open mind and give due consideration of other committee members’ opinions in order to reach a consensus.

We appreciate that we all have many demands on our time and hope that working on the committee

is an enjoyable experience and beneficial to those involved. The work can count towards your annual CPD requirements and is credited directly to your RANZCR e-Portfolio by our efficient admin staff.

Should you join us, you would be involved in some of RANZCR’s most important and patient-relevant work. You would experience how the College performs its day-to-day work and help to shape its priorities. You would also gain valuable insights from the other committee members and very knowledgeable RANZCR secretarial staff.

The College’s strength and influence derives from those members who are prepared to contribute their time and expertise in the areas they have a particular interest, and those that do have the opportunity to effect change.

How to Apply

Visit the RANZCR website and the SQSC’s Terms of Reference for more information and details on submitting your application. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions you have via luke.wheeler@waitematadhb.govt.nz IN

To find out more, please visit www.ranzcr.com/fellows/general/getinvolved/current-opportunities and view our terms of reference at www.ranzcr.com/college/documentlibrary/sqsc-terms-of-reference

Towards Seamless Image Access

The College, in partnership with ADIA, is working with the Australian Digital Health Agency to improve efficient access to, and timely sharing of, medical images as a priority for Health Connect Australia (a national health information exchange program). Here are the latest updates on the project.

Dr

Nick Ferris,

Digital Health Committee Chair

“Previous images not available”: we all run into this problem every day. The study for which interpretation would be greatly helped—possibly radically changed—by access to the patient’s previous similar study. The prior study is not on our home PACS, and we don’t have access to the external system; the patient may not even know where their earlier study/ies were done.

The College and The Australian Diagnostic Imaging Association (ADIA) have been working to address this major bugbear, for both radiologists and referring clinicians, for many years. The discussion paper Securing Quality Outcomes

A Roadmap for Systemised Access to Digital Images was published jointly in 2013, and the issue was taken up again in the College’s digital health white paper Towards Interoperability: Clinical Radiology Forging the Path Ahead in December 2021.

With the Government’s recent announcement of Health Connect

Australia, a project to develop a nationwide health information exchange system, the time is right to advance access to previous images as a key part of such an exchange.

The College, the Australian Digital Health Agency, and ADIA have partnered in a project to develop options for systematically improving access to previous imaging studies throughout Australia.

This project is developing a landscape analysis of the existing infrastructure and image-sharing projects in Australia, as well as a survey of image-access schemes internationally. This will be considered along with the findings from the recent Image Access Survey, and those from the user workshops that were held in July/ August. The workshops were open to all, and were intended to identify the current ‘pain points’ in the system, and the features that users want in a future system.

There is also input from an Image Access Advisory Committee (IAAC), representing a broad range of relevant stakeholders, including referring clinicians, state health departments, and private radiology practices.

The Image Access Working Group, in conjunction with the IAAC, and consultants the Nous Group, will consider all of these inputs, and develop proposals for a streamlined system to be presented to the Federal Government. Draft recommendations are expected in late September.

Key considerations are likely to include a simplified yet robust system for user authentication and authorisation; a discovery mechanism to locate previous studies for which access details aren’t known; and protocols for appropriate remote viewing and, where needed, download of previous images.

The system will be built on recognised technical standards and standardised identifiers, such as the Individual Healthcare Identifier, and the Radiology Request Set (developed by the College, ADIA and CSIRO as a set of standardised names for radiology procedures).

Thank you to all those who have already contributed to this project via the survey and workshops. An update, including the draft recommendations, will be presented at the ASM in October, and there will be opportunities to provide further feedback then.

Latest updates will also be made available on the Digital Health page of the College website (www.ranzcr. com/our-work/quality-standards/ digital-health).

Further queries can be directed to the digital health team at standards@ranzcr.edu.au IN

A Queenslander in Zurich

In 2024, RANZCR awarded the Bill Hare Fellowship to A/Prof Craig Hacking, which allowed him to travel to Zurich, Switzerland, to attend a Forensic Imaging and Virtopsy course. Here is his account of his work there.

Two years ago, I began working one day a week at Queensland Forensic Pathology and Coronial Services (FPaCS) in Brisbane, as a forensic radiologist. I was mid-career and after serving as a department director, I wanted to return to clinical work and was searching for a new challenge. As an emergency and trauma radiologist, I had a strong background to base my new role upon. Reporting post-mortem CT (PMCT) however, as I would learn, is a different radiological skill set, and I felt it necessary to gain formal training in this niche field of radiology. With this in mind, last year I applied for and was awarded the College’s Bill Hare Fellowship, which I used to attend the Forensic Imaging and Virtopsy course in Zurich at the University of Zurich Institut fur Rechtsmedizin in March 2025. The annual course was coordinated by Professor Michael Thali, a Swiss forensic

pathologist who has pioneered the field of forensic imaging using PMCT, initially in Bern before relocating the institute to Zurich. Most of the course was delivered by two experienced forensic pathologists based in Zurich, Dr Wolf Schweitzer and Dr Garyfolia Ampanozi, both of whom, like Prof Thali, are highly published in the field.

The Institut fur Rechtsmedizin (Institute for Forensic Medicine) has pioneered forensic imaging and has developed the renowned Virtopsy approach. Post-mortem imaging is gaining international acceptance as an aid to the forensic examination

A/Prof Hacking (second from right) with course colleagues in Zurich

of the cause of death (CoD) in unknown and unnatural cases. Several mortuaries in Australia and New Zealand have dedicated PMCT scanners, which provide forensic pathologists and radiologists CT images to investigate CoD. PMCT often aids the forensic pathologist in the determination of CoD, and can replace the need for invasive autopsy in certain cases.

I arrived in Zurich on a bright (and relatively warm) spring afternoon and attended a brief one-day pre-course session to learn some fundamentals of image manipulation required in forensic radiology, particularly the creation of 3D-rendered images that can be used in a court of law. As a proud Queenslander, it was nice to see the sun and feel some warmth before the sun hid for the next two weeks and the temperature dropped to the single digits.

The formal course consisted of three modules in forensic imaging: a two-day virtopsy basic course; a three-day virtopsy advanced course; and a five-day practical

“We had several social events ... In such a niche field, networking is vital and strengthens collaborations around the world.”

course. The course was primarily focused on the PMCT features of natural disease and forensic injuries and diagnoses. Beyond PMCT, there were lectures and practical sessions on post-mortem CT angiography and venography, MRI, ballistics, forensic medicine and photogrammetry.

Between the intensive course days, I was able to spend two

Bill Hare Fellowship

The Bill Hare Fellowship supports a Fellow more than five years post-Fellowship for a period of intensive or overseas study, or for attendance at an international short course, with a grant of AU$30,000. If you would like to apply for the Bill Hare Fellowship, the College shall next accept applications in December 2025. Visit www.ranzcr.com/college/grants-and-awards/ research-awards-and-grants

weekends in the city. Highlights included the Swiss National Museum, Bahnhofstrasse, the FIFA museum, Grossmunster Cathedral, and visiting the University where Albert Einstein and Wilhelm Roentgen completed their doctorates. Einstein’s PhD thesis in theoretical physics, ‘A new determination of molecular dimensions’ was completed in 1905 and led to his discovery of the photoelectric effect, for which he won the Nobel prize in physics in 1921. Roentgen’s PhD thesis was in mechanical engineering, and I was able to visit the house he lived in during his studies and the restaurant where he met his wife, Anna Bertha Ludwig, whose father owned the cafe. Twenty-six years after completing his PhD, he would discover X-rays in 1895 and would receive the Nobel Prize for physics in 1901. We owe a lot of our understanding of the principles of radiation and radiography to these two geniuses, and it was nice to visit a leading academic city with such a strong scientific history.

The course was attended by about 20 forensic pathologists and a handful of radiologists. Attendees were from Australia, New Zealand, Britain, Portugal, Italy, Romania, Greece, Bulgaria, India, China, Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Faculty were from the Institute in Zurich and from the US. During the two weeks, we had several evening social events

and dinners in which the attendees and faculty were able to catch up socially. In such a niche field, networking is vital and strengthens collaborations around the world.

Many faculty and attendees are members of the International Society of Forensic Radiology and Imaging (ISFRI) whom it was nice to meet in person.

The major lessons I took away from the course were in the recognition and interpretation of post-mortem artefacts and the PMCT signs of common and important diagnoses that indicate a CoD that differ from the well-known signs we all see in clinical radiology. The course also provided me with an academic approach to forensic imaging, one that I am implementing at the workplace. Having just gained linked accreditation from the College, senior radiology trainees are now given the opportunity to attend a day-long observership in forensic radiology at the Queensland FPaCS. Supported by fellow forensic radiologists Trevor Watkins and Michelle Craigie and the group of Queensland forensic pathologists, the observership will provide exposure to this growing field of medical imaging and hopefully inspire the next generation of radiologists with an interest in forensic radiology.

I thank the College for the award to attend the course and the Zurich faculty for presenting the course. IN

C-POST Study Published in NEJM

The recent publication of the C-POST trial (study of Adjuvant Cemiplimab or Placebo in High-Risk Cutaneous Squamous-Cell Carcinoma) in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) speaks volumes about the calibre of research our community contributes to. Inside News sat down with second author Dr Porceddu to discuss the project’s success and its implications.

Prof Sandro Porceddu is a globally recognised radiation oncologist and a leading authority in head and neck and skin cancer. Formerly a Senior Radiation Oncologist and Director of Radiation Oncology Research at Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH), past president of the Trans-Tasman Radiation Oncology Group (TROG) and the current Director of the Department of Radiation Oncology at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, his work has led to the publication of a ground-breaking international study in the highly prestigious New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM).

The C-POST trial is an international, phase 3 randomised trial comparing adjuvant cemiplimab with placebo in patients at high risk for recurrence of cutaneous Squamous-Cell Carcinoma (cSCC) after surgery and postoperative radiotherapy. The NEJM publication details the results of the primary analysis, which was conducted after more than approximately half the events expected for the final analysis of disease-free survival had occurred. The study demonstrated

a significant improvement in disease-free survival with the addition of cemiplimab compared with placebo. The study also demonstrated a reduction in the number of locoregional and distant recurrences.

How did you commence this research project?

The original study conducted under the auspices of TROG was known as the Post Operative Skin Trial (POST) TROG 05.01. This Australian/ New Zealand study compared postoperative radiation therapy to postoperative chemoradiation therapy in high-risk cSCC of the head and neck. The study did not show a difference with the addition of chemotherapy, but did confirm high control rates with post-operative radiotherapy based on the eligible high risk features for the study.

A subsequent analysis of POST demonstrated a subgroup of high risk features with lower disease free survival that would potentially benefit from some form of intensification with systemic therapy after radiotherapy.

Because of the high response rates demonstrated with cemiplimab for cSCC in recurrent

and metastatic disease, we collaborated with Regeneron in designing the C-POST trial which compared adjuvant cemiplimab to placebo. The sub-analysis of TROG POST study was used to assist in defining the high-risk group for this trial, along with the statistical design. As it turned out, this analysis accurately predicted the diseasefree survival in the placebo arm.

This was a multidisciplinary study that involved collaborative efforts across a number of Australian, New Zealand and overseas sites. Can you tell us more about the people and organisations involved in this research?

The study led by Regeneron was a multi-centre global study, but I am proud to say that the greatest contribution to the trial by country was Australia. As a result, there are number of Australian radiation oncologists as co-authors on the paper.

Along with my involvement with the main trial I also chaired the Radiation Therapy Quality Committee under the auspices of TROG. This data will be published at a later date.

"The study led by Regeneron was a multi-centre global study, but I am proud to say that the greatest contribution to the trial by country was Australia.”

The results of the study are significant. How do you envisage that the results are likely to change clinical practice?

I anticipate that patients with resectable cSCC will undergo surgery and post-operative radiation therapy, and those who are found to have risk factors similar to the C-POST study will be offered cemiplimab. However, before that can happen, cemiplimab will need to be approved for this indication.

The next question will be whether neoadjuvant immunotherapy is better than adjuvant therapy, and whether the use of neoadjuvant therapy may lead to de-escalation of either the radiotherapy, or even omission of surgery, remains to be answered in upcoming clinical trials.

Having a trial published in NEJM is quite an achievement—what advice do you have for other researchers?

Being part of practice changing research is a long game that requires persistence. I started this journey with POST over 20 years ago. However, while there are many challenges along the research path, the rewards in terms of the sense of accomplishment and the

fellow researchers you manage to collaborate with offer a wonderful sense of joy and satisfaction. But most of all, knowing you may improve the outcome for patients is what it is all about, and why we practice radiation oncology.

A co-author of the study and former Dean of the RANZCR Faculty of Radiation Oncology, Dr Gerry Adams said:

“I would say that cSCC is a very significant cancer in Australia and in particular regional Queensland. It causes more morbidity and mortality here than in many parts of the world.

“It is great that Australia could lead the way in this highly significant study enrolling patients from a wide range of centres from around the country. The success of this trial was built on finding from the POST TROG05.01 a trial I remember from when I was Sandro’s Fellow at PAH.

“The results of this trial will help the teams of surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists, in Australia and New Zealand who treat patients with high- risk cSCC give better treatment to their patients in the future.” IN

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LASH Research Impact

Radiation oncologist A/Prof Lachlan McDowell discusses his LASH research project into oropharyngeal cancer, and the upcoming secondary analyses.

A/Prof Lachlan McDowell is a Consultant Radiation Oncologist at the Princess Alexandra Hospital specialising in the treatment of head and neck and skin cancers. He graduated from the University of Queensland in 2008, and received his FRANZCR in 2015.

In 2022, A/Prof McDowell was awarded a RANZCR Research Grant for his project, LASH Longitudinal Assessment of Sexual Health in patients with human papillomavirusassociated oropharyngeal cancer. This research project allowed him to complete his higher degree and several early post-doctoral analyses. He recently completed his PhD through the University of Melbourne and received the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Graduate Research. His PhD focused on gaining a better understanding of the long-term quality of life and unmet needs of survivors with human papillomavirus-associated (HPV) oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), including having a specific interest in defining their longitudinal sexual health profiles.

In addition to the sexual health outcomes which formed part of his doctoral thesis, the study included a number of other novel secondary endpoints. The study included a prioritisation exercise to understand the most important issues for HPVOPC survivors, before and after

treatment, as well as evaluating fear of cancer recurrence profiles and how self-reported resilience and predispositional optimism can predict the trajectories of other PROs. Results from this study will inform models of survivorship care for HPVOPC survivors.

Of this project’s results, he said, “The primary findings were that most sexual health measures, with some exceptions, return to pretreatment scores by 3-12 months after (chemo)radiotherapy. A longerterm follow-up report showed delayed improvements across most remaining sexual health outcomes.

“One of the most interesting findings from this study was that about one-quarter of patients consider keeping their sexual function a top survivorship priority, and between 30-41% consider this a more important survivorship issue than having a comfortably moist mouth, having no pain, being able to swallow, or having a normal taste.”

These findings have been well received by the head and neck community. The abstract was presented at RANZCR and ASTRO in 2023, and at the latter was selected as one of the top five most clinically impactful abstracts in the head and neck science highlights. The primary analysis and a subsequent longer-term followup have now both been published in the International Journal of

Radiation Oncology, Biology Physics, and were also selected to be highlighted in a Red Journal podcast. The remaining secondary analyses will be submitted in the latter half of 2025. Additionally, there have been multiple presentations at RANZCR, ASTRO, and ANHNCS between 2023 and 2025. A/Prof McDowell will also be presenting the fear of cancer recurrent and emotional distress findings at both the RANZCR and ASTRO meetings later this year.

In 2024, A/Prof McDowell received the Emerging Researcher Award from TROG.

A/Prof McDowell said, “LASH was an important study in demonstrating the importance of sexual health to HPVOPC survivors, while also providing clinicians with reassuring evidence to support clinical discussions on the impact and recovery of sexual health. There are several ongoing secondary analyses that I will be excited to share with the community later this year, which will help inform how we provide survivorship care to the increasing number of HPVOPC survivors.

“I am very grateful for the support provided by RANZCR through this research grant, which has enabled me to conduct this study alongside my incredible collaborators. This grant, which has contributed to the success of LASH, has had a significant impact on shaping my academic trajectory, opening up opportunities for future collaborations, and leadership roles in research and editorial positions.” IN

A variety of opportunities are available to support research projects and foster a culture of research at the College. If you would like to apply for a research grant, the College shall next accept applications in December 2025.

Visit www.ranzcr.com/college/grantsand-awards/research-awards-andgrants

SEPTEMBER 2025 ISSUE OUT NOW.

Head and neck injury patterns from electric scooter

Role of IR services rural/remote Australia

Joint position statement on autonomous AI Optimising PTV margins Oesophageal cancer

Access your College journal online

If you are a member of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists, access JMIRO free online.

• go to www.ranzcr.edu.au

• Log in using your College username and password

= Free access to all JMIRO current and digitised backfile content from volume 1, 1957!

Upskilling in Ulaanbaatar

The RANZCR International Development Fund provides small grants for overseas development work undertaken by College members or College groups that will improve patient care and raise the standard of practice. Here’s an overview of a recent project undertaken in Mongolia.

Supported by the RANZCR International Development Fund, a member-led project team (Prof Dinesh Varma, Dr Jan Gerstenmaier, and Dr Bruno Di Muzio from Alfred Health, Melbourne and Dr Katharina MüllerPeltzer from Freiburg University Hospital, Germany) conducted an educational and capacity-building initiative in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from 30 June to 10 July 2025.

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital, hosts the country’s major teaching and research hospitals and medical university. Radiology training consists of a two-year residency, with limited postresidency fellowship options, mainly in interventional radiology. A formal curriculum has recently been introduced by the National University to standardise and improve radiology training.

Several subspecialty committees operate under the Mongolian Radiology Society, with Emergency Radiology being the newest. Mongolia’s healthcare system is primarily insurance-based. Hospitals benefit from strong international partnerships, especially with Japanese and Korean institutions, which provide key funding and training support.

The project was hosted at the National Trauma and Orthopaedic Research Centre. The program featured didactic lectures,

ultrasound workshops, ‘teaching on the run’, and informal interactions with residents and radiologists. Lectures covered a broad range of topics, focusing on acute trauma and non-trauma conditions across all body systems.

Ultrasound is routinely used as the first imaging tool for visceral abdominal trauma—a practice relatively unique to Mongolia. Hands-on ultrasound workshops focused on abdominal scanning techniques and recognition of ultrasound’s strengths and limitations. ‘Teaching on the run’ sessions involved case-based discussions, image interpretation and reporting, CT protocol optimisation, radiation safety, departmental audits, and quality assurance. Informal discussions encouraged open knowledge exchange with trainees, radiologists and radiographers.

Despite language barriers, meaningful interactions were achieved, with 40 to 50 attendees per session, including residents, radiologists and other medical staff.

The team also visited the Mongolia–Japan Hospital, funded by the Japanese government. A/ Prof Munkhbaatar Dagvasumberel and their team showed us a department equipped with dualenergy CT, 1.5T MRI, and digital radiography and angiography suites —facilities that starkly contrast with

the more limited resources at the National Trauma and Orthopaedic Research Centre.

The Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences has wellequipped simulation laboratories for undergraduate students. A productive discussion with faculty followed on differences between the two-year Mongolian residency and a five-year RANZCR model, and future collaboration towards curriculum alignment and developing a casebased digital teaching library.

At the conclusion of the program, participants completed an online survey. The overall feedback about the program was overwhelmingly positive and the participants found the content clear and necessary. The majority found the instructors’ knowledgeable in their area of expertise and course content very necessary and relevant to their training and practices.

We are very grateful to RANZCR Research and GAP’s Committee for giving us the grant and the opportunity to hold an educational and upskilling project in Ulaanbaatar. This initiative highlights the strength of international partnerships in advancing radiology education and training in under resourced countries. RANZCR is well positioned in this region as a resource country and such initiatives should be supported and encouraged whenever possible. IN

RANZCR Workshops, Courses and Events 2025

23-25 OCT 2025

www.ranzcrasm.com RANZCR ASM

22-23 NOV 2025

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre 2 Clarendon St, South Wharf VIC

ParkRoyal Darling Harbour 150 Day St, Sydney NSW

https://na.eventscloud.com/website/85222/

24-25

JULY 2026

INTELLIGENCE26RANZCR AI CONFERENCE

Swissotel Sydney 68 Market St, Sydney NSW

Save the date!

Find details on these events and many more on our website: www.ranzcr.com/whats-on/ events. For regular updates, in addition to the website listing, please “like” and “follow” our RANZCR social media accounts:

22-24

OCT 2026

RANZCR ASM 2026

Te Pae, Christchurch, New Zealand

Save the date!

If you have any questions relating to any College events, please contact the Events team at events@ranzcr.edu.au

10 Reasons to Attend the 75th RANZCR ASM

With only a month to go until the 2025 ASM in Melbourne, our convenors Dr Rose Thomas, Dr Jyothirmayi Velaga, A/Prof Diederick De Boo and Prof Wee Loon Ong list some event highlights.

1. Social Events

From the glitz and glamour of the Gala Dinner to the Friday night Dean’s Reception in honour of award winners and new Fellows, the ASM social events will be an opportunity to build lifelong collaborations and celebrate 90 years of RANZCR.

2. All-Star Speakers

The radiation oncology stream features a line-up of speakers who are world leaders in the field, covering a wide range of tumour streams (from GU, to CNS, GI, Breast, HN), as well speakers from lowermiddle income countries. The clinical radiology stream includes invited international speakers from Spain, the US, the UK, UAE and Singapore, while keynote speakers for IR include Prof Gangi and Prof Haskal.

3. Stimulating Deep-Dive Workshops

The clinical radiology steam is packed full of workshops, including MSK shoulder, neuro (stroke imaging), liver, prostate, pelvic floor (functional MR imaging), head and neck (cranial nerves), and emergency radiology (spinal fractures).

4. Future-Focused Sessions

The IR and INR stream will explore challenges and opportunities within the fields, explore future directions, and include an update on specialty recognition.

5. Pre-ASM Contouring Workshops

This year we are offering two preASM contouring workshops, in partnership with ESTRO. The Spine SBRT Contouring Workshop will be held on the Wednesday morning, while Wednesday afternoon is reserved for the Liver SBRT Contouring Workshop.

6. Catalyst Forums

Highlights from the clinical radiology program include multi-system case review sessions; imaging in NAI, IPV and post-mortem; lifestyle sessions; research; social media, AI and futureforward sessions; stimulating preexam and post-exit real-life trainee sessions; and last but not least, a high-stakes quiz.

7. Combined Sessions

Interventional radiology and radiation oncology will unite for combined sessions covering the management of HCC and RCC.

8. Trainee Days

Both the clinical radiology and radiation oncology streams will once again individually host a trainee day, as well as trainee prize sessions and a trainee and junior consultants reception event.

9. Women in Leadership Breakfast

The crowd-favourite Women in Leadership Breakfast, sponsored by Canon, returns this year. It features presentations from Prof Reshma Jagsi and A/Prof Susan Shelmerdine, followed by a panel discussion

10. Boundary-Pushing Ideas

The ASM theme is ‘Celebrating 90 years of pushing boundaries and defining tomorrow’. The radiation oncology stream will include sessions that challenge attendees to push boundaries in their practice (e.g. adaptive radiotherapy, reirradiation), and multiple tumourspecific sessions, as well as special interest groups (including FROGG, APROSIG and ANZPROG).

To register or view the program, visit www.ranzcrasm.com

Celebrating 90 years of pushing boundaries and defining tomorrow

Anders Sörman-Nilsson FUTURIST

A globally renowned futurist and award-winning keynote speaker, Anders Sörman-Nilsson helps organisations future-proof in the age of AI, digital transformation, and sustainability. As the founder of the think tank Thinque, he advises top brands like Apple, Google, Meta, and McKinsey with strategic foresight and actionable insights. A TEDGlobal member, author of three books, and trusted thought leader featured in Forbes and the BBC, Anders decodes complex trends into inspiring strategies that empower audiences to lead with clarity in an ever-changing world.

ranzcrasm.com

All About ANZPROG

A brief overview of the history, activities and achievements of the Australian and New Zealand Palliative Radiation Oncology Group (ANZPROG).

ANZPROG was formed in 2019, when the College called for expressions of interest for a new special interest group to advocate for and promote the role of radiation therapy (RT) in palliative care. This led to about 60 responses and ANZPROG was born. The objectives were to advance professional expertise in palliative radiation oncology in ANZ, to inform College members on key issues, policies and practices in palliative care and to provide relevant advice as required to Faculty Council.

During the first year or so, members responded to several ad hoc external requests for input on matters relating to palliation, but following election of the Executive Committee, the first formal meeting was held in December 2020.

Projects

An ANZPROG survey of all 110 radiation oncology centres in 2021 found that there were only three functioning Rapid Access Palliative RT (RAPRT) clinics in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) at that time, five others having been abandoned, and the common reason being

that departments felt they could provide a similar service using existing resources.1,2 A subsequent publication described an alternative model, the Advanced Practice Radiation Therapist (APRT), the first of whom was credentialed in ANZ in 2017 (Brisbane). This may prove to be a more generally applicable strategy than RAPRT clinics in the local setting.3

ANZPROG then surveyed radiation oncologists to determine the extent to which advanced RT techniques and technologies are being employed for palliative RT in ANZ. This confirmed that ROs have indeed embraced highly conformal treatment options, including stereotactic body RT and stereotactic radiosurgery, although resource constraints significantly mitigate their utilisation in NZ.4,5

Another work editorialised on appropriate use of palliative RT at end of life with recognition of powerful cultural factors which need to be considered in discussions on palliation with Eastern patients and their families, and in applying predictive models trained on Western populations.6 The related 30-day mortality metric had also previously been addressed in a presentation at RANZCR’S Annual Scientific Meeting in 2021.7 More recently, ANZPROG members represented the Faculty in reviewing updated American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) guidelines for palliation of symptomatic bone metastases,8 and contributed a new chapter on radiation oncology to the third edition of a seminal international textbook on communication in oncology and palliative care.9

Forums and Webinars

ANZPROG Member meetings have

included discussion of the RAPRT clinic survey and APRT model (Sep 2021), Voluntary Assisted Dying in Australasia (Apr & Oct 2022); discussion of the advanced palliative RT techniques survey (Apr 2023); the evolving landscape of palliative RT (Oct 2023); and advanced pain management (Nov 2024).

Current Projects

ANZPROG next plans to explore palliative RT use, and quality indicators, near end of life.

ANZPROG is open to all College members including trainees and Associate Affiliates, with direction provided by the Executive elected via expression of interest from the ANZPROG membership, and meeting at least twice per year. New members are very welcome. IN

References

1. Roos D, James M, Lah M, Pope K, Shorthouse A, Adams G, Holt T, Govindaraj R. Has the “classical” Rapid Access Palliative Radiotherapy clinic concept been embraced in Australia and New Zealand? Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists Annual Scientific Meeting (virtual), Sep 2021.

2. Roos D, James M, Lah M, Pope K, Shorthouse A, Govindaraj R, Holt T. Rapid Access Palliative Radiotherapy clinics – the evidence is there, but where are the clinics? An Australian and New Zealand perspective. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 111: 959-964.

3. Roos D, Job M, Holt T. Establishing a palliative Advanced Practice Radiation Therapist role: A viable alternative to a Rapid Access Palliative Radiation Therapy clinic in Australia. J Med Imag Radiat Oncol 2022; 66: 117-128.

4. Pathmanathan P, Roos D, Pope K, James M, Lah M. Current utilisation of advanced techniques and technologies in palliative radiation therapy in Australia and New Zealand. Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists Annual Scientific Meeting, Brisbane, Oct 2023.

5 Pathmanathan P, Roos D, Pope K, James M, Lah, Frampton C. Current utilisation of advanced techniques and technologies in palliative radiation therapy in Australia and New Zealand. J Med Imag Radiat Oncol, ePub ahead of print, Nov 2024.

6. Roos D, Millar J. Palliative radiation therapy: Can we do better? Invited Editorial. J Med Imag Radiat Oncol 2024; 68: 303-306.

7. Shorthouse A. Palliative radiotherapy in the last 30 days of life. Oral presentation, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists Annual Scientific (virtual) Meeting, Sep 2021.

8. Alcorn S, Cortes AA, Bradfield L, et al. External beam radiation therapy for palliation of symptomatic bone metastases: An ASTRO Clinical Practice Guideline. Pract Radiat Oncol 2024; 14: 377-397.

9. Roos D, Pope K. Communication in Radiation Oncology. In: Kissane D (Editor). Textbook of Communication in Oncology and Palliative Care (Third Edition). Oxford University Press, in press.

Prof Daniel Roos

MA R CH 28-29 2 0

INTERNATIONAL KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Professor of Radiology at the Montpellier Cancer Institute

Director of the PINKCC Lab

(Precision Imaging as a New Key in Cancer Care) at IRCM Montpellier, France

Prof Maxime Ronot

Université Paris-Cité

Head of the Department of Medical Imaging at Beaujon University Hospital Clichy, France

Prof Harriet C. Thoeny

Professor and Chairperson of Radiology University and Hospital of Fribourg Switzerland

Friday 27 March

•ARGANZ Workshop

•Young ARGANZ Trainee Day

DESTINATION SPONSOR

ARGANZ Announcements

Established in 2006, the Abdominal Radiology Group of Australia and New Zealand (ARGANZ) is a special interest group dedicated to advancing education, research, collaboration and advocacy in abdominal imaging. Here’s a summary of recent activities, new grants and upcoming events.

Dr Jessica Yang, Chair of ARGANZ

The ARGANZ 2025 meeting, originally scheduled for 8–9 March on the Gold Coast, was unfortunately cancelled due to the forecasted landfall of Cyclone Alfred over the same weekend. We extend our sincere thanks to the presenters who worked tirelessly to pivot the workshop to an online format at short notice to deliver the high-quality educational content virtually. We were honoured to have Prof Clare Tempany, an international expert in prostate imaging, join the workshop virtually. Prof Cooky Menias, already en route to Australia at the time of cancellation, generously stayed on to deliver lectures both in hospital departments and virtually. We are grateful to our international and local faculty for adapting their

presentations to an online format, ensuring the continued success of the meeting. ARGANZ warmly congratulates Dr Minh-Son To, recipient of the 2025 Mendelson Research Prize, and Dr Peter Zarzour, who received the runner-up prize.

ARGANZ will host our second virtual workshop this year on 12 October, on the topic of US and MRI O-RADS. Registration is open through the ARGANZ website.

ARGANZ remains committed to collaboration, and continues to strengthen ties with international abdominal imaging societies as well as Australian and New Zealand clinical specialty groups. We are delighted to announce the new ESGAR–ARGANZ Fellowship Exchange, where ARGANZ will facilitate a threemonth observership in an academic department in Europe for a radiologist (within five years of practice following obtaining Fellowship), supported by a $15,000 grant. There is also the ARGANZ Research and Education Grant, with up to $20,000 available annually to support a research or educational project. Details are available on the ARGANZ website.

ARGANZ has an ongoing role advocating for abdominal imaging by contributing to clinical guidelines and consensus statements as well as supporting RANZCR with MSAC application reviews. ARGANZ would particularly like to acknowledge A/Prof Tom Sutherland for his dedicated work on the CT colonography MSAC

submission; and Dr Kirsten Gormly for her instrumental role in securing expansion of the Medicare item eligibility for rectal MRI.

Planning is well underway for the ARGANZ 2026 meeting, which will be held in collaboration with the RANZCR WA Branch at the Westin Hotel in Perth from 28–29 March, the weekend prior to Easter. This timing offers attendees the opportunity to extend their stay and enjoy a holiday in WA. We are honoured to announce our international faculty: Prof Maxime Ronot (France), Prof Harriet Thoeny (Switzerland) and Prof Stephanie Nougaret (France). A pre-meeting workshop and the Young ARGANZ Trainee Day, in collaboration with OGSIG, will take place on Friday 27 March and include the School of ARGANZ/ OGSIG Part 2 mock exam sessions.

The ARGANZ website (www. arganz.org) offers a wealth of resources, including reporting templates, scanning protocols, past meeting content, and updates on imaging guidelines and policy developments. Membership is free and provides access to exclusive member-only content. We encourage you to join (www.arganz. org/my-account/register) and follow ARGANZ on X (@arganz_online) or Facebook (@arganzradiology) for the latest updates.

Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the incredible team of executives who make ARGANZ possible, and warmly welcome Dr Kate McLean as a new ARGANZ executive member. IN

“We are delighted to announce the new ESGARARGANZ Fellowship Exchange, where ARGANZ will facilitate a three-month observership in an academic department in Europe...”

lungscreen

Radiologist opportunities available

Be part of the largest network of sub-specialty Radiologists. I-MED Radiology is looking for FRANZCR Radiologists

• Collaborative and supportive clinic teams

• Work-life balance

• Competitive remuneration

• Comprehensive imaging modalities and varied case mix

If you are interested please send your CV to karen.daley@i-med.com.au

While we are seeking Specialists across the business, we are particularly interested in those willing to work in the following locations:

• Western NSW – including Orange & Dubbo (both Tier A and Tier B positions)

• Mater Imaging North Sydney (Breast imaging)

• Canberra, ACT

• Geraldton, WA

• Southern Sydney

• Inner West Sydney

Beyond Policy, Towards Practice

MATEC Chair Dr Gerry Adams and RANZCR’s First Nations Trainee Liaison Officer Bridie Searle discuss the importance of cultural competency in clinical radiology and radiation oncology, and announce a dedicated session at the upcoming Melbourne ASM.

Beyond Policy, Towards Practice

MATEC Chair, Dr Gerry Adams, and RANZCR’s First Nations Trainee Liaison Officer, Bridie Searle, discuss the importance of cultural competency in clinical radiology and radiation oncology, and announce a dedicated cultural session at the upcoming Melbourne ASM.

As the College works towards equity, safety and excellence in our professions, cultural competency must be seen not as an add-on, but as a critical part of how we deliver care and how we support one another in training and in practice. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, healthcare environments have not always been places of safety. Cultural misunderstandings, structural racism, and a lack of representation continue to impact not only the quality of care received, but also trust in the healthcare system overall.

At the same time, the pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors remains markedly inequitable. Despite years of reform across the broader health sector, Indigenous doctors still face additional cultural load, racism within the training environment, and barriers to access and progression. These are not isolated issues—they are structural, and require structural responses.

The College is responding through a range of initiatives embedded within the RANZCR Action Plan for Māori, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, but central to this work is the Māori, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Empowerment Committee (MATEC). MATEC is an official advisory committee to the RANZCR Faculty Councils and Executive, comprising Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and

Māori Fellows and trainees. Its role is to provide leadership and oversight to ensure that the College’s systems, policies, and culture are accountable, inclusive and future-facing.

MATEC’s focus is not limited to supporting Indigenous trainees— although this is a core priority but also ensuring that the clinical radiology and radiation oncology workforce is better equipped to provide culturally safe care to Indigenous patients and communities. As doctors we are leaders in our workspaces and so we are responsible for making sure that our services are not only clinically appropriate, but also culturally responsive. We know that patient outcomes improve when healthcare is delivered in culturally safe environments. This is especially true in disciplines like clinical radiology and radiation oncology, where clear communication, ongoing follow-up, and trust in the process are vital. Cultural competency, in this context, is not just about knowledge it’s about behaviour, systems, and accountability. It asks us to critically reflect on how our own positions, assumptions and training shape the way we practise, supervise, and lead. It challenges us to shift from performative gestures to genuine inclusion. And, importantly, it’s not the responsibility of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff alone to carry this

work it’s a collective responsibility.

To support this work, MATEC will be hosting a dedicated session at the 2025 RANZCR ASM titled ‘From Compliance to Commitment: Cultural Competency in Practice’ This session will be held on Friday 24 October, from 3.30pm to 5pm, and will feature voices from across the Aboriginal medical community and MATEC membership. The session will explore what cultural safety means in practice, the systemic challenges facing First Nations trainees and patients, and how cultural competency can be better embedded in training, supervision and everyday clinical care.

This will not be a passive panel it is a conversation for those who want to be challenged and to reflect on how we, as a profession, can grow. All members—Fellows, trainees, supervisors, managers and educators—are warmly encouraged to attend.

Our goal is to support a future where Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori doctors are respected, heard and retained, and where patients consistently receive high-quality, culturally safe care. With MATEC’s leadership, and the commitment of our College community, we are on that path— but there is still work to do, and it’s everyone’s responsibility. IN

ANZSNR

LANGHAM HOTEL, GOLD COAST

THURSDAY 19 – SATURDAY 21 MARCH

Registrations open Monday 6 October 2025

To keep up to date with program developments and for more information, please visit: ANZSNRASM.COM

DR SUZIE BASH, USA Neuroradiologist with a special interest in Artificial Intelligence

We are excited to welcome delegates to the Australian and New Zealand Society of Neuroradiology Annual Scientific Meeting 2026.

This meeting will feature three global leaders in neuroradiology:

PROFESSOR JACQUES MORET, FRANCE Interventional Neuroradiologist

CHRISTINE GLASTONBURY, USA Head and Neck Neuroradiologist

On behalf of the IRSA Organising Committee, we are delighted to invite delegates to join us in Brisbane for the 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting, to be held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. Monday 20 – Wednesday 22 July 2026.

Please save the date and join us for an engaging 3-day program of IR education, research, and networking.

PROFESSOR

Growing Reach and Impact

As 2025 marks the eleventh anniversary of RANZCR’s Targeting Cancer campaign, we’re thrilled to reflect on over a decade of progress in raising awareness about radiation therapy.

Dr Lucinda Burke, Chair, Targeting Cancer Reference Panel Management Committe

Launched in 2014 to address public and professional misconceptions and to improve patient access, the Targeting Cancer campaign has expanded its reach significantly, engaging community members, healthcare providers, students and policymakers across Australia and New Zealand. Over 11 years, we’ve produced informative patient and provider resources—videos explaining treatment steps, patient experiences, and innumerable articles on all types of radiotherapy options. We’ve also spotlighted

equity issues, encompassing Indigenous care and rural access, as seen in our National Reconciliation Week initiatives. Despite challenges— including pandemic-related pauses— our campaign continues to build momentum and reach increasingly large audiences via forums, webinars, social media, and collaboration with key stakeholders.

We encourage you to check out the newly updated website and share it with patients, colleagues, friends and family.

Looking Ahead: The Fun Run

A yearly highlight is the Targeting Cancer Fun Run, which will take place during our Annual Scientific Meeting in Melbourne this October. This fun, accessible event brings together Fellows, trainees, sponsors, and cancer communities to highlight the importance of radiation therapy —while celebrating health and solidarity. We encourage all ASM attendees and local supporters in Melbourne to participate or cheer on our runners.

WRAD

We are honoured to support the inaugural World Radiotherapy Awareness Day (WRAD), initiated by the Global Coalition for Radiotherapy (Geneva) and held on 7 September 2025. WRAD provides a global platform to showcase the

essential role of radiation therapy, counter myths, and drive policy and investment priorities. Our involvement underscores Targeting Cancer’s alignment with global efforts to improve cancer care access and quality.

A Call to the Community

As chairs of the Targeting Cancer Management Committee and Targeting Cancer Reference Panel, we invite RANZCR members— clinical radiologists and radiation oncologists—to get involved. Whether it’s contributing to educational content, championing WRAD initiatives, joining the Melbourne Fun Run, or advocating within local systems, your participation is vital.

Join Us in the Next Decade

From myth-busting educational campaigns to promoting equitable access and global awareness, Targeting Cancer stands at the forefront of radiation therapy advocacy, and we’re already getting started with lots of great ideas and new exciting initiatives planned for the next year and beyond. With your engagement, we can continue to deepen our impact in the next 10 years and beyond. Please contact our team via info@targetingcancer.com.au to get involved. IN

Get Involved, Make a Difference

Dr Rajiv Rattan is the current Faculty of Clinical Radiology Dean, and incoming RANZCR President. Here’s a message shared in the Faculty of Clinical Radiology eNews about the volunteering opportunities available in the College, and the impact you can have.

As a valued member of RANZCR, you are at the heart of everything we do. This is your College, and it thrives because of the contributions of members like you. Every initiative, every advancement, and every achievement is driven by the passion and expertise of our volunteer members.

Whether you want to connect with peers who share your professional interests or contribute to leadership in your local community, there’s a place for you at RANZCR to have a voice and help shape the future of our profession. Here’s how you can get involved:

Join a Special Interest Group (SIG)

Do you have a passion for a particular area of clinical radiology or radiation oncology? Our Special Interest Groups bring like-minded members together to share expertise, shape best practice, and contribute to policy and advocacy in their fields.

Clinical radiology SIGs include:

Australian and New Zealand Society of Thoracic Radiology (ANZSTR) ANZSTR provides a platform for RANZCR members with an interest in advancing knowledge, learning or clinical expertise in thoracic radiology.

Australian and New Zealand Society for Paediatric Radiology (ANZSPR) ANZSPR is a network of members interested in paediatric radiology. Members of ANZSPR include general radiologists who have an interest in paediatric imaging and specialist paediatric radiologists who have obtained additional training in the specialty and primarily see children in their day-to-day practice.

Abdominal Radiology Group Australia and New Zealand (ARGANZ) ARGANZ is a group uniting radiologists who have a special interest in imaging and image guided treatment of patients with diseases of the abdominal organs.

Australian and New Zealand Emergency Radiology Group (ANZERG) ANZERG is a Special Interest Group consisting of members interested in emergency and trauma radiology.

Australian and New Zealand Rural Radiology Special Interest Group (ANZRRSIG) ANZRRSIG is a network of members interested in rural and remote radiology across Australia and New Zealand.

Obstetrics and Gynaecology Special Interest Group (OGSIG) OGSIG is a network of RANZCR members who are interested in O&G imaging. It aims to promote best practice for the performance and reporting of O&G imaging in Australia and New Zealand.

Nuclear Medicine Special Interest Group (NMSIG)

The Nuclear Medicine Special Interest Group (NMSIG) was established as a bi-national forum for members interested in advocating for and promoting the role of nuclear medicine in radiology.

Get Involved Locally: Join Your Branch

The College has Branch Committees in New Zealand, each state of Australia and the Australian Capital Territory, whose purpose is to:

Facilitate communication with and between members and develop opportunities for discussion and continuing professional development.

Represent the professional and educational interests of clinical radiologists at all levels within the Branch.

Provide a conduit of information to and from Branch members with the College Board via the elected Councillors.

Our New Zealand Branch Committee leads critical advocacy with government, regulators, and other stakeholders. The Committee works across both public and private sectors, driving initiatives like:

Workforce retention

Increasing profile of the disciplines

Advocacy on behalf of members.

In Australia, local committees bring members together for:

Networking events

Annual scientific meetings

Providing jurisdictional advice.

We’re always on the lookout for fresh ideas and enthusiastic volunteers to help shape the future of our profession. IN

Visit www.ranzcr.com/college/volunteering to find out more about various volunteer roles within the College.

“Ultimately it’ s about improving patient care and working with amazing people and that’s what keeps me coming back.”

Dr Lisa Sullivan has served as the Faculty of Radiation Oncology Chief Censor for almost three years, and was recently asked to reflect on her volunteer roles for RANZCR’s Community Spotlight video series. Here’s an excerpt from the video, detailing her history with the College and advice for other members considering volunteering.

Istarted volunteering with the College only a few years after I became a Fellow in 2008. I started as a Phase 1 examiner, and I did that for a good 12 years, and that really sparked my interest in medical education. I then helped in some special interest groups, like GOROC, and was elected a member of the Radiation Oncology Education Training Committee eight to nine years ago.

Later, I was strongly encouraged to take on some of the leadership roles such as Deputy Chief Censor and eventually Chief Censor. This current role really gives overall oversight of everything from training site accreditation to exams and assessments, and the whole education strategy for training in radiation oncology.

Initially I volunteered to be a Phase 1 examiner as I felt I would be able to make a useful contribution in that position. I guess once you start in one volunteer role it can really spark your interest, particularly as you then find yourself meeting and connecting with inspiring people who genuinely want to help and make a difference. It’s the people that inspire me the most in these roles: the trainees, the staff and the fellow volunteers. Everyone has a strong sense of purpose and a wish to improve things.

I also feel like I've grown a lot. I'm definitely not a natural leader. I would say I'm more of an introvert. So taking on roles like this has been a challenge, but it has really helped me develop skills I would not have otherwise had—such as conflict resolution and leadership skills for meetings.

Ultimately it's about improving patient care and working with amazing people—and that's what keeps me coming back.

In terms of what I'm particularly passionate about… obviously, I'm deeply committed to maintaining our RO training program, which is world class. We want to develop competent, compassionate, safe clinicians who are also healthy in themselves. And so continuing to develop, take on feedback, evaluate and change (when we need to) is something I feel strongly about.

Another area I'm really passionate about is improving how the College connects with its members. It's a complex relationship—because as the College has authority over things like examinations, accreditation and fees, there will always be some tension. But I’ve seen first-hand that both the members (who are the College) and the College staff are genuinely committed to doing the right things for the right reasons. The more we build mutual understanding between the College and its members, the more trust we create. And with greater trust, we’ll attract more volunteers, which in turn strengthens the College and advances radiation oncology as a whole.

If you're considering volunteering for the College, my advice is: just give it a go. There are so many different opportunities—from small roles with low time commitments to large leadership positions. There's always something that will match your interests, skills and strengths. Volunteering for the College is incredibly rewarding and helps you grow both personally and professionally.

I’d recommend starting by talking to other volunteers to understand what’s involved. You might begin with a smaller role, build your confidence and meet new people. The important thing is simply to take that first step and sign up. IN

Scan the QR code to view the RANZCR Community Spotlight video series.

Canon Medical Academy Perspectives Webinar

Reducing disparities in Women’s Health

Gender-based health inequity remains a major issue, with disparities in access to care, treatment, and resources driven by factors like socioeconomic status, geography, and discrimination, limiting women’s ability to achieve optimal health outcomes globally.

Canon Medical have partnered up with leading local and international experts to explore solutions that improve access to care.

Championing women in radiology

leadership

An Era of Transformation

Radiology is entering an era of transformative innovation that is data-driven and deeply integrated with technology.

Radiology is entering an historic era of transformation, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), advanced IT systems, cloud computing, and next-generation imaging technologies. These innovations are not just enhancing workflows; they are redefining the very foundation of diagnostic and interventional care.

Recent global analyses highlight  10 pivotal trends shaping the future of radiology:

Generative AI is now everpresent, aiding in reporting, image reformats, triaging urgent cases, anomaly detection, and clinical decision support.

Health equity is a global priority, with mobile imaging units, AIassisted interpretations, and teleradiology expanding access to underserved and rural populations.

Economic and political uncertainties are influencing imaging budgets, pushing providers toward scalable, costefficient solutions such as cloudbased platforms.

Personalised imaging is replacing the one-size-fits-all model, with AIdriven protocols enabling patientspecific diagnostics and treatment planning.

Regulatory oversight is intensifying, focusing on ethical AI use, algorithm transparency, and robust data security to maintain patient trust.

Multi-modal AI is emerging as a game-changer, integrating imaging, genomics, and clinical data for holistic patient insights.

The adoption of cloud-based imaging solutions is reducing the need for on-site infrastructure.

Breakthrough imaging technologies are entering clinical

References:

practice, including:

• Photon-Counting CT (PCCT)— delivering ultra-high-resolution images at lower radiation doses, with built-in spectral imaging capabilities.

• Digital SPECT and advanced PET scanners—enhancing diagnostic accuracy for oncology and neurology.

Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA) is rapidly becoming the first-line diagnostic tool for chest pain, supported by updated international guidelines.

Portable imaging solutions—such as mobile CT scanners being deployed for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program— are transforming care delivery, enabling on-site imaging in emergencies and rural areas. Emerging technologies like digital twins are also on the horizon, creating virtual patient models that integrate imaging, genomics and physiological data to simulate disease progression and optimise treatment strategies. Against this backdrop, it is essential that we focus on the future and are proactive in harnessing these technological innovations for the benefit of our patients, rather than allow current issues, such as the proposed expedited pathway, to consume all our energy and attention.

Interventional Radiology

As a case in point, RANZCR’s work to secure recognition of interventional radiology (IR) and interventional neuroradiology (INR) as distinct fields reflects a worldwide movement to expand access to minimally invasive therapies. A recent global survey underscores the urgency: “There

1. https://interventionalnews.com/global-survey-results-deem-patient-awareness-a-critical-obstacle-facing-ir/

must be global recognition of IR as a medical discipline that offers significant value to the healthcare system. Global collaboration of IR societies with backing from governments, industry, and other supportive entities is crucial in fostering positive changes and overcoming challenges that hinder the development of IR training.”1

RANZCR’s Interventional Radiology Committee (IRC), guided by the FCR Council and Board, has recommended establishing Fellowship-level post-nominals for IR and INR, recognising specialist expertise. Training programs for future IR and INR specialists are in development, supported by strong collaboration between RANZCR, IRSA and ANZSNR.

Theranostics

The College is also advancing theranostics; a cornerstone of personalised medicine, by encouraging upskilling of clinicians in targeted cancer therapies that combine diagnostics with treatment. This is a pivotal moment for radiology. The convergence of AI, advanced imaging, and interventional innovation offers unprecedented opportunities to improve patient care. To realise this potential, we must embrace crossdisciplinary collaboration, continuous learning and proactive leadership. IN

Dr Rajiv Rattan, Dean (FCR)

Future-Focused Radiology

Investing in training to strengthen our core and shape tomorrow.

As always, the Clinical Radiology Education and Training Committee (CRETC) remains focused on improving all aspects of our training program— from curriculum content and delivery to the trainee, DoT and Clinical Supervisor experience. We view our Australian Medical Council (AMC) accreditation requirements not as a hurdle but as a continuum of the improvement journey. Our recent submission of the 2025 interim report reflects our progress, and we are optimistic that many of the remaining accreditation conditions will be satisfied.

A centralised selection process remains a key requirement under our AMC accreditation. In 2024, we took a significant step forward with the introduction of the College Registration Verification Number (CRVN) and an overarching Selection Policy. These tools establish a clear framework that supports fairness, transparency, and equity for all prospective trainees. Encouragingly, all branches are working collaboratively towards this shared goal. I would particularly like to recognise the Victorian Branch for its significant change in the process of recruitment, moving from eight independent selection sites to a unified selection process this year. This marks real progress towards

national consistency and quality assurance.

While initially an AMC requirement, collaborative engagement between trainees and College committees is now a well-established strength of our program. Trainee representation has helped shape a more flexible and modern program aligned with the expectations and culture of adult learners. Their input closes the loop, ensuring policies are not only wellinformed but also relevant and fit for purpose.

At the heart of our training model is the apprentice approach to training, which depends on the skill and generosity of our Clinical Supervisors and Directors of Training. Their commitment to teaching and mentoring is what makes our training program so strong, and the profession owes them a great debt of thanks. We are working to strengthen the support available to them—through updated resources, regular webinars, online modules, DoT workshops, and written guidance, all of which are accessible via the College website.

Looking forward, “Strengthening our Core” (Horizon 1 of the College’s 2040 Strategic Plan) will guide CRETC’s work for the years ahead. We will continue to consolidate what works well, embrace new opportunities, and enhance every

aspect of the training journey. Our aim is to ensure a robust, futureready training program that supports excellence in radiology across Australia and New Zealand.

After a long hiatus, I was fortunate to visit our Singapore training post in July, accompanied by Duane Findley our CEO, and Brendan Grabau, our GM from the Training and Lifelong Learning Unit. It was a productive and worthwhile trip, with valuable discussions held with the Clinical Supervisors and trainees across both Clinical Radiology and Radiation Oncology. As one of our smaller training outposts, Singapore faces a number of unique challenges, and we are committed to working closely with them to support and address these in the months ahead. We look forward to maintaining a more regular presence in the region ensuring that Singapore remains a well-supported and integral part of our training network.

It is a pleasure to congratulate Dr Jennifer Chang on her appointment as the incoming Chief Censor for Clinical Radiology. Dr Chang brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served the College and profession in many training capacities including Director of Training, Network Training Director, Branch Education Officer, Trainee Wellbeing Officer, and most recently as the Chief Accreditation Officer. I am confident that Dr Chang will lead with insight, energy and dedication.

Dr Barry Soans, Chief Censor (FCR)

Planning, Progress and Feedback

The CPD and ePortfolio survey is now closed, and your feedback will inform how we refine the CPD system, resources and support.

Dear friends, Here are some mid-year thoughts and reflections on professional practice.

We’re now over halfway through the 2025 CPD year—a good moment to pause and reflect on our individual and collective engagement with professional development. It’s not just about meeting minimum requirements. The most valuable CPD journeys are shaped by genuine curiosity, strategic reflection, and a desire to improve patient care. This is where the Professional Development Plan (PDP) plays an important role.

A quick reminder that PDP submissions for 2025 are now due. This structured plan is not only a CPD requirement, it is also your opportunity to intentionally reflect on areas of interest, identify gaps, and map out development goals aligned to your practice. A wellconsidered PDP sets the tone for a year of meaningful learning.

I also want to take this opportunity to remind members that it is the Medical Boards of Australia and New Zealand, not the College, that bring in regular changes to the framework and determine the CPD requirements. The College’s role is to support you in meeting these external requirements as clearly and efficiently as possible. We understand that evolving standards and regulatory changes can create uncertainty, and we remain committed to guiding and supporting you through those transitions.

In the spirit of feedback, the College launched a survey to better

understand your experiences with CPD and the ePortfolio platform. Your insights were vital, and they will directly inform how we refine the system, the resources we offer, and the support we provide.

As with any program intended to support lifelong learning, ongoing feedback is essential. Your candid thoughts on what’s working, what’s frustrating, and what could make your experience more enriching are greatly valued and will shape how we develop our CPD Home program for the future. This year, the College has been focused on improving both the CPD framework and the user experience of the ePortfolio. We’ve heard some of your concerns and ideas already, particularly around streamlining the interface and clarifying documentation expectations. The upcoming survey is your chance to shape these improvements directly. If we want a CPD program that reflects our evolving professional needs, then we need your voice at the table.

Our monthly Faculty e-newsletter continues to be the best way to stay up to date on all things CPD: reminders, new resources and event listings. I urge you to keep an eye on it—these short monthly updates can save you a great deal of last-minute stress come December.

As you continue to engage with CPD this year, I encourage you to reflect on its broader purpose. Beyond compliance, what role does CPD play in your own professional growth? How can it support you in responding to clinical challenges, staying current with innovation,

“The most valuable CPD journeys are shaped by genuine curiosity, strategic reflection, and a desire to improve patient care.”

and mentoring the next generation of radiologists?

We’re here to support you in that journey, through resources that matter and a CPD structure that evolves with your feedback. Until next time, I leave you with these reflections and a simple encouragement: keep learning, stay curious, and don’t forget to submit your PDP. IN

Dr Pramod Phadke, CHoPP (FCR)

Recognition of Excellence

Recognition of several outstanding contributions to cancer care underscores Australia’s role at the forefront of radiation medicine.

The pursuit of excellence is something to which we all aspire and remains a cornerstone of quality clinical practice for our profession. It is therefore with considerable pleasure that I share the news that two radiation oncology colleagues were recently honoured in the King’s Birthday Honours list for their outstanding contributions to medicine, research and the advancement of radiation oncology in Australia.

Queensland-based Prof Mike Poulsen has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant service to radiation oncology as both a practitioner and researcher.

Mike has authored over 150 peer-reviewed publications and was instrumental in pioneering innovative radiation therapies for skin cancer. In 2020, he was awarded the RANZCR Roentgen Medal for his outstanding contribution to radiation oncology in Australia.

Prof Gerald Fogarty, a nationally recognised leader in skin cancer treatment and radiation oncology innovation, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to medical research. Gerald has played a key role in developing

national skin cancer guidelines, has authored over 180 peer-reviewed publications and holds academic appointments at four leading Australian universities.

Mike and Gerald join an esteemed group of distinguished radiation oncologists who have previously received awards in this space.

I am also delighted to congratulate A/Prof Mei Ling Yap who was recently awarded the 2025 Jeannie Ferris Award by Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Ageing in recognition of excellence in delivering equity in cancer care.

Although radiation oncology is a small faculty, this recognition underlines the significance of the work we do and reinforces the fact that Australians are at the forefront of radiation medicine.

Medical Treatment Overseas Program (MTOP)

Following an increase in the number of Medical Treatment Overseas Program (MTOP) applications received over the past few years, RANZCR is working closely with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (DoHDA) to facilitate timely access to particle therapy for individuals who have applied under the program.

MTOP provides financial assistance for Australians with a life-threatening medical condition to receive life-saving medical treatment overseas when effective treatment is not available in

Australia. Treating practitioners apply on behalf of Australian patients wishing to access particle therapy overseas through the completion of a detailed written application which is submitted to the DoDHA, which then forwards this to RANZCR for assessment.

The College is particularly cognisant that a diagnosis of cancer is a stressful time and that access to cancer treatment, whether in Australia or overseas, is time sensitive. It is for these reasons that the Government and College are collaborating on how best to streamline and increase efficiencies in the application process, whilst maintaining robust assessment and decision-making.

This current collaboration comes on the back of considerable work by the College and members over many years, many of whom have volunteered their time and experience as MTOP assessors. And in other news, after seeking advice from RANZCR on photon/ proton planning, on 1 July 2025 the Government introduced a new MBS item (15990) for proton beam dosimetry and proton-photon comparative plan reporting to assess applications for PBT under MTOP.

In the meantime, RANZCR continues to advocate to the Government for the establishment of a particle therapy centre in Australia, to improve patient access to this treatment. IN

Dr Tuan Ha, Dean (FRO)

Tailored Training

Increasing flexibility for examinations and the arrival of CLPs. Plus, a warm welcome to the next Radiation Oncology Chief Censor.

Dr Lisa Sullivan, Chief Censor (FRO)

I’m really pleased to share some exciting news with you—the Faculty of Radiation Oncology Council has approved Dr Apsara Windsor as our next Chief Censor for Radiation Oncology from January 2026. Many of you will already know Apsara, and you’ll appreciate the endless bucket of energy, knowledge and experience she brings to this role. She’s worn many hats before—Director of Training, Head of Department and, most recently, Chair of the Phase 1 Examination Panel. Apsara understands the training journey inside and out, and she’s deeply committed to making sure our program stays relevant and strong, helping to shape radiation oncologists who are capable, thoughtful and patient-centred. I have no doubt she’ll do a fantastic job, and we’re lucky to have her step up.

You might have also caught some early conversations about a change we’ve been working on—making

exam timing much more flexible. The idea is straightforward: trainees should take their exams when they genuinely feel ready, rather than being restricted by fixed timelines.

This change is a direct result of feedback we’ve received from trainees, Trainee Network Directors, and Directors of Training. It’s a great example of how your input really guides the program’s direction. We’re always open to hearing from you, so please keep those conversations going.

We’re still finalising some of the details, particularly around how to implement this fairly so no one is disadvantaged. But here’s what we’re aiming for:

No minimum time requirement to sit exams—you’ll be able to take them whenever you feel ready within each Phase of training.

Phase 1 minimum training time will be reduced to 12 months

Phase 2 will have a minimum training time of 36 months. While we’re offering greater flexibility in when exams can be taken, we’ve maintained a minimum training time in Phase 1—though it’s now shorter—and introduced minimum training times in Phase 2 to ensure there’s enough dedicated time for clinical exposure and development. This approach comes from honest and open discussions with trainees and clinical supervisors, who all agree that seeing a wide range of patients and getting plenty of practical experience is what really helps you become the best radiation oncologists you can be.

I genuinely believe this is a

“The idea is straightforward: trainees should take their exams when they genuinely feel ready; rather than being restricted by fixed timelines.”

positive step toward a more tailored training experience, and I’m proud we’ve been able to make this happen. We’ll be sharing more updates through the Trainee and DoT eNews as we get closer to rolling it out.

Lastly, I want to thank Dr Mary Xu and Dr Angela Allen, the Centralised Learning Program (CLP) clinical leads, who, together with the incredible ESO Micaele Howard, and our trainees, Dr Ben Challis and Dr Riche Mohan are organising a Phase 2 Workshop and Mock Exam in Brisbane on 21–22 November. This is a fantastic initiative—especially as the lectures will be recorded and made available online so trainees can access them anytime. I’d also like to thank Prof Alex Tan and many Phase 2 examiners who, once again, are volunteering their time and will be assisting with the mock exam.

As always, if you want to chat, vent, or share brilliant ideas, I’m just an email, text, or call away. I’m here whenever you need—don’t hesitate to reach out! IN

Registration and Regulation

Amid evolving expectations and updated CPD requirements, it's important to understand the role of the MBA and MCNZ in maintaining professional standards.

Dr Ziad Thotathil, CHoPP (FRO)

We have passed the halfway mark for 2025. At the time of writing, winter is at its peak, affecting some of us more than others (depending on location). Some of us may get to enjoy the joys of winter, such as a skiing holiday, while for others it is business as usual. But we know that seasons come and go, and soon we will be welcoming spring.

As doctors, we know that our contribution to healthcare is required throughout the year. While the reasons that took us down the path of medical training may vary, there is always a desire to help others that keeps us in this profession despite the many challenges along the way. Some of you may recall the day when you gained registration with the local medical board. That was when you realised that you were now a certified medical professional, making the sacrifices that you may have made on your journey worthwhile.

The Medical Board of Australia and the Medical Council of NZ are responsible for ensuring that medical practitioners in their respective jurisdictions are fit to practice. They are statutory bodies established under the relevant national legislation. Their primary function is to protect the public by ensuring that medical practitioners are competent and adhere to professional standards.

that practitioners participated in educational activities, such as attending conferences that kept us in touch with developments in our respective fields. In recent times, scientific literature on the effectiveness or not of various forms of CPD has proliferated. There have been changes in the social environment as well as the complexity of medical practice. It is no longer adequate that a doctor is a top scholar, but also requires other skills to provide quality medical care.

The Board/Council responded to these developments by updating the CPD standards. In addition to regular education, practitioners are now asked to complete a range of activities in various domains to develop and/or maintain a broader skillset. RANZCR is required to implement these recommendations and this has resulted in significant changes to our CPD program recently.

I can understand the angst that these new requirements have caused among some of you. The pace of changes has been confusing too. It is important to note that it is the MBA and MCNZ that specify what the practitioner needs to do for CPD. RANZCR can only provide guidance and maintain the CPD platform so that members meet the required standards as determined by the Board/Council.

“It is important to note that it is the MBA and MCNZ that specify what the practitioner needs to do for CPD.”

One of the ways that the authorities ensure that practitioners remain fit to practice years after they complete their training is through regulation of continuing professional development (CPD). For a long time, it was adequate

As the old saying goes, please don’t shoot the messenger. But please note the message. IN

Diving into the Archives

1970

President Dr Denis Wightman’s speech at the College’s 21st Annual General Meeting prophetically warns of a growing climate of medico-political unrest in Australia and New Zealand, into which the College becomes inexorably drawn over the coming two decades.

1972

The Royal prefix is granted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and the College is renamed The Royal Australasian College of Radiologists. This year also sees the end of an historic British connection, when the last Australian examinations are held for Fellowship of the Faculty of Radiology.

1973

The first College newsletter is published, though for the first few years editions are published sporadically. This year also sees the College Education Board becoming responsible for overseeing the accreditation of hospitals for training purposes.

1977

The College office moves into the historic and charming property purchased in Lower Fort Street, Sydney.

1978 The Standing Committee on Radiation Therapy and Oncology (the forerunner of the Faculty of Radiation Oncology) is established.

This year marks 90 years since the founding of what is now The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists. In previous issues of Inside News, we’ve revisited milestone events from the 1930s, 40s, 50s and 60s. This issue, we look back at some of the changes that occurred through the 1970s and 80s.

1979

The new membership category of Educational Affiliate is introduced to cover practitioners who are not members of the College; also the Standing Committee on Manpower (later Workforce) is established.

1982

The J P Trainor Archive Trust is set up following a generous donation from successful industrialist Paul Trainor in honour of his father, the late Australian X-ray equipment pioneer.

1983

The College Research Fund is established and the two-tier membership structure is abolished, resulting in all members becoming Fellows.

1984

Dr Gwenneth Pinner assumes office as the first female College President, and the recently formed Continuing Medical Education Committee stages the first, and very successful, View Box Seminar (a way of keeping radiologists up to date with new techniques).

1985

A highly successful Annual Scientific Meeting is staged in Brisbane, celebrating 50 years since the formation of The Australian and New Zealand Association of Radiology (ANZAR).

1988

Dr James Syme stands down as Warden of the Membership, a role he has held since 1970. He had made an outstanding contribution during an era of unprecedented development in procedures and technology.

Scan the QR code to learn more about RANZCR’s 90th anniversary. If you have a story to tell or a photo to share from the past 90 years, please email editor@ranzcr.edu.au

A Quick Update for a Stronger Connection

Think about the last time you nearly missed something important – an event you wanted to attend, a piece of news that mattered, or an opportunity that came and went. Often, it comes down to whether the right message reached you at the right time.

By keeping your details with RANZCR current (including your preferred email, phone number, workplace, and areas of interest), you make sure you’re always in the loop. It means CPD reminders land where you’ll see them, event invitations arrive on time, and College news stays relevant to your professional journey.

It only takes a moment to log in and check your details, but it keeps us connected in ways that matter.

Click or scan the QR code to log into the MyRANZCR portal now.

Dr Valerie Mayne was a pioneering force in Australian radiology whose career spanned more than five decades and paralleled the transformation of medical imaging. Beginning in the era of plain films, fluoroscopy and handwritten reports, she witnessed—and helped shape—the evolution of radiology through ultrasound, CT, MRI and digital imaging.

Val graduated from the University of Melbourne in 1961, one of just 12 women in her class. After completing her residency in Ballarat (1962–63), she began her radiology training at St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne. She later joined the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), where her career flourished.

From 1972 to 1976, Val served as Deputy Director of Radiology at RCH, becoming the first woman appointed Director in 1976. She held this role until 1981 and was instrumental in introducing ultrasonography to the department, earning her Diploma in Medical Ultrasound in 1980. Val’s focus later turned to skeletal dysplasia, an area in which she became an internationally recognised expert. Working closely with Professor David Danks and geneticist Dr John Rogers, she co-founded the RCH bone dysplasia X-ray library —a resource that supported research and diagnosis for decades. Her contributions in this field

Imaging Icon

Life Member Dr Valerie Mayne (Mrs Pearce) passed away on 20 April 2025 at the age of 89. Here, former colleagues Prof Michael Ditchfield, A/Prof Lee Coleman and A/Prof Christine Rodda reflect on her remarkable 55-year career and ongoing legacy in the field of paediatric radiology.

IN MEMORIAM

Dr William Woods, Fellow, NSW

Dr Kenneth Goard, Life Member, ACT

Dr Roger Burgess, Fellow, QLD

continued until she was well into her 80s.

Val also held senior positions at Nepean Hospital, including Director of Medical Imaging (1998–2003) and Area Director for the Wentworth Area Health Service. She was instrumental in establishing Nepean’s first MRI unit during this period.

At 67, Val returned to Melbourne— not to retire, but to continue her clinical and academic work at Monash Medical Centre and RCH. She officially retired from RCH in 2021 at the age of 85, concluding a remarkable 55-year career.

Val was a founding member of the Australian Society of Paediatric Imaging and, in 2010, was awarded Life Membership of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists in recognition of her immense contributions to radiology,

education, and research. In 2014, she received the Elizabeth Turner Medal—the highest peer accolade at RCH—for exceptional clinical care.

Known for her candour, intellect and compassion, Val mentored generations of radiologists. She was unflinching in her opinions but always acted with integrity, warmth and charm. Her legacy lives on in the many she taught and inspired.

Born in the mid-1930s, Val was a devoted wife and mother of four— Justin, Andrew, David and Stephanie; the latter following her into the imaging field as a radiographer.

Remarkably, after giving birth to her first child in 1969, she returned to full-time work just two weeks later. Her dedication to both family and profession never wavered.

“Known for her candour, intellect and compassion, Val mentored generations of radiologists. Her legacy lives on in the many she taught and inspired.”

Val’s values—resilience, generosity and determination—shone throughout her life. Even as she faced serious health challenges in later years, she remained quietly courageous, enduring with the same grit that defined her professional life. Her absence has been deeply felt by all who knew and respected her.

Val lived a life of service—to medicine, to her family, and to her colleagues. Her work, especially in skeletal dysplasia, will resonate for years to come.

We remember Val with profound admiration and gratitude. We honour her legacy and give thanks for the extraordinary life of a remarkable woman. IN

Registration is now open for the 2025 Targeting Cancer Fun Run, taking place along the banks of Melbourne’s beautiful Yarra River on the morning of Saturday 25 October. Join your RANZCR colleagues and friends, and help raise awareness of radiation therapy as a safe and effective treatment for cancer.

Visit www.ranzcrasm.com to register.

Prestigious RSNA Grant Goes to Australia for the First Time

Peter Mac radiologist Dr Hyun Soo Ko is the first Australian and first German radiologist to receive a world renowned RSNA (Radiological Society of North America) Research Seed Grant to address cancer cachexia. The RSNA, one of the world’s largest radiological societies with over 51,000 members in 157 countries, has awarded 1,900+ research projects since 1984 through its R&E Foundation. Its annual scientific meeting is the largest global radiology meeting, attracting over 40,000—and pre-pandemic, recording a peak of over 60,000 attendees in 2019

Cancer cachexia, a condition causing severe fat and muscle wasting in 80% of advanced cancer patients, is responsible for about a third of cancer-related deaths. Despite its enormous clinical impact, we still don’t have effective tests or tools to detect it early. Research has shown that inflammation and stress play a big role in the development of cachexia.

Dr Ko’s groundbreaking project combines international

Dr Satosh Kumar, QLD Branch: Uhr Clarke Bursary Winner, Reflects on the Award

Thank you for awarding me the Uhr Clark Bursary for 2023. This generous support enabled me to attend the bi-annual European Congress on Head and Neck Oncology (ECHNO) 2025 in March, held at the historic Beurs van Berlage in central Amsterdam.

and multidisciplinary expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced radiological and epigenetic blood analyses. According to Dr Ko, “The collaboration with two world-renowned US collaborators, Profs Ruth Carlos (Columbia University) and Prof Steven Cole (UCLA), will allow a novel interdisciplinary approach to uncover new tools for early detection and better management of cancer cachexia.”

Bridging the gap by integrating clinical data, radiologic imaging, and epigenetic analysis from blood, this study focuses on colorectal cancer patients who undergo surgery at Peter Mac. What sets this research apart is its innovative, prospective design: matching real-time human blood samples with CT scans using AI. This is a more holistic and personalised approach, aiming to discover clinically relevant biomarkers to detect and better define the complex issue of cancer cachexia, ultimately improving outcomes and quality of life for patients suffering from this severe condition. IN

The four-day conference featured engaging speakers and diverse presentations. Key themes included treatment de-escalation for HPV associated mucosal malignancies, the emerging role of liquid biomarkers, and the integration of artificial intelligence in oncology— underscoring a multidisciplinary collaborative approach.

Of particular interest was the discussion around radiation dose reduction for HPV associated oropharyngeal cancers, especially in older patients unfit for standard chemoradiotherapy—a cohort similar to those I see in regional practice.

Research into liquid biomarkers, e.g. circulating tumour DNA/tumour cells, show promise as minimally invasive tools for cancer detection and monitoring. AI presentations explored foundational concepts including machine learning, deep neural networks and creation of AI models. One of the earliest studies relevant to oncology was presented by a guest speaker from Stanford University, using annotated endoscopic images to train cancer-detecting models—an exciting frontier with significant potential.

I am grateful for the opportunity to attend and bring these insights back to my clinical practice. IN

Trainee Day

A recap of the action-packed NSW Branch Trainee Day held in May.

The NSW Branch conducted its annual event on 3 May 2025. The event was unique on two fronts. It was the first ever time that the Branch event was dedicated solely to trainees. It was also the first time the Branch nominated and acknowledged a consultant radiologist who has made significant contributions to trainee education over the years. The event commenced

with Dr Rajiv Rattan, Faculty of Clinical Radiology Dean, and Dr Pramod Phadke, NSW Branch Chair, presenting a memento to Dr Graham Dunn on behalf of the NSW radiology community, acknowledging him as the Radiology Educator of the Year.

Dr Rattan also spoke of his personal experience with Dr Dunn, which was echoed by other consultants in the audience. Dr Dunn then took to the stage to share his own thoughts and experiences.

The schedule had multiple sessions catering to various facets of the training. This included talks on Clinical Leadership by Dr Rajiv Rattan, Women in IR by Dr Hannah Ireland and Research in Radiology

“It was the first ever time that the Branch event was dedicated solely to trainees.”

and Fellowship Pathways by Dr Ross Copping. The event also included registrar research presentations, with the best research topic being nominated as the NSW Branch entry for the Branch of Origin event at the 2025 RANZCR ASM in Melbourne. This was adjudicated by Dr Lloyd Ridley, Dr Ross Copping and Dr James Drummond.

The latter half of the day was dedicated to exam preparation with Mock OSCER sessions for Mammo, O&G and MSK, run by Dr Sarita Bahure, Dr Hannah Ireland and Dr Guy Harris respectively. This session allowed a few trainees to be in the hot seat and a larger group to observe.

The last event of the day was a session where Dr Wynne Sum discussed a series of cases, including tips and tricks, mirroring the Case Reporting Session. The cases were prepared by senior post exam trainees and provided to the participants in advance. The event was very well received. IN

Dr Preeta Philip, NSW BEO (Branch Education Officer)

Events, Energy, Excellence

Amid a whirlwind year, the QLD Branch has kept the momentum going with dynamic events delivering just the right mix of learning and laughter.

Academic Evenings

It has been an eventful year for Queensland so far. 2025 started hot with several months of broken temperature records. Public and private reporting volumes continued their relentless march upwards. A cyclone came and went in there somewhere.

But Queenslanders are a relentless group, and do not give pause for such trivial matters. This creates some difficulty for the Branch Committee, who must try to keep members constructively occupied and away from the inevitable descent into complaints (or celebrations) about median house prices. The RANZCR QLD events calendar, as a result, ends up relatively full.

2025 marked the triumphant return of our once-biannual academic evenings. Things kicked off in February at Hillstone St Lucia, in a great night covering midfoot injuries, cholecystitis, gadolinium, and an unusual but delightful preponderance of kangaroo references. We also christened our first ever Townsville Academic Evening in March, hosted by the eminent Drs John Joseph and Monika Joshi. Some in attendance called it “a success on par with the Cowboys NRL Premiership victory in 2015”. Keep an eye out for our next Brisbane Academic Evening, booked for 7 October 2025.

Annual Scientific Meeting

Exemplary. Revolutionary. Worldclass. These were a few of the adjectives used to describe the canapes served at the QLD ASM. The academic program was also second to none, thoughtfully crafted by the vibrant millennial convenors Matthew Aitken, Stef Lovell and Jeffrey Cheng. Highlights included an update on lung cancer screening from Prof Catherine ‘Gandalf’ Jones, and several digs at Gen Z by Prof Sandeep Bhuta in his talk on imaging hearing loss.

Virtual Case Review

The Virtual Case Review series

continues strong; this year teaming up with the Victorians for a round of senior radiologists discussing their most interesting and educational misses. Kudos must be awarded to the convenors Thakur Manas Singh and VIC Branch Chair Xavier Yu, who looked beyond the usual interstate rivalry to put together an event so enthralling that 300 people decided after a full weekday of work to then log in for a further two hours just to watch more cases. Details for the next Case Review in November are being finalised now.

Trivia Night

Our latest event combined a pub, great food, unlimited drinks, a barrage of trivia and hilarious prizes all for a $25 ticket. The Trivia Night (on August 23) was a cracking evening.

These events rely entirely on the input of multiple parties to whom I am very grateful. The hard work and engagement of my fellow Branch Committee members. The speakers and volunteers who take out of their time to give back to the radiology community. The ongoing administrative support and overarching grace of RANZCR, our Lord Overseer. And, of course, the Queensland members who, time after time, commit to the quiet courage of turning up in robust support. IN

Dr Arjuna Somasundaram, QLD Branch Chair

Clockwise from above: RANZCR Qld ASM in July 2025; Dr Thomas Snow and Dr Annika Cruickshank at AMAQ Medical Careers Expo; Townsville Academic Evening in March 2025

Dr Jash Agraval, NZ Branch Chair

Kia ora Tatou,

The past nine months as Chair have flown by—it’s a privilege to represent our community and continue the work of the branch in the advocacy space. We have also had a significant number of consultations, most of which touch radiology only minimally.

A few weeks ago we held our NZ ASM and, for the social animals like myself, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. It was a fantastic reminder of the local talent and expertise we have right here in NZ. The theme ‘What we do in the shadows’ was a clever play on both the show and radiology. Congratulations to our convenors Han Kim, Leah Schafer, Slavka Kudrnova and Hannah Scowcroft, you did a fabulous job.

It goes without saying a highlight was the dinner at Parliament, but I particularly enjoyed the combined session on AI and data sovereignty in Aotearoa NZ. AI has an increasingly important role in both professions, and it was a timely reminder to hear the medico-legal perspective on its implications and responsibilities. This is a complex field and discussions about education around AI and patient consent are very relevant.

The convenors had an excellent educational program with a great mix of local and international speakers. It was great to be at Takina, with its modern facilities and increased space—particularly for our exhibitors.

What We Do in the Shadows

Reflecting on nine months of advocacy, collaboration and celebration within the clinical radiology and radiation oncology community in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Wellington characteristically put on an amazing weekend, which made for an ambience that is hard to beat. Aside from the program, a highlight was connecting with radiology and radiation oncology colleagues around the motu, sharing learnings and frustrations alike.

Our Pikimairawea Winners

Each year nominations are received to honour NZ Fellows who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to or excellence in the fields of clinical radiology or radiation oncology.

Congratulations to our Pikimairawea winners, Dr Christine Elder for her commitment to education and training for radiation oncology and Dr Lip Koon Ng also for his commitment to education and training. Both Christine and Lip Koon have had a profound and lasting impact on training in NZ, significantly shaping the delivery of teaching.

NZMSA Conference

The College sponsored a booth at the NZ Medical Students Association (NZMSA) conference in Ōtautahi, Christchurch, which over 300 junior doctors attended. A heartfelt thank you to our local trainees Hannah Scowcroft, Rachel Bol, Patrick Leong, Timothy Leaper and Alexandra Winsloe, who attended and shared their enthusiasm, representing the College with professionalism and passion.

2025 Selection Update

This year we had 62 candidates for clinical radiology for 33 positions, this is the largest cohort of candidates in the past 10 years. Radiation oncology had 12 applicants for four positions. We have been working closely with the National Networks advocating to Health NZ to maximise the capacity of training and continue to increase the funding for training positions and to ensure they have enough Senior Medical Officer roles to keep our locally trained new Fellows in NZ. This continues to be a priority—thank you to those of you who have spent countless hours involved in selection and ensuring we are choosing the best candidates to join our training programs. IN

“It was a fantastic reminder of the local talent and expertise we have right here in New Zealand.”

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