VCCC Annual Report 2016-17

Annual Report 2016–17

An alliance to advance the control and cure of cancer

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Thanks to the Victorian State Government for their generous support of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre

2

Annual Report 2016–17

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Welcome Founded on the holistic principles of the internationally-recognised Comprehensive Cancer Centre model, the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre is a powerful alliance of 10 leading research, clinical and academic institutions committed to working together to advance and accelerate cancer research, treatments, prevention and care.

Mission The mission for the VCCC is to save lives through the integration of cancer research, education and patient care. Through innovation and collaboration, the VCCC will drive the next generation of improvements in prevention, detection and cancer treatment.

The role of the VCCC is to coordinate collaboration between member organisations and develop a strategic program of work that integrates research, education and clinical care to maximise patient outcomes in a cost-effective manner.

The VCCC’s multi-site, multi-disciplinary model brings together the complementary strengths of Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne Health (including The Royal Melbourne Hospital), The University of Melbourne, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, The Royal Women’s Hospital, The Royal Children’s Hospital, Western Health, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne (including St Vincent’s Institute), Austin Health (including the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and Austin LifeSciences) and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute.

Collective Impact Together, the VCCC alliance partners represent:

1,300+

Individually these organisations are leaders in the sector, each bringing particular strengths and specialties: together they represent a truly formidable force working to control and cure cancer. The VCCC alliance brings together these cancer powerhouses and fosters collaborative opportunities that enable them do even more than they could alone: enabling access to large cancer patient populations; facilitating key cancer research and clinical trial pathways, and bolstering education and learning for cancer professionals. Under a mandate from the State Government of Victoria, the VCCC is developing a strategic research platform that will progress new research evidence in key focus areas from lab benchto-bedside, supported by targeted education programs across the spectrum of cancer control work, as well as key initiatives in clinical care.

#26 700+

The VCCC is Australia’s first comprehensive cancer centre.

2

More than 1300 researchers

Research impact: ranked 26 out of 73 international cancer centres

Over 700 clinical trials open per year

top 1%

Publish 40% of Australia’s cancer research papers in world’s top 1% by citation

$110m

Approximately $110m per annum in cancer research income

70%

70% of participants in cancer related clinical trials in Victoria

360

360 PhD students in cancer research

Welcome

VCCC Partners

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (Peter Mac) The Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre is Australia’s only public hospital solely dedicated to cancer and one of an elite group of cancer hospitals worldwide with embedded research laboratories, which are uniquely integrated with extensive clinical and cancer experiences research programs. Peter Mac provides services through its main campus in the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre building in Parkville and sites in Bendigo, Box Hill, Moorabbin and Sunshine. Peter Mac treats more cancer patients each year than any other hospital in Australia and our highly skilled medical, nursing and allied health team is backed by the largest cancer research group in the country.

Melbourne Health (The Royal Melbourne Hospital) Melbourne Health through The Royal Melbourne Hospital brings high quality cancer treatment programs, strong translational research, extensive surgical and medical expertise built on its strong foundation as a university teaching hospital. As one of the partner organisations in the Melbourne Brain Centre, the largest renal transplant service in the State and one of only two adult trauma centres in Victoria, The Royal Melbourne Hospital also brings high quality medical specialty services and other key support services to cancer patients such as critical care and emergency medicine.

The University of Melbourne The University of Melbourne’s contribution is as Australia’s first ranked research university and medical school. The University brings academic and research expertise to the alliance, including modern teaching methods, health economics, molecular pathology research, population health, biostatistics, molecular epidemiology research, primary care networks and computing sciences.

The Royal Women’s Hospital The Royal Women’s Hospital is Australia’s oldest and largest hospital for women and newborns. The Women’s provides specialist cancer services for women with cancer, and conducts world leading research into the treatment and care of women with cancer, and the specific impacts of gender on cancer.

A research innovator in fertility preservation,

clinicians at the Women’s pioneered the world’s first ovarian tissue graft to the abdomen, restoring fertility to cancer survivors.

The Women’s is also a global leader in research into menopause caused by cancer treatment.

The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Founded in 1915, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute is Australia’s oldest medical research institute. Improving the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of cancer has been a research focus since the institute’s establishment. Institute discoveries have benefitted more than 20 million cancer patients worldwide.

Today, 45 per cent of the institute’s research is focused on cancer, in particular cancers of the blood, breast, lung, ovary, bowel, stomach and pancreas. The institute’s multidisciplinary cancer researcher teams incorporate genomics, proteomics, structural biology, medicinal chemistry and personalised medicine. Through affiliations with other VCCC partner organisations, the institute’s clinician-scientists are working directly with patients to see this research translated to real clinical outcomes.

The Royal Children’s Hospital The Royal Children’s Hospital provides depth and expertise in children’s cancers with links to adult cancer programs enhancing the management of both children’s and adult cancer.

Western Health Western Health manages one of the largest cancer services in Melbourne and is the largest provider of treatment for colorectal cancer and one of the leaders in the treatment of upper gastro-intestinal cancers with growing programs in breast and lung cancer. The Western region of Melbourne is an area of extreme cultural diversity, with rapidly growing numbers of young adults and a rapidly increasing aged population.

Responding to this complexity is integral to overcoming future cancer challenges and driving the next generation of progress in the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer.

3

St Vincent’s Hospital and St Vincent’s Institute St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne is a university teaching hospital. It is a mission based health service being especially committed to caring for people who are poor and vulnerable. There is comprehensive expertise across the continuum of cancer care, research and education. St Vincent’s is recognised for excellence in complex cancer surgery, it also manages 30 per cent of the state’s head and neck cancer patients and is the number one treatment centre in Victoria for sarcoma. There are state of the art on-site radiation therapy and chemotherapy facilities.

In addition St Vincent’s is a leader in palliative care practice, research and education and houses the State- wide Psycho-oncology service.

It is the largest metropolitan provider of hospital services to rural and regional Victorians. A third of St Vincent’s cancer patients are from nonmetropolitan areas Austin Health, including Olivia Newton John Cancer Research Institute and Cancer and Wellness Centre Austin Health is the major tertiary health service in Melbourne’s north-east. Austin Health is renowned for its specialist work in cancer, liver transplantation, spinal cord injuries, neurology, endocrinology, mental health and rehabilitation including a number of state-wide services.

The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and Cancer and Wellness Centre at Austin Health provides holistic cancer care, and conducts significant translational research and clinical trials including psycho-oncology research.

Murdoch Children’s Research Institute Murdoch Children’s Research Institute undertakes research into infant, child and adolescent health. As the largest child health research institute in Australia, their 1500 researchers are working hard to translate the knowledge they create from our research into effective prevention, early intervention and treatments for children. The dedicated team investigate how cells function in healthy children and in those affected by disease. They also undertake research into how alterations in genes affect the health of children and work to uncover the genetic basis of disease to understand the causes and improve the management of genetic conditions.

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Contents

p6

Executive Director’s Report

p8

Chairperson’s Report

p10

Research, Knowledge & Information

p18

Education and Training

4

Contents

p26

Engagement and partnerships

p32

Patients and Community

p34

The VCCC Inaugural Research Conference

p36

Financial Statements

p46

Board, committees and staff

5

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Executive Director’s Report Professor Grant McArthur

The last 12 months have been a time of great momentum and change for the VCCC.

The Strategic Research Plan will be ready to implement by the end of October 2017. I believe it will be empowering for our partners and collaborators and help us make genuine progress steps towards our twin aims of controlling and curing cancer. You can read more about the SRP on page 11.

It has been an energising and exciting time for me to join. We are supporting research and educational programs with a clear line of sight to improve cancer control for Victorians, and ultimately, all Australians.

We have strong support from government and from our 10 partners - the essential alliance that underpins our approach - to enable us to save lives through the integration of cancer research, education and patient care.

People living with cancer and their families are at the heart of everything we do at the VCCC. To help us remain true to this commitment, we rely heavily on the participation of our Cancer Consumer Advisory Committee, which has been actively involved in the development of our Strategic Research Plan. The partnership with patients and consumer leaders is central to the achievement of our aims in the future and I am grateful for their input.

I have been pleased to further develop strong relationships with key agencies, Cancer Council Victoria and the Monash Partners Comprehensive Cancer Consortium. Effective relationships with these agencies are crucial for the VCCC to enhance our own strong collaborative network. Together we can fulfil our shared vision of enhanced cancer control and better outcomes for patients.

It has been such been an exciting start for me in this role as Executive Director. It is clear to me that the VCCC is taking a lead role nationally in preventing, controlling and curing cancer. There is an enormous amount of work to do over the next few years and we will be placing much greater emphasis on communication to ensure all our partners, the sector, and the community, are aware of our programs of work and the ways that they can participate.

This year we have been developing our new Strategic Research Plan (SRP), under a directive from the Victorian State Government. The new plan sets out 19 programs for the VCCC and I am very grateful to Professors Andrew Roberts, Geoff McColl and Mark Rosenthal and our working groups, who have made such significant contributions to the plan. This has been a truly collaborative and consultative process, to devise specific initiatives that will work across all partners and hasten our progress. The Strategic Research Plan will particularly focus on clinical trials research, rapidly advancing research areas including those in precision oncology and immunotherapy.

The plan also allows us to boost our investment in education and training as a key mechanism for translating research into practice.

I feel extremely confident about building on the wonderful legacy of former Executive Director, Prof Jim Bishop and the previous VCCC Board Chairs.

The work of these individuals has provided a fantastic foundation to improve our science and understanding for cancer patients in Victoria and beyond.

Professor Grant McArthur Executive Director

6

Welcome

Professor Grant McArthur, Executive Director of the VCCC

‘Patients are at the centre of everything we do.’

7

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Chairperson’s Report Professor Linda Kristjanson AO

Some years seem more significant than others.

in our future work. You will also see the contributions of outstanding cancer leaders who are embracing the potential of this special alliance and mapping the path to fulfil our vision.

Events and decisions are made that up the ante or alter our course, hasten the pace and urge us to step up and step forward. I think 2016-17 has been one of those years. Certainly, at the VCCC, it has been an exciting and positive time of growth, as we advance towards our mission to prevent, treat and cure cancer, with people who live with cancer and their families, at the heart of our work.

We are grateful to the Victorian Government for their generous support. I would like to thank my fellow Board Directors for their dedication to our shared work. The commitment of our ten partners has been noteworthy and I have valued their wise counsel and generous leadership.

On behalf of the Board, I also congratulate Prof Grant McArthur (Executive Director), Prof Andrew Roberts (Chair – Cancer Research Advisory Committee), Prof Geoff McColl (Chair – Cancer Education and Training Advisory Committee), Prof Mark Rosenthal (Lead – Clinical Trials Development) and the staff of the VCCC for the extensive collaborative work program that undertaken in the past six months in particular.

At the end of 2016, we bade farewell to Professor Jim Bishop AO, who retired after six impressive years at the helm. I would like to reiterate the Board’s thanks to Jim for his dedicated service over the foundational years of the VCCC. We were delighted to receive a major injection of new funds from the Victorian State Government – a total of $30 million over four years – to develop a new Strategic Research Plan and amplify our cancer clinical trials and in April 2017 we welcomed the start of a new era under the leadership of new Executive Director, Professor Grant McArthur.

Thank you especially to our dedicated Cancer Consumer Advisory Committee. Your contributions have been essential to the integrity and focus of our work and we value your input.

And finally, we share our report with the Victorian community – our patients and their families, as we partner with you to create a promising future.

Under Prof McArthur’s leadership, we are delivering on these bold plans supported by a dedicated team who have energetically embraced the ambitious goals we have set for this next phase of work.

Professor Linda Kristjanson AO Chairperson

The VCCC building has now been open for more than a year and has lived up to all expectations as a state-ofthe-art cancer facility. Most importantly, the strength and promise of the VCCC comes from our powerful alliance of partners and an inclusive and collaborative approach to our work.

In the pages of this annual report, you will see evidence of our strategic connections and collaborations and the networks being forged within our alliance and beyond. You will hear the voices of our VCCC consumer representatives, ensuring that the perspective of people living with cancer is embedded

8

Welcome

Professor Linda Kristjanson AO, Chairperson of the VCCC Board. Photo courtesy of Swinburne University

‘The strength and promise of the VCCC comes from our powerful alliance of partners and an inclusive and collaborative approach to our work.’

9

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Research, Knowledge & Information

We want to take cancer science, apply it successfully to real patients, and improve their health.

RESEARCH TRANSLATION

whole by tackling the known barriers to a successful cancer research system. The plan demonstrates the commitment of our partners to working together to fix the hard problems.

In essence, we want to take cancer science, apply it successfully to real patients, and improve their health.

We have prioritised the things that are slowing down research. These are the issues that individual organisations could not tackle on their own but as an alliance - because of our reach, governance, and funding model - we can.

Internationally, comprehensive cancer centres have strong track records of producing high impact research with direct benefits to society.

Our focus on research translation will build a worldclass centre of excellence in cancer that can more rapidly convert research findings and new evidence into routine clinical practice.

During 2016-17 our work in this area has focused on understanding and defining the role of a comprehensive cancer centre like ours within the broader cancer research, education and healthcare ecosystem.

This work has been vitally important in informing the VCCC Strategic Research Plan 2016 - 2020. It will help our partners and the cancer community as a

10

Section

Victorian Minister for Health, The Hon Jill Hennessy MP talks to pioneering clinical trial participants at the announcement of $20 million funding from the Victorian State Government to boost cancer clinical trials through the VCCC

Strategic Research Plan

Strategic Research Plan Themes

In October 2016, the Victorian State Government committed $10m to assist the VCCC partners to develop and implement programs of work focused on translating cancer research to better patient outcomes. This was given a further boost in February 2017 with an additional $20m to further expand clinical trials development. The VCCC has worked with our partners, sector and consumers to identify the key issues and priority programs under the direction of Prof Andrew Roberts, Chair of the VCCC Cancer Research Advisory Committee, and VCCC Clinical Trials Development Lead, Prof Mark Rosenthal.

The final plan is to be submitted by 26 October 2017. A summary will be published on the VCCC website in November 2017.

11

1

Building research capability

2

Translating research into practice and policy

3

Developing the cancer clinical trials program

4

A framework for cancer education and training

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

The Cancer Patient Experience Survey

Clinical Trials Development Program

Better outcomes for Victorian cancer patients are the key driver for the VCCC’s work across research, education and clinical care. Our Living with Cancer program aims to understand patients’ experience of their cancer care to see what is being done well and where improvements can be made.

As part of this program the VCCC conducted Cancer Patient Experience Surveys in 2013 and 2015.

The results highlight areas that provide vital insights for helping health service providers to do more of what works, and identify key areas of need and opportunities to improve across all VCCC clinical partners. The recent results can be compared with the 2013 results and also a National Health Service (NHS) set of results from the UK in 2014 to help track progress.

A paper based on the primary care experience of those surveyed in 2013 was published by Professor Jon Emery, a VCCC chair, in the Medical Journal of Australia in 2016. A presentation of the 2015 survey was given by Professor Mei Krishnasamy, Chair of Cancer Nursing, at the Victorian Integrated Cancer Services Conference in May 2017. The presentation highlighted how research and data on patient experience can be used to improve services.

Professor Grant McArthur and The Hon Jill Hennessy MP at the clinical trials funding announcement, February 2017

Clinical trials form a critical bridge between research discoveries in the lab and the translation of new treatments into patient care. As such, developing and expanding clinical trials is a key focus for the VCCC. In November 2016, Professor Mark Rosenthal, Director of the Parkville Cancer Clinical Trials Unit and Medical Oncologist at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the Royal Melbourne Hospital was appointed as the VCCC’s first Clinical Trial Development Lead. This role will capitalise on the opportunity presented by the size, scale and scope of the alliance to boost innovative clinical trials capability and results.

Data and Outcomes Program In Australia, lack of integration across healthcare sectors is widely cited as one reason for less than optimal health and wellbeing outcomes. Systems for sharing and connecting health data for research is a key focus for the VCCC. This is a challenging issue and one that is considered a capability gap Australia-wide.

We are investing in a platform that will bring health data together from across the VCCC and external sources to provide the research infrastructure that is critical to data-driven research. The platform will bring data together with clinical expertise to facilitate comprehensive, academic health services research that will speed up and improve the translation of health data to improvements in patient care.

This program was given a further boost in February 2017, when the Victorian State Government announced it was committing $20million to boost clinical trials through the VCCC. “This funding will allow us to work strategically across the VCCC alliance to identify key opportunities to use our scope and scale to really build our clinical trials capability,” said Professor Rosenthal. “Ultimately our partners want to ensure all Victorian cancer patients understand the opportunity and can access trials that may benefit them and will also help others.”

The first step in developing the platform will be a VCCC demonstration research project to analyse primary care and hospital data for cancer patients to improve evidence around patient transitions between the two areas. This project is led by Professor Jon Emery, VCCC Research & Education Lead in Primary Care and Chair in Primary Care Cancer Research (refer to Cancer Leadership section).

Detailed plans for clinical trials development will form a major part of the VCCC’s Strategic Research Plan.

See media release.

12

Research, Knowledge & Information

CANCER LEADERSHIP

Prof Philip is particularly interested in research into innovative approaches to palliative care, especially in delivering equitable high quality care and helping doctors to develop effective communication skills.

“Recruitment of world-class research leaders is a proven method for delivering better cancer care”

“I think that palliative care with a collective voice can have an important influence locally, nationally and even internationally,” she said. “This is still a relatively new area of clinical care. There is enormous scope for research and training, and to forge new ideas and directions in palliative care research. More broadly, we want to spark conversations about how we live fully and die well.”

In a comprehensive cancer centre setting, leadership means the ability to foster collaboration, generate strategic partnerships, share knowledge and expertise, and raise the bar of expectation and achievement.

As an alliance, our distributed leadership model means we draw leaders from across all our partners – they lead research and education programs, advise on committees and work as ambassadors. We also bring in new expertise and leadership where needed, and nurture the next generation of cancer leaders to carry the vision forward.

The next appointment in the program will be a Chair in Cancer Health Services Research, based at the University of Melbourne (School of Population and Global Health) and Western Health.

‘Leaders in Cancer’ strategy The Leaders in Cancer program recruits, develops and retains academic cancer research leaders across the VCCC. Recruitment of world-class research leaders is a proven method for delivering better cancer care and patient outcomes and these high calibre leaders are critical to our success. We want to do more and better research, increase the number of clinician scientists, and develop, recruit and retain the best people. This is all part of how we will build research capability – one of the four focus areas of the VCCC’s Strategic Research Plan.

The VCCC’s Leaders in Cancer program highlights the key role of the University of Melbourne in the alliance.

Through the program, 19 academic appointments – 12 Chairs and seven fellowships – have now been made or are in progress, supporting the retention and development of research talent in key cancer disciplines, including leukaemia, melanoma and skin cancers, cancer nursing, cancer genomics, haematology, paediatric cancer genomics and surgical oncology.

Prof Jennifer Philip with former Executive Director of the VCCC, Prof Jim Bishop

Earlier this year, Professor Jennifer Philip was appointed as Chair of Palliative Medicine, a joint appointment between the University of Melbourne, St Vincent’s Hospital and the VCCC. Prof Philip had been deputy director of palliative care at St Vincent’s Hospital, and she has been building networks and connections across the alliance, and identifying opportunities for collaborations in training, learning, and research in this important area of cancer care.

13

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

RESEARCH & EDUCATION LEAD PROGRAM

Haematology Lead: Professor Andrew Roberts

The VCCC Research & Education (R&E) Lead program is an excellent example of the integrated nature of a comprehensive cancer centre.

A pilot program began in 2015 with three R&E Leads appointed in the areas of haematology, melanoma and skin cancers, and primary care integration. In 2016-17, a further three were added covering gastro-intestinal cancers, lung cancer and cancer nursing. Additional programs are planned in the coming months.

Typically, work in each R&E Lead program begins with mapping current activities and opportunities across the alliance for collaborative research activity and education programming. The programs work to embed international and local research into clinical practice, enhance and harmonise training, improve use of relevant data, and promote multi-site clinical trials. The R&E Leads also convene innovative research meetings to disseminate relevant emerging research and explore potential for collaboration among VCCC partners.

The R&E Lead Haematology program is focused on four key priority areas: • Maximise critical mass of clinical data and samples • D evelop cohort banking for haematological malignancies • D evelop opportunities to link lab expertise and current clinical trials • T ransfer knowledge regarding expertise and technology available to support molecular testing and pathology

… a great example of the integrated nature of a comprehensive cancer centre.

A key achievement has been the formation of the Haematology Clinical Trials Working Group to find out how to further improve haematology clinical trials across the VCCC. The group was able to use data from Cancer Council Victoria’s Clinical Trials Management System (CTMS) and this is now being analysed to improve cross institution referrals to ensure that patients are receiving the best possible treatment.

Led by Professor Roberts, the program’s Strategic Advisory Group also convened a Blood Cancer Forum with haematology societies and cancer charities to give them an opportunity to contribute clinical and research priorities for blood cancers. The forum identified three critical foci: improved care for regional, rural and remote patients; increased research capability; new funding; and better access to new treatments and/or new drugs. These foci are guiding future activity in this stream.

The VCCC Board recognises the efforts of the scientists and clinicians who participate in these programs, and make significant contributions as members of the various working groups and committees.

14

Research, Knowledge & Information

Melanoma and Skin Cancers

Primary Care

Lead: Professor Grant McArthur (until May 2017) Associate Professor David Gyorki (since May 2017)

Lead: Professor Jon Emery

An innovation for the Melanoma and Skin Cancers program was the inaugural VCCC Cancer Grand Challenge ‘Pitch’ convened by Prof Grant McArthur.

Three multi-institution teams of melanoma experts were challenged to develop a collaborative research project of international significance and ‘pitch’ them at an open clinical forum.

This R&E Lead program is working to better our understanding and management of cancer in the primary care setting. A major project in this area is the development of the Cancer Survivorship for Primary Care Practitioners program.

Supported by a $100,000 grant though the Victorian Cancer Survivorship Program, we are developing a blended learning (online and face-to-face) educational program for general practitioners and general practice nurses in order to increase competency and confidence in providing cancer survivorship care. The program will be piloted in VCCC hospital catchment areas and one regional area, with the aim of making the resources available state-wide.

The three ‘pitches’ were: Thin Melanomas with Poor Outcomes; Treatment of Brain Metastases of Melanoma, and Personalised/Risk-based Follow Up for Those with a Previous Melanoma Diagnosis.

All three were considered to be exceedingly difficult challenges with the potential to change clinical practice, if successful.

Following a vote by the forum audience and consideration by the Melanoma R&E committee, the third challenge was chosen for further development: Personalised/Risk-based Follow Up for Those with a Previous Melanoma Diagnosis, is being championed by Associate Professor David Gyorki of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre/Austin Health, Dr Andreas Behren of Austin Health/Olivia Newton John Cancer Research Institute, and Dr Katherine Woods, also of Austin Health/Olivia Newton John Cancer Research Institute.

The reasons?

• I t focuses on a significant unmet clinical need and is identified as a priority by consumers • I t has the potential to impact use of emerging post-treatment therapies • It is multi-disciplinary The other two projects, which were championed by Dr Victoria Mar and Dr David Shackleton, may still be taken forward in future.

Highly engaged audience at the VCCC Cancer Grand Challenge ‘Pitch’ event

15

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

NEW R&E LEAD PROGRAMS ESTABLISHED IN 2017: Gastro-Intestinal Cancers

Lung Cancer

Lead: Associate Professor Peter Gibbs

Lead: Associate Professor Gavin Wright

Upper gastro-intestinal (GI) cancers have generally poor outcomes. Initial work in this area has focused on mapping the opportunities to improve outcomes in pancreatic cancer, which has the poorest survival rate among common cancers.

Lung cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and is the leading cause of cancer-related death. Three people die from lung cancer every minute, according to the World Health Organisation. The most common form is called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): it accounts for 85 per cent of all lung cancers.

Consultations with the Heads of Upper GI clinical departments at VCCC adult hospitals quickly identified a need for better information on the various clinical registry projects currently under way. An educational and research workshop at the Walter & Eliza Hall Institute in July 2017 entitled “Pancreatic Cancer: Registries, Trials and Translational Research” brought together a diverse range of clinical experts. A key focus was new ways to maximise use of patient data to improve clinical management and research into this difficult cancer. Registries, where actual clinical data is captured, can provide important information about clinical outcomes, treatment patterns, selection for clinical trials and can assist scientific research. The workshop also presented research into circulating tumour DNA, molecular profiling of pancreatic cancers, the use of organoid cultures and animal models to understand molecular pathways.

The poor survival rate, late diagnosis and rapid rate of decline from diagnosis to death have meant that research into lung cancer and new treatments has been poor compared to other cancers.

Consultations in this area identified the role of exercise in preparation for surgery and/or radical radiotherapy as a key topic of interest. The VCCC hosted a workshop on exercise and physical activity in lung cancer in June 2017. The workshop comprised speakers from several VCCC partner organisations exploring the role of exercise at all points along the care continuum. Topics included surgery prehabilitation and whether inoperable patients can become operable; metastatic lung cancer; physical training for radical radiotherapy, and early introduction of palliative care.

The take-home message from the workshop was that exercise should not be overlooked as a therapeutic intervention in lung cancer despite often reduced lung function. Further action will be taken to establish closer ties between allied health personnel and medical specialists in lung cancer towards collaborative research activity.

The specialised expertise of those working in pancreatic cancer care and the outstanding scientific research provides encouragement that the VCCC can become a collaborative hub for real progress against this devastating disease.

16

Research, Knowledge & Information

Cancer Nursing Lead: Professor Mei Krishnasamy

Consultations with senior nursing executives in VCCC partner hospitals provided insights into the broader nursing research aspirations of each organisation.

A focus on the importance of nursing-led research is essential to optimising nursing practice for the best patient care. However, a big impediment to research activity in nursing is presented by their clinical workload. If highly experienced and research-capable nurses were to manage the more complex, rather than routine, cases this may lower their case load and free up time for research activity while still taking good care of patients.

Understanding and identifying patients with complex care needs is central to optimising patient care.

Research by Prof Krishnasamy and colleagues at Peter Mac led to development of a cancer care ‘complexity index’. The work provides the basis for a new VCCCwide collaborative nursing research project and could provide the foundation for future cooperative nursing research connections.

A half-day workshop entitled Understanding Patient Complexity to Inform Specialist Cancer Nursing Workload was organised to introduce senior nurses across the VCCC to the design methodology, and the details behind this research and to explore what a broader collaborative investigation would entail plus the next steps.

Participants in the VCCC Cancer Nursing ‘Understanding Patient Complexity to Inform Specialist Cancer Nursing Workload’ workshop

17

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Education and Training

The VCCC is committed to supporting the continual professional development of the cancer care workforce across the alliance and beyond.

Strong education and training programs are vital for rapid introduction and uptake of evidence and best practice into care, and to provide a workforce skilled in the generation, interpretation and application of new knowledge. Our ultimate aim is for the VCCC to become the national hub for education and training in cancer research and care.

14

Education and training programs delivered

The VCCC’s Education and Training Strategy equips our workforce to actively, knowledgeably and creatively address the challenges of cancer. Our cancer education and training program for clinicians, researchers, educators - and the community – supports and enables a highly skilled, high calibre, sustainable workforce that is well positioned to meet the future demands of cancer control.

2000+ Participants

18

Section

Leadership programs

• D r Sumitra Ananda, Medical Oncologist, Royal Women’s Hospital

VCCC Leadership Development program

• P rof Andrew Roberts, Metcalf Chair in Leukaemia Research, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute

In conjunction with the Melbourne Business School, we offer a tailor-made program that specifically focuses on developing leadership skills for an alliance environment. This is another aspect of our commitment to developing and supporting cancer leaders to succeed in the complexities of a multipartner organisation.

• A ssoc Prof Tony Papenfuss, Head, Computational Biology Laboratory, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute • D r Francoise Mechinaud, BMT Physician, Children’s Cancer Centre, Royal Children’s Hospital • M s Katherine Maughan, Senior Social Worker, Oncology, Royal Children’s Hospital • P rof Jennifer Philip, Chair of Palliative Medicine, University of Melbourne, St Vincents Hospital

Participants at the 2016 program were:

• Dr Keryn Taylor, Psychiatrist, St Vincent’s Hospital

• D r Con Tam, Director of Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• D r Vivek Rathi, Staff Specialist, Anatomical Pathology, St Vincent’s Hospital

• M r David Gyorki, Surgeon, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Austin Health

• Dr Lewis Au, Oncology Research Fellow, Western Health • M s Oanh Nguyen, Nurse Unit Manager, Day Oncology Unit, Western Health

• M s Anita Skandarajah, Breast and Endocrine Surgeon, Melbourne Health, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• P rof Richard Saffery, Group Leader: Cancer & Disease Epigenetics, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute

• M s Krystal Horrell, Nurse Unit Manager, Melbourne Health, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• Assoc Prof Hui Gan, Medical Oncologist, Austin Health

• P rof Jon Emery, Herman Chair of Primary Care Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Western Health

• A ssoc Prof Andrew Weickhart, Medical Oncologist, Austin Health

• P rof Sean Grimmond, Bertalli Chair in Cancer Medicine, University of Melbourne • M s Huda Ismail, Deputy Director, Pharmacy Department, Royal Women’s Hospital

19

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Specialist Certificate in Clinical Leadership scholarship recipients 2017

Clinical education and training

Research Leadership Development Program scholarship recipients

Cognitive Biases in Clinical Decision Making

Eleven senior post-doctoral researchers were awarded fully funded places in the highly regarded Marlow Hampshire Leadership Development Program. This four-day program fills a key gap, providing senior postdoctoral researchers with specialised skill development in managing and leading research teams to help them transition from team member to team leader.

An introductory three-hour workshop provided a discussion of cognitive biases and how clinicians can manage them to make optimal clinical judgments.

It was held at St Vincent’s Hospital with 29 clinicians in attendance.

Specialist Certificate in Clinical Leadership scholarships

The participants were:

The VCCC awarded five scholarships in the University of Melbourne’s Specialist Certificate in Clinical Leadership:

• D r Joep Vissers, Post-doctoral Fellow, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre • D r Richard Tothill, Senior Research Fellow, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• A ssoc Prof Brian Le, Director Palliative Care – Royal Melbourne Hospital, The Women’s and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• D r Gretchen Poortinga, Senior Post-doctoral Research Officer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• D r Tamsin Bryan, Palliative Care Physician, Principal Physician and Clinical Lead for the Palliative Care Consultation Service - St Vincent’s

• D r Michaela Pascoe, Senior Post-doctoral Researcher, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre • D r Melissa Moore, Medical Oncologist, Head Oncology Clinical Trials, St Vincent’s Melbourne

• A ssoc Prof Doug Johnson, General Medicine and Infectious Diseases Physician, Director of Department of General Medicine, Director of Physician Training - Austin Hospital and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• D r Mark McKenzie, Senior Post-doctoral Scientist, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute

• M rs Lucy Bucci, Senior Clinical Physiotherapist and Improvement Facilitator - Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• D r Mariam Mansour, Senior Post-doctoral Scientist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

• D r Sam Hume, General Medicine and Infectious Diseases Physician, Director of Physician Education - Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital and St Vincent’s.

• D r Sue Haupt, Senior Post-doctoral Researcher, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre • D r Nicholas Hardcastle, Research Medical Physicist and Academic Lead, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre • D r Amardeep Dhillon, Senior Research Fellow, Oncogenic Transcription Laboratory, Olivia Newton John Cancer Research Institute, Austin Health • D r Ashwini Chand, Senior Post-doctoral Fellow, Olivia Newton John Cancer Research Institute, Austin Health

20

Section

VCCC’s 2016-17 cohort in Graduate Certificate in Clinical Teaching

Teaching programs

Psycho-oncology and Survivorship Conference

The VCCC awarded five scholarships in the University of Melbourne’s Graduate Certificate in Clinical Teaching. This program is designed to expand the skills of professionals who deliver clinical education, making teaching more efficient, enjoyable and effective.

Recipients were: • M s Orla Lambe, Clinical Support Nurse Cancer Services ONJRI and Austin Hospital • M iss Ashlee Bailey, Radiation Therapist - Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre • M s Erika Kotowicz, Grade 2 Senior Physiotherapist Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

Our first major research conference in the new VCCC building was the VCCC Psycho-Oncology and Survivorship Conference, held in October 2016. Attracting more than 250 delegates, the ‘double-header’ event offered two streams across two days. Survivorship day focused on improving outcomes for cancer survivors, responding to international recognition of the need to provide improved care and quality of life for cancer survivors and to develop sustainable models of care. The second day incorporated the fourth Victorian Psycho-oncology Research Conference, which highlighted cutting edge research to reduce the psychological and social impact of cancer for both patients and families.

• Dr Charmaine Foo, Palliative care physician, Melbourne Health • M s Kylie Moon, Intensive Care Unit Outreach Nurse Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

Excellent Teaching In No Time workshop This introductory teach-the-teacher one day seminar was delivered to a group of 22 clinicians who teach as part of their professional role, to help them bring the same standards of quality to that work as they do to their patient care.

Foundation Skills for Surgical Educators Twenty enthusiastic surgical educators took part when the VCCC hosted Foundation Skills for Surgical Educators course in April. The course is mandatory for surgeons involved in training and education, and aims to establish basic standards and further knowledge in teaching and learning. Participants had the opportunity to reflect on their own personal strengths and weaknesses as an educator, and explore how they are likely to influence their learners and the learning environment.

The next Victorian Survivorship Conference will be convened from 8 – 9th February 2018.

21

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Monday Lunch Live

Speakers in 2016-17 included:

The popular new Monday Lunch Live lecture series showcases the work of eminent cancer researchers, clinicians and nurses from Australia and across the globe, offering easy access to the latest news, evidence and ideas in cancer care and research. The events are held in the VCCC building lecture theatre every Monday lunchtime, and broadcast via webinar to ensure access for all.

• P rofessor Fred Ashbury, Editor-in-Chief, Supportive Care in Cancer and Professor, Illawarra Medical Health Research Institute, University of Wollongong, NSW, on Setting a new standard in oncology practice and accountability

• P rofessor Peter Boyle, Professor of Global Public Health at the University of Strathclyde, on Globalisation of cancer prevention

• P rofessor David Vaux, Deputy Director and Joint Division Head of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research on Researchers behaving badly • A ssociate Professor Michael Jefford, Deputy Head, Department of Medical Oncology and Dr Karolina Lisy, Senior Research Fellow, on Patient reported outcome measures • P rofessor Mei Krishnasamy, Chair in Cancer Nursing at the University of Melbourne, on Cancer patient experience survey • D r Manfred Stapff, Chief Medical Officer, TriNetX, on Using real world data to drive clinical trials • P rofessor Sanchia Aranda, CEO Cancer Council Australia, President Union for International Cancer Control, on Is city leadership the answer to global cancer control?

• P rofessor Jenny Philip, Co-Deputy Director Centre for Palliative Care and Deputy Director of Palliative Medicine, St Vincent’s Hospital, on Integrated palliative care what does this mean in 2017?

• P rofessor Andrew Roberts, Head of Clinical Translation Cancer and Haematology, WEHI, on The story of Venetoclax a new drug for cancer • D r Dishan Herath, Medical Oncologist and Nuclear Medicine Physician, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, on Artificial intelligence for cancer diagnosis and therapy: rise of the machines or false dawn?

• P rof Mark Dawson, Consultant Haematologist; Head of Translational Haematology program; Head of cCancer eEpigenetics Laboratory on A fresh take – can editing epigenetics help us change cancer stories?

• A ssoc Prof Jeff Holst, Head of Origins of Cancer Program, Centenary Institute NSW, on New cancer treatment to ‘starve’ tumour cells

Full house for Monday Lunch Live lectures in the VCCC building lecture theatre

22

Education and Training

Picchi Awards presentation 2016: Prof Jim Bishop, Mr Daniel Cameron, Dr David Liu, Dr Ted Trimble - Director, NCI Center for Global Health, Mr Joseph Lukaitis - Chair, Picchi Brothers Foundation

Picchi Awards 2016

Each receive a $10,000 scholarship to enable them to present their research findings at important international scientific meetings in 2016.

The 2016 Picchi Awards for Excellence in Cancer Research recognise important new discoveries in cancer disease progression and treatment. The awards recognise, develop and support the top PhD students amongst the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre partners, based on their productivity and the potential impact of their research.

In 2017, three Picchi Awards will be granted, one each in basic science, clinical science and population health.

This year’s Picchi Awards were won by Dr David Liu, a PhD student and trainee surgeon at the University of Melbourne and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Mr Daniel Cameron, a PhD student at the University of Melbourne and Walter and Eliza Hall Institute.

Dr Liu’s PhD research focuses on investigating novel therapeutic strategies to treat oesophageal cancer.

Mr Cameron has focused on developing new and improved ways to analyse the huge amounts of data produced by modern genomics sequencing, in particular, the accurate identification of the genome rearrangements present in many cancers.

23

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Master of Cancer Sciences

Grants-in-Aid of Scientific Programs

We have secured Graduate Online (GO) Melbourne Support and Incentive Funding to support the development of a new online Masters of Cancer Science. The masters program will bring together the academic might of the University of Melbourne with the research and content expertise of the other VCCC partners to become the flagship education program of the VCCC.

This program of small financial grants supports high quality research, clinical and educational meetings.

To qualify for support, the meetings must disseminate new research and evidence across our partner organisations, support tumour streams or crosscutting disciplines and align with the VCCC strategic plan. Priority is given to new and innovative meetings that have the potential to be developed as major local, national or international meetings over time.

Funding amounts of $5,000, $10,000 and $15,000 were awarded. Seven successful applicants shared a total of $55,000 in grants this year:

The program will interest health professionals who care for patients with cancer. The proposed program is nested with qualification points at specialist certificate, graduate certificate and masters levels to provide flexible progression and study options for practitioners in the workforce.

• P ostdoctoral Symposium: New Frontiers in Cancer Research, a joint project of Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, the University of Melbourne, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute.

Structured as a fully-elective program, the subjects on offer will include:

• I ntroduction to Drug Discovery and Development in Oncology - presented by Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Cancer Therapeutics CRC (CTx)

• Foundations of Cancer • Cancer in Society • Cancer Care

• C ooperative Trials Group for Neuro Oncology (COGNO) 10th Annual Scientific Meeting at Austin Health, supported by Austin Health, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and St Vincent’s Hospital

• Cancer Research (Part 1 & 2) • Supportive Care • Cancer across the Lifespan

• F ifth Australian Palliative Care Research Colloquium presented by St Vincent’s Hospital and the University of Melbourne

• Cancer Prevention • Cancer Nursing.

• H eterogeneity and Plasticity in Healthy and Malignant Tissues symposium presented by Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Austin Health, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute and the University of Melbourne

The program will be offered online from 2019.

7

Number of Grants in Aid awarded

• N ational Centre for Infections and Cancer (NCIC) launch presented by Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Austin Health, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute and the University of Melbourne • I nternational Pan Prostate Cancer Group (PPCG) presented by The Royal Melbourne Hospital, the University of Melbourne

$55,000 Shared total

24

Photo credit: Peter Bennetts, courtesy of Plenary Group

Section

25

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Engagement and partnerships

Working in partnership – delivering effective cancer control

As Australia’s first comprehensive cancer centre, the VCCC alliance collectively represents more than 1300 cancer researchers and ranks 26th out of 73 international cancer centres in terms of research impact.

1,300+ Cancer researchers

Yet controlling and curing cancer will never be achieved in isolation. In order to have the greatest possible impact, the VCCC actively develops relationships and works with other organisations across Victoria, Australia and the world to enhance expertise, resources, connections and impact.

#26

Intl. cancer centre ranking out of 73

26

Section

Professor Grant McArthur (centre) with Mr Andrew Forrest, director of the Minderoo Foundation (left), and Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP, at the launch of the Eliminate Cancer Initiative, Canberra

Local connections

Cancer Therapeutics CRC (CTx) The VCCC provides in-kind support for CTx educational activities – in 2016/17 a key piece of work has been the Drug Discovery in Oncology Program.

Cancer Council of Victoria (CCV) CCV is a key collaborator with the VCCC. Among a range of mutually supportive activities, we work together on the Australian Cancer Survivorship Program and the Victorian Cancer Trials Link website working group. A CCV representative sits on the VCCC Education and Training Advisory Committee and Dr Anna Boltong, Head of Cancer Support Services at CCV, is convenor of Cancer in Society subject for the VCCC Masters in Cancer Sciences.

Cancer Trials Australia.

VCCC and CTA are working together to develop the Research Excellence Framework - a shared, streamlined system for ethical approval of multi-centre clinical trials.

National Prescribing Service A primary health care data sharing agreement was signed allowing VCCC to use data collected as part of the Medicine Insight Program.

Integrated Cancer Services (ICS) The VCCC works regularly with the various Integrated Cancer Services in Victoria. We supported the Victorian Integrated Cancer Services Conference in May 2017 and continued to work with the Western Central Melbourne ICS on the Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2015.

Convergence Science Network The VCCC is an active member of the innovative Convergence Science Network, a University of Melbourne community that brings together scientists from across all disciplines with a focus on improving health outcomes.

The Monash Partners Comprehensive Cancer Consortium (MPCCC) An MOU between the VCCC and Monash Partners Comprehensive Cancer Consortium (MPCCC) was signed in December 2016. Since then a collaborative action committee was established to find opportunities for shared research and education between VCCC and MPCCC. This will include improving clinical trial participation and measurement.

Eliminate Cancer Initiative The VCCC has been an active contributor to the Eliminate Cancer Initiative, a program of the Minderoo Foundation and Mr Andrew Forrest. Prof Grant McArthur attended the Eliminate Cancer Initiative scientific retreat with Professor Sean Grimmond; represented the VCCC at the official launch and we are participating in follow up consultations and meetings.

Melbourne Biomedical Precinct (MBP) The VCCC actively works with MBP to support a range of development initiatives, and we are working towards a joint strategy for managing international relationships.

27

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Chinese Ambassador to Australia, Mr Cheng Jingye (centre) with Prof Jim Bishop (left), and from Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Ms Dale Fisher and Prof Joe Trapani

International Connections

During the year the VCCC has hosted tours and visits for delegations and groups from across the world.

Where such visits align with our own strategies, and the priorities of our partners and government, these will continue to be a priority for the VCCC. A formal partnerships and engagement strategy will guide these endeavours in 2017-18 and beyond.

Since opening in June 2016, the $1billion purpose-built VCCC building has drawn interest from visitors across the world. As the state-of-the-art home to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and the oncology services of the Royal Women’s Hospital and the Royal Melbourne Hospital, the VCCC building also accommodates the cancer research facilities of Melbourne Health and the University of Melbourne, plus shared education, auditorium and networking spaces, and of course the VCCC alliance executive office. In 2018, the 13th floor of the building will open as the Ian Potter Centre for New Cancer Treatments.

International visits 2016-17 • C hinese ambassador to Australia Mr Jingye Cheng and delegation: expansion of links in drug development and associated biology, clinical trials, models of care, medical technology and education and training.

Alongside the interest in the building and its facilities, the VCCC alliance is attracting attention from governments and organisations across the world, which are keen to learn about the partnership structure, strategic collaborations and the distributed leadership that are fundamental to our model. In turn the VCCC is actively pursuing international connections, collaborations and establishment of strategic partnerships that support our cancer research and education priorities.

• V ictorian State Government, Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) Victoria Invitation Program: Malaysian and Vietnamese delegation, including the Vietnamese Minister for Health, Associate Professor Dr Nguyen Thi Kim Tien: focus on publicprivate partnerships.

28

Engagement and partnerships

Delegation from Nanjing University, including President Chen (centre), with Prof Grant Mac Arthur and Professor Sean Grimmond, University of Melbourne

• P rofessor Chen Jun, President of Nanjing University, one of China’s most significant research-intensive universities, as part of a visit for the China Australia Centre for Translation Medicine (CACTM). Focus on a research lab to develop 3D organoid cultures from oesophagus, stomach, pancreas and colorectal tract cancer patients.

• A cting Ambassador to the US, Mr James Carouso: One year after the visit of then-US Vice President Joe Biden, a discussion about a Memorandum of Understanding between the government of the United States and the state government of Victoria. This includes the Cancer Moonshot program and Victoria-USA Cancer Fellowship Exchange Program for mid-career researchers and the Eliminate Cancer Initiative.

29

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Senate cancer inquiry

The Steer North VCCC PhD Scholarship

Federal Government Senate Select Committee into ‘Funding for Research into Cancers with Low Survival Rates’.

Supporting young researchers The VCCC is honoured to be the nominated charity of Steer North, an organisation that aims to inspire people to live healthy, active and creative lives by delivering health promotion programs via epic cycling journeys. Their first tour was a 4000km journey from Melbourne to Cairns in December 2016, raising $100,000 for the VCCC.

VCCC Research & Education Leads also represent the VCCC in other capacities. Associate Prof Gavin Wright (R&E Lead Lung Cancer) and A/Prof Peter Gibbs (R&E Lead Gastrointestinal Cancers), teamed up with Prof Kate Drummond (Melbourne Health) to prepare a written submission to this important inquiry on behalf of VCCC partners.

The funding will support a new PhD scholarship for Australian cancer researchers working in Australia.

The Steer North VCCC PhD scholarship will allow the successful applicant to undertake cancer research at one of the VCCC’s alliance members. “The Steer North participants and supporters are truly inspiring,” commented Prof Grant McArthur, Executive Director of the VCCC. “Their passion and commitment further reinforces our own determination to advance the control and cure of cancer. A strong cancer workforce is critical to this mission and we look forward to awarding this special PhD Scholarship to a student who shares the vision of the people who have made it possible.”

In the submission was a plea for research into low survival rate cancers to “capitalise on the discoveries that have been made in research in other cancers”.

More should be invested, the submission stated, into “cancers of high incidence and poor survival, where impact has the greatest potential for major health improvement (such as lung, oesophageal, pancreatic and liver cancers) and cancers of low incidence and poor survival, such as brain cancers, where although relatively rare, they strike the young and middle-aged, so the significance in terms of life years lost is greater than the incidence would suggest”.

The successful candidate will be enrolled at the University of Melbourne through the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences. We are interested in supporting candidates with significant work experience in the proposed area of research and an alignment with the strategic direction of the VCCC to support collaborative, cross-organisational and trans-disciplinary research.

Following the submission there was an opportunity to present to a Senate Committee hearing in Melbourne.

Assoc Professor Wright along with Professor Mark Rosenthal and VCCC Program Manager, Dr Elizabeth Johnson, appeared as witnesses.

The report from the inquiry is due in November 2017.

Says co-founder and executive director of Steer North James Helal: “We’re very excited and honoured to be supporting young researchers”.

…plea for research into low survival rate cancers to “capitalise on the discoveries that have been made in research in other cancers”.

Applications for the Steer North VCCC PhD scholarship will open in September 2017.

30

Engagement and partnerships

Steer North cyclists reach Sydney en route to Cairns, December 2016

Steer North cyclists toured the VCCC building with then-Executive Director of the VCCC, Prof Jim Bishop, December 2016

31

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Patients and Community

The best interests of people affected by cancer underpins all the work we do. With cancer now ranking as the leading cause of both death and disease in Australia, this means almost everyone, including families and carers.

The Patient and Community Voice

Whether it’s enabling strategic research connections, providing high quality education, inspiring new ideas, collecting and sharing information or bringing more people into clinical trials, everything we do must bring us closer to better outcomes for patients.

To ensure that a patient perspective is considered, consulted and included in our programs of work, the VCCC is assisted and advised by community representatives on our Cancer Consumer Advisory Committee.

Over the past year, these active community representatives have helped plan the public forum that will be part of the forthcoming VCCC Inaugural Research Conference and provided valuable input to shape the VCCC’s programs of work, including the Strategic Research Plan.

The VCCC is currently working on a more cohesive consumer engagement framework that will facilitate community input into its work.

Consumer involvement is integral to the VCCC’s work

32

Section

Picture courtesy of Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

VCCC Molecular Tumour Board The VCCC Molecular Tumour Board (MTB) is a monthly, multidisciplinary-style meeting that provides opinion on the clinical implications of molecular pathology test results.

Evaluation has shown that MTB offers new input into approximately 76 per cent of all cases presented. In addition, MTB assists in identifying suitable clinical trials, opportunities for referral to a familial cancer centre, and the potential research opportunities around genomic variants within VCCC research facilities.

This was the fourth year of the MTB. At this meeting, patients’ personalised tests are considered in relation to the course of their clinical treatment.

Cases presented to MTB

27

The MTB is chaired by Professor Jayesh Desai and Dr Ben Tran, and opinion on each case in tabled by a group of experts drawn from across the VCCC partners.

In 2016-17, ten MTB meetings were held. A total of 27 cases were presented at these meetings, while a total of 352 people attended. To further enhance the educational value of these meetings to the attending clinicians, each MTB includes least one educational presentation relevant to the types of cases being presented. Attendance at MTB qualifies for CPD points.

352

Number of people attending MTB meetings

33

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

VCCC Inaugural Research Conference

Some of the international experts who will speak at the VCCC conference

From September 17 – 19 2017, the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre hosts its first major international cancer research conference.

Day One of the Inaugural VCCC Cancer Research

Conference is themed ‘An International Perspective’ at the VCCC building. Speakers include: Professor Liz Blackburn, Nobel Laureate, President of the Salk Institute Professor Sir John Burn, Clinical Geneticist at The University of Newcastle (UK), non-Executive Director of NHS England, Executive Chairman of Global Variome Ltd

Underpinned by a theme of ‘a new dynamic in Australian cancer research’, the conference will take place over three days and five venues and includes a public lecture.

Professor Neil Aaronson, Group Leader, Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute

The conference is a key foundation project for the VCCC. The state-of-the-art VCCC building will take centre stage, and from this base we will showcase the high impact research of the 1,300 scientists who work within the VCCC alliance, and the power of a Comprehensive Cancer Centre to rapidly translate research findings into clinical care and to benefit patients. This event offers the first major opportunity for researchers and scientists to come together as the VCCC and provide a platform to showcase the individual cancer specialisations and strengths of the alliance members but more importantly, the game-changing dynamic of our committed, multipartner, multi-disciplinary collaboration. Combined with keynotes from eminent international speakers, the stage is set for a lively, relevant, informative and stimulating conference.

Professor Eduardo Bruera, Chair, Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Centre Ms Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal Marsden Hospital and National Cancer Director for NHS England Professor Craig Thompson, President and CEO of Memorial Sloan Kettering Professor Sanchia Aranda, CEO of Cancer Council Australia and President of UICC.

34

3

5

Days

Venues

Section

74 Speakers

Day Two features five concurrent conference

Innovative Care @ Western Hospital, Sunshine

programs hosted at five of the VCCC partner organisations. Themed to reflect a particular research strength of the host organisation(s), each of these events will feature at least one international speaker, plus a line up of talented local and national speakers.

Host: Western Health Speakers include: Assoc Prof Jo Armes, Prof Mei Krishnasamy, Prof Jon Emery, Prof David Kisane, Assoc Prof Prue Cormie –

Women’s Cancer: Exceptional Multidisciplinary Care @ The Royal Women’s Hospital, Parkville

Personalised Medicine from Genomics to Clinical Care @ The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Parkville

Host: The Royal Women’s Hospital Speakers include: Prof Neil Aaronson, Assoc Prof Orla McNally, Prof Geoff Lindeman, Prof Martha Hickey

Hosts: Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne Health, The Royal Children’s Hospital, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, the University of Melbourne and the Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research

The conference program also includes a free evening public forum, Building a Community Against Cancer.

Renowned scientists and doctors from Australia and overseas will join community representatives to discuss current trends in cancer prevention, care, treatment and research, and how we can all play a role in shaping the way forward.

Speakers include: Prof Liz Blackburn, Assoc Prof Charles Mullighan, Prof Sir John Burn, Dr Peter Campbell –

Palliative Care & Psycho-oncology @ Park Hyatt Hotel, East Melbourne Host: St Vincent’s Health

The conference has been well supported by industry sponsors and will be officially opened by the Federal Minister for Health, The Hon Greg Hunt MP. The convenor, Professor Ricky Johnstone (Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre), and the representatives of all 10 VCCC partners on the organising committee, have put together an outstanding program that will both inform and inspire, and we anticipate a successful inaugural event.

Speakers include: Assoc Prof Lidia Schapira, Prof Eduardo Bruera, Prof Jenny Philip, Prof Paul Glare, Prof Phyllis Butow –

Immunology and the Microworld @ Olivia NewtonJohn Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg Host: Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute at Austin Health Speakers include: Prof Eduard Batlle, Prof Matthias Ernst, Dr Belinda Parker, Prof Nick Hoogenraad, Dr Erica Sloan

Read the latest news on the conference.

35

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Financial Statements

Introduction

Glossary

This is the Financial Report of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre joint venture for 2017. The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre is an unincorporated entity which was formed when the Member Entities entered into a Joint Venture Agreement on 11 November 2009 for the purpose of establishing a comprehensive cancer centre in Victoria.

VCCC or Victorian CCC VCCC Ltd, Victorian CCC Ltd, or The Company AASB

The following pages present the primary financial information of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre. The full VCCC Annual Financial Report 2016-17 can be found at www.viccompcancerctr.org

DHHS GST VAGO State ICT

36

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre joint venture Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Ltd Australian Accounting Standards Board Department of Health & Human Services, Victoria Goods and Services Tax Victorian Auditor-General’s Office The Crown in the right of the State of Victoria Information & Communications Technology

Financial Statements

Joint Venture Information

Member Entities

The Member Entities entered into a Joint Venture Agreement on 11 November 2009 for the purposes of establishing a world leading comprehensive cancer centre in Victoria.

Melbourne Health Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute (trading as the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre) The Royal Women’s Hospital The University of Melbourne St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research The Royal Children’s Hospital Western Health Austin Health Murdoch Childrens Research Institute

The Member Entities in Clause 8 of the Joint Venture Agreement agreed to appoint the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Ltd (the Company) to manage the joint venture.

Clause 8 of the Joint Venture Agreement provides authority to the Company to exercise all the powers and rights of the Member Entities in respect of joint venture assets.

Principal Place of Business Level 10 305 Grattan Street Melbourne, Victoria, 3000 Phone: + 61 3 9035 4505

Further, Clause 8 of the Joint Venture Agreement provides for the Company to hold all joint venture assets as bare trustee for the Member Entities and their respective beneficial interests.

Mailing Address PO Box 2148 Royal Melbourne Hospital Victoria, 3050 Auditors Victorian Auditor-General’s Office Level 31, 35 Collins Street Melbourne, Victoria, 3000

37

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Declaration by the manager of Joint Venture Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Ltd In the opinion of the manager of the joint venture: (i) The Comprehensive Operating Statement is drawn up so as to present fairly the results of the joint venture for the financial year ended 30 June 2017; (ii) The Balance Sheet is drawn up so as to present fairly the state of affairs of the joint venture as at 30 June 2017; (iii) The Statement of Changes in Equity is drawn up so as to present fairly the results of the joint venture for the financial year ended 30 June 2017; (iv) The Cash Flow Statement is drawn up so as to present fairly the cash flows of the joint venture for the financial year ended 30 June 2017; (v) At the date of this statement there are reasonable grounds to believe that the joint venture will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

This statement is made in accordance with a resolution of the Board of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Ltd, the manager of the joint venture.

38

Financial Statements

Comprehensive Operating Statement For the year ended 30 June 2017

Note

2017 $

2016 $

2(a)

1,450,000

1,460,000

2(a)

5,124,167

1,460,000

Other income

2(a)

215,038

195,194

Interest income

2(b)

92,711

51,128

6,881,916

3,166,322

(118,035)

(138,173)

(21,190)

(288,707)

–

(82,363)

Research Projects

(509,154)

(239,597)

Education and Training Projects

(387,590)

(112,237)

Clinical Research Focus Projects

(112,978)

(53,896)

–

(53,754)

Income from transactions Contributions from Member Entities

Contributions from Department of Health & Human Services

Total income from transactions Expenses from transactions Reduce Cancer Burden Living with Cancer Centre of Excellence Leaders in Cancer Strategy Clinical Projects

Increased Investment New Funding Streams Strategy Other expenses Employee benefit expense

3(a)

(1,415,723)

(1,532,339)

Supplies and services

3(b)

(620,826)

(413,414)

Depreciation expense

3(c)

(13,671)

(13,648)

( 3,199,167)

(2,928,128)

Net result from transactions (net operating balance)

3 ,682,749

238,194

Comprehensive result

3,682,749

238,194

Total expenses from transactions

This Comprehensive Operating Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes included on pages 12 to 33 of the full VCCC Annual Report 2016–17, available at www.viccompcancerctr.org

39

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Balance Sheet As at 30 June 2017

Notes Assets

2017 $

2016 $

Current assets Cash and cash equivalents

4

5,664,218

2,565,567

Trade and other receivables

5

27,101

37,611

–

38,794

5,691,319

2,641,972

9,596

9,596

27,627

38,292

37,223

47,888

5,728,542

2,689,860

Prepayments Total Current assets Non-Current assets Investment in Cancer Therapeutics CRC Property, plant and equipment

6

Total non-current assets Total assets Liabilities Current liabilities Trade and other payables

7

230,713

538,454

Provisions

8

76,288

420,650

307,001

959,104

60,893

52,857

60,893

52,857

367,894

1,011,961

5,360,648

1,677,899

5,360,648

1,677,899

5,360,648

1,677,899

Total Current liabilities Non-Current liabilities Provisions

8

Total Non-Current liabilities Total liabilities Net assets Equity Accumulated Surplus Total equity Contingent assets and contingent liabilities

16

Commitments for expenditure

17

This Balance Sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes included on pages 12 to 33 of the full VCCC Annual Report 2016–17, available at www.viccompcancerctr.org

40

Financial Statements

Statement of Changes in Equity For the year ended 30 June 2017

Note

Equity at Total 1 July 2016 comprehensive result

2017

Equity at 30 June 2017

$

$

$

1,677,899

3,682,749

5 ,360,648

Equity at Total 1 July 2015 comprehensive result

Equity at 30 June 2016

Accumulated surplus Total equity at end of financial year

Note 2016

$

$

$

1,439,705

238,194

1,677,899

Accumulated surplus Total equity at end of financial year

This Statement of Changes should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes included on pages 12 to 33 of the full VCCC Annual Report 2016–17, available at www.viccompcancerctr.org

41

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Cash Flow Statement

For the year ended 30 June 2017 Note

2017 $

2016 $

1,450,000

1,460,000

5,234,169

1,810,000

246,628

183,477

(320,374)

156,016

93,738

50,254

6,704,161

3,659,747

(3,588,879)

(3,241,779)

(3,588,879)

(3,241,779)

3,115,282

417,968

7,500

–

Payments for non-financial assets

(24,131)

(21,321)

Net cash flows used in investing activities

(16,631)

(21,321)

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

3,098,651

396,647

2,565,567

2,168,920

5,664,218

2,565,567

Cash flows from operating activities Receipts Receipts from Members

Receipts from Department of Health & Human Services Receipts from Customers

Goods and Services Tax received from the ATO Interest received Total receipts Payments Payments to suppliers and employees Total payments Net cash flows from operating activities

10

Cash flows from investing activities Proceeds from sale of assets

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of financial year

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of financial year

4

This cash flow statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes included on pages 12 to 33 of the full VCCC Annual Report 2016–17, available at www.viccompcancerctr.org

42

Financial Statements

Independent Auditor’s Report

Independent Auditor’s Report

To the Board of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre To the Board of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre

Opinion Board’s responsibilities for the financial report Opinion I have audited the financial report of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (the joint I have audited the financial report of the Victorian The Board of the joint venture is responsible for the venture) which comprises the: Comprehensive Cancer Centre (the joint venture) preparation and fair presentation of the financial which comprises the:  report in accordance with Australian Accounting balance sheet as at 30 June 2017 Standards, forthen such internal control as the Board  comprehensive operating statement for theand year ended • balance sheet as at 30 June 2017 determines is necessary to enable the preparation and  statement of changes in equity fair for the year then ended presentation of a financial report that is free from • comprehensive operating statement for the year  cash flow statement for the year then ended material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. then ended  notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting • statement of changes in equity for the year In preparing the financial report, the Board is policies then ended responsible for assessing the joint venture’s ability  declaration by the manager of joint venture - Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre to continue as a going concern, and using the going • cash flow statement for the Ltd.year then ended concern basis of accounting unless it is inappropriate • notes to the financial statements, including a to dofairly, so. in all material respects, the financial In my opinion the financial report presents summary of significant accounting policies position of the joint venture as at 30 June 2017 and their financial performance and cash • declaration by the manager of joint venture flows for the year then ended in accordance with applicable Australian Accounting Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Ltd. Standards.

In my opinion the financial report presents fairly, for respects,I have conducted my audit accordance with the Audit Act 1994 which incorporates the in all Basis material the financial position of in the Opinion Australian Auditing Standards. joint venture as at 30 June 2017 and their financial My responsibilities under the Act are further described in the the Audit of the Financial Report section of my report. performance and cashAuditor’s flows forResponsibilities the year then for ended in accordance with applicable Australian Accounting My independence is established by the Constitution Act 1975. My staff and I are Standards. independent of the joint venture in accordance with the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to my audit of the financial report in Basis for Opinion Australia. My staff and I have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with in the Code.

I have conducted my audit accordance with the Audit Act 1994 which incorporates the Australian Auditing I believe that the audit evidence I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a Standards. My responsibilities under the Act are further basis for my opinion.for the Audit described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities of the Financial Report section of my report.

Board’s The Board of the joint venture is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the responsibilities financial report in Constitution accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, and for such internal My independence is established by the for .the as the Boardofdetermines Act 1975 My staff and control I are independent the joint is necessary to enable the preparation and fair venture in accordance with the ethical requirements financial presentation of a financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to of thereport Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards fraud or error.

Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional In that preparing the financial Accountants (the Code) are relevant to myreport, audit the Board is responsible for assessing the joint venture’s of the financial report ability in Australia.

My staff I concern, and using the going concern basis of accounting to continue as a and going have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities unless it is inappropriate to do so. in accordance with the Code.

I believe that the audit evidence I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my opinion.

43

ancial

URNE ust 2017

due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes my opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17 considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this financial report.

As part of an audit in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards, I exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. I also:

Independent Auditor’s Report (cont.)

Board thethe Victorian Comprehensive Centrereport, whether  To the identify and of assess risks of material misstatementCancer of the financial due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is As required by the Act 1994, my error, responsibility • conclude on forgery, the appropriateness of the Board’s use higher than forAudit one resulting from as fraud may involve collusion, is to express an opinion on the financial report based of the going concern basis of accounting and, based intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. on the audit. My objectives for the audit are to obtain on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material  reasonable obtain assurance an understanding of internalthe control relevant to the uncertainty audit in orderexists to design about whether financial related to events or conditions audit thatfrom are appropriate in the circumstances,that but may not for thesignificant purpose doubt on the joint report as aprocedures whole is free material misstatement, cast whether due to fraud or error, issue an auditor’s venture’sinternal abilitycontrol to continue as a going concern. of expressing an opinion onand theto effectiveness of the joint venture’s report that includes my opinion.

Reasonable assurance If I conclude that a material uncertainty exists, I am  evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that required to draw attention in my auditor’s report accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Board an audit conducted in accordance with the Australian to the related disclosures in the financial report or,  Auditing conclude on thewill appropriateness Board’s use of the going basis are of inadequate, to modify my Standards always detectofathe material if suchconcern disclosures accountingwhen and, based on Misstatements the audit evidence a material misstatement it exists. canobtained, arise whether opinion.

My conclusions are based on the audit exists to events material or conditions cast significant doubt from uncertainty fraud or error andrelated are considered if, that may evidence obtained upon to the date of my auditor’s individually in the aggregate, they could However, future events or conditions may the jointorventure’s ability to continue as areasonably going concern. Ifreport.

I conclude that a material be expected to influence the economic decisions of cause the joint venture to cease to continue as a uncertainty exists, I am required to draw attention in my auditor’s report to the users taken on the basis of this financial report. going concern. related disclosures in the financial report or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to • eevidence valuate the overall structure and modify opinion.

My conclusions are Australian based on the audit obtained uppresentation, to As part of anmy audit in accordance with the content of the financial report, including the the date of my auditor’s However, future events or conditions may cause the Auditing Standards, I exercisereport. professional judgement disclosures, and whether the financial report and maintain professional scepticism throughout the joint venture to cease to continue as a going concern. represents the underlying transactions and events audit.

I also:  evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content ofin the financial that report, a manner achieves fair presentation. including the disclosures, and whether the financial report represents the underlying • identify and assess the risks of material I communicate with the Board regarding, among transactions and events in a manner achieves fair presentation. misstatement of the financial report, that whether other matters, the planned scope and timing of the due to fraud or error, design and perform I communicate with the Board regarding, amongaudit other matters,audit the planned scope and and significant audit findings, including any procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain significantdeficiencies deficienciesinin internal control that I timing of the audit and audit findings, including any significant audit evidence thatsignificant is sufficient and appropriate identify during my audit. internal control that I identify during my audit. to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

• o btain an understanding of internal control relevant Ron Mak Ron Mak to the audit in order to design audit procedures As delegate for the Auditor-General that are appropriate in the circumstances, but for notthe Auditor-General of Victoria as delegate of Victoria for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the joint venture’s internal control • e valuate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Board

2

44

Photo credit: Peter Bennetts, courtesy of Plenary Group

Financial Statements

45

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Board, committees and staff

The VCCC staff team 2016-17: Front row: Craig Zanker, Fiona Macken, Katie Goates, Catherine Ringin, Grant McArthur, Elizabeth Johnson, Meredith Layton, Linda Valentino, Mari Shibaoka.

Second row: Brad Joblin, Stephanie Hall, Avalee Weir.

Not pictured: Michelle Barrett, Hannah Cross, Dianne Ferguson, Karen Lacey (maternity leave), Kim Perry, Michelle Wallace.

VCCC Staff Team Prof Jim Bishop Executive Director (until January 2017)

Prof Grant McArthur Executive Director (since April 2017)

Mr Craig Zanker Chief Operating Officer and Company Secretary Ms Michelle Barrett Head, Education and Training Development Ms Mari Shibaoka Project Officer, Education and Training Ms Linda Valentino Office Manager

Dr Meredith Layton Head, Research Development Dr Elizabeth Johnson Program Manager Ms Avalee Weir Head of Communications Ms Katie Goates Events and Communications Officer Dr Brad Joblin Head, Clinical Trials Development Ms Fiona Macken Research Support Manager Ms Hannah Cross Program Manager

Ms Stephanie Hall Head, Strategic Program Development

(maternity leave cover since April 2017)

Ms Karen Lacey Head, Strategic Program Development Ms Kim Perry Human Resources Manager Ms Michelle Wallace Finance Assistant Ms Catherine Ringin Executive Assistant to the Executive Director Ms Dianne Ferguson Executive Assistant to Prof Jim Bishop (until January 2017)

46

Board, committees and staff

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Board of Directors 2016 – 17 Prof Linda Kristjanson AO (Independent Chair)

Prof Robert Thomas (Independent Deputy Chair) Prof Jim McCluskey, The University of Melbourne Prof Doug Hilton, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Prof Christine Kilpatrick, The Royal Melbourne Hospital Ms Sue Shilbury, Austin Health Adjunct Prof Dale Fisher, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

Board Committees 2016 – 17 Cancer Education and Training Advisory Committee Prof Geoff McColl (Chair) Prof Alex Boussioutas Ms Annie Howitt Dr Belinda Yeo Ms Bernadette O’Connor Dr Caroline Owen Assoc Prof David Smallwood Mr Jason Dakin Prof Jennifer Philip Dr Keely Bumsted O’Brien Dr Liz Christie Dr Lorey Smith

A/Prof Alex Cockram, Western Health

Prof Mei Krishnasamy

Prof Joseph Trapani Prof Sue-Anne McLachlan Prof Edward Janus Prof Mark Jenkins Assoc Prof Dr Paul Ekert Assoc Prof Bruce Mann Prof Jon Emery Prof Nick Nicola Prof Dallas English Prof John Seymour Dr Jayesh Desai Prof Grant McArthur

Prof Louis Irving Ms Megan Chiswell Prof Michael Henderson Mr Paul Baden

Adjunct Prof Susan O’Neill, St Vincent’s Hospital

Assoc Prof Peter Morley

Mr John Stanway, The Royal Children’s Hospital

Ms Sheila Patel

Mr Craig Zanker, Company Secretary

Prof Andrew Roberts (Chair)

Prof David Ritchie

Prof Kathryn North, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute

Dr Sue Matthews, The Royal Women’s Hospital

VCCC Cancer Research Advisory Committee

Dr Sandra Nicolson Assoc Prof Wilma Beswick Prof John Mariadason Bernadette O’Connor Prof Stephen Lew Finance, Audit and Risk Committee Prof Christine Kilpatrick (Chair), The Royal Melbourne Hospital

Ms Lucy Franzmann, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre Mr Zak Gruevski, The Royal Women’s Hospital Adjunct Professor Susan O’Neill, St Vincent’s Hospital Mr Ian Coulson, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research

47

Prof Tony Burgess Prof Ingrid Burgess Prof Matthias Ernst Prof Sean Grimmond Cancer Consumer Advisory Committee Ms Sophy Athan – (Independent Chair) Ms Carolyn Rowan Dr Judith Slocombe Ms Heather Beanland Ms Jo Cockwill Ms Katya Gray Mr Keith Donahoe Mr Les Leckie Mr Paul Baden Ms Sheila Kanji Patel

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Annual Report 2016–17

Thank you As an alliance organisation, participation and involvement is critical to our success. Thank you to EVERYONE who contributed in 2016-17.

48

To receive regular news and updates from the VCCC, please subscribe to our email list.

Thanks to our supporters

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Level 10, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 info@victorianccc.org.au 03 8559 7160 Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Ltd trading as Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre ABN 84 140 233 790

viccompcancerctr.org