Dr Alan Ma is a clinical geneticist at Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network – Westmead and an academic with the University of Sydney, dedicated to making genomic medicine more accessible and equitable for all families. He leads the nationally funded MRFF genomics research program PRECISE, which aims to implement genomics in primary care, and conducts research in rare disease gene discovery and implementation science in partnership with clinicians and consumers. His work bridges clinical care, research, education, and policy, with the goal of improving diagnostic outcomes, empowering clinicians, and supporting families navigating complex genetic conditions.

Dr Rebecca Purvis is a certified senior genetic counsellor (FHGSA) based in Genomics at Bupa, and a lecturer and coordinator within the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Melbourne, leading genomics education in the Master of Genetic Counselling and Master of Genomics in Health programs. Previously, Rebecca was a doctoral researcher at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, completing her PhD in the clinical implementation of polygenic risk scores for precision prevention of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. She has practiced clinically in adult cancer and neurogenetics and has a passion for evidence-based genomic healthcare delivery, education, and evaluation.

Dr Rebecca Mackenzie-Proctor is a highly respected Fertility Specialist and Gynaecologist based in Melbourne, consulting at Stellar Fertility in Fitzroy and Middle Park. With over a decade of experience in obstetrics and gynaecology, she is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FRANZCOG) and a trained subspecialist in reproductive endocrinology and infertility (CREI). Rebecca is known for her thoughtful, highly personalised approach, placing each patient’s overall wellbeing at the centre of care. She combines clinical excellence with scientific rigour and a holistic philosophy, ensuring patients feel supported, informed, and empowered throughout their fertility journey.

Originally from New Zealand, Rebecca completed her specialist training through FRANZCOG and has held consultant roles at Middlemore Hospital and private fertility centres across Australasia. She has undertaken advanced subspecialty training in fertility and reproductive endocrinology and has developed deep expertise in managing complex fertility and gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian insufficiency, and male infertility. Her clinical practice encompasses ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilisation (IVF), and fertility preservation, including egg freezing—delivered with an individualised, evidence-based approach.

Rebecca has a particular interest in supporting patients with complex or previously unsuccessful fertility journeys, including recurrent implantation failure, recurrent pregnancy loss, and ovarian ageing or reduced ovarian reserve. She takes a structured, evidence-based approach to investigation and management, integrating embryo quality, uterine and endometrial factors, genetics, and hormonal optimisation to develop tailored treatment plans. Her care is pragmatic and data-driven, focusing on interventions supported by evidence while avoiding unnecessary or low-value add-ons.

She is a skilled laparoscopic, with particular expertise in endometriosis and pelvic pain. Rebecca also has a strong interest in the impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on reproductive hormones, including in elite-level athletes, and has cared for Olympic and national-level athletes. Her commitment to integrative medicine is reflected in additional training in sports medicine, nutrition, and psychology, alongside studies in Ayurveda and yoga in India.

Rebecca represents a more personalised, boutique model of fertility care that many patients are now seeking—continuity with a single specialist, clear evidence-based guidance, and a holistic approach that considers both physical and emotional wellbeing. She has published widely and collaborated on research across Australasia and the UK, is a dedicated mentor to junior doctors, and a passionate advocate for inclusive fertility care, including support for the LGBTQIA+ community and fertility preservation in adolescents and young adults. Outside of medicine, she enjoys creative pursuits, yoga, running, and spending time in nature with her partner and two young children.

Dr Sylvia Ross is a highly experienced specialist in Women’s Health, with over a decade of dedication to women’s health. She consults at Stellar Fertility in Fitzroy and serves as the Clinical Lead of the Public Fertility Service at Western Health and is a consultant at The Royal Women’s Hospital.

Dr Ross has undertaken over three additional years of highly competitive subspecialty training in infertility and reproductive endocrinology (CREI), following the completion of her general obstetrics and gynaecology qualifications. She has also served as a lecturer in women’s health at a post graduate level.

Her clinical interests include female infertility, egg freezing, unexplained infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), recurrent pregnancy loss, and endometriosis. She offers a comprehensive range of fertility treatments, including ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilisation (IVF), and minimally invasive surgery for fertility enhancement and endometriosis management.

Beyond clinical care, Dr Ross is a passionate advocate for patient education and support. She co-hosts the podcast Fertility Untamed alongside her colleagues and fellow infertility warriors, Dr Rebecca Mackenzie-Proctor, and Dr Devini Ameratunga.

Renee is the Clinical Director and Behaviour Consultant at Super Kids Behavioural Consulting. She is a Certified Behaviour Analyst (CBA) and Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) who uses the science of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to teach children and their families. Additionally, she is an NDIS Specialist Behaviour Support Practitioner and a Developmental Educator with DEAI, highlighting her commitment and passion for supporting individuals with disabilities.

She received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Sydney and completed her Master of Autism Studies at Griffith University. She also studied ABA at the Florida Institute of Technology. She is a member of the Association for Behaviour Analysis Australia, the Association for Behaviour Analysis International and Continence Health Australia.

She specialises in the behavioural assessment and support for autistic children. She has over 15 years of experience providing early intervention to neurodivergent children, specifically autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and intellectual disability in school, home and clinic-based setting. Renee is passionate about delivering evidence-based early intervention to children to help them achieve their full potential. Her interests include communication and building independent living skills, particularly toilet training. In her spare time, she loves going for walks, weightlifting and hosting family dinners.

Dr Elina Safro is a GP with a deep interest in all things women’s health. She works at Family Planning NSW clinics, Marie Stopes clinics, and also covers the on-call roster at RPAH for victims of sexual assault. Dr Safro is highly involved in clinical education of GPs, including overseas-trained doctors. Her clinical interests include menopause and she serves as Chair of Education subcommittee of the board of AMS.

Dr Lona Brown is a General Practitioner and Medical Educator at Sexual Health Victoria (SHV). She is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and has a Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Dr Brown uses her experience and strong focus in sexual and reproductive health to coordinate the IUD, Introduction to Sexual History Taking and Contraception courses at SHV. Her dedication to teaching health professionals includes one-on-one training and group courses, all aimed at enhancing community services and community access to contraception.

Prof Simone Strasser is a hepatologist at RPAH in Sydney. She is a past President of the Gastroenterological Society of Australia. She has a major clinical and research interest in viral hepatitis, advanced liver disease, liver cancer and liver transplantation. As Director of Hepatology Clinical Trials at RPAH, she is site principal investigator on multiple trials of new therapies for fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, and liver cancer. She is a regular speaker in national and local educational programmes and is on multiple educational, advisory, and administrative boards and committees in Australia and internationally.

A/Prof Ralph Audehm is a GP of 35 years experience. An Honorary Clinical Associate Professor, University of Melbourne, Department of General practice. He has a broad interest in chronic disease management, diabetes, heart disease and transitional research. He has owned his own practice, worked for NGOs as well as in the community health sector. He believes that primary care and general practice is the key to providing better health outcomes for all Australians.

Emily works in a multi-disciplinary team and specialises in persistent pelvic, vulvovaginal issues and perimenopause. She has worked internationally and in rural and remote communities. Emily enjoys sharing knowledge through writing clinical guidance and educating others to care for women holistically and inclusively.

FRACGP DRANZCOG (Adv) MBBS (Hons) BMEDSci Women’s Health GP Specialist – TasWomen by TasOGs, O’Skin, Clinical Educator – University of Tasmania

Dr. Matthew Stokes is a General Surgeon with international sub-specialist training in Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric Surgery undertaken through the highly competitive AANZGOSA training program. He has specialist training in minimally invasive surgical techniques for oesophageal and gastric cancer, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), hiatus & diaphragmatic hernias, and metabolic and bariatric surgery, including revisional procedures. Dr. Stokes also manages general surgical conditions, including the surgical management of gallstone disease and hernias, and emergency general surgical disorders.

Dr. Stokes graduated from medical school in 2013. He commenced his medical career at Austin Health, after which he moved to Alfred Health where he completed his General Surgical Training. In 2020, he was appointed as the Principal Surgical Registrar at The Alfred Hospital. He obtained his Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in 2021.

Dr. Stokes then undertook an additional three years of post-fellowship specialist training to sub-specialise in Oesophago-Gastric, Bariatric, and General Surgery. His first year was at Frankston Hospital, Peninsula Health, employed as a Staff General Surgeon/Fellow, where he gained substantial experience in emergency and elective general surgery. In 2023, Dr. Stokes was selected for the AANZGOSA post-fellowship two-year training program. His first year was spent at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane, where he acquired extensive experience in minimally invasive techniques for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, hiatal and diaphragmatic hernias, and oesophageal and gastric cancer.

In 2024, Dr. Stokes relocated to the United Kingdom with his family and worked at The Royal Infirmary Hospital Edinburgh, Scotland. He served as a Consultant General and Benign Upper GI surgeon and as the Senior Clinical Fellow in Oesophagogastric cancer surgery. During this time, he performed a high volume of resections for oesophageal and gastric cancer, further enhancing his skills and knowledge in the management of both benign and malignant oesophageal and gastric conditions. He was awarded a Diploma of Membership of the International Postgraduate Deanary from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (MIPDEd).

Dr. Stokes actively engages in clinical research in the field of Upper GI and general surgery. His current research interests include investigating the role of bacterial species in oesophageal cancer development and early postoperative complications, with the aim to improve outcomes and reduce peri-operative risks for patients undergoing oesophageal and gastric cancer surgery.

Dr. Matthew Stokes is dedicated to providing comprehensive Upper GI and General Surgical services to patients across South East Victoria. He has public appointments at The Alfred, Alfred Health (Melbourne) and Frankston Hospital, Peninsula Health, and private appointments at Peninsula Private Hospital, Frankston.

In his personal life, Dr. Stokes is a devoted husband to Jade and father to two young boys. He enjoys outdoor activities, particularly at Phillip Island with his family, and keeps active through swimming, bike riding, and hiking. A true Melbournian, he appreciates a good coffee, a new restaurant, and a fine glass of wine with close friends and family.

Louise Greene is a Registered Nurse, aged care expert and governance leader with more than 30 years of experience across aged care, health and senior living. She has worked with aged care providers, government agencies and families across Australia, bringing deep expertise in clinical governance, home care, residential aged care and retirement living. Louise is the co-founder of Aged Care Conversations, where she helps older people and families navigate the Australian aged care system with clarity, confidence and practical advice. Her work is grounded in both professional expertise and real-world understanding of how the system operates on the ground.

Dr Angela Kwong is a General Practitioner with a special interest in weight management and metabolic health. She services at the NSW State Lead for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Specific Interests Group in Obesity Management and is actively involved in GP education through national conferences and webinars. She is the founder of Enlighten Me, a GP-led model of multidisciplinary weight management care.

A/Prof Yang is an endocrine hypertension researcher and clinician who has demonstrated the high prevalence of Primary Aldosteronism (PA) in the community and is now leading research to enable early diagnosis and treatment of this condition.

One in 10 patients with hypertension have PA but it is often misdiagnosed as conventional hypertension – less than one in 100 patients are diagnosed correctly. As a result, patients are given the wrong treatment and suffer preventable heart disease or stroke. PA is a form of high blood pressure caused by overactive adrenal glands that make too much aldosterone, a salt-retaining hormone, which leads to high blood pressure as well as heart and kidney damage. Correctly diagnosed, PA and the consequent hypertension can be treated or cured with surgery.

Over a 10-year period (2010-2020) A/Prof Yang has developed diagnostic and management guidelines for primary aldosteronism at Monash Health that has led to a 40-fold increase in the number of patients diagnosed.

In 2016, A/Prof Yang established the first dedicated Endocrine Hypertension Service in Victoria, integrating medical research findings into clinical practice. She is currently leading national and international efforts to streamline the diagnosis and management of PA, including leading a network of researchers to formulate problem solving strategies across Australia.

A/Prof Yang has been awarded more than $8 million in grant funding from National government agencies (MRFF and NHRMC), as well as philanthropic bodies including the Heart Foundation and Rebecca Cooper Foundation.

A/Prof Yang contributes to the Endocrine Society of Australia as the Co-Chair of its Annual Scientific Meeting (2023-2025); and the Endocrine Society (US) as a member of its Annual Meeting Steering Committee (2024-2026).

“My main interest lies in the translation of primary aldosteronism research into revised clinical guidelines, improved diagnostic tools and transformed practice to help patients. In addition, I am identifying the earliest point of disease occurrence with the aim of enabling earlier intervention and return to health.”