Experts

Healthed work with a team of general practitioners and medical professionals to ensure the highest quality education​

Brought up, undergrad and early training (including GP training) in UK; gynaecology/fertility training years in NZ and UK; senior career mostly in NZ with links to Australia, international society engagement along the way, Johnny-Come-Lately Australian clinical career
Prof Danny Green is Winthrop Professor at The University of Western Australia and a cardiovascular and exercise physiologist specialising in chronic disease prevention. His research, spanning youth to older adults, focuses on early disease detection and personalised exercise and medication strategies for cardiovascular and metabolic conditions. He has published over 400 peer-reviewed papers and secured more than 50 competitive grants across Australia and the UK. Danny leads UWA’s Cardiovascular Research Group and is Foundation Director of the UWA Healthspan Institute. He pioneered Clinical Exercise Physiology, advancing professional recognition, accreditation, university curricula and funding in Australia and the UK.
Dr Mick Tong is a GP, living in Darwin since 2016. He enjoys working in the Northern Territory where patients present with the full range of pathologies, even the odd crocodile bite. As the first port of call, and the cornerstone of continuity, he believes that GPs have a unique role to connect with their patients and help them manage every aspect of their health.
Professor Rachel Neale completed a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland and spent a short time in clinical practice, before deciding that her heart lay in science and research. She completed a PhD in skin cancer prevention at the QIMR Berghofer. Professor Neale then obtained an NHMRC Sidney Sax Fellowship which enabled her to spend two years at the University of Oxford. This enabled her to play a vital role in an international consortium studying the effects of human papilloma virus on the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Upon returning to Australia, Professor Neale established a program of research into pancreatic cancer, and later into vitamin D. In light of her knowledge of both skin cancer and vitamin D she is able to contribute to policy discussions about balancing the risks and benefits of sun exposure; she leads the health working group for the United Nations Environmental Effects Assessment Panel which reports to the parties to the Montreal Protocol. Professor Neale is the deputy director of the Population Health Program and holds an adjunct appointment at the University of Queensland.

A/Prof Samantha Hocking is an Endocrinologist at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and a Clinical Academic at the University of Sydney. A/Prof Hocking’s main research interest is precision medicine exploring how personalised medicine can both predict, prevent and improve the management of metabolic disease, particularly diabetes. In addition, she is working with fellow researchers at The Boden Institute and the CPC-RPA Clinic on projects in obesity, bariatric surgery, metabolic syndrome and diabetes and liver disease.

Dr Terri-Lynne South is both a Medical Doctor (GP) and an Accredited Practicing Dietitian with a specific interest in obesity management and health conditions associated with a higher BMI. She is the current chair of the RACGP (Royal Australian College of General Practice) Specific Interest Group in Obesity Management. Terri-Lynne is the medical director of a community-based multi-disciplinary health centre that focuses on holistic management of any health condition associated with a higher BMI. She is a member of several national organisations that promote multi-dimensional advocacy for people living with obesity.

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.

Dr Cecily Forsyth graduated in medicine from the University of Sydney, and after completing her training in haematology at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, she moved to the Central Coast of NSW to set-up practice as a clinical haematologist in 1996. She was appointed to the Central Coast Local Health District as a VMO Haematologist at Wyong Hospital in 1999.

Dr Forsyth provides holistic and comprehensive care to patients with a wide range of haematological disorders. She has a passion for myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) and has contributed to several national and international research collaborations in myeloproliferative neoplasms. She is a member of the MPN subcommittee for the ALLG and an advisor to the MPN Alliance Australia.

Dr Cara McDonald is a highly trained specialist dermatologist and cosmetic injector. She is the co-director and principal dermatologist at Complete Skin Specialists.

Originally from Tasmania, Dr Cara McDonald completed her medical degree with First Class Honours at the University of Tasmania. She undertook specialist dermatology training through St Vincent’s and The Alfred Hospitals in Melbourne, as well as at Oxford in the United Kingdom. She is a Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists and holds a public hospital consultant position at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne.

Dr McDonald joined Complete Skin Specialists in 2010, partnering with Dr Belinda Welsh to deliver a comprehensive and first-class dermatology service to the region. Her clinical interests include skin cancer prevention and management, acne scarring, laser treatments, surgical dermatology, and aesthetic medicine. With extensive experience in cosmetic dermatology, Dr McDonald is known for combining her deep anatomical knowledge with a creative eye to deliver subtle, natural-looking results. Her expertise in cosmetic injectables has also led to a national teaching role with the Allergan Medical Institute®, where she trains other medical professionals across Australia and New Zealand.

Dr McDonald is particularly passionate about full-face rejuvenation for patients who want a refreshed appearance while maintaining a natural look. Her love for aesthetic medicine was inspired during her time working with renowned cosmetic dermatologist Professor Greg Goodman. A lifelong amateur painter with a keen eye for colour and design, she finds joy in combining scientific precision with artistic sensibility through her work in aesthetic medicine.

Dr Jeff Ecker has over 35 years experience specialising in hand and wrist conditions. Recognised as one of the few surgeons competent in all aspects of hand and wrist surgery, he has authored scientific research articles and book chapters in the field of upper limb surgery. He is regularly invited to present and teach his outcomes and research at international and national scientific meetings.

Dr Ecker is often called upon to operate on some of the most challenging injuries, disorders and corrective reconstructive work. His specialist interest is the treatment of complex wrist problems, including scaphoid fractures, fracture non-unions and wrist arthroscopy. He has played a leading role in introducing and refining techniques for arthroscopic wrist surgery, and performed the world’s first supraretinacular endoscopic carpal tunnel release – a revolutionary technique he developed which eliminates the risk of damaging the median nerve.

Associate Professor Mei-Ling Tay-Kearney is a consultant ophthalmologist at the LEI and Royal Perth Hospital. She specialises in infectious and autoimmune eye diseases and their treatments. She completed her ophthalmology training in Western Australia before undertaking postgraduate studies in ocular immunology and infections at the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, USA.

Associate Professor Tay-Kearney has a strong commitment to professional education and training. She is an active member of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology (RANZCO) where she is a member of its Selection Board for Training, its Training Progression Committee, and a Training Hospital Inspector. She is also part of the LEI’s Medical Advisory Committee. She is active in Clinical Trials, focusing on new drug treatments for infectious and non-infectious ocular inflammation and continues to participate in tele-ophthalmology research.

Associate Professor Tay-Kearney has held various positions, including Head of Department at Royal Perth Hospital, RANZCO Advanced Clinical Examination (RACE) examiner and Qualification and Education Committee (QEC) Chair responsible for the ophthalmological training program in WA.

Dr Heather Block’s research focuses on healthy ageing and system integration within primary care. She holds a joint research position with Adelaide Primary Health Network, enabling collaboration on initiatives that support older Australians to live and stay well. She works closely with general practices, health professionals, community and primary care providers, carers, and people with lived experience. Dr Heather has expertise in implementation science and knowledge translation with my research supporting evidence-based healthy ageing in primary care. She has special research interests in supporting health outcomes for adults, healthy ageing and implementation science.
Dr Adam Nelson is an early career interventional cardiologist and clinical trialist dual-appointed to the Royal Adelaide and Queen Elizabeth Hospitals in addition to the University of Adelaide and the Victorian Heart Institute. Dr Nelson’s academic and clinical interests are in improving adoption of guidelines through implementation science and evaluating emerging therapies for dyslipidaemia, diabetes and obesity.

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.

Dr Maryam Seyedabadi is a renowned female Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Sydney, NSW. As one of the few dually qualified plastic surgeons, with both medical and dental surgery degrees from the University of Sydney, Dr Maryam offers a unique and comprehensive approach to plastic surgery. Her extensive training and passion for her craft make her a leader in the field, while her empathetic nature ensures she connects deeply with each patient.

Dr Maryam’s journey into plastic surgery began with a foundation in science and research, followed by studies in dentistry and medicine. She quickly discovered her passion for surgery, particularly in plastic surgery, where she could combine her deep knowledge of facial structures and harmony with her surgical expertise. This dual qualification allows her to excel in facial analysis and treatment planning, offering patients the meticulous care they deserve.

She is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and has further honed her expertise through post-fellowship training in aesthetic surgery, endorsed by the Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). Her focus includes face, breast and body, where she applies the latest techniques with precision.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr Maryam is committed to mentoring the next generation of surgeons, holding a VMO position at Westmead Hospital. She also maintains a dedication to ongoing education and research, holding a PhD in Medicine from the University of Sydney.

Brought up, undergrad and early training (including GP training) in UK; gynaecology/fertility training years in NZ and UK; senior career mostly in NZ with links to Australia, international society engagement along the way, Johnny-Come-Lately Australian clinical career
Prof Danny Green is Winthrop Professor at The University of Western Australia and a cardiovascular and exercise physiologist specialising in chronic disease prevention. His research, spanning youth to older adults, focuses on early disease detection and personalised exercise and medication strategies for cardiovascular and metabolic conditions. He has published over 400 peer-reviewed papers and secured more than 50 competitive grants across Australia and the UK. Danny leads UWA’s Cardiovascular Research Group and is Foundation Director of the UWA Healthspan Institute. He pioneered Clinical Exercise Physiology, advancing professional recognition, accreditation, university curricula and funding in Australia and the UK.
Dr Mick Tong is a GP, living in Darwin since 2016. He enjoys working in the Northern Territory where patients present with the full range of pathologies, even the odd crocodile bite. As the first port of call, and the cornerstone of continuity, he believes that GPs have a unique role to connect with their patients and help them manage every aspect of their health.
Professor Rachel Neale completed a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland and spent a short time in clinical practice, before deciding that her heart lay in science and research. She completed a PhD in skin cancer prevention at the QIMR Berghofer. Professor Neale then obtained an NHMRC Sidney Sax Fellowship which enabled her to spend two years at the University of Oxford. This enabled her to play a vital role in an international consortium studying the effects of human papilloma virus on the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Upon returning to Australia, Professor Neale established a program of research into pancreatic cancer, and later into vitamin D. In light of her knowledge of both skin cancer and vitamin D she is able to contribute to policy discussions about balancing the risks and benefits of sun exposure; she leads the health working group for the United Nations Environmental Effects Assessment Panel which reports to the parties to the Montreal Protocol. Professor Neale is the deputy director of the Population Health Program and holds an adjunct appointment at the University of Queensland.

A/Prof Samantha Hocking is an Endocrinologist at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and a Clinical Academic at the University of Sydney. A/Prof Hocking’s main research interest is precision medicine exploring how personalised medicine can both predict, prevent and improve the management of metabolic disease, particularly diabetes. In addition, she is working with fellow researchers at The Boden Institute and the CPC-RPA Clinic on projects in obesity, bariatric surgery, metabolic syndrome and diabetes and liver disease.

Dr Terri-Lynne South is both a Medical Doctor (GP) and an Accredited Practicing Dietitian with a specific interest in obesity management and health conditions associated with a higher BMI. She is the current chair of the RACGP (Royal Australian College of General Practice) Specific Interest Group in Obesity Management. Terri-Lynne is the medical director of a community-based multi-disciplinary health centre that focuses on holistic management of any health condition associated with a higher BMI. She is a member of several national organisations that promote multi-dimensional advocacy for people living with obesity.

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.

Dr Cecily Forsyth graduated in medicine from the University of Sydney, and after completing her training in haematology at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, she moved to the Central Coast of NSW to set-up practice as a clinical haematologist in 1996. She was appointed to the Central Coast Local Health District as a VMO Haematologist at Wyong Hospital in 1999.

Dr Forsyth provides holistic and comprehensive care to patients with a wide range of haematological disorders. She has a passion for myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) and has contributed to several national and international research collaborations in myeloproliferative neoplasms. She is a member of the MPN subcommittee for the ALLG and an advisor to the MPN Alliance Australia.

Dr Cara McDonald is a highly trained specialist dermatologist and cosmetic injector. She is the co-director and principal dermatologist at Complete Skin Specialists.

Originally from Tasmania, Dr Cara McDonald completed her medical degree with First Class Honours at the University of Tasmania. She undertook specialist dermatology training through St Vincent’s and The Alfred Hospitals in Melbourne, as well as at Oxford in the United Kingdom. She is a Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists and holds a public hospital consultant position at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne.

Dr McDonald joined Complete Skin Specialists in 2010, partnering with Dr Belinda Welsh to deliver a comprehensive and first-class dermatology service to the region. Her clinical interests include skin cancer prevention and management, acne scarring, laser treatments, surgical dermatology, and aesthetic medicine. With extensive experience in cosmetic dermatology, Dr McDonald is known for combining her deep anatomical knowledge with a creative eye to deliver subtle, natural-looking results. Her expertise in cosmetic injectables has also led to a national teaching role with the Allergan Medical Institute®, where she trains other medical professionals across Australia and New Zealand.

Dr McDonald is particularly passionate about full-face rejuvenation for patients who want a refreshed appearance while maintaining a natural look. Her love for aesthetic medicine was inspired during her time working with renowned cosmetic dermatologist Professor Greg Goodman. A lifelong amateur painter with a keen eye for colour and design, she finds joy in combining scientific precision with artistic sensibility through her work in aesthetic medicine.

Dr Jeff Ecker has over 35 years experience specialising in hand and wrist conditions. Recognised as one of the few surgeons competent in all aspects of hand and wrist surgery, he has authored scientific research articles and book chapters in the field of upper limb surgery. He is regularly invited to present and teach his outcomes and research at international and national scientific meetings.

Dr Ecker is often called upon to operate on some of the most challenging injuries, disorders and corrective reconstructive work. His specialist interest is the treatment of complex wrist problems, including scaphoid fractures, fracture non-unions and wrist arthroscopy. He has played a leading role in introducing and refining techniques for arthroscopic wrist surgery, and performed the world’s first supraretinacular endoscopic carpal tunnel release – a revolutionary technique he developed which eliminates the risk of damaging the median nerve.

Associate Professor Mei-Ling Tay-Kearney is a consultant ophthalmologist at the LEI and Royal Perth Hospital. She specialises in infectious and autoimmune eye diseases and their treatments. She completed her ophthalmology training in Western Australia before undertaking postgraduate studies in ocular immunology and infections at the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, USA.

Associate Professor Tay-Kearney has a strong commitment to professional education and training. She is an active member of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmology (RANZCO) where she is a member of its Selection Board for Training, its Training Progression Committee, and a Training Hospital Inspector. She is also part of the LEI’s Medical Advisory Committee. She is active in Clinical Trials, focusing on new drug treatments for infectious and non-infectious ocular inflammation and continues to participate in tele-ophthalmology research.

Associate Professor Tay-Kearney has held various positions, including Head of Department at Royal Perth Hospital, RANZCO Advanced Clinical Examination (RACE) examiner and Qualification and Education Committee (QEC) Chair responsible for the ophthalmological training program in WA.

Dr Heather Block’s research focuses on healthy ageing and system integration within primary care. She holds a joint research position with Adelaide Primary Health Network, enabling collaboration on initiatives that support older Australians to live and stay well. She works closely with general practices, health professionals, community and primary care providers, carers, and people with lived experience. Dr Heather has expertise in implementation science and knowledge translation with my research supporting evidence-based healthy ageing in primary care. She has special research interests in supporting health outcomes for adults, healthy ageing and implementation science.
Dr Adam Nelson is an early career interventional cardiologist and clinical trialist dual-appointed to the Royal Adelaide and Queen Elizabeth Hospitals in addition to the University of Adelaide and the Victorian Heart Institute. Dr Nelson’s academic and clinical interests are in improving adoption of guidelines through implementation science and evaluating emerging therapies for dyslipidaemia, diabetes and obesity.

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.

Dr Maryam Seyedabadi is a renowned female Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Sydney, NSW. As one of the few dually qualified plastic surgeons, with both medical and dental surgery degrees from the University of Sydney, Dr Maryam offers a unique and comprehensive approach to plastic surgery. Her extensive training and passion for her craft make her a leader in the field, while her empathetic nature ensures she connects deeply with each patient.

Dr Maryam’s journey into plastic surgery began with a foundation in science and research, followed by studies in dentistry and medicine. She quickly discovered her passion for surgery, particularly in plastic surgery, where she could combine her deep knowledge of facial structures and harmony with her surgical expertise. This dual qualification allows her to excel in facial analysis and treatment planning, offering patients the meticulous care they deserve.

She is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and has further honed her expertise through post-fellowship training in aesthetic surgery, endorsed by the Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). Her focus includes face, breast and body, where she applies the latest techniques with precision.

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr Maryam is committed to mentoring the next generation of surgeons, holding a VMO position at Westmead Hospital. She also maintains a dedication to ongoing education and research, holding a PhD in Medicine from the University of Sydney.

Upcoming Healthed Webcast

New Brain Health Guidelines – What GPs Can Do

Tuesday 4th August, 7pm - 9pm AEST

Speaker

Scientia Prof Kaarin Anstey

Psychologist; Director, UNSW Ageing Futures Institute; ARC Laureate Fellow; Senior Principal Research Scientist, NeuRA

Scientia Prof Kaarin Anstey translates the WHO's updated 2026 dementia risk-reduction guidelines changes into concrete actions for opportunistic risk assessment and targeted advice in everyday general practice.