Day 4: Allied Health Research Forum

Celebrating Excellence at the Allied Health Research Forum

On Thursday 30 October, the Allied Health Research Forum brought together clinicians, researchers and students to recognise innovation, collaboration and impact across allied health research at Alfred Health.

Chief Allied Health Officer at Alfred Health A/Prof Martin McCall-White opened the event with a warm welcome and Acknowledgement of Country, followed by remarks from Professor Stephen Jane, Alfred Health Executive Director of Research.

The 2025 Allied Health Scientific Abstract Prizes were presented to:

• Emma McShane – Lucy Battistel Memorial Prize for Best Allied Health Research
• Georgina Lawson – Henrietta Law Memorial Prize for Best Novice Research
• Katharine Scrivener – Best Research into Practice Award

Highly Commended recipients were:

• Best Allied Health Research: Janet Bondarenko, Lara Kimmel
• Best Novice Research: Alicia Cerra, Ray Lobo
• Research into Practice: Jessica Fitzpatrick, Jacqui Wheatcroft

Our 2024 and 2025 award winners delivered dynamic 3-minute presentations, highlighting research that advances patient care and guides clinical practice.

Keynote speaker Mr Caleb Rixon shared a powerful and personal story, inspiring reflection on the importance of consumer collaboration in both research and clinical care. An engaging Q&A session further encouraged meaningful discussion among attendees.

The forum concluded with the announcement of the Alfred Health – La Trobe University Research Grants by A/Prof Julia Gilmartin-Thomas, followed by closing remarks from A/Prof McCall-White.

This event was a resounding success, celebrating excellence and reinforcing our commitment to advancing allied health research for the benefit of our patients and community.