Message from Chair of ANZSA - December 2021

While it has been another very challenging year for the sarcoma community, much has been achieved due to the tireless and valuable efforts of many members working together with and alongside patients and the community. Thank you so much for continuing to make a meaningful difference for patients and families.

Your Board has been actively engaged and involved in many areas progressing research and patient care. One of the key deliverables over the past year was to prepare and launch the 2022-2024 strategic plan which was highlighted at the 2021 Annual General Meeting in November 2021. Many thanks to all who contributed to the development of the plan, including but not limited to members, the scientific advisory committee (SAC), the consumer advisory panel (CAP) and the orthopaedic committee. The plan can be downloaded here.

The Board continues to review the composition and effectiveness of the Board. At the 2021 AGM, Associate Professor Jayesh Desai and Associate Professor Marianne Phillips were re-elected for a further term of three years. The Board is deeply grateful for their tireless contribution towards advancing research and clinical trial capabilities as well as nurturing relationships with international colleagues and collaborators.

The ASM Committee, chaired by Director Associate Professor David Gyorki, once again delivered a highly relevant and informative Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM). It was fortunate that many international speakers could join in delivering inspirational and highly engaging talks. It is hoped that in-person meetings will resume in the near future.

The work of the Consumer Advisory Panel (CAP), chaired by director Geoff McKinnon supported by director Associate Professor Marianne Phillips, goes from strength to strength. The voice of patients and consumers is key, and this vibrant group is greatly assisting guide communication, research and practice aspects important to patients.

The growing contribution of the sarcoma orthopaedic surgeons is providing insights and guidance not otherwise available to this multidisciplinary group. The focus on education in the new strategic plan is an exciting development for ANZSA. Working with and through the orthopaedic committee, clinicians and allied health workers are expected to benefit from the initiatives planned. Thanks to Professor Peter Steadman and Professor Richard Carey Smith for their guidance and leadership afforded to the Board.

Research continues to be a core pillar for ANZSA thanks to the leadership of the Scientific Advisory Committee co-chairs – Professor Angela Hong and Professor Jayesh Desai. Both continue to expertly guide the backbone of the research component of the strategic plan working closely with members.

I want to extend my heartfelt, sincere thanks to the directors and members who are leading many of the sarcoma initiatives.

Finally, ANZSA will not be where it is without the stewardship of Chief Executive Officer, Dr Denise Caruso, and the ANZSA staff, all of whom have played a vital role in ensuring strategy is progressed and projects are delivered with excellence despite the less-than-ideal working environment.

I wish all a safe and peaceful festive season, and we all look forward to a bright 2022.

Read all about our updates in our December 2021 Newsletter.

Adrian Cosenza  |  Chair of ANZSA