On Thursday, 20 March 2025, the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct came alive with discovery and inspiration at the Research, Innovation and Transformation Showcase - a landmark event celebrating breakthroughs in healthcare and shining a spotlight on the thinkers and innovators shaping the future.
Hosted at the Gold Coast University Hospital, the event brought together a vibrant community of researchers, clinicians, industry leaders, and young changemakers. QAHS staff and student representatives were proud to be part of the experience, connecting with some of the most exciting minds in modern medicine.
Among the standout presenters was Annie Rogers, a 17-year-old tech entrepreneur whose journey captivated the audience. Annie is the creator of My Voice - a Bluetooth speaker necklace designed to support individuals with speech challenges. Her innovation has not only earned her national recognition as Young Entrepreneur of the Year but also served as a powerful example of how youth-led innovation can create meaningful social impact.
Professor Scott Bell, Chair of Research at Gold Coast Health and an internationally respected respiratory physician, delivered a compelling keynote on translating research into clinical practice. With a focus on cystic fibrosis, Professor Bell's contributions to patient care and policy have had a global impact.
Another powerful story came from Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM, Australia's first quadriplegic medical intern. He was accompanied by his good friend, Dr Claudio Pizzolato, co-lead of the BioSpine Project. Dr Palipana shared his personal journey of resilience, his advocacy for disability rights, and his continued research into spinal cord injury recovery. His message of perseverance and purpose left a lasting impression.
The theme of technological advancement continued with Dr Hal Rice, Medical Director of Neuro Intervention, who presented the cutting-edge role of robotics in brain surgery. His work in neurovascular intervention is not only innovative but also life-changing for patients experiencing aneurysms and brain vascular abnormalities.
Rounding out the event's powerful line-up was Ms Titta Gigante, an Advanced Peer Worker in Mental Health, who is leading co-designed projects to reduce the stigma surrounding electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Her focus on empathy, inclusion, and lived experience in mental health support served as a reminder of the human heart at the centre of healthcare.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
This event served as more than a showcase - it was a catalyst for curiosity and career exploration. This was an opportunity to engage with experts in health tech, neuroscience, mental health, and entrepreneurship deepened their understanding of what it means to work at the cutting edge of the healthcare industry.
The showcase reinforced the importance of collaboration between education and industry - and reminded us that the future of healthcare is already taking shape, right here on our doorstep!
Dion Obst
HOD Global Connect