The MPCCC’s Annual Cancer Forum, held on Friday 5 September at Huntingdale Golf Club, brought together leaders from across Victoria’s cancer community to reflect on progress and explore opportunities for the future.

The evening began with an opening address from Professor Christina Mitchell AO, Executive Dean of Monash Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, who shared a powerful reflection on the real-world impact of MPCCC’s work:
“These achievements aren’t just numbers on a report – they represent lives improved and, in many cases, lives saved.” Professor Mitchell said.

This was followed by a moving keynote from Ms Eden Foster MP, Member for Mulgrave, who spoke candidly about her personal experience with cancer, reinforcing the vital need for sustained investment in cancer research and equity of care.

This year’s Forum was hosted by Natasha Mitchell, award-winning ABC journalist and broadcaster, who guided a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring Dr Tricia Wright, Prof Phil Parente, Ms Naveena Nekkalapudi, Prof Renea Taylor, and Dr Adithya Balasubramanian.

The conversation centred on collaboration, equity and innovation, with powerful reflections shared by our panellists. “If you can’t see it, you can’t be it,” said Dr Tricia Wright, highlighting the importance of collaborating with the largest metropolitan hospitals. “Being able to have our MPCCC fellow onsite, with a focus on clinical trials and precision medicine, is like having a parachuted-in expert for the regional hospitals,” she added.

As a patient advocate, Naveena Nekkalapudi reminded the audience of the importance of genuine involvement in shaping care: “Don’t bake me the cake and then ask me if I like the flavour. Get me involved in the cooking process.”

The evening also featured the announcement of MPCCC’s new partnerships with Barwon Health and Latrobe Regional Hospital, expanding our reach to deliver better cancer outcomes for more Victorians.

MPCCC Co-Directors Professor Mark Shackleton and Professor Melissa Southey reflected on the Forum’s success: “Tonight showed the real strength of the MPCCC, collaboration across institutions, disciplines and regions, all with the shared goal of improving outcomes for people affected by cancer,” said Professor Shackleton.
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“Hearing from researchers, clinicians and patient advocates together on one stage reminds us why we do what we do, to ensure every Victorian has access to the best possible care,” added Professor Southey.

We were honoured to be joined by a number of distinguished guests, including Eden Foster MP, Michael Galea MLC, Professor Christina Mitchell AO, Ms Karen Corry (Peninsula Health Board Chair), Adj A/Prof Helen Cooper (Peninsula Health CEO), and Professor Eugine Yafele (Monash Health CEO).

The MPCCC Cancer Forum 2025 was a night of connection and inspiration, a powerful reminder that progress in cancer care is only possible when we work together. A big thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this event.

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