“On June 13, A/Prof Michael Jackson from Prince of Wales Hospital, New South Wales, presented on the potential role for protons and heavy ions for cancer therapy in Australia. The event was organised by the Radiation Oncology Workforce Western Australia consortium of state radiotherapy institutions, funded by WA Health’s Cancer and Palliative Care Network, and hosted at the Harry Perkins Institute for Medical Research.

Director of Radiation Oncology at the Prince of Wales Hospital NSW

Approximately 80 people attended representing a mix of physicists, radiation therapists and radiation oncologists, other cancer-related health professionals and researchers, cancer patient advocates and supporters and those with a general interest in cancer services. A/Prof Jackson spoke on the current role protons and heavy ions play in treatment of multiple cancer types, the physical characteristics that make them appealing for treatment and the infrastructure required to provide such clinical services. Drawing on 20 years of efforts to introduce proton therapy services in Australia, A/Prof Jackson discussed current plans to introduce the service in several states, all currently pending the provision of an appropriately motivated group of politicians and investors.

The presentation was recorded and A/Prof Jackson has kindly given permission for the recording to be available for download.”