Congratulations Professor Brian Kelly AM

CONGRATULATIONS PROF BRIAN KELLY AM!

A huge congratulations to PoCoG Chair Professor Brian Kelly, who was made a Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant service to medical education, and to professional organisations, on Australia Day.

At PoCoG HQ, we can testify to the unwavering expertise and support offered by Brian and feel grateful to work with him so closely.

In addition to his role with PoCoG, Brian is currently Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research), at the University of Newcastle. On top of his university appointment, Professor Kelly has more than 25 years' clinical experience in mental health services and has made a considerable contribution to improving the lives of patients and their families clinically. His expertise in addressing the psychosocial needs of people with cancer is internationally recognised.

Brian is also a strong advocate for empathic communication as a core value of healthcare and has extensive experience developing and implementing communication skills training within health. His commitment to ensuring patients and families receive equitable and best practice care drives his willingness to dedicate time to support the next generation of healthcare teams to improve how they deliver care.

Throughout his career Brian has championed the need for evidence-based mental health care, regardless of where people live and he has made a substantial contribution to psycho-oncology, mental health research and cancer care.

Brian has changed the way mental health and cancer care is delivered in Australia and is eminently deserving of this award.

This lovely photo of Brian is courtesy of the University of Newcastle website.