Success for the Women in Science Symposium
28 February 2025
More than 200 people gathered this morning to celebrate Peter Mac's Women in Science Symposium.
Dr Lorey Smith and Associate Professor Laura Forrest set a warm and welcoming tone as co-hosts, together for the final time as Co-Chairs of Peter Mac's Research Gender Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
Associate Professor Laura Forrest, who will soon step down as Co-Chair after four years of impactful service, was warmly acknowledged by the audience.
A special highlight was the presentation from Consumer Register member Diane Fisher. Genuine and filled with humour, she spoke candidly of her cancer experience, and highlighted the importance of workplace adjustments for people experiencing illness.
Victoria's Commissioner for Gender Equality in the Public Sector Dr Niki Vincent delivered an energetic keynote address. She passionately outlined the significance of Victoria's 2021 Gender Equality Act, explaining how it is driving real action to close stubborn pay and seniority gaps for women across the state.
The second, stirring keynote address was delivered Peter Mac Consultant Medical Oncologist and clinician researcher Professor Shahneen Sandhu. She reflected on the mentors and role models who have helped her rise to the pinnacle of her profession, including her mother, who raised three female doctors as a single parent.
As part of the event, Dr Jennifer Devlin and Dr Maria Ftanou were announced as the 2025 Lea Medallists by Peter Mac Board Chair Professor Rosemary McKenzie. Funded by the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, the Lea Medal grants $50,000 in career development funding to two early or mid-career women researchers.
In closing the event, Chief Executive Professor Jason Payne remarked on the symposium's, “real sense of optimism that we are moving in the right direction.” He also implored more men to be involved in promoting gender equity.
The Lea Medals and Women in Science Symposium continues to be a forum for connection and inspiration, and one that looks set to remain on the Peter Mac calendar for many years to come.