Pain management advocates recognised in Australia Day Honours

It was wonderful to see leaders in the pain field featured strongly in the Australia Day honours this year.

Founding Painaustralia CEO, Lesley Brydon, was named a Member of the Order of Australia for her role in implementing the National Pain Strategy. Lesley’s humble response was

“This is due to a great team effort by everyone at Painaustralia. Thanks to board, staff, members and supporters. Great progress but still lots to be done!”

Also recognised were former Faculty of Pain Medicine Deans, Professor Milton Cohen and Dr Penny Briscoe.

Professor Milton Cohen was appointed a Member (AM) in the General Division for significant service to medical education in the field of pain management.

Dr Penny Briscoe, who is also a former Painaustralia board member, was appointed a Member (AM) in the General Division for significant service to medicine and medical education, particularly to chronic pain management.

Other Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) fellows honoured included:

• Dr Richard “Harry” Harris was named the joint winner of the Australian of the Year award (with friend and colleague Craig Challen).
• Former President Dr Michael Davies was appointed a Member (AM) in the General Division for his significant service to medicine in the field of anaesthesia, and to professional medical bodies.
• Dr Christopher Peter Dodds, NSW, was awarded a Medal (OAM) in the General Division for his service to medicine as an anaesthetist.
• Dr Christopher John Lowry, NSW, was awarded a Medal (OAM) in the General Division for his service to medicine as an anaesthetist.

Painaustralia would like to offer all recipients a sincere congratulations and thank you for the work they are doing to improve the lives of people living with pain, their families and carers.