Professor Fiona Wood AM
2005 Australian of the Year on Burns Medicine, Healing and Innovation
Freo de Janeiro Ep. #9
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Background:Professor Fiona Wood AM is one of Australia’s most innovative and respected surgeons and researchers. A highly skilled plastic and reconstructive surgeon and world leading burns specialist, she has pioneered research and technology development in burns medicine. It was an absolute privilege to be able to discuss her inspirational journey and the approach to life that has enabled her to make a great contribution to the world. We had a connection through our involvements with gymnastics, so it is also great to speak to Professor Wood about her passion for sport and trampoline gymnastics. Professor Wood’s positions include Director of the Burns Service of Western Australia (BSWA), Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Fiona Stanley Hospital (previously at Royal Perth Hospital) and Princess Margaret Hospital for Children and Winthrop Professor (Burns Injury Research Unit) at the School of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine UWA.
She was awarded Member of the Order of Australia in 2003, the Australian Medical Association’s ‘Contribution to Medicine’ award in 2003, the 2003 and 2004 West Australian of the Year and 2005 Australian of the Year. She was voted Australia’s Most Trusted Person for six successive years (2005-2010) and has been recognised as an Australian Living Treasure.
Professor Wood believes there is always more that can be done to further the field of burns medicine – new research to be undertaken, new technologies to be discovered and new ways to treat burns survivors. She is on an ongoing quest to continue to make a difference to people’s lives.
This is a must-listen episode for those interested in understanding the fascinatingly intricate field of burns medicine and the work of one of Australia's preeminent specialists.
Linkworthy items from this Episode:
- Professor Fiona Wood's Foundation
- Peak Trampoline
- The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins
- Elidor by Alan Garner
- Professor Fiona Wood's 'Life is no brief candle' speech at the 10 year Bali Bombings Memorial Service in 2012