Gazettethe THE NEWSLETTER OF THE AUSTRALIAN ORTHOTIC PROSTHETIC ASSOCIATION INC.

Volume 12 - Issue 3 / September 2012

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In This Issue President’s Report 3 Office and Membership Report 3 Member Consultation: 4 The AOPA Orthotist/Prosthetist Scope of Practice Member Biography: Paul Sprague 4 The 2012 Paralympic Games 7 NCPO Clinical Education and Clinical School Network 8-9 AOPA Sponsors Award at La Trobe University 9 State Section Reports 10-11 AOPA Life Member Vale 13 AOPA Congress 2013 13 Personal and Professional Opportunity 15 Bill Reed Memorial Grant 15

President’s Report Office and Membership Report

Chatting with some colleagues recently, we were reflecting upon The third quarter of the year represents the busiest time for the the growth and changing focus of various health professional National Office. This is the period of membership renewals, CPD associations over the past couple of decades. Much of the early log verification and audit, auditing of the end of year financials, focus of like associations was involved in establishing structures the development of the 2012/13 budget and preparations for the which promoted and upheld high standards of practise amongst AGM. Understandably, there is some reduction in output, however members. This desire to be involved in a profession with high the support from National Council in continuing member services standards, aimed at benefitting the public and members alike, and involvement in consultations has been greatly appreciated. underpinned the largely voluntary efforts which sustained many The Victorian Department of Health Consultation regarding associations in their formative years. These elements remained the review of the Health Services (conciliation and review) Act core to several larger health professional associations as they closed on August 3rd. The AOPA provided a submission to this transitioned into highly organised business entities, with far consultation which is available in the Members Only section of stronger lobbying presences. As our Association continues to the website. The AOPA supported the need for greater powers leap ahead, modernising structures and processes which will of the Health Complaints Commissioner and the ability to elevate allow us to meet the many competitive challenges, it is our a complaint to an appropriate level. We recommended closer membership diversity and our various reasons for being involved communication between the Commissioners’ Office and the peak which provides distinct advantages. professional bodies which are self-regulating their practitioners. A great strength that we have is the energy and contribution The National Office is regularly required to provide submission of several members who are early on in their career, strongly and expert opinions on matters relevant to the P&O profession. supported by others who have contributed over many years. To support the development of these documents and to provide There are well developed and expanding opportunities for career clarity a Profession Summary has been developed. This will development, for extended scope and business growth, as well replace the existing summary on the AOPA website and allow for as a sense that members are particularly interested and aware of easy distribution and reference during document development. It where our profession needs to get to. is available for members and the general public on the website. The Profession Summary is very closely linked with the draft The Association also greatly benefits from the relatively even mix Scope of Practice document that has also been developed. This of privately and publicly employed members who provide services draft is currently in the consultation phase with the membership that are closely interlinked with those of many other disciplines. and is available for review in the members only section of the Whether belonging to either broad group, we have a passion for website (see related article in this Gazette). enhancing the quality of life for our clients by providing the best possible practical solutions. The degree to which the private The National Office has also begun the process of consultation and public elements of the profession can continue to grow and and receiving quotations for website and database redesign. work well together, will translate into an improved quality of life This will include the implementation of a Customer Relationship for many Australians who can benefit from access to the range of Management (CRM) system which will dramatically improve preventative, acute, rehabilitative and life-long care therapies that website services available for members, the CPD record we can provide. system and allow easy introduction of web based CPD events. Sarah Carter, our Website Content Coordinator will be working Many of us understand that apart from there being strength alongside the National Office to manage the content during the in numbers, that retention of membership is about supporting redevelopment. the profession as a whole and along with active participation, it substantially influences what shape the profession will take in the Current membership statistics are outlined in the table below th future. With an ever-growing, well informed group of volunteering (as of 15 August 2012). We are pleased to report an increase members working closely with the AOPA Office, The Association in membership numbers Members Number has recently been able to provide a representative perspective and therefore an increase in the representation of the to so many pivotal consultations that will affect the growth and Full time 241 profession nationally*. scope of our profession. On behalf of The AOPA National Council, Part time 31 We welcome student I thank you again for your involvement and contribution. Student 26 members Derrick Fu, Leave of absence 22 Jacqueline Ford, Richard Dyson-Holland Retired 9 Stephanie Clegg, President, The AOPA Inc. Life 8 [email protected] Karina McAuley, Claire Jessup, Total practicing Heather Stewart and full 272 members Evan Pulvere, members* Megan Kneebone, and Total Members 337 Rob Laukens to the * Based on ABS census 2006, AOPA Association. members represent 79% of the profession

The induction of new Office Bearers and State Representatives post AGMs is an exciting time and the Office looks forward to working with National Council and developing a new Strategic Plan for 2013. Please continue to make your enquiries to the office via phone or email.

Leigh Clarke and Sue Laksassi Executive Officer and Administration Officer, The AOPA Inc. [email protected]

The Gazette / Volume 12 - Issue 3 / September 2012 / 3 Member Consultation: The AOPA Orthotist/Prosthetist Scope of Practice

The AOPA has provided numerous submissions to Government documents. Our document has been developed from extensive and independent agencies over the last two years. This has research and it is essential that it reflects the opinions of the AOPA included the Productivity Commission Inquiry into Disability membership, whilst meeting the objectives of the Association. Care and Support, the EnableNSW and DVA consultation and The National Council seeks the membership’s feedback and the Options for unregistered Health Practitioners consultation. input into this draft during a 5 week consultation period. The draft Many of these submissions would have been enhanced through document has been uploaded to the Member Essentials section a clear and succinct descriptor outlining the roles and tasks of of the website (available for members only to view at http:// Australian Orthotist/Prosthetists. Further to this, the Association www.aopa.org.au/index.php?option=com_docman&task=cat_ aims to work within a robust self-regulation framework due to the view&gid=47&Itemid=56). We encourage all members to review absence of formal registration within the National Registration this document which outlines the professional role and tasks of and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS). Self-regulation requires the an Australian Orthotist/Prosthetist. Please provide feedback by setting of clear standards of practice, codes of conduct and completing the following survey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ other regulatory functions, such as mandatory CPD. Therefore, VVRM9LG or by sending an email or electronic document to the Association has developed a draft Scope of Practice for the National Office. The consultation period will close on Friday Australian Orthotist/Prosthetists. Once finalised, practitioners 28th September at 4:00pm. We thank you for your input into the with AOPA membership will be required to uphold this Scope development of this important document and look forward to of Practice, as well as the Competency Standards and Code of collating your contributions. Ethics and Professional Responsibility which already exist. Leigh Clarke The Draft Scope of Practice document has been developed Executive Officer, The AOPA Inc. after consideration of the goals and objectives of the document [email protected] and a full review of other professional bodies’ Scope of Practice

Member Biography: Paul Sprague

This edition sees us roam to the far West of the country to hear Specifically, I think the about the life and times of an Orthotist living in sunny WA. Paul is increasing use of laminated an extremely dedicated and hardworking National Council member composites by orthotists representing the WA section. Paul joined the NC 2 years ago and is opening up some great despite being young and relatively inexperienced at this time, he possibilities, especially quickly demonstrated his ability to understand difficult topics in for high impact patients. great depth and led by example with proactive involvement in The best results are being Association activities. Paul was responsible for the recent DVA seen in patients who are submissions and has been pre-emptive in recognising numerous referred for and comply with areas of both concern and opportunity, whilst still maintaining his comprehensive gait training commitments to the WA member base. and targeted stretching and strengthening. 1. What made you interested in choosing P&O as a career? 5. What are the best things about living in Perth? I enjoyed working with my hands and having something to The sun shines all year and the rain only falls at night. The beach show for my work. I also enjoyed being with people and was is an after-work stop off instead of a day trip and Little Creatures considering a career in Allied Health, so when I was pointed is an almost weekly pilgrimage. Minimal traffic and no tram tracks towards P&O it was the right fit. also make for ideal bike riding conditions for my two wheeled commute down the coast. 2. Tell us a bit about your clinical background, where you've 6. If every weekend was 4 days long, where would we find you? worked and what roles you've undertaken? I just got back from three nights in Dunsborough. Imagine I was fortunate to start my career working in orthotics with Tasmania's tastiest produce, Queensland's most pristine Barry Smith and Andrew Vearing at OPS in Perth. Last year, beaches, SA's finest wines, Victoria's best golf courses, NSW's I commenced my current job in the orthotics department at winding country roads... and you have Australia's South West - Princess Margaret Hospital. I've supplemented my clinical work that's where you'd find me! in these roles with all sorts of activities including promotion of the profession, business development, process and service reviews, 7. Packed lunch or bought lunch? personnel management, staff and student supervision, facility I usually have my lunch packed by my wonderful wife, but it's design and remote clinical service provision. always bought on Fridays! 3. What is your preferred clinical area? 8. What do you predict will be the next great opportunity for I have primarily been involved with paediatric orthotics and really our profession? enjoy this area of clinical care. I love working with kids and teens who The NDIS presents a great opportunity for our profession and our have complex lower limb orthotic requirements and aren't limited by current National Council and Executive Officer are well poised to an adult's inhibitions when it comes to setting functional goals. My capitalise on it. The hard work put into recent submissions has mentors have taught me some great techniques, based on sound opened up some critical lines of communication between our industry leaders and the NDIS and Health Workforce Australia fundamentals, to achieve the required outcomes with these kids. committees. Have a read through the NDIS Program Guidelines 4. What aspects of P&O service and care do you find exciting some time - the High Level Principles of the program are nothing at the moment, from a clinician and patient perspective? short of exciting!

4 / September 2012 / Volume 12 - Issue 3 / The Gazette

The 2012 Paralympic Games We would like to thank Ottobock and Ossur for taking the time to share with us their involvement in the London Paralympics, an event of great interest and inspiration to our profession.

Ottobock Ossur

The Paralympic Summer Games have evolved into the second- It is the time that happens every 4 years when we as professionals largest sporting event in the world. More than 4,300 athletes are in the P&O industry start monitoring TV, internet sites and our expected to compete in London 2012. internal gossip channels to hear what the best of the best on one (or no) legs are up to at the Paralympic Games. Team Ossur have Ottobock has been an official "Worldwide Partner of the always had quite a strong representation in the field of athletes Paralympic Movement" since 2005. The cooperation agreement that compete for those coveted medals. It is with great pride that with the International Paralympics Committee (IPC) was renewed we, as employees of one of the few prosthetic companies that get in 2008 during the games in Beijing, extending the partnership to provide specialised components for these individuals, eagerly beyond London 2012. watch the events and hope that it is one of our own that get to The commitment to the Paralympics has become part of the climb up on those blocks at the awards ceremonies. The majority Ottobock company philosophy. "We value our obligation to offer of amputee athletes in the T4, T43 and T44 classifications will be our expertise, our global organisation and our experience with using our “Blades” and several also utilize our interface systems. orthopaedics technology of the highest quality for the benefit of Ossur ambassador, Oscar Pistorious of South Africa, is an athlete worldwide sports for people with disabilities," says Professor Hans who by now needs no introduction. Probably one of the most Georg Näder, President and CEO of Ottobock. "Our partnership watched competitors in the London Olympics, Oscar was able to with the IPC is the foundation for the continuity of our support for qualify for a semi-final race in the 400m and ran in the 4 x 400m athletes all over the world." relay as the anchor for his country. Mr. “Historious” as he has been In 2012, Ottobock will once again be on hand to provide called due to his ground-breaking feats (not feet), epitomized the maintenance and repairs of prostheses, orthoses and wheelchairs true Olympic spirit with the graciousness and humility he showed for Paralympians, setting up repair centres in all three Paralympic after being the first amputee to ever reach this level of competition. Villages. Cameron Ward and Richelle Wragg from Australia We are looking forward to seeing how far he will push his fellow will make up part of the competent team of 88 clinicians and teammates and competitors in the Paralympics as well. He will be technicians from all over the world. The team will also include 12 defending his 100m, 200m and 400m titles earned in Beijing. welders responsible for repairing damage to wheelchair frames By the time you read this article, we will have also witnessed the common in the hard-hitting Wheelchair Rugby and Basketball great talent, enthusiasm, determination and true grit that make competitions. 13 tonnes of equipment and 15,000 spare parts have all disabled athletes so inspiring. There are 19 ambassadors from already arrived and are being set up in the Ottobock workshops. Team Ossur competing in London 2012. April Holmes (TT unilateral The spotlight will be on German Heinrich Popow and Australian amputee) is looking for gold again in this year’s games to round out Kelly Cartwright who are World Champions in both the 100m a year where she earned gold medals at the US Paralympic Trials and long jump. These Ottobock Ambassadors will be running on in the 100m and 200m sprints. Bilateral TF swimmer Rudy Garcia- 3S80 knees joints, the most advanced running technology from Tolson will return in his 3rd Paralympic Games hoping to continue Ottobock, which will soon be released in Australia. his success that has resulted in multiple gold medals and World Record times. Toru Suzuki is a newer member of the group, but Ottobock Australia would like to wish all the Australian athletes has high hopes for high jump – an event where he is the current competing at the 2012 London Paralympics the best of luck in Japanese World Record holder. You can follow these amputee their respective sports. athletes and more in the “Team Ossur” section at www.ossur.com. Aideen Curran It should be (or will have just been) an amazing couple of weeks [email protected] full of inspiration and tales to tell. Outside of Ossur’s Team ambassadors, we will also see several more amazing athletes doing amazing things with the technology that we are so passionate about providing to amputees around the world – not just those competing at the elite level. Of course as the Australian entity of Ossur, we are very much looking forward to seeing lots of those medals coming home around the necks of those wearing Green and Gold! Matt Henderson [email protected] NCPO Clinical Education and Clinical School

In 2012, the National Centre for Prosthetics and Orthotics (NCPO) implemented major changes in both the Clinical Education Professional Placements and in our historic agreement with 6 leading Melbourne Teaching Hospitals to form a Clinical School Network (CSN) Partnership.

Clinical School Network The Bachelor of Health Sciences, Master of Clinical Prosthetics and Orthotics degree had some distinct challenges fitting into La Trobe University’s Clinical School Network model. This was due to a combination of the very small number of organisations that are available in Melbourne for clinical schools and the requirement of laboratory space and machinery used for the fabrication of prostheses and orthoses.

The aims of the CSN model are to: Our CSN partner, The Northern Hospital, Melbourne. • have students concurrently learning theory within the University and clinical skills within a clinical school in order to maximise learning potential; • maximise course and placement capacity; • maximise the quality of the clinical learning experience for each student; • expose students to a realistic patient experience; • allow learning to take place in a multi-disciplinary clinical environment which represents a contemporary service environment;

• engage with our partners in the health care sector; and, Our CSN Partner, St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne. • to achieve a higher standard of graduate entry level students through the development of Faculty of Health Sciences Clinical Education graduate capabilities. As well as students experiencing Clinical Schools for the first Orthotic CSN partners of the NCPO include: time, 2012 is the first year we have implemented our new Clinical • Alfred Health; Education Professional Placement subjects POR5CEA/CEB/CEC. • St Vincent’s Hospital; These new subjects have been written within the context of the • Royal Children’s Hospital; and, Faculty of Health Sciences Graduate Capabilities. Major changes have occurred in the assessment whilst on placement, as well as • Northern Health. the final exam assessment. Prosthetic CSN partners of the NCPO include: On placement, students are assessed according to the following • Caulfield Hospital; and, Intended Learning Outcomes: • Melbourne Health. • Behaviour in a manner reflective of a health professional. The students’ in the CSN rotation attend La Trobe University one • Performance of a safe and effective client assessment. day per week for intensive theory sessions, then spend one day • Formulation of a clear treatment plan or prescription for the per week at their allocated CSN. At the CSN they have the ability client. to treat patients with appropriate levels of complexity and to • Provision of orthotic and prosthetic clinical services and spend time learning from experienced clinicians. High emphasis treatment. is placed on clinical skills and tasks under the guidance of their supervisor. Students also attend clinics at their CSN and are After placement, the final assessment has changed from the becoming more familiar with technology such as silicon coach standard clinical exam to the Objective Structured Clinical Exam & CADCAM. Most valued by our student’s is the opportunity to (OSCE) style. This change has been an important step for the learn from experienced clinicians with recent clinical experience in NCPO to implement as these exams have been used in other a “real-life” setting. disciplines such as Medicine, Physio and Podiatry for many years.

8 / September 2012 / Volume 12 - Issue 3 / The Gazette NCPO Clinical Education and Clinical School Network

What are OSCE’s? What can AOPA members expect from new Objective – all students are assessed using exactly the same Graduates? stations, with the same marking scheme. This makes the The Graduates of 2012 will be the most highly qualified assessment of clinical skills more objective. Prosthetists and Orthotists to date. They will have obtained Structured – stations in OSCEs have a very specific task. a combined degree in Health Sciences and a Masters in Instructions are carefully written to ensure that the student is given Prosthetics and Orthotics. a very specific task to complete. The OSCE is carefully structured University wide, the main goal of the Masters program is to to include parts from all elements of the curriculum as well as a achieve a higher standard of graduate entry level students wide range of skills. through the development of Faculty of Health Sciences Graduate A Clinical Examination - the OSCE is designed to apply clinical Capabilities. We have taken this very seriously at the NCPO, and theoretical knowledge. structuring all our new subjects to include the highest standards of graduate capabilities. The four year program develops a Student Expectations of Clinical Professional longer, higher level of education and has built in our students an Placements extremely strong knowledge base. I believe we will have a very strong cohort of graduates moving into the profession from the Following the completion of any of the clinical placements, it is end of this year. expected that students will have met the following requirements: With the increasing number of student’s in our Masters • Have provided the total treatment for at least one complex client, which is a client requiring the treatment of two Program (there are 46 in their first year!), I would like to take this or more joints. Treatment should include assessment, opportunity to thank all of our Professional Placement Providers prescription, casting or measuring, manufacturing when from every state in Australia, as well as New Zealand, Singapore, appropriate, fitting, instruction regarding use, record keeping Laos and the United Kingdom, for their ongoing support of our and review when possible. program and our students. You are all highly valued, both by us at the NCPO and all our students. I would also like to thank all • Keep appropriate records for the treatment of any client, in the external staff that assisted in developing the curriculum and accordance with the facilities requirements. Records may be collated within the medical record or within the prosthetic assessment for the new Clinical Education subjects. Please feel and orthotic records. free to contact me if you would like any further information about the Clinical Schools or the new Clinical Education Professional • Attend a variety of different meetings including ward rounds, Placement experience. x-ray meetings, case conferences, outpatient clinics, prosthetic prescription clinics and meetings between facility Stephanie Barnard staff relating to service provision. NCPO Clinical Education Coordinator • Observe, assist and undertake a variety of casts and La Trobe University, Melbourne measurements for a prosthesis/orthosis or direct moulding [email protected] of material to different clients. AOPA Sponsors Award at La Trobe University

The Faculty of Health Sciences at La Trobe University held their Awards and Prizes Ceremony on the 25th of July 2012. The AOPA had the pleasure of formally presenting an Association prize to a student of the National Centre for Prosthetics and Orthotics (NCPO) at La Trobe University. With the change in structure of the NCPO course, AOPA now sponsors one award named the ‘AOPA Victorian Section Prize’, which is presented to the most outstanding first year student. This award consists of a book voucher and student membership to the AOPA, which is valid for the entirety of the recipient’s studies. The 2012 prize was awarded to Ms. Zoe Johnson (pictured below with Professor John Rosenberg & Tim Burke, Vic Section President).

The Gazette / Volume 12 - Issue 3 / September 2012 / 9 State Section Reports State Section Reports State Section Reports State Section Reports

Victorian Report Victorian members have been given the opportunity to engage in five CPD events this year, as well as the annual AOPA congress. It is encouraging to see that all of these events have been very well attended which indicates to the State Committee that the topics covered remain interesting and relevant. As we begin to plan for next year, we will again seek suggestions and feedback from members about what topics they feel would be of benefit for 2013. To further assist with this process the State Committee and National Council are also endeavouring to create a strategic framework with a long term focus for continuing professional development. This framework will be built around advancing the scope and depth of our clinical knowledge and members will be given ample opportunity to provide input. Please stay tuned for further information and do not hesitate to contact the Office or myself if you have any questions. Along with the National Council, the Committee has a specific focus on NCPO students and ensuring they are made aware of the AOPA and its relevance to their professional careers. A meet and greet was held at La Trobe University to provide students with an opportunity to learn about AOPA in an informal setting and to encourage participation in AOPA events. In July, I had the pleasure of presenting the AOPA Award at La Trobe University’s Prize Night and I again congratulate Zoe Johnson for New South Wales Report her outstanding academic results. The highlight of the past 3-months was the recently held AOPA CPD event. We were fortunate to have Dr. Andreas Kannenberg The most significant change for Victorian members has been (Otto Bock global director of medical affairs and research) present the requirement to register with our various funding bodies. This on stance control orthoses and elevated vacuum systems for formal process of registration and eligibility is now well established elderly trans-tibial amputees. The presentations were world class, with the State-Wide Equipment Program (SWEP) and will be and the membership was extremely pleased with the level of mandatory with Worksafe by the end of this calendar year. knowledge transferred. We saw solid attendance (approximately Members who have not received Worksafe Registration forms 30 members) due to the presentations spanning both O & P should visit the Worksafe website to obtain them. The registration topics. I would like to thank Michael Storey and Thomas Much period closes shortly. Our annual State funding update was rd for arranging such a high calibre speaker. Special thanks go to Dr. held on July 3 with presentations from SWEP and Worksafe Kannenberg for his efforts and his engagement with the members representatives. The presentations and panel discussion assisted in attendance pre and post his presentations. with clarifying the current positions of each funding body and also highlighted the continuing challenges we face as a profession. It is the Paralympics time again and many AOPA members have Further submissions are required and any members who wish welcomed the media bombardment that occurs every four years. to be involved or have input are encourage to contact the AOPA It has been wonderful to see so much local, regional and national Office. coverage, which has once again presented a great opportunity to showcase our profession and our members. The Paralympics I would also like to draw to your attention to the great work that represents the “formula one” of prosthetics; it provides us with an has been done by Louise Puli and Julia Miller over the past few opportunity to demonstrate how our profession can contribute years. Both Louise and Julia have recently stepped down from not only to high performance individuals, but to every person who the State Committee. They have both contributed tirelessly accesses our expertise. We look forward to further enhanced to the Association and I’m sure you’ll join with me in thanking interest with the success of Australian athletes who access our them for their hard work and wishing them well in their new services. AOPA-NSW member Cameron Ward is in London endeavours. Nomination forms will be distributed shortly to ensure representing Australia in the multi-national repair team and we their positions are filled at the State AGM in November. In the wish him every success. meantime, Gabriella Salemme has kindly agreed to be our acting National Council Representative. Our NSW AGM will be held on Tuesday 13th November, where election for two executive positions will occur. We look forward to I look forward to seeing you at the AGM. seeing all of our AOPA colleagues at the meeting and once again thank all members in NSW for their ongoing contributions to the Timothy Burke association and the profession. President, VIC Section, The AOPA Inc. [email protected] Harvey Blackney President, NSW Section, The AOPA Inc. [email protected]

10 / September 2012 / Volume 12 - Issue 3 / The Gazette State Section Reports State Section Reports State Section Reports State Section Reports

Western Australian Report Tasmanian Report The WA Section recently held its AGM which was a good chance Whisperings of spring are in the air and there’s nothing like to report on the year's activities and elect the coming year's the enticement of more sunshine and longer daylight hours to committee. We welcome Brendan Cahill to the role of National motivate and inspire us Tasmanians. With this in mind, I hope Council Representative. As outgoing NC Rep, I have enjoyed that the small Tassie member base will take the opportunity to working with the National Council and hope to continue being increase state based AOPA activity over the coming months. We involved in other capacities in the coming years. are still working towards planning a state-wide CPD event where The gathering of members for the AGM provided another members from all over the island can participate through a video opportunity for the sharing of information in a CPD event. Steve conference format and we hope to achieve this goal before the Carpenter presented and reflected on his attendance at the Otto year is out. Bock course 'Advanced Lamination Techniques' in Sydney. Steve's Tasmania has seen some recent changes to our public health presentation focused on the use of objective measures in clinical system as part of the Australian Government’s National Health assessment, prescription and Orthotic treatment, and challenged Reform, with three Tasmanian Health Organisations (THOs) attendees to consider methods other than the traditional 'eyeball' being created to replace the pre-existing Area Health Services. technique. Thanks Steve for a well thought out session! This basically means a change in how health services are Providers of prosthetic services in Western Australia are currently managed and funded and aims to allow for more local control awaiting the results of the West Australian Limb Service for and accountability over these services. Opportunities are also Amputees (WALSA) Request for Tender, which closed last month. presented through the Tasmanian Medicare Local (active since As in many states, the WALSA is not without its flaws, and the 2011) which opens new avenues for communication between WA Section thanks the NC Executive for bringing some of these local GPs and P&O clinicians in a coordinated and supported shortcomings to the attention of its administrators. manner. Finally, the WA Section extends a warm welcome to our newest On a less formal note, the coming months will see the evolution member, Elena Montesano. State based communications with of an exciting project spearheaded by Tas-AOPA member John members new and old will occur via the AOPA office, and this is a Semmens. An art project in collaboration with Polio Australia timely reminder for members to ensure that their details are up to is in the process of being developed. It is designed to create date on the central database. awareness of the issues associated with post-polio syndrome for Paul Sprague clients and their families. The exhibition will be toured initially in Outgoing NC Representative, WA Section, The AOPA Inc. Tasmania and then along the east coast of Australia. Whilst this [email protected] project is currently in its infancy, it is intended to involve orthotists, prosthetists, artists and any combination of the above. For further details please contact either John or Mary-Anne at Polio Australia. As mentioned in the previous Gazette, Tassie has recently been Queensland Report extending eager invites to P&O clinicians to consider the move to Queensland has very little to report this quarter as our June live and work on this beautiful island! Tassie remains across the meeting was cancelled due to a change in Presidency. Last board with a need to recruit more clinicians and we understand month, Andrew Torney regretfully resigned from his role as the from AOPA workforce reporting that this is not an issue that we Queensland President. We would like to thank Andrew for his alone face. Any clinicians not currently utilising their skills within considerable contribution to the AOPA and hope he will return to the P&O workforce are encouraged to review the employment a board position in the future. section of the AOPA website at www.aopa.org.au for existing Our next CPD event is scheduled for the first week in October employment opportunities. with the topic yet to be confirmed. Relevant information will Until next time, be circulated to Queensland members in late September. An overview of this event and the upcoming general meeting will be Ella Nicolson available in the next edition of the Gazette, including results of the Tasmanian State Representative, The AOPA Inc. elections for Queensland Office Bearers to be held at the State [email protected] AGM in September. Gold Coast University Hospital is on track for it’s opening on December 12th, 2012. The orthotics department is currently being designed with input from Queensland members and will South Australian Report be opened significantly later than the initial opening date. Staffing SA has been working on a number of issues with members numbers are still to be confirmed, more information will be contributing to a SA-ALS review project; providing input into circulated as it becomes available. developing services at SA health facilities and participating in a In this time of changing leadership we ask Queensland members SA Health O&P state-wide service review. We look forward to the to please contact John Coffey ([email protected]) coming year, with all our State positions up for nomination at the or myself with any issues so that we can direct your request approaching AGM and a number of younger clinicians seeking appropriately. involvement in AOPA co-ordination and activities. Sarah Carter Phil Parish NC Representative, QLD Section, The AOPA Inc. NC Representative, SA Section, The AOPA Inc. [email protected] [email protected]

The Gazette / Volume 12 - Issue 3 / September 2012 / 11

AOPA Life Member Vale

Evert (Eddie) Van Smaalen (08/12/1923 – 08/10/2011)

Eddie Van Smaalen (or EGVS as he was affectionately known) With a mischievous sense of was a highly skilled and important contributor to the Orthotic and humour, Eddie was always fun to Prosthetic profession, both in Australia and abroad. He was born in work with. After retirement in the late Indonesia in 1923 and spent some time as a merchant sailor with 1980s, he acted as a consultant to the Royal Netherlands Navy, qualifying as a toolmaker amongst the profession and provided ongoing other skills. His great affinity with people and an urge to help those support to many orthotic and prosthetic facilities. He continued less fortunate directed his talents towards the hospital setting, to invent - some of our members might be familiar with the foot where his skills were quickly recognised and in high demand. moulding board used for EVA orthotic impressions, one of Eddie’s inventions. Look for the initials EGVS under the board and thinks His vast technical knowledge saw him specialising in inventing or of him when you next mould a pair of orthotics. modifying hospital equipment and eventually directed his passion towards orthotics and prosthetics. Eddie was also a keen gardener and loved working with wood, manufacturing many artistic creations in cabinetry. His latter In the 70’s, EGVS pursued more formal studies in the O&P area years were spent pursuing these pastimes as well as enjoying the and travelled to the US, specifically Los Angeles and Chicago, company of his loving family. Eddie is survived by his wife Dora, 3 where he worked for some time at the forefront of the emerging children, 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Orthotic and Prosthetic profession. After some time abroad, he returned to Australia to work in Perth and eventually in Melbourne. Vale EGVS. I first met EGVS after I graduated in Orthotics and Prosthetics in the Your friend, early 1980s. He was a great mentor to me as well as many others DK & members of the AOPA. in the O&P profession. He was also instrumental in the early days in Daniel G. Keogh establishing a formal Australian Orthotic and Prosthetic Association. Orthotist/Prosthetist AOPA CONGRESS August 23-24 Melbourne

Innovations 2 DAY “ andClinical EVENT Trends ” Call fatiorons • Clinical presentations present • O&P Exhibitor Hall • Product presentations open • O&P Advanced Practise sessions • Association Update Venue: Rydges on Swanston • Student poster presentations 701 Swanston Street, Carlton • Onsite social evening Date: Fri 23rd, Sat 24th August 2013

Register your interest for presentaions by November 30th 2012 [email protected] www.aopa.org.au

The Gazette / Volume 12 - Issue 3 / September 2012 / 13

Announcements

Personal and Professional Bill Reed Memorial Grant Opportunity Bill Reed (OAM, Prosthetist/Orthotist), was the director of Reed Prosthetics and Orthotics in Nowra NSW and an Ballarat Health Services seeks AOPA Member since 1978. He was a colorful and prominent one or more skilled and character in the NSW Prosthetic and Orthotic community. experienced Orthotics Clinical Bill, who was also a transfemoral amputee, grew up in rural Advisors for the State-Wide NSW. He entered the orthotic and prosthetic profession at Equipment Program (SWEP). These contract positions age 17, working with AST Orthopaedics Pty Ltd in Sydney. are responsible for maintenance of orthotics equipment After completing DVA qualifications, and coupled with his prescription manuals, standards, and pick-lists, and experience, patient empathy and jovial demeanor, Bill joined on-going quality control systems; they are also required colleague Barry Smithers to open Southern Prosthetics and on-going in an advisory capacity for complex prescriptions Orthotics in Wollongong. This was the first private business and advice to prescribers and to the program. catering for clients in the south of NSW. After 10 years in partnership, Bill proceeded further south to Nowra to You will be a knowledgeable clinician looking for an establish Reed Prosthetics and Orthotics in 1991. Bill was opportunity to support the development of a consistent and awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 1999 high quality approach to orthotics provision for people with for his service and contribution to the amputee community. disabilities and the frail aged in Victoria. Particular knowledge Bill will be fondly remembered after he lost a long battle with and skills in the areas of adult orthotic provision in the cancer in December 2007. public sector is sought. We are looking for keen and skilled professionals with the ability to provide a superior standard Colleagues and friends from Appliance and Limb Centre Intl of advice and support in a responsive and accessible way. (ALC) and Reis Orthopedic and Surgical Services (REIS), in conjunction with the AOPA, have established the Bill Reed You will also have significant experience working in Memorial (BRM) Student Grant to honour Bill’s memory. community-based services for people with disabilities and The overarching goal of the grant is to assist students of the frail aged and demonstrate a sound knowledge of the Prosthetics and Orthotics who have external challenges, to range of orthoses commonly used by this target group. be successful in their studies and their careers. Each year You will be a skilled communicator with well honed problem the BRM Grant will be awarded to a maximum of three solving, negotiation and conflict resolution abilities. If you are deserving P&O students. a collaborative professional, who enjoys working within a Applications closed on the 31st of August for the 2012 dynamic and challenging environment, don’t miss out on this round of grant allocation. The AOPA is pleased to announce opportunity. that Emma Davis received the 2nd year prize (The Atlas of Extension of tenure for these roles is dependant subject to Prosthetics and Orthotics) and Hannah Ozturk received the ongoing funding. 3rd year prize (financial contribution to expenses associated with interstate student placement). Submit your Expression of Interest to [email protected] Both students will also receive by 30/09/2012. Student Membership to the All enquiries about these roles are most welcome. Association for the duration of their studies. The AOPA extends our Wendy Hubbard congratulations to these students Executive Director - Sub-acute & Community and Chief who are worthy recipients of the Allied Health Officer Bill Reed Memorial Grant. Ph. 0419376215 Gazettethe

For further information on items in this The Gazette is produced in March, June, September Gazette please contact: and December and is sent out to all AOPA members. Please contact the editor if you would like any Editor, AOPA Office, information regarding advertising rates. The inclusion PO Box 1219, Greythorn VIC 3104 of advertising in no way implies endorsement by Ph: 1300 668 194 / (03) 9816 4620 the Association. Fax: (03) 9816 4305 E-Mail: [email protected]

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