Wishing all of our WDMA members a safe and happy Christmas!Our 2026 meeting dates have been released and we hope to see you all in the new year!
Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery: |
 | Dr Christos ApostolouIs a specialist general surgeon in the fields of upper gastrointestinal, liver, biliary and pancreatic surgery. Graduating from the University of Cape Town in 1996, he undertook surgical training and qualified as a General Surgeon in South Africa in 2003, continuing with fellowships in tertiary trauma and hepatopancreaticobiliary and digestive surgery. Areas of interest: Diseases of the biliary tree and gallbladder, obstructive jaundice, hepatic surgery, oesophageal reflux and dysphagia, and interventional endoscopy His expertise is in: • Laparoscopic and open upper gastrointestinal surgery (incl. oncological) • Gallbladder and anti-reflux surgery • Endoscopic and open hernia surgery • Upper and lower endoscopy and intervention • Liver and pancreatic surgery • Stomach and oesophageal pathology • All general surgical emergencies and trauma |
 | Dr Andrew Pearson Is a specialist General Surgeon with an interest in acute general surgery, trauma surgery and surgery of the liver, pancreas and biliary tract. He is also trained in gastroscopy and colonoscopy. His areas of specific interest include acute, emergency and trauma surgery as well as surgery of the liver, pancreas and gallbladder. He also has an interest in abdominal wall hernia repair. Dr Pearson has appointments at the Northern Beaches Hospital, Hornsby Ku-RingGai hospital and the Sydney Adventist Hospital. Dr Pearson is an active member of the Australian Defence Force and has deployed on multiple occasions to both military conflicts and on humanitarian assistance missions. Dr Pearson has published research on emergency surgery, biliary malignancy and pancreatitis. |
 | Dr Matthew KeeganIs a Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist, Advanced Interventional Endoscopist and Pancreaticobiliary Specialist who lives on the Northern Beaches in Sydney with his family.Dr Keegan is highly skilled in diagnostic and screening gastroscopy and colonoscopy. He has also performs a broad range of advanced endoscopic procedures including EUS and ERCP (treating pancreas and bile duct conditions), minimally invasive procedures to remove early cancerous and advanced precancerous growths found during screening (EMR/ESD), and specialised procedures in the small bowel (enteroscopy). He is passionate about using these techniques to offer prompt diagnosis and to optimise patient outcomes by offering minimally invasive options. |
 | Dr Carla GillespieDr Gillespie is an Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric surgeon based out of the Northern Beaches Hospital. Dr Gillespie studied Medicine at Newcastle University and completed her General Surgery Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. Following this she completed a year at Royal North Shore Hospital before being selected for the Australia & New Zealand Gastric & Oesophageal Surgery Association (ANZGOSA) fellowship. Two further years were spent at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne and Concord Hospital in Sydney. Dr Gillespie has a special interest in the treatment of stomach and oesophageal cancer, reflux surgery, hiatus hernia repair and bariatric surgery (including sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass and revision procedures). She is also trained and accredited in endoscopy. |
Meeting sponsored by:
The WDMA Welcomes
A Look at Surgeries at Wyvern Private Hospital
 | Dr Adrian LowOrthopaedic Surgeon |
 | Dr Heath FrenchNeurosurgeon and Spine Surgeon |
 | Dr Walid MohabbatVascular and Endovascular Surgeon |
 | Dr Jun Nagamori Orthopaedic Surgery, Sports Knee |
 | Associate Professor Ian FrancisOpthalmologist, specialising in Neuro-Opthalmology |
The WDMA Welcomes
Challenges and Advances in Pain Management
 | Dr Timothy HuckerMBBS FRCA FFPMANZCA FANZCA Pain Specialist Director, Northern Beaches Pain Management Dr Tim Hucker is a highly qualified specialist pain medicine physician with specific expertise in: back and neck pain, nerve pain, cancer pain and pain in the cancer survivor, joint pain, post surgical pain, peripheral pain and CRPS. Tim trained internationally in London, Sydney and Melbourne as both an anaesthetist and specialist pain physician. Since becoming a consultant in 2011, Tim has held specialist positions in pain and anaesthesia at prestigious medical centres of excellence including clinical lead for pain at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, the Alfred Hospital, Epworth Group Hospitals and Cabrini private hospital. In addition to his clinical work Tim is an examiner for the faculty of pain medicine- training the next generation of specialist pain physicians. He also advises on the development of specific training in interventions used to treat pain and periodically consults for the Cancer Council. Tim has published research and educational pain management articles and speaks regionally and nationally on pain management. In 2021 Tim moved to Sydney to set up Northern Beaches Pain Management located at Northern Beaches Hospital and Pittwater Day Surgery, Mona Vale to better serve the Northern Beaches community with multidisciplinary pain management including interventional pain management. |
 | Dr Michael ZhaoACEM, FRACGP, FFPMANZCA Pain Management Specialist Dr Zhao is a highly skilled and dedicated pain specialist with extensive expertise in managing chronic pain conditions. Dr Zhao holds a Diplomate of Emergency Medicine (ACEM) and dual Fellowships from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP) and the Faculty of Pain Medicine, Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (FFPMANZCA). With a comprehensive background in Anesthesiology and pain management, Dr Zhao has developed a wide-ranging knowledge base and significant experience in perioperative and chronic pain management. His work is characterized by a strong commitment to improving patients’ quality of life and a deep understanding of the complexities of pain medicine. Dr Zhao is known for his ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, enhancing patient care through collaboration with medical colleagues and allied health professionals. His exceptional communication skills and empathetic approach to patient care have been instrumental in providing high-quality, holistic treatment. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr Zhao is a passionate advocate for medical research. He is dedicated to advancing the field of pain medicine through ongoing research and the application of evidence-based practices. |
Meeting sponsored by:
The WDMA Welcomes
 | From Prevention to Precision: |
 | Cholesterol and Calcium ScoringDr Sarat CheruvuDr Sarat Cheruvu is an Australian-trained heart specialist with a particular focus on advanced cardiac imaging, peri-operative cardiac risk assessment, and preventive cardiology with a focus on lipid management. Dr. Cheruvu provides comprehensive care to patients with a wide range of cardiac conditions, including ischaemic heart disease, arrhythmias, and heart failure. He possesses specific expertise in the application of advanced cardiac imaging techniques for the assessment of cardiovascular disease. |
 | Lifestyle measures for AF - effective or deceptive?Dr Katharine BateDr Katharine (Kat) Bate is an adult cardiologist with a special interest in heart rhythm disorders, arrhythmias in master athletes, and exercise as therapy for heart disease. She completed her physician and cardiology training at Royal North Shore Hospital, her PhD at the Kolling Institute of Medical Research, and a subspecialty fellowship year in electrophysiology and pacing at Liverpool hospital. She is the current Course Co-Convenor for Cardiology in the Master of Medicine program for the University ofSydney and has an ongoing interest in medical education. Kat has joined the team at Shore Cardiology and is now seeing patients at both the Northern Beaches andSydney Adventist hospital rooms. |
 | Contemporary management of coronary artery disease, and post revasculaisation careDr Michael ParkinsonDr Michael Parkinson is a consultant interventional Cardiologist, raised in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. He completed his Bachelor of Science (Physics) and post-graduate Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Sydney. He undertook physician training at Royal North Shore Hospital, and specialist cardiology training though the Central Coast and Northern Sydney health networks to attain his Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. He completed further dedicated training in cardiac intervention and treatment of coronary disease (stenting) through an interventional fellowship at St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney. In addition to his interventional fellowships, Dr Parkinson has completed a post graduate Master of Medicine (Metabolic Health), which has strengthened his passion for the prevention and treatment of coronary artery disease. Outside of work, Dr Parkinson enjoys playing tennis with his wife and enjoying the outdoors of Northern Sydney and the Central Coast. |
Tonight's meeting is sponsored by
 | Maree CvetanoskiM.Pharm, B.Com, B.Sci Medical Representative – Cardio Metabolic Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia Pty Limited Mobile: +61 455 626 368 Reception: +61 2 9805 3555 maree[email protected] |
November:
Weight Loss Therapies
& 2024 AGM
The WDMA Welcomes -
 | New Weight Loss TherapiesDr Caroline Badam - Endocrinologist |
 | Weight Loss SurgeryDr Christos Apostolou-Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon |
Anaesthesia for Bariatric Patients
Dr. Mark Bukofzer -Specialist Anaesthetist
MBBCh
FANZCA
With extensive experience across South Africa, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia, Dr. Bukofzer brings a global perspective to his practice.
Currently - Anaesthetist at Sydney Adventist Hospital, Northern Beaches Hospital, and Norwest Private Hospital.
Managing Partner of Northern Specialist Anaesthetists, Deputy Director of the Division of Surgical Services at SANHospital,
He is deeply passionate about clinical anaesthesia, taking a holistic approach to patient care during the perioperative period. Having experienced the stress and vulnerability of being a patient himself, he empathizes with his patients’ concerns
Dr. Mark Bukofzer -Specialist Anaesthetist
MBBCh
FANZCA
With extensive experience across South Africa, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia, Dr. Bukofzer brings a global perspective to his practice.
Currently - Anaesthetist at Sydney Adventist Hospital, Northern Beaches Hospital, and Norwest Private Hospital.
Managing Partner of Northern Specialist Anaesthetists, Deputy Director of the Division of Surgical Services at SANHospital,
He is deeply passionate about clinical anaesthesia, taking a holistic approach to patient care during the perioperative period. Having experienced the stress and vulnerability of being a patient himself, he empathizes with his patients’ concerns
What is the Relevance?
Dr Duanne Collins - Accredited Orthopaedic Registrar
WDMA Committee Member
A literature report
Dr Duanne Collins - Accredited Orthopaedic Registrar
WDMA Committee Member
A literature report
Sponsored By:
Please also note our 2025 meeting dates are confirmed!
Don't hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know would like to speak - We'd love to hear from you!
AND
Coming to March 2025 - Dr Ferris Touma, Interventional Cardiologist
Breast Reconstruction:
Autologous and Alloplastic options
 | Dr Vincent ChoiPlastic/Reconstructive Surgery, Skin Cancer Specialist |
Dr Vincent Choi is a Sydney based Specialist Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgeon who specialises in breast, head & neck, sarcoma reconstruction and hand surgery.
Vincent was born in Sydney and completed his medical degree at the University of New South Wales. He began his medical career in General Surgery training for 4 years. Following this he completed his Master of Surgery at the University of Sydney, followed by a further 5 years of training in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery in Sydney.
After being awarded the FRACS (Plast), he travelled overseas for further specialised training. He completed his fellowships in Hand Surgery (Leeds General Infirmary, United Kingdom), and Microsurgery at the world-renowned Toronto General Hospital, Canada. There he trained in specialised techniques of microsurgical reconstruction in breast, head & neck, sarcoma & lymphoedema. He also trained in alloplastic breast reconstruction at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre & Mount Sinai Hospital during this fellowship to obtain a complete experience in breast reconstruction.
Vincent has an approachable and caring reputation amongst his patients and always takes a genuine interest in their care. He also trains and mentors future Plastic Surgeons in both public and private hospitals in Sydney. He welcomes direct communication with all colleague physicians, surgeons and general practitioners in order to provide excellent care for their patients.
Special Interests: Breast Surgery (breast reconstruction, breast implants, breast reduction), Head & Neck Surgery, Hand Surgery, Body contouring surgery and Skin cancer.
Vincent was born in Sydney and completed his medical degree at the University of New South Wales. He began his medical career in General Surgery training for 4 years. Following this he completed his Master of Surgery at the University of Sydney, followed by a further 5 years of training in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery in Sydney.
After being awarded the FRACS (Plast), he travelled overseas for further specialised training. He completed his fellowships in Hand Surgery (Leeds General Infirmary, United Kingdom), and Microsurgery at the world-renowned Toronto General Hospital, Canada. There he trained in specialised techniques of microsurgical reconstruction in breast, head & neck, sarcoma & lymphoedema. He also trained in alloplastic breast reconstruction at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre & Mount Sinai Hospital during this fellowship to obtain a complete experience in breast reconstruction.
Vincent has an approachable and caring reputation amongst his patients and always takes a genuine interest in their care. He also trains and mentors future Plastic Surgeons in both public and private hospitals in Sydney. He welcomes direct communication with all colleague physicians, surgeons and general practitioners in order to provide excellent care for their patients.
Special Interests: Breast Surgery (breast reconstruction, breast implants, breast reduction), Head & Neck Surgery, Hand Surgery, Body contouring surgery and Skin cancer.
TOP TO TOE. ALL THINGS VASCULAR
"Doctor, I have a blocked artery, can you fix it?"
and
Why treating varicose veins is not vain, or in vain!
 |  |
Associate Professor Irwin Mohan is a Vascular and Endovascular surgeon. A/Prof Irwin Mohan lives on the Northern Beaches and currently holds public appointment at Westmead Hospital. He Operates at Sydney Adventist Hospital and Norwest Private Hospital, and Westmead Hospital. He carried out his training at major vascular units in the United Kingdom, he undertook further training in endovascular techniques at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, and practiced as a consultant vascular surgeon at Manchester Royal Infirmary in the UK. He did research at Imperial College, University of London, for a doctor of medicine research degree (MD) into peripheral arterial disease, homocysteine and platelet function.
He is a Clinical Associate Professor with the University of Sydney. A/Prof Mohan has been the Network Network Director for Surgical Training for Sydney West, and is the ANZ Society of Vascular Surgery Representative to the European Society of Vacular Surgery. He continues to be an examiner for Vascular Surgery Qualifications in Europe with the European Board of Vascular Surgery, and also for the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. He serves as a reviewer for a number of international medical journals, and has many international publications in the field of vascular and endovascular surgery, and is an invited speaker to major International Vascular Meetings.
His clinical and research interests include carotid disease, aortic and peripheral aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease - claudication and critical ischaemia, renal artery interventions, varicose veins and leg ulcers, and diabetic vascular disease and diabetic foot disease
He is a Clinical Associate Professor with the University of Sydney. A/Prof Mohan has been the Network Network Director for Surgical Training for Sydney West, and is the ANZ Society of Vascular Surgery Representative to the European Society of Vacular Surgery. He continues to be an examiner for Vascular Surgery Qualifications in Europe with the European Board of Vascular Surgery, and also for the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. He serves as a reviewer for a number of international medical journals, and has many international publications in the field of vascular and endovascular surgery, and is an invited speaker to major International Vascular Meetings.
His clinical and research interests include carotid disease, aortic and peripheral aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease - claudication and critical ischaemia, renal artery interventions, varicose veins and leg ulcers, and diabetic vascular disease and diabetic foot disease
Long Reef Golf Club
Rheumatology: Inflammatory Back Pain
Cardiology: Lipid Management
 | “To refer or not to refer? That is the question.” How to recognise inflammatory back pain and when is it appropriate to refer to a Rheumatologist? Dr. Kate Celkys is a Rheumatologist who specialises in treating musculoskeletal and autoimmune conditions. She enjoys all aspects of rheumatology and has special interest in inflammatory arthritis, gout and inflammatory back pain. Through her position in the Australian Rheumatology Association’s Education, Training and Workforce Committee, she works to address rheumatology inequities nationwide. |
 | Leqvio and LDL-C: Take Control of Lipid Management Dr. Sarat Cheruvu is Australian-trained Cardiologist specializing in advanced cardiac imaging, hereditary cardiomyopathies, and peri-operative cardiac risk. He holds honours from the University of NSW, and a fellowship from St Vincent’s Hospital's Advanced Cardiac Imaging Centre. Dedicated to teaching, he has founded educational colleges and served as an associate lecturer at both UNSW and Western Sydney University. |
Novartis Representatives:
| Adam Miller Executive Account Specialist Cardiology | Maree Cvetanoski Senior Medical Representative Cardio Metabolic, NSW North | Daniel James Rheumatology Account Specialist Immunology, NSW North |