ANZGOG continues to accomplish a great deal as it grows its research portfolio, works closely with our community of valued supporters and members and ensures our advocacy and education activities foster strength in our sector.
This year we opened two novel, rare gynaecological cancer studies to recruitment: PEACE, a quality of life/end of life study and EPOCH, an OASIS study collaboratively with the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto College London in London. We also reached significant milestones with four trials – SOLACE2, ICON9, STICS and STONEs and ECHO, all in follow-up after completing recruitment. We express our heartfelt appreciation to the participating women and their families, our sincere thanks to the participating hospitals and members conducting the trials at these sites, and our collaborators for their commitment to these studies.
In March we held our 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM), which centred around the theme of "Improving the Lived Experience of Patients with Gynaecological Cancer." Delegates were fortunate to hear from three significant international speakers from the U.K., Colombia, and the Netherlands at the conference, who all delivered inspiring keynote addresses. ANZGOG’s ASM continues to grow in importance, reflecting our members stimulating collaboration and innovation in gynaecological cancer research. We are eagerly looking forward to the 2024 ASM in New Zealand.
SOLACE2 closes to recruitment
SOLACE2 trial, a multi-centre, open-label, Phase II study of olaparib and durvalumab in platinum-sensitive, high grade serous ovarian cancer, closed to recruitment after reaching 100% accrual.
ANZGOG awards $200,000 to two member research projects
ANZGOG awarded $100,000 each to Prof Sarah-Jane Dawson and Dr Tania Moujaber for pioneering research in gynaecological cancers in the Fund for New Research Grant round 2022. Funded through philanthropy and public donations, this grant aims to stimulate the development of future clinical trials.
On the Down Low Podcast wins ‘Best New Podcast’ award
ANZGOG’s new podcast ‘On the Down Low’ won ‘Best New Podcast’ at the Australian Podcast Awards. The podcast features raw and inspiring stories from women with ovarian cancer and their caregivers.
ICON9 closes to recruitment
ICON9, an international Phase III randomised study, successfully completed its recruitment. the trial seeks to enhance outcomes for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer by exploring the benefits of adding cediranib to olaparib maintenance therapy.
PEACE opens to recruitment
The PEACE study officially opened to recruitment after activating its first site, Canberra Hospital. The study aims to evaluate the possibility of gathering data from female patients battling advanced gynaecological cancer.
ANZGOG member Prof Anna De Fazio awarded AM
Professor De Fazio AM was recognised for her significant service to medicine, particularly cancer research and has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. Prof De Fazio is Chair of ANZGOG’s TR-ANZGOG Initiative.
ECHO closes to recruitment
ANZGOG's inaugural exercise-intervention trial, ECHO, successfully concluded its recruitment stage. ECHO addresses the urgent need for more effective treatment options for ovarian cancer.
STICs and STONEs closes to recruitment
STICs and STONEs trial, a randomised Phase II double-blind placebo-controlled study, has concluded its recruitment phase. The study investigates the preventative potential of aspirin in ovarian cancer in women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations.
TAPER awarded $1.27 million in funding
ANZGOG’s TAPER study was awarded a $1.27 million grant from the Australian government’s Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF). The TAPER study is a clinical Phase II trial that aims to improve treatment options for women suffering from endometrial cancer. Under the leadership and guidance of Principal Investigator Professor Alison Brand AM, Gynaecological Oncologist and ANZGOG Director, ANZGOG will pioneer the trial in both Australia and New Zealand.
ANZGOG 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting
The 17th ANZGOG Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) took place in Brisbane and was an event to be remembered. 325 attendees from Australia and New Zealand gathered to discuss the latest developments in gynaecological cancer research. The conference theme was ‘Improving the Lived Experience of Patients with Gynaecological Cancer’.
2023 ANZGOG Awards
Five outstanding individuals were recognised in the 2023 ANZGOG Awards for their outstanding contributions to gynaecological cancer research. Their work continues to make a real difference in the lives of people affected by gynaecological cancer.
EPOCH opens to recruitment
ANZGOG's EPOCH study opens for recruitment for women with tubo-ovarian or uterine carcinosarcoma. Led by Professor Clare Scott AM, this Phase II open-label study aims to advance the prognosis by offering eligible patients access to treatments that demonstrate superior efficacy compared to the currently accessible standard chemotherapeutic options. EPOCH is one of the first ANZGOG trials to incorporate TR-ANZGOG.
Lancet Oncology publishes results of ANZGOG’s OUTBACK study
ANZGOG’S OUTBACK study results were published in the Lancet Oncology. The manuscript details the multinational, phase 3 trial’s findings on whether the addition of adjuvant chemotherapy following chemoradiation could improve survival compared to standard chemoradiation alone in women with locally advanced cervical cancer.
UCAM – launch of EDEN and public education webinar hosted
The month of June was celebrated as the inaugural international Uterine Cancer Awareness Month (UCAM). ANZGOG had an active presence throughout, hosting an educational endometrial cancer webinar for the public and also officially launching the EDEN Initiative - a collaborative research program established by ANZGOG that shines a spotlight on endometrial cancer and the unmet needs of patients was also launched.
This year represented another successful year for ANZGOG’s research portfolio, with three trials opening to recruitment, four completing recruitment, and several new trials under development or poised to commence recruitment in 2022/23. The commitment and determination from our members ensured that we continue to improve life for women through developing pioneering gynaecological cancer research.
ANZGOG was pleased to open two ANZGOG-led studies - PEACE and EPOCH - to recruitment this year. PEACE is a Nordic Society of Gynaecological Oncology – Clinical Trial Unit (NSGO-CTU)-led international trial, with ANZGOG being the lead group for Australia. EPOCH was initiated in Australia by ANZGOG in collaboration with Imperial College London, UK and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Canada.
During 2022-2023, ANZGOG successfully attained numerous recruitment benchmarks, enabling four studies to close to recruitment and move into the next stage. ANZGOG extends its profound gratitude towards all the women and their families who participated in the studies. Without them, we would not be able to advance research to improve patient outcomes.
Patient Recruitment: 17/80
Sites Open: 3/4
Patient Recruitment: 17/135
Sites Open: 11/23
Patient Recruitment: 83/760
Sites Open: 5
Patient Recruitment: 4/73
Sites Open: 3/3
ANZGOG congratulates members Prof Sarah-Jane Dawson and Dr Tania Moujaber for their success in the Fund for New Research Grant round 2022.
There were 15 submissions for the 2022 Fund for New Research. Each application underwent assessment by two evaluators and deliberation at the ANZGOG Research Advisory Committee (RAC). All submissions endorsed by the RAC were appraised by the Panel for the Fund for New Research and evaluated based on clinical or pre-clinical investigations criteria. The recommended priority projects were ultimately examined and approved by the ANZGOG Board.
The Fund for New Research is made feasible by contributions from the public, legacies, and philanthropic grants from organisations with shared interests in ANZGOG's research endeavors. Thanks to this backing, ANZGOG has funded 18 studies from 2015 to 2022 inclusive.
Established in 2016, The Ovarian cancer Alliance for SIgnal-Seeking clinical trials (OASIS) Initiative matches molecular subtypes of ovarian cancer with targeted new therapies designed to improve women’s lives, and aims to significantly shorten the cycle of clinical testing by:
• Speeding Translation: Strengthen existing links between laboratory and clinical researchers to accelerate the application of research findings.
• Improving cost-efficiency: Develop an infrastructure and culture that enables much more cost-effective trials.
• Developing funding: Establish a pool of funds, with proper governance oversight, to support the prompt initiation of signal-seeking studies once indicators are identified in the lab.
OASIS HAS GENERATED OVER $12MILLION OF ACTIVITY FROM PHILANTHROPIC AND PHARMACEUTICAL SOURCES, ACROSS SEVEN CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL TRIALS SINCE ITS INCEPTION.
Future directions of OASIS include improving clinical trial access and treatment options to all Australian and New Zealand women with ovarian cancer through a streamlined and improved molecular screening process.
The inaugural Uterine Cancer Awareness Month was launched across the globe in June 2023 by the International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) and over 25 partner organisations, including ANZGOG in Australia and New Zealand.
We are witnessing a concerning global rise in the incidence rates of endometrial cancer (which accounts for 90-95% of all uterine cancer cases). In Australia, endometrial cancer case numbers have doubled over the last 20 years, whilst in New Zealand numbers have trebled.
ANZGOG marked the occasion with the official launch of the EnDomEtrial CaNcer (EDEN) Research Initiative. Chaired by Professor Linda Mileshkin and contributed to by more than 60 multidisciplinary ANZGOG members, EDEN shines a spotlight on endometrial cancer and the unmet needs of patients.
EDEN's goal is to positively impact on survival for patients, improve their quality of life and drive a program of collaborative research in Australia and New Zealand, which will cover a spectrum of health priority areas including prevention, earlier diagnosis, improved survivorship post-treatment and identifying more effective treatments. Initial foundation research projects exploring endometrial cancer awareness in the community, patient experiences and diagnosis pathways have been initiated this year.
Following its launch in 2020, the Translational ANZGOG (TR-ANZGOG) Research Initiative has successfully implemented into the first trial - EPOCH.
Resources developed are being utilised to support the translational aspects of a strong portfolio of studies, benefitting multiple stakeholders, and enabling current and future translational research for particularly rare tumour types such as uterine and tubo-ovarian carcinosarcoma.
Biospecimen Tracking Software development nears completion, having been tested for SOLACE2 biospecimen inventory management of over 1500 samples.
Contribution to national infrastructure through the Health Studies National Data Asset (HeSANDA) program will enable researchers to find clinical trial data from multiple research institutions and request access via a new platform, Health Data Australia.
Next steps will focus on expanding the TR-ANZGOG Network of Laboratories across Australia and into New Zealand, and building data management infrastructure.
TR-ANZGOG will meet an ANZGOG strategic goal to build capacity for translational research by supporting the collection of biospecimens associated with all ANZGOG trials, provide enduring custodianship for biospecimens, and maximize the use of biospecimens through research.
The Patient Referral Networks Project aim is to coordinate an effective and efficient patient referral network, that will enable patients with gynaecological cancers in Australia and New Zealand to have access to the latest clinical trial treatments through ANZGOG’s research program, as well as maximise patient engagement for clinical trial participation. This project aims to assist in building the capacity to conduct gynaecological cancer research in regional and rural communities by connecting regional hospitals and healthcare centres with metropolitan clinical trial units, contributing to improved equity in access for these patients, by enabling access to new and innovative treatment and specialist care closer to home.
Future activities for the project include the promotion of teletrials to our members and assisting the research team in identifying future opportunities to include teletrials in ANZGOG’s research studies; identifying the barriers and enablers to participation for Indigenous patient populations as well as Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) patient populations as well as identifying effective approaches ANZGOG can incorporate for inclusion of these populations in clinical trial protocols that will enable increased trial participation of these populations; additionally, identifying resources and training materials that will help increase cultural awareness for ANZGOG staff and members so we can ensure cultural awareness is incorporated throughout all stages of ANZGOG’s research activities.
Danielle Osmond, ANZGOG Project Manager – Patient Referral Networks, at ANZGOG's 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting beside the project's poster.
Our research is published in leading national and international journals to share the results of our studies with peers around the world.
Several key ANZGOG members attended the ASCO (the American Society of Clinical Oncologists) 2022 Annual Meeting in Chicago in June to connect and collaborate with international partners in gynaecological oncology. The meeting enables ANZGOG to contribute to the latest research discussions on the global stage.
ANZGOG and its members support for and participation in research ranges from large international trials to pilot research through the Fund for New Research (FFNR) program. We are pleased to report results from the efforts of our members:
Other key publications included:
See a full list of ANZGOG’s publications on our website:
Our membership has grown significantly since our organisation was founded in 2000, more than doubling in the last eight years to just short of 1,300. ANZGOG's members in every Australian state and New Zealand are dedicated to growing the research portfolio in both treatment, surgery, radiation oncology, quality of life and survivorship. Together with our staff, donors and partners, our members work to improve life for everyone with a lived experience of gynaecological cancer through cancer research.
“The community is at the heart of everything that we do at ANZGOG. They remind us how important advancing research is for others, they keep us on track, focusing on what matters most and they shape ANZGOG’s research direction by providing their unique lived experience.”
Prof Clare Scott AM (ANZGOG Chair)
ANZGOG’s 1280+ members are based at over 80 hospitals, universities and research institutions in Australia and New Zealand. These members volunteer their time to help operate the organisation and take part in tumour working groups, research and advisory committees.
The diagram below represents how some committees feed into the Research Advisory Committee. A full organisational governance chart can be found here.
Research plays an integral role in providing the evidence to support best practice care in cancer treatment and survivorship. The Consumer Research Panel (CRP); part of ANZGOG’s community of those with a lived experience of gynaecological cancer, plays an integral role in contributing to that research. From participating in Tumour Type Working groups, where as part of the team we identify gaps in research and provide feedback on concepts, to being on the Trial Management Committee of active trials, we are involved in the full cycle of research. This year, for the first time, one of our panel members (along with an early career researcher) developed a trial concept and presented it to the Research Advisory Committee at the ANZGOG Annual Scientific Meeting. A very exciting opportunity.
The Consumer Research Panel attended ANZGOG’s annual Research Development Day in October 2022
In addition, we have represented ANZGOG nationally at Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) meetings and delivered the consumer perspective at workshops, presenting recruitment challenges in clinical trials. Plus, we have contributed to the ongoing debate about the language of cancer and the use of the term survivorship.
The last few years have initiated change and at ANZGOG we have seen an opportunity to refresh our engagement. The CRP have been part of ANZGOG’s Community Engagement Program and I was able to attend and contribute to the Strategic Planning Day. We look forward to the outcomes of both and to our continued productive participation as we represent those affected by gynaecological cancers.
Ms Wanda Lawson
Chair – Consumer Research Panel
The ANZGOG Study Coordinator Committee aims to support research sites participating in ANZGOG trials, as well as the internal development and refinement of ANZGOG trials. This past year, our membership has grown to include representation from Victoria, regional Victoria, Queensland, regional Queensland, ACT, New South Wales, Western Australia and New Zealand. We welcomed Meghan Leigh, who stepped up from her deputy position to chair the committee and Kathryn Jenkins as the new Chair Elect. Donna Long, our former Chair, has remained as a committee member to ensure continuity and support for regional sites.
Our committee members reviewed and approved several laboratory manuals and EDC guidelines for new ANZGOG trials, ensuring that they were user friendly and appropriate for site use. There has been a large focus on teletrial development this past year and support for the practical implementation at a site level. The Study Coordinator Workshop at the 2023 ASM focused around teletrial implementation and the importance of SOP development. The workshop was well attended and ended with a round table discussion of the nuances of implementation, which was greatly enjoyed by all.
To further commit to equity in clinical trial access across Australia and New Zealand, the committee is focused on culturally and linguistically diverse inclusion and will be exploring opportunities to practically support sites and ANZGOG trials in this space.
Ms Meghan Leigh
Chair - Study Coordinator Committee
The Uterine Tumour Working Group (UTWG) aims to support ANZGOG members in the development of novel clinical trials in endometrial cancer. Cases of endometrial cancer, which accounts for 90-95% of uterine cancer cases, are rising rapidly around the globe. In Australia, case numbers have doubled over the last 20 years, whilst in New Zealand numbers have trebled.
In 2023, I took over as Chair of the UTWG, with support from Chair Elect and Medical Oncologist Janine Lombard. The UTWG includes consumers, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, statisticians and translational scientists who all contribute to active discussions and feedback on trial ideas and pre-clinical research leading to trials.
This year the group has been working hard on three endometrial cancer trials in start-up (TAPER, DOMENICA, XPORT-C-42), which we look forward to opening in 2023-24.
Prof Caroline Ford
Chair – Uterine Tumour Working Group
In 2022, this group was renamed the Cervix, Vulva-Vaginal Tumour working group (CVVTWG) reflecting the aims to broaden the focus of the group to encompass vulva and vaginal cancer. The CVVTTWG is aimed at fostering new concepts and research ideas with the aim of improving outcomes for women with these gynaecological subtypes, primarily related to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
We thanked Assoc Prof Jeff Goh for his leadership as Chair for the last six years and as part of the renewal of the group, we had a change in the Chair and Chair Elect roles as well as welcomed new members with representation from across different disciplines of Surgical, Radiation, Medical Oncology, Translational Research, Statistics as well as Women with a Lived Experience. I look forward to working with Dr Felicia Roncolato in her role as Chair Elect of the CVVTWG.
The notable study in this tumour stream developed and subsequently reviewed onto the RAC this year was STRIVE, and the collaboration of some of our members into the data linkage registry. We will continue to work towards bringing forth new concepts despite the often challenging funding environment.
Dr Ming Yin Lin
Chair – Cervix, Vulva, Vaginal Tumour Working Group
The role of the Ovarian Tumour Working group (OTWG) is to support and guide the direction of the research in ovarian cancer within the organisation. It enables access to support and expertise to help develop an idea from a concept to a trial. It provides external input to help ensure the research is of the highest scientific quality and is relevant to people across Australia and New Zealand. The OTWG is comprised of members with a breadth of experience in gynaecological cancer clinical trials, including clinicians from gynaecologic oncology, medical oncology and radiation oncology, basic and translational scientists, a Quality of Life expert, and consumer representatives. A/Prof Tarek Meniawy stepped down as chair in February of this year but continues to provide exceptional support, knowledge, and insight to the committee.
2023 has shown activity continues to grow upon the success of previous years. ANZGOG has four clinical trials open to recruitment during this period – HyNOVA, MOST Follow Up, EPOCH and PARAGON-II. We are excited to see ANZGOG’s research portfolio in ovarian cancer continue to grow with an increasing number of promising concepts presented across the continuum of patient care. The growing collaborations between scientists and clinicians in this space highlights the core basis of the organisation and underpin the core values of ANZGOG whilst emphasising the potential for more growth as we look to 2024. I look forward to working with A/Prof Kylie Gorringe in her role as Chair Elect of the OTWG.
Dr Michelle Wilson
Chair - Ovarian Tumour Working Group
The Research Advisory Committee (RAC) makes recommendations on ANZGOG’s research priorities and decides which trial concepts and protocols are supported for development, based on their scientific quality and importance. The RAC also oversees the progress of clinical trials including reviewing reports from principal investigators and trial management committees.
The RAC embodies ANZGOG’s truly multidisciplinary membership, representing sub-specialities in gynaecological oncology and regions of Australia/New Zealand where clinical trials are conducted. The RAC includes clinicians from Gynaecologic Oncology, Medical Oncology and Radiation Oncology, basic and translational scientists, Quality-of-Life experts, Nurses, Biostatisticians, and people with lived experience, and we are immensely grateful to them for their time and expertise. Associate Professor Yoland Antill, who commenced in the role of Deputy Chair of the RAC in 2022, deserves special mention as she been a wonderful support providing knowledge, insight, and help often.
Research highlights of 2023 include two new trials opening to recruitment – PEACE and EPOCH, and the successful award of $1,270, 000 by the Medical Research Future Fund for the Tailored Adjuvant Therapy in POLE-mutated and p53-wildtype Early-Stage Endometrial CanceR (TAPER) trial – congratulations to the Principal Investigator in Australia, Professor Alison Brand AM. Additional trials currently recruiting include HyNOVA, ADELE, ENDO-3, and PARAGON-II. Five clinical trials are in start-up and more trials are in development. Despite ongoing challenges to conducting clinical trials post the COVID-19 pandemic, ANZGOG strives to achieve its aim of conducting high-impact, practice changing trials that will benefit all people affected by gynaecological cancer.
Professor Paul Cohen
Chair – ANZGOG Research Advisory Committee
The ANZGOG 2022 Endometrial Cancer Preceptorship was held 2 & 3 December 2022 and Chaired by Dr Michelle Wilson (MO, NZ), A/Professor Emma Allanson (GO, WA) and Dr Lawrence Kasherman (MO, NSW). We had 24 Mentors and 24 Mentees participate in this educational program and another 38 fellows, trainees, registrars and early career clinicians who attended the virtual webinar.
This was a great opportunity for the participants to understand the landmark studies and discuss clinical practice in endometrial cancer, with experts in Australia and New Zealand, and also an excellent learning opportunity for the Fellows and Trainees who presented, including valuable discussion by the mentors and guest panellists.
ANZGOG, as part of its member education activities, presented the second of its Foundations Education Series, focusing on Endometrial Cancer for ANZGOG members and others across the health sector. The Endometrial Cancer Webinar was held on the 16 and 21 of September and was co-Chaired by A/Prof Yoland Antill and Dr Bryony Simcock. Renowned ANZGOG members, leaders in their fields presented on the following topics: basic histopathology, molecular profiling, genetics, epidemiology, surgery, adjuvant treatment, radiation treatment, advanced or recurrent disease: systemic therapy, survivorship & supportive care and the consumer perspective.
This educational webinar was attended by 269 members including some of ANZGOG’s international colleagues. This three-part Foundations in Gynaecological cancers is supported by AstraZeneca and in 2023 the focus will be on Cervical & Vulvar Cancers.
Survivors Teaching Students® (STS) brings ovarian and other gynaecological cancer survivors and caregivers into the classrooms of our next generation of health professionals to teach them about women’s experiences with the diseases. Survivors and caregivers are in a unique position to help students understand the ‘lived experience’ of a gynaecological cancer, including the psychosocial impact, and the importance of timely diagnosis, good health communication and compassionate care.
STS is a sought-after experiential learning opportunity for tertiary institutions with a fully implemented program now running in all Australian states, the ACT and NZ. Completing a successful fifth year, STS is now working with 20 universities, which includes 17 medical schools, 8 nursing schools, and opportunities to engage with medical science and allied health students. Student feedback demonstrates STS is a highly valued learning experience providing students with memorable patient insights to inform their future practice. This year saw a gradual return to face-to-face STS presentations as more universities return to on-campus teaching. It is anticipated the program will continue in a hybrid capacity going forward, allowing volunteers the opportunity to share their stories in-person and online.
The Survivors Teaching Students program is under license to ANZGOG from the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance in the USA.
Emerging triumphant amidst the rousing waves of audio talent, ANZGOG's podcast 'On the Down Low' etched its name in the annals of Australian audio artistry by securing the 'Best New Podcast' title at the Australian Podcast Awards.
'On the Down Low' is a six-part series that follows the arc of an ovarian cancer journey, covering topics including symptoms and diagnosis, treatment and side effects, challenges with finances, relationships and intimacy, issues specific to regional and younger women, research, clinical trials, recurrence, hope and advocacy.
In a testament to the podcast's profound impact and quality, it was also a finalist in the 'Best Health & Wellness Podcast' category at the same Awards and the eminent NSW Volunteer of Year Awards. The podcast masterfully recounts stirring and moving stories about women's experiences with the disease, which unfortunately affects over 2,000 women in Australia and New Zealand each year, with less than half surviving past five years.
The creation of 'On the Down Low' was facilitated by the unwavering determination and passion exhibited by its dedicated volunteer crew, helmed by the talented Podcast Host Alison Dance and Producer Nyasha Nyakuengama, and powered by the nine cast members from ANZGOG’s Survivors Teaching Students program. The courage and frankness displayed by the cast members, each a brave survivor of ovarian cancer or caregiver, through their compelling narratives project the hope that their shared experiences might serve to transform lives in the future.
Join Alison Dance as she speaks to women with ovarian cancer and their carers, sharing raw and inspiring stories. A powerful call for advocacy, awareness and change, this podcast encourages the health conversations women need to have. Join the call for change today #OnTheDownLowPodcast. On The Down Low is available on all major podcast apps.
ANZGOG actively engages with our members, the Australian and New Zealand clinical research community and our international partners to ensure the relevance, vibrancy and impact of our research agenda. ANZGOG collaborates with organisations with a similar agenda to address shared challenges. These collaborations are the key to ANZGOG’s success and support our diverse research activity and our work as a leader in gynaecological cancer research.
ANZGOG held its 17th Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) in Brisbane, 22-24 March 2023. This year’s ASM attracted 325 participants from Australia and New Zealand who gathered at the Hilton Hotel in Brisbane. The conference’s theme "Improving the Lived Experience of Patients with Gynaecological Cancer’ focused on women diagnosed with gynaecological cancer".
The conference began with a range of diverse and engaging workshops for early-career researchers, scientists, radiation oncologists, gynae-onc nurses, study coordinators, and consumers engaged in clinical trial research. A unique and thought-provoking workshop focusing on the rare gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) was particularly popular.
The main conference featured inspiring keynote addresses by acclaimed international speakers:
Prof René Pareja (Gynaecological Oncologist, Colombia).
“History doesn’t repeat itself but it does rhyme: the tale of cervical cancer surgery.”
Dr Ina Jurgenliemk-Schulz (Radiation Oncologist, Netherlands).
“Recent key advancements in locally advanced cervical cancer: A Radiation Oncologist’s View.”
Prof Iain McNeish (Medical Oncologist, United Kingdom).
“The key advances and major setbacks in treating gynaecology."
The Pure Science Symposium, held on the first day of the conference - now a staple of the ANZGOG ASM program – matches pure scientists with clinical researchers to ensure that the findings in the lab are translated to clinical trial development.
Today in @anzgog #ANZGOG2023ASM @Tracey_DiSipio shared her work on unmet needs and priorities of women following advanced gynaecological cancers, an interview study. Such a touching message from a patient: "You are my voice"💔 Amazing work and nice presentation Tracey 👏 pic.twitter.com/DfAWy0imDr
— Azam Majidi (@_azammajidi) March 22, 2023
Pre-clinical Abstract Award
Bonnita Werner
Clinical Abstract Award
Alison Brand AM
Pre-clinical Poster Award
Dongli Liu
Clinical Poster Award
Tanya Ross
Gynaecological cancer is a global issue. Connecting with other world leaders in research is critical to improving treatments and outcomes for women with gynaecological cancer across the world.
ANZGOG’s strong international collaborations are fostered through its individual members and organisational membership of the Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup (GCIG), which is comprised of 32 member countries. ANZGOG is a significant collaborator internationally in gynaecological cancer clinical trials development and regularly has a large number of members participating at the GCIG meetings and sitting on its various committees.
The GCIG Spring 2023 meeting was the first meeting for ANZGOG Director and past Chair, Prof Alison Brand AM as Chair of the GCIG. The prior GCIG 2022 Autumn Meeting was also the final meeting for ANZGOG Chair, Prof Clare Scott AM, as Chair of the Rare Tumours Committee. The GCIG thanked Clare for her time serving as both Chair-Elect and Chair in highlighting the importance of rare gynaecological malignancies within the consortium.
ANZGOG now has five members in key leadership roles within GCIG, which is a true testament to ANZGOG's reputation as a global leader in gynaecological cancer research:
One of the inaugural members, ANZGOG participated in the formation of the Asia Pacific Gynecological Oncology Trials group (APGOT) in 2019. The group was formed to focus on collaborative studies in gynaecological cancer within the Asia Pacific region, strengthening capabilities and ensuring a greater range of trials available for women.
ANZGOG has already conducted two studies (MOCCA and VIP) in cooperation with Singapore as part of the OASIS Research Initiative and we look forward to more future collaborations to improve outcomes for people with a lived experience of gynaecological cancer.
More information on APGOT can be found on the following publication:
Tan D, Fujiwara N, Fujiwara K, Beale P, Kim JW, Ng J, Kim SI, Evans A, Kim BG; Asia-Pacific Gynecologic Oncology Trials Group (APGOT). The Asia-Pacific Gynecologic Oncology Trials Group (APGOT): building a Pan-Asian and Oceania women's cancer research organization. J Gynecol Oncol. 2023 Mar;34(2):e33. doi: 10.3802/jgo.2023.34.e33. PMID: 36890293; PMCID: PMC9995874. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36890293/
ANZGOG continues to collaborate both nationally and globally with other research organisations as demonstrated in the table below:
*ANZGOG is the lead international group for this study.
ANZGOG has a long-term relationship with the NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre (CTC), at the University of Sydney, who have acted as a sponsor of our larger trials.
Strong local collaborations are fostered with institutions such as Sydney and Melbourne Universities, Walter & Eliza Hall, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology and University of Western Australia are ensuring a diverse approach to research ideas and clinical trial development.
ANZGOG also works closely with other cooperative cancer clinical trials groups, the Quality of Life Office, CREST Health Economics to foster new trials and contribute to their development.
WomenCan is the fundraising arm of ANZGOG, funding research and education programs conducted by ANZGOG’s membership.
WomenCan’s mission is to engage with the community to fund pioneering discoveries that will enable women with gynaecological cancer to live better and live longer.
Hitting the outback for ANZGOG’s research
A popular event on the WomenCan fundraising calendar is the annual adventure challenge. In 2022 and 2023, ANZGOG members and passionate WomenCan supporters alike, pulled on their hiking boots and took to the iconic Larapinta trail in the outback of the Northern Territory.
Covering over 90kms along the trail in 5 days, trekkers immersed themselves in the majestic landscapes, traversing desert tracks, crossing ancient rivers, summiting Mt Sonder and camping under a blanket of stars by night.
Tasked with not only the challenge of training for the adventure, trekkers are asked to also raise funds for ANZGOG’s research in the lead up to the trek.
Over two treks held in 2022 and 2023, 27 committed trekkers have raised over $237,000 for ANZGOG’s Funds For New Research Grant program. Congratulations and thank you to all trekkers involved!
For the past 5 years friends Lisa, Nicki and Tonya have enjoyed an active, annual trip together.
Inspired by a close friend who has lived with ovarian cancer for over 8 years, the trio set their sights on the Munda Bindi trail opting for the ultimate Munda Bindi experience – riding 1000kms from end to end – and added to their challenge by raising awareness and vital funds for ANZGOG’s research.
We want to recognise and sincerely thank the Bruce family and their support team who held the Brucedale Open Garden and Market Day, continuing the legacy of their mum, wife and friend Debbie Bruce.
In 2018, Debbie was diagnosed with a rare uterine cancer – leiomyosarcoma, and she immediately jumped into action, hosting the inaugural Brucedale Open Garden in 2019. Sadly, Debbie passed to this disease in 2020, however planned for her family to continue what she started.
After Covid disrupted their plans, Debbie’s husband Trevor and daughter Chloe delivered her wish, hosting the second Brucedale Open Garden and Market Day in November 2022, raising significant funds for ANZGOGs uterine cancer research program.
Thank you to the wonderful folk at Flickering Memories for their continued support at the annual high tea in Burnie, Tasmania.
Guests were treated to an afternoon of delicious treats - all provided by the generosity of the local community, plus heard about the latest in gynaecological cancer research from ANZGOG’s Dr Michael Bunting and WomenCan’s Karen Livingstone AM.
Importantly, with the addition of the funds raised from the previous two years, Flickering Memories have now raised enough to fund their own Fund for New Research Grant – a program to promote the development of future ANZGOG clinical trials to benefit all women with gynaecological cancer.
WomenCan is grateful to run Team Teal with the Harness Racing community in Australia and New Zealand, along with principal partner Tabcorp. Team Teal continues to be an important funder of ANZGOGs research and education programs, including Survivors Teaching Students. In its 13th year, Team Teal through teal wins and community fundraising raised $376,657 taking the overall total funds raised in support, since 2010 to $2.9 million.
"It’s such a privilege to be chosen to wear the Team Teal colours. To be able to raise awareness and funds for such an important cause spur me on to do the best I can to help."
Kerryn Manning AM - Team Teal Ambassador
When Team Teal leaves the harness racing track and heads to lawn bowls!
Members and clubs of Bowls Northwest in Tasmania added their own flair to Team Teal, taking on the challenge to ‘bowl cancer into the ditch.’
Players and clubs from across the region ditched their traditional colors in support of Team Teal, hosting fundraising activities including raffles and morning teas.
“It started off as Thursday (ladies) pennant teal day and then a few of the male players asked if they could also do it, so we made it teal week.” said Bowls Northwest CEO Tracey Little
With thanks to all members and clubs for raising awareness and funds for ANZGOG’s research
The second annual Honour Her Art Auction and Virtual Gallery was launched in September in conjunction with international gynaecological awareness month.
Artists across Australia, both acclaimed and emerging, contributed beautiful and inspiring works of art to help raise funds for life-saving gynaecological cancer research. In addition, new to Honour Her this year we saw the Honour Wall, an online platform where community members could make a dedication to women in their lives who have been affected by gynaecological cancer.
As well as showcasing beautiful art, Honour Her empowered artists to share their stories and those of the inspirational women in their lives. This year returning artist Robyn Ross, who created the impactful artwork ‘Honour’, brought her art community together to host a fundraising evening and art exhibition, raising awareness not only of gynaecological cancer, but Robyn’s personal story of the loss of her mother and dear friend to gynaecological cancer.
We are sincerely grateful to the art community, artists and donor alike, who continue to contribute their beautiful work, time and funds to support ANZGOG’s vital research and education programs.
Honour her strength.
Honour her resilience.
Honour her story.
Some other wonderful partners to mention are Cure Our Ovarian Cancer, Coastal Goddess, North Sydney Bears, Oatlands Golf Club, Wild Fusion Skincare, Townsville Basketball, and the Soroptimists.
“Research costs money. Funding ensures that the best clinical trial ideas are brought to life. The only way to provide our community with access to government-funded drugs for gynaecological cancers, is to provide the clinical trial evidence that a drug works - and that costs.”
ANZGOG has collaborative agreements both locally and globally with research institutions and other clinical trial groups. It also conducts a number of its clinical trials in collaboration with the University of Sydney and its NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre (CTC). The University of Sydney supports ANZGOG with grant applications, sponsorship of agreed trials and coordination of the trial operations.
Government grant funding for the benefit of ANZGOG clinical trials projects achieved under the collaboration is administered by the University of Sydney and is received annually to support these research activities.
The Cancer Australia Support for Cancer Clinical Trials Program, provides $500,000 annually to ANZGOG to support research development work by our research staff, consumer engagement and education activities and research development workshops.
