The College of Medicine and Public Health (CMPH) convened for its annual retreat on March 26th and 27th, 2024, at the Stamford Grand in Glenelg, South Australia. This year’s retreat attracted a diverse array of attendees, including MPH professional and academic staff, university partners, students, and members of the Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI) Consumer Advisory Board (CAB), totaling approximately 200 individuals on the first day and 150 on the second. Watch recorded sessions or download the 2024 College Retreat Program
Day One
The retreat commenced with a ceremony led by Ashum Yarlupina Owen, featuring a traditional song in the Kuarna language and a heartfelt welcome.
Session One: University and College Update
Vice-Chancellor Colin Stirling and Vice-President and Executive Dean of MPH, Jonathan Craig, provided an overview of the college’s performance for 2023/2024, coupled with a summary of the university’s progress in research and education. Attendees engaged in a group activity, fostering connections and discussions around enabling each other’s achievements.
Session Two: What Our Partners Want
Under the facilitation of Alison Jones, attendees collaborated to identify key strategic priorities in various industries and contexts, aligning them with potential future initiatives. A distinguished panel of external representatives including Robyn Lawrence (CEO SA Health), Rob Elliott (CEO South Australia Ambulance Service), Jeremy Chin (CMO NT Health – who presented online from Nhulunbuy in the Northern Territory), and Lucas Semmler (Executive Director, SA Pathology), shared insights and explored opportunities for collaborative problem-solving.
Session Three: Engaging Generation Z – Today’s Emerging Students and Employees
Claire Madden captivated the audience with her insightful session on understanding and engaging Generation Z. Attendees participated in group discussions, reflecting on changes in students and employees over the past five years and brainstorming strategies to foster relational belonging and immersive engagement experiences.
Session Four: Research Leaders, Consumers, and Great Debaters
Newer researchers showcased their work across disciplines and locations, emphasising greater engagement with consumers. The session culminated in a spirited Great Debate, where participants engaged in critical thinking and debate on fundamental research concepts – Qualitative vs. Quantitative research.
Debate members: James Smith, Bogda Koczwara, Courtney Ryder (Quals) versus Kelly Loffler, Jonathan Karnon and Damien Keating (Qans).
Day Two
Session One: Developing Excellence in Teams
Karen Lower facilitated a session featuring insights from six colleagues renowned for their leadership excellence. Attendees gained valuable insights into various approaches to team development, followed by a panel discussion and opportunities for further exploration.
Session Two: Education – Students, Staff, and Scholarship
Attendees delved into the intricate dynamics of student success, teaching staff’s dedication, and innovative scholarship in education. The session highlighted fellowship opportunities and emerging perspectives in higher education, including discussions on indigenising the curriculum and the impact of growing AI use.
Session Three: Cultural Awareness and Anti-Racism
This vital session aimed to promote cultural awareness and foster an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences. Presenters Simone Tur and Ali Baker led engaging discussions to expand knowledge and awareness among participants.
Session Four: Rural & Remote Health – Escape from the City
Retreat participants embraced the rural and remote context through an interactive escape room activity led by Robyn Aitken. Designed to promote team building and creative problem-solving, this session offered a unique blend of fun and learning.
The 2024 College Retreat for CMPH proved to be a resounding success, fostering collaboration, innovation, and a deeper understanding of key issues shaping the future of medicine and public health. With insights gained and connections forged, attendees departed with renewed inspiration to drive positive change in their respective fields.