The Sunshine Coast took centre stage in the future of musculoskeletal health and rehabilitation
with the MOTION Research Symposium on March 28, hosted by the School of Health, the
University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) in partnership with the Sunshine Coast Orthopaedic
Group (SCOG), Sunshine Coast Health Institute (SCHI), Fortius Allied Health and Fortius
Institute.
This remarkable event brought together internationally renowned experts, researchers, local
clinicians, students, and industry leaders to explore the latest advancements in orthopaedic
surgery, rehabilitation, and health implementation science.
Distinguished keynote speakers included:
● Dr Jit Balakumar, Orthopaedic Surgeon (Melbourne), presenting The Hope Trial.
● Professor Jed Duff, Health Economist (University of Queensland), discussing Making
Sense of Implementation Science.
● Dr Simon Talbot, Orthopaedic Surgeon (Melbourne), exploring Quadriceps Tendon
Malalignment.
● Associate Professor Ross Clarke, (Sport and Exercise Science, UniSC) showcasing
Precision Rehabilitation: The Use of Technology to Monitor, Predict, and Improve
Functional Recovery Pre- and Post-Surgery.
According to Associate Professor Nicole Masters, Associate Dean of Learning and
Teaching at UniSC’s School of Health, “We’re creating a collaborative network where
clinicians, researchers and industry leaders in the health sector can drive meaningful
innovation in musculoskeletal health.”
Dr Joe Coory, Orthopaedic Surgeon at Sunshine Coast Orthopaedic Group explained that
he and the team are proud to be part of the MOTION initiative.
“Together we’re redefining what’s possible when we connect clinical practice with
research, innovation and education,” said Dr Coory.
“This symposium is more than a gathering, it’s a catalyst for translating ideas into action
and improving real-world outcomes for patients,” Dr Coory added.
Echoing this, Professor Nick Ralph, co-lead of the MOTION Cluster, said: “Motion exists
to bring people together across disciplines – researchers, clinicians, students, and industry – to solve some of the biggest challenges in musculoskeletal health. This event is a
perfect reflection of that mission in action.”
As the Sunshine Coast continues to grow its reputation as a hub for health technology and
research collaboration, this event reinforces the region’s position at the forefront of healthcare
innovation.
