Professor Grant McArthur Each of these has the potential to establish a new My gratitude is also extended to the members of our evaluation base and progress translation of best other advisory committees — the Cancer Research practice research evidence on cancer prevention and Advisory Committee, Cancer Education and Training early detection closer to routine clinical practice. There Advisory Committee (CETAC) and the Finance is still a long way to go but it’s a strong demonstration Audit and Risk Committee for their counsel and of the collaborative, collegiate nature of our alliance commitment. I’d particularly like to acknowledge the and the power of tapping the depth and breadth of outstanding contribution of Professor Geoff McColl, the expertise it represents. who stepped down as Chair of CETAC after eight years in the role. Geoff has left a significant legacy and This is just one example of several I could mention. foundation that will underpin our work in this area well into the future. Ambitious, complex collaborations like this cannot succeed without a backbone of support to facilitate My thanks also to the Board of Directors; Chairperson and enable the work. Over the past year the VCCC staff Professor Linda Kristjanson AO, and Deputy team has grown to provide the specific skills required Chairperson Professor Robert Thomas, for their to keep the programs on track. The calibre of the team guidance and support through this formative period is exceptional and I am very grateful for their tireless and my first full year as Executive Director. commitment to our task. Through innovation, determination and collective After my first 12 months as Executive Director at the effort, the VCCC alliance has made significant progress VCCC, one of the things I am most excited about is the this year. Over the year ahead I expect that we will level of consumer engagement in our work. I believe really start to see that glimpse of potential turn into a we are among the best in the world in this area and much clearer view of the impact that is possible when our programs are more likely to succeed because of we work to overcome cancer together. it. We are currently formalising our commitment in a new consumer engagement action plan — once Professor Grant McArthur again the product of a comprehensive consultation Executive Director process. I am looking forward to further strengthening our progress in this area and extend sincere thanks to the members of our Cancer Consumer Advisory Committee for their dedication and contribution. 7