Straight from the Hip

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in Orthopaedics Surgery?

I always wanted to be a neurosurgeon but then after visiting the neurosurgical ward and seeing many male patients my age not in a great state I saw a total hip replacement that afternoon and the patient walked the following day – a much better outcome and endless opportunities to improve the quality of life. I have also been keenly interested in trauma since I started medical school so it seemed like a no brainer.

2. Outside of Orthopaedics were there any other specialties that you may have pursued had things been different?

Neurosurgery, but I was also encouraged in my junior years to consider a career in ICU however, I wasn’t interested in doing anaesthetics which you had to do in those days.

3. What is one myth or misconception about your Orthopaedics you would love to turn on its head?

That it is a job for “boofheads” or the boys and that diversity has no place. I have actively been part of the change in Orthopaedics through my roles at the Australian Orthopaedic Association, as the President and in my role at the Cairns Hospital.

4. What is the most common medical question your family and friends ask at BBQs or the Christmas dinner table?

My kids especially my daughter always asks what’s the best thing you have done this week or most interesting. I am not a big fan of the casual consultation so at the mention of this aches from someone I tend to encourage a visit to their GP and a formal consultation if required and are happy to arrange. 
 
5. You can invite 5 guests to accompany you to dinner. Who would it be and what cuisine are you choosing?

This is hard. I would probably choose my family and a yum cha cause that’s our go to for food and good discussion. If its not family then the invitees would be Bruce Springsteen (my favourite musician),  Gary Lyon (I am tragic Melbourne supporter), Lauren Jackson (legendary Australian basketball player – who I did have the pleasure of interviewing when I was the president of the AOA), John Eales (a greater player and leader) and Paul Kelly (singer and song writer). Some oysters Kilpatrick for entree followed by steak and french fries and greens and a baked New York cheesecake along with lots of good red wine!

6. How do you go about making participants feel at ease when they arrive for a medico legal assessment with you?

Just being me. I am (despite what many think) a pretty laid back and relaxed person. I always introduce myself my by full name, shake hands and encourage patients to address me as Chris. I explain why we are doing this examination and even though there is an emphasis on this being a medicolegal appointment I encourage the patient to raise any questions or concerns they may have in regards to their condition. I try to treat it as a consultation I would have with my own patients.

7. You’ve been based in Cairns for over 25 years and deeply involved in your community. What is it about FNQ that you appreciate so much?

It’s a great place to live. Laid back lifestyle, great friends all of whom live within a 2-3 km radius that we have grown our families up together. Great schools, all our kids went to school up here and achieved what they wanted to achieve. The wet season is not a lot of fun but the other 6-8 months are fantastic.

8. You are a mad keen sportsperson having been involved in Basketball, Rugby, and AFL. If you could play in any Grand Final which sport, team and position would you like to have played in?

Tricky one. Probably the number #3 spot in basketball in a play off for the gold medal at the Olympics.

9. One of the many boards you serve on is AFL Cape York House which seeks to provide educational, employment & training opportunities for Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander people in FNQ. Given you are a passionate about advocating for equal opportunities in your community can you tell me what role sport plays and how AFLCY is helping these young men and women?

AFL house provides an opportunity for young men and women to gain an education in a very supported and culturally aware environment. The members of both houses ( male and female ) are encouraged to play AFL as part of the experience but also can be involved in other sports. The team environment is another way of enriching these young peoples lives in many ways. The organisation has been extraordinarily successful in providing opportunities for further growth be it tertiary education, sporting scholarships and pathways or job/cadet/apprenticeship opportunities. The Cairns community is very supportive to the organisation and Rick Hanlon’s vision, development and ongoing drive is incredible. Being on this board is one of the most enjoyable things I do.

10. After a long day at the Cairns Hospital as the Director of Orthopaedics what TV show to you look forward to watching afterwards?

Depends on the day of the week. It’s usually AFL and/or rugby union from Thursday to Sunday. Earlier in the week I like to watch the news and usually a mini series with my wife.

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