Key Topics and Speakers

• Keynote: First-Line OA Management – Dr Jack Edelman (Rheumatologist)

Dr. Jack Edelman AM is a distinguished Specialist Physician in rheumatology. Since 1989, Jack has served as President and as a Board Member of Arthritis and Osteoporosis WA (AOWA), playing a pivotal role in securing funding for the Wyllie Arthritis Centre and establishing the Chair of Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Medicine at the University of Western Australia. In recognition of his significant contributions to community health, particularly for individuals with arthritis and osteoporosis, Jack was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2016. Jack consults in Subiaco, Wanneroo and Bunbury as well as being actively involved in the Rheumatology program at the University of Western Australia.  

• Exercise and OA – Chris Andrews (Accredited Exercise Physiologist)

Chris Andrew is an ESSA accredited Clinical Exercise Physiologist based in Bunbury. Chris has a particular interest in, and over 10 years’ experience working with people with chronic health conditions including arthritis. Chris holds a Masters in Exercise Medicine and is currently a PhD candidate with the School of Medical and Health Science at Edith Cowan University. Chris’ expertise allows him to facilitate Arthritis and Osteoporosis W.A.s arthritis self-management programs in the southwest region.  

• Pain and OA – Mel Galbraith (Pain Physiotherapist)

Mel is a graduate of Curtin University with over 20 years of experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy across Australia and the UK. She holds an MSc in Medicine (Pain Management) from the University of Sydney and has been instrumental in developing the renowned STEPS program at Fremantle Hospital Pain Medicine Unit. Her expertise includes working with individuals to manage persistent pain, and she is actively engaged with the Australian Pain Society, the International Association for the Study of Pain, and the Australian Physiotherapy Association. 

• Weight Management and OA – Emily Calton (Dietitian)

Dr Emily Calton is an Accredited Practising Dietitian, Nutritionist and Accredited Sports Dietitian with a PhD in Public Health. Emily is a senior lecturer and researcher at Curtin University and coordinates nutrition-related research at Fiona Stanley Hospital, Fremantle Hospital and Cockburn Health. She teaches the latest advances in nutrition including evaluation of emerging diet trends such as intermittent fasting. Her research interests include investigating the impact of diet on inflammation, metabolism, body composition, and surgical outcomes. Through her telehealth practice The Nutrition Doctor, she supports clients around Australia to make changes to their diets to improve their diet and manage health conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, weight-loss, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and fatty liver. Emily has been an invited presenter to deliver workshops and seminars to health professional bodies, not for profit organisations and WA Government Departments. Supporting the many health education activities of AOWA, she has written magazine articles on the role of diet, presented to young adults living with arthritis at The Arthritis Getaway, presented at the National Consumer Conference, and delivered education for GPs, exercise physiologists, physiotherapists and nurses on the role of diet for osteoarthritis 

• Guest Speaker Panel Q&A – Moderated session featuring all expert speakers

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Saturday, 24 May 2025, 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Location: St. Boniface Cathedral, Bunbury

Address: 33 Parkfield St, Bunbury WA 6230

Light refreshments will be provided.

The event is free; however, spaces are limited. Secure your spot by 4 PM  Saturday, 17 May 2025.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email us at general@arthritiswa.org.au or call 1800 011 041. 

We look forward to welcoming you to this event.