Metro South and Metro North clinicians and researchers strengthened partnerships this February, after coming together for the third joint Allied Health Research Symposium (THRIVE 2026).
It was Metro North’s turn to host the biannual event, which was held at the Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital Education Centre on 17 February.
The symposium brought together more than 200 clinicians, researchers, university partners, and consumer co-researchers from across Queensland for a day of knowledge sharing and networking.
Collaboration was at the heart of the event, with over 100 abstracts submitted and attendees enjoying a keynote address, two panel discussions, 26 oral presentations, 32 lightning oral presentations, and 21 scientific poster presentations that covered a variety of research topics informing the future of allied health care.
“We featured a diverse range of sessions, including artificial intelligence in healthcare, research presentations and how to engage consumers and community in research,” said Research Workforce Development Officer, Greg Kyle.
“THRIVE presented a great opportunity to come together for shared learning and networking opportunities to foster future collaborations across the river,” he said.
Chief Research and Innovation Officer MSH, Assoc. Prof Helen Benham echoed the sentiment.
“It was a great day, and so wonderful to see such a collaborative spirit across our HHS’s.”
Metro South Health team members had plenty to celebrate, after claiming two of the People’s Choice Awards.
Congratulations to all winning presenters:
- Martin Canning (MNH) – Best Oral Presentation
- Adrienne Young & Anja Christoffersen (MNH) – Best Lightning Talk
- Teresa Brown (MNH) – Best Poster.
Taking out the Peoples’ Choice awards were:
- Helen Edwards (MNH) – Best Oral Presentation
- Kiara Rodrigues (MSH) – Best Lightning Talk
- Amanda Hurley (MSH) – Best Poster.
A special thanks to all presenters, participants and collaborators who helped make THRIVE 2026 a success, and to the 2026 event sponsors: UQ Faculty of Health & Behavioural Sciences, Griffith University, QUT, Central Queensland University, University of the Sunshine Coast and TRI.
“THRIVE 2026 was the most successful THRIVE to date and we look forward to the next THRIVE symposium in two years,” said Greg.