MQ Health online series focusing on key health issues
Join our MQ Health clinicians, staff, academics and affiliates to learn what you can do to keep you and your family healthy and well.
At MQ Health we believe it is important to make a long-term positive difference in the lives of our staff, doctors, patients and of the broader community in which we exist. We are also proud of the value we add to the community through our world-class clinical care, teaching and research.
As a way to engage directly with the community, MQ Health produces online talks focusing on key health and wellness issues important to the local community. Subscribe to our mailing list to hear about talks released throughout the year. See details of past talks below.
If there is a specific topic you would like discussed at a future Wellness Series talk, contact us at wellnessseries@mqhealth.org.au.
Upcoming talks
Topics of upcoming talks include:
- adult ADHD
- arthritis
- healthy eating for children
- hospital acquired infections
- perimenopause and menopause
- speech impairment (at any age).
There are currently no talks available at this time. Check back later for more updates.
Archive
See details of past MQ Health Wellness Series talks.
Physical health and wellness
Staying active at every stage of life
28 August 2024
Welcome to our comprehensive talk on staying active at every stage of life. This session is designed to guide you through the importance of physical activity from infancy to your senior years, ensuring a lifetime of health and vitality.
This presentation by Beth Israelson begins by exploring the fundamental role of movement in early development, focusing on infants and toddlers. Moving into childhood and adolescence, we discuss the need for structured physical activities that promote growth, coordination, and social interaction. For adults, our talk shifts focus to integrating physical activity into daily routines despite busy schedules. Finally, we'll address the unique challenges and benefits of staying active in your senior years.
Whether you're a parent, professional, or retiree, this webinar promises valuable guidance for embracing a healthy and active lifestyle at every age.
Exercise MythBusters
2 September 2024
Join us for an engaging talk where we debunk common exercise myths that often lead to misconceptions about fitness.
This presentation by Melinda Martin addresses myths such as:
- the necessity of walking 10,000 steps a day
- the benefits (or lack thereof) of stretching before a workout
- the 'no pain, no gain' philosophy
- the misconception that cardio is the exclusive method for weight loss
- the myth that lifting heavy weights inevitably results in bulking up.
Melinda provides evidence-based insights into these topics, shedding light on the truth behind these widely held beliefs. Whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or new to exercise, this talk aims to equip you with accurate information to optimise your fitness routine and achieve your health goals more effectively.
Bone health
3 December 2024
Welcome to our comprehensive talk on Bone health, exploring why your bones are important and providing practical tips on how to improve and maintain your bone health.
This presentation by Melinda Martin delves into the importance of bone health and impact of poor bone health. You'll gain insights into how strong bones contribute to your overall wellbeing, mobility and quality of life. This talk also covers key factors influencing bone health, including nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle choices.
Whether you're interested in preventing bone-related conditions or maintaining healthy bones as you age, this talk is for you.
Staying on top of sports injuries
15 December 2021
Participating in sport and exercise brings about health and social benefits to individuals and local communities. You don't have to be an athlete to take part. Empowering yourself with information about sports safety can allow you to enjoy the benefits.
Join MQ Health academics and clinicians as they provide insights into prevention and management of sports and exercise injuries.
Topics will include:
- common injuries and looking after your limbs
- concussion and head safety
- tips for prevention and rehabilitation
Healthy ageing
24 April 2024
As we age, we experience an increasing number of life changes. Your focus may shift from work and raising a family to planning for retirement and financial security. However, it is just important to plan for your health.
This presentation by Professor Viviana Wuthrich encompasses a comprehensive exploration of various factors contributing to a fulfilling and healthy later life. It delves into the intricate interplay between lifestyle factors, social participation, emotional resilience, mental stimulation and managing health conditions offering valuable insights and actionable strategies to healthy ageing.
Ageing well
27 October 2022
As we grow older, we experience several life changes that directly impact our well-being and those around us, whether this is transitioning ourselves or our loved ones into aged care, retiring from the workforce, losing those close to us or facing health challenges.
Preparing for and learning how to adapt to these changes can often bring feelings of confusion, fear and a loss of independence. Our ability to handle these changes by staying physically and socially active, finding new things we enjoy and feeling connected to our community is key to ageing well.
Our MQ Health clinicians and academics, facilitated by Professor Simon Willcock, will help you better understand how to cope with these changes and what you can do to keep yourself and your loved ones well. We explored the following:
- Healthy ageing – Professor Sanjyot Vagholkar
Understanding how to prepare for health impacts that arise as we grow older, and how to take control as we begin to feel like we are losing control. - Mental wellbeing – Professor Viviana Wuthrich
Through her research that looks at improving one’s well-being in relation to mental disorders, this discussion focused on understanding and treating anxiety and depression in older adults. She also touched on health conditions in the community, residential aged care and more. - Social wellbeing – Dr Jessamine Chen
Uncovering how social participation and social connections benefit older adults, in addition to understanding the barriers and facilitators that come along with it. - Reducing the risk of dementia – Dr Alice Powell
Exploring the physical, mental and social factors that can help to reduce the risk of dementia as you age. She also touched on the risk factors that cannot be controlled.
20 November 2023
The skin is the largest organ in the body. It acts as a barrier to protect the body from disease, infection and injury, therefore, keeping your skin healthy cannot be overemphasised.
We often treat our skin from the outside, but a big part of its health also comes from supporting it from the inside.
In support of National Skin Cancer Action Week, this presentation will help you better understand why the skin is so important, what affects your skins health and the practical ways to take good care of your skin, so your skin can keep taking good care of you.
Sleeping well
23 September 2023
Tired of tossing and turning at night?
We spend about one-third of our time asleep, therefore, a good night's sleep is just as important as regular exercise and a healthy diet. However, despite its importance, a large percentage of people find themselves regularly deprived of quality sleep and are notably sleepy during the day.
Join us during Sleep Week to better understand what quality sleep is, how disrupted sleep (or a 'bad nights sleep') affects your wellbeing and the simple tips that will help you sleep better and be more energetic and productive during the day.
Get better sleep for health
12 March 2020
How exactly does sleep impact our health? How do we make sleep a priority in our busy lifestyles?
In the lead up to World Sleep Day, gain a deeper understanding of sleep and of what you can do to get better sleep for better health.
Healthy hearts
23 February 2023
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia with more than 4 million of the population living with one or more heart-related conditions.
View the event recording below to gain a better understanding of the signs and symptoms of heart conditions, when to see your doctor and the preventative measures to take so that you can enjoy a healthy lifestyle.
Presented by Dr Catherine Smillie, this event featured presentations by:
- Dr Darran Foo (General Practitioner)
Exploring the different ways to best manage and reduce cardiovascular risk. - Dr Dhruv Nayyar (Consultant Cardiologist)
Diving deep into cardiac investigations performed in the clinic to diagnose common cardiac diseases. - Valentina Duong (Accredited Practising Dietician)
Uncovering the importance of nutrition by focusing on how diet impacts your cardiac health and presenting actionable dietary strategies to improve heart health and wellbeing.
Healthy lifestyles for healthy hearts
25 June 2020
More than 15 percent of Australians are living with cardiovascular disease (CVD), experiencing conditions such as coronary heart disease, heart failure and stroke.
Gain a deeper understanding of the risk factors that contribute to CVD and learn what you can do to minimise them and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
30 March 2022
The RACGP reported that one in three Australians have gained weight since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Excess weight and obesity present increased risk for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, some musculoskeletal conditions and cancers, as well as more severe Covid-19 illness and death. It is therefore important to maintain healthy weight, and this is dependent on many factors.
Watch the recorded webinar to better understand how you can maintain healthy weight for life.
Presentations by MQ Health clinicians and academics were followed by a live Q&A session.
Topics included:
- nutrition for healthy weight
- movement for healthy weight
- metabolic health and wellness.
Mental and emotional wellbeing
8 April 2025
Three of MQ Health's dedicated volunteers share their personal experiences and the benefits of volunteering in an inspiring talk. This talk is a must-watch for anyone interested in volunteering and its impact on both the community and personal well-being.
24 July 2023
Annually, more than 12 billion workdays are lost due to stress, depression and anxiety with four in ten people worldwide reporting feeling regularly stressed. We all experience stress but may experience it in different ways. Whether this experience is a physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension, stress is a reaction to a situation where you may feel anxious, overwhelmed or threatened.
Learning to cope with our stress and finding healthy ways to deal with difficult situations can help you continue to live a healthy and positive life.
In support of 'Stress Down Day', this presentation will highlight the stigma around stress, recognising its effects, and what you can do to manage your stress before it becomes a problem.
30 September 2021
Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia, with an estimate of 459,000 Australians living with dementia, and almost 1.6 million involved in the care of someone living with dementia (source: Dementia Australia).
Gain a deeper understanding of dementia and what you can do to keep yourself and your loved ones well.
Nutrition and lifestyle
28 August 2024
Whether you're looking to understand the psychology behind cravings or seeking actionable steps towards a balanced diet, this talk offers valuable insights for everyone. Don't miss the chance to transform your relationship with food and achieve lasting health benefits.
This presentation by Andrada Iordachescu delves into the intricate world of eating habits analysing our behaviours with healthy and unhealthy eating patterns. From emotional eating triggers to habitual snacking, learn strategies to recognise and modify these behaviours as well as practical tips for building sustainable habits that promote overall well-being.
4 August 2023
Did you know that your gut is considered your second brain?
If you've ever 'gone with your gut' to make a decision, you're likely getting signals from your second brain.
We're becoming increasingly aware of the role our gut plays and the links between digestion, mood, health and even the way you think. With so much information out there, it can be overwhelming to know what to eat, when to eat it and the impact it is having on your overall health and wellbeing.
In this presentation, learn all there is to know about your gut where we explore why the gut is so important, common signs that indicate an 'unhappy' gut, the brain-gut connection and diet and lifestyle tips for a health gut.
Healthcare and medical awareness
12 May 2025
Edwina Holmes, a Nurse Educator, presents an enlightening talk on health literacy that is both informative and empowering.
This talk is essential viewing for anyone looking to take charge of their health and make informed decisions. Edwina Holmes' expertise and clear communication make complex concepts easy to grasp and apply.
She addresses key topics such as:
- understanding the ability to obtain, process, and understand basic health information
- highlighting the impact of health literacy on personal health outcomes and the healthcare system
- practical tips and strategies to enhance your understanding and management of health information
- initiatives and programs at MQ Health aimed at boosting health literacy in the community.
17 April 2025
Dr Fiona Foo, an Interventional Cardiologist, delivers a compelling talk on environmental sustainability and the health co-benefits of climate change mitigation.
This talk is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of health and environmental sustainability. Dr Foo's expertise and passion make the topic both engaging and informative.
Key topics include:
- understanding how climate change affects our health and well-being
- exploring how efforts to combat climate change can improve health outcomes
- practical steps such as adopting plant-based diets, increasing active transport, traveling green, switching to renewable energy sources, and enhancing green spaces
- initiatives to make healthcare more sustainable
- what MQ Health is doing to promote environmental sustainability in healthcare
1 November 2024
An informative talk on maximising your healthcare visits by being better informed and asking the right questions.
This presentation by Dr Timothy Chin provides practical tips on how to prepare for medical appointments and engage with your healthcare provider effectively. We guide you through essential questions to ask your doctor, empowering you to actively participate in your healthcare decisions. Topics include inquiries about your diagnosis, treatment options, potential side effects, and long-term care plans. You'll learn strategies to advocate for yourself and ensure that you receive comprehensive information tailored to your health needs.
Whether you're scheduling a routine check-up or addressing a specific health concern, this talk will equip you with the tools to make the most of your healthcare visits.
1 October 2024
What is private health insurance, what does it cover and what costs are associated with healthcare?
This presentation by Jonas Fooken helps to navigate the complexities of health insurance by focusing on the types of health insurance, choosing the right cover for your needs as well as a comprehensive overview of the reasons why people pay for private health insurance.
Whether you're evaluating health insurance options for yourself, your family or your business, this talk aims to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
26 June 2023
Whilst cervical cancer can be diagnosed at an early stage by a PAP smear and breast cancer by ultrasound or mammogram, an early detection test for ovarian cancer does not exist and can often go undetected until the advanced stages of the disease.
That is why it is especially important to recognise warning signs and learn what you can do to reduce your risk.
View the event recording below to hear about the importance and types of risk factors, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of these three specific cancers affecting women.
Topics include:
- Preventable causes of cancer and the Importance of cancer screening – Dr Dhanusha Sabanathan
- Ovarian and cervical cancer screening and treatments – Abby Fyfe
- Breast cancer screening and treatments – Dr Negin Sedaghat
15 June 2023
Statistics show that men have a higher rate of getting cancer with 1 in 2 men developing some form of cancer in their lifetime. The most common of these being skin, bowel, prostate and testicular.
You can't control some of the risk factors, like getting older, but the good news is that you can control many others to reduce your risk or help find cancer earlier. The earlier it's found, the better.
Presented during Mens Health Week, view the event recording below to hear from healthcare experts about the importance and types of risk factors, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of these specific cancers affecting men.
Topics include:
- Preventable causes of cancer and the importance of cancer screening – Dr Darran Foo
- Skin cancer screening and treatments – Dr Jaiti Khosla
- Bowel cancer screening and treatments – Dr Henry Cheung
- Prostate and testicular cancer screening and treatments – Dr Benjamin Namdarian
25 May 2023
Australia is home to some of the worlds best health professionals, researchers, medical standards and a world class research infrastructure, making it an advantageous place to conduct clinical trials.
Without clinical trials, we would not have the treatments we have today. They can show what does and doesn't work in humans leading to the discovery of new treatments, as well as alternative ways to detect, diagnose and reduce the chance of developing diseases.
This presentation, by Nicola Chapman (Head of Clinical Operations, Clinical Trials Unit) will tell you what you need to know about clinical trials, how they work, why we need them and the potential risks and benefits of participating in one.
29 September 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged us all. We have had to make decisions that affect our health and our livelihood, in an ever-changing environment.
Health academics and clinicians discuss ways to navigate these unprecedented times, including information about the public health context, the primary care response, and practical tips for taking care of your mental wellbeing.
General education
24 April 2024
With the increasing dependence on digital technologies for communication, commerce, and everyday tasks, cyber safety has become a critical concern for individuals and businesses alike.
This presentation by Jeff Hu offers an in-depth exploration of strategies and best practices to navigate the digital landscape securely. It addresses current cyber crime statistics, evolving cyber threats and privacy concerns and provides practical tips for safeguarding your personal information and digital assets.
14 July 2023
Whether your child is heading back to primary school or high school – or starting school for the first time – this can be a time full of emotions and challenges for parents and carers. It's normal to feel anxious and uncertain, however, families can prepare for this time by being armed with simple strategies.
To help take some of the stress out of the back-to-school period, this presentation provides tips for parents to support and manage your child's return to school focusing on the importance of nutrition and healthy habits, sleep and routine, mental health, and after school wellbeing.
9 June 2022
Your child’s early years are a time of excitement, discovery and building strong foundations for the future. For many parents and carers, this can also be a time of uncertainty.
It’s a time of rapid change and growth for your child. Your child is changing physically, cognitively, socially and emotionally – and this can be difficult to navigate. Our presenters will share strategies to facilitate your child’s development as well as information on what to do and where to go if
you have concerns.
Join MQ Health clinicians and academics to discover how you can build the best foundations for your child for life.