The class of 85

Kevin Patterson interviews Dr Garry Davis about his life from a sports-filled childhood in Adelaide to medical school with the Class of 1985, and his distinguished career in ophthalmology. The episode covers his early sporting ambitions, medical training, the shift into ophthalmology and oculoplastics, major advances in eye care (including cataract techniques, OCT imaging and anti-VEGF treatments), and extensive outreach work in Indigenous and international communities. Dr Davis also reflects on mentorship, family life, memorable exam anecdotes, and his plans for retirement and future pursuits.

In this episode of Kevi's Cancer Chronicles, Professor Bogda Koczwara shares her journey from rural Poland to becoming a leading figure in Australian cancer care and survivorship. She discusses her medical training, international experience at Roswell Park, the creation and growth of oncology services at Flinders Medical Centre, and her national advocacy work with MOGA and COSA. Professor Koczwara also explains the origins of the ACCORD research workshop, the development of nurse-led survivorship care, and her current role directing the Australian Research Centre for Cancer Survivorship at UNSW.

Dr Vicki Bennett, a University of Adelaide graduate from the Class of ’85, reflects on a life that moved from Newcastle and Stockton to rural and Aboriginal health work in Port Hedland and Kakadu. She recalls a brutal intern year, emergency evacuations with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and long-term work in urban Aboriginal health and youth mental health in Adelaide. Alongside medicine, Vicki recounts her musical career—songwriting, recording with The Standard Deviations, and a cappella bedside singing for people who are dying. In retirement she focuses on creativity, compassionate care, and reflecting on what makes a ‘good death.’

Francis discusses his early life, education and his carreer as a physician and medical oncology