A Mater doctor and a Sister of Mercy have joined the list of Queensland Greats for their contribution to healthcare, science and philanthropy in Queensland.
Humanitarian and women’s health champion Professor Ajay Rane OAM and the late Sister Regis Mary Dunne AO RSM, were honoured at the 21st Queensland Greats Awards yesterday (8 June), presented by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.
An esteemed specialist, philanthropist and humanitarian, Professor Rane practices at Mater Private Hospital Townsville in gynaecology and urogynaecology.
He’s renowned for his world-leading research in vaginal reconstructive surgery and through his charity, Flourishing Women, Professor Rane has galvanised the medical community to treat women with fistula, by donating their time and surgical expertise.
Sr Regis was a pioneer of genetics and bioethics, starting her career at Mater in 1949, training as a medical laboratory scientist.
In 1960, she established Queensland’s first cytogenetics diagnostic laboratory at Mater, resulting in early diagnosis of congenital abnormalities.
The following year she co-founded the first genetic counselling clinic in Australia to assist clinicians, patients and families to deal with the complexities that come with genetic diagnoses.
She worked at Mater Pathology for over 30 years and her inspiration and teachings assisted many of the Mater Pathology staff, past and present, in their love of science and patient care.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Sr Regis published a number of research papers on mycology and genetics.
Mater Chief Executive Officer Dr Peter Steer congratulated Professor Rane for his contribution to women’s health and acknowledged the incredible legacy of Sr Regis.
“Being named a Queensland Great is an exceptional honour and Professor Rane is certainly a worthy recipient for his advocacy for women’s health, both at local and international levels.
“Sr Regis sadly passed away in April last year and this recognition is a fitting celebration of her passion for science and the wellbeing of our community.
“Sr Regis left an indelible mark on the Mater community with her advancements in biochemistry and genetics improving the lives of Queensland patients and their families,” Dr Steer said.
Professor Rane and Sr Regis join an illustrious list of 116 individuals and 17 institutions who have been honoured as Queensland Greats since the awards began in 2001.