I write to you as Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne and some rural areas continue another gruelling week of lockdown with, seemingly, no end in sight.

In my last president’s report I spoke about how polarised we have become as nations, communities and individuals, how a black and white world view stifles debate, scientific advancement and learning.  As doctors and medical practitioners we are at the forefront of dealing with the very real effect the pandemic has on our patients – illness, lockdowns, fear, hope, isolation.  This places enormous pressure on us which is only compounded by a sense of not being able to speak freely and share with colleagues our experiences, thoughts and knowledge.  We need to be able to openly enquire, question, discuss and share. Click here for more.