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Contribution to medical science recognised

7 December 2005

Monash's Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences has recognised the contributions of two eminent scientists with the inaugural presentation of the David de Kretser Medal to Professor John Murtagh, and the Lifetime Achievement Medal to Professor Fiona Stanley.

The awards recognise contribution to the faculty and to medical science generally.

The David de Kretser Medal -- named for Professor David de Kretser, who has been involved in the faculty since 1969 when he received his medical doctorate -- is awarded in honour of exceptional contribution to the faculty's operation over a significant period.

The Lifetime Achievement Medal recognises an outstanding contribution, both nationally and internationally, to human health and wellbeing.

Professor Murtagh graduated from the university's first MB BS class in 1966 and has since been a teacher and mentor to successive generations of students. He has made a significant contribution to the education of general practitioners and is author of the seminal text General Practice. Although now retired, Professor Murtagh is still active in the Department of General Practice and continues to deliver annually the general practitioners update course.

Professor Fiona Stanley is a passionate advocate for the health and wellbeing of children. She is the Foundation Director of the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research and discovered the role of folic acid in preventing spina bifida in babies. Professor Stanley was voted Australian of the Year in 2003 and was named a Companion in the Order of Australia in 1996.

Faculty Dean Professor Ed Byrne said he was pleased to acknowledge the dedication of talented people in such an auspicious way and was delighted that the Faculty Board had agreed to name one of the medals in honour of Professor de Kretser.

"David has been one of the faculty's most significant contributors in a field comprising many talented academics, researchers and practitioners," Professor Byrne said.

"He has had a long and productive association with the faculty spanning more than three decades, and he has been one of our most prolific, pioneering researchers. His groundbreaking work on human reproduction and development and his tireless efforts as director of the Monash Institute of Reproduction and Development and, more recently, the Monash Institute of Medical Research, have given a special legacy to our faculty community.

"I can think of no more appropriate person, one who so aptly epitomises the spirit expressed by this award, than David de Kretser, which is why we are so proud to name the award in his honour."