Australian GP has new Chief Medical Officer

CAMS appoints new FORMULA 1TM Australian Grand Prix Chief Medical Officer

The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) has today announced the appointment of Associate Professor Stephen Bernard as its Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for the FORMULA 1TM Australian Grand Prix. This appointment commences immediately and is a result of an open recruitment and selection process.

Assoc Prof Bernard will lead the provision of medical services at this hallmark international event, including planning, recruitment, training, acquisition and deployment of resources, as well as the provision of operational leadership at the event.

Assoc Prof Bernard has extensive experience in the provision of medical services at international motor sport events, having been CMO for the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island from 1996-2001 and the Superbike World Championship from 1992-2001.

Currently an Intensive Care Physician at the Alfred Hospital, Assoc Prof Bernard has extensive experience in the immediate assessment and management of critically injured patients. He is also Medical Advisor to Ambulance Victoria, Director of Intensive Care at Knox Private Hospital, and has had recent administrative experience working as a Senior Medical Advisor in the Victorian Department of Human Services.

Leading a dedicated team of primarily volunteer medical professionals, Assoc Prof Bernard will be responsible for the management of the contractual provisions for the on-site medical facility and be the principle liaison point for other medical service providers, including The Alfred Hospital and the ambulance service.

CAMS CEO Graham Fountain said Assoc Prof Bernard's extensive experience and medical record will see him provide excellent leadership and expertise to the medical officials group.

"We have every confidence that Stephen has the necessary skills, experience and aptitude required to fulfil this honorary position; ensure the ongoing sustainability of the event; and through a fresh set of eyes, inject some further innovation in the medical area," said Fountain.

"On behalf of CAMS and all of the officials I would like to again thank David Vissenga who has filled the CMO position for the last 25 years.

"The expertise, professionalism and leadership that David brought to this event has been outstanding. His contribution is greatly appreciated and we hope to enjoy his ongoing involvement in the event for many years to come."

Assoc Prof Bernard's appointment follows the appointment of Michael Smith as Secretary of the Meeting and the introduction of a new executive leadership structure for this event. CAMS is also currently in the process of appointing a Senior Track Inspector for the 2010 event.

-credit: cams