It is hard to believe that we are already well into 2026 – the busyness of the Holiday Season has certainly caught me out and I am struggling to get back into usual routines not assisted by the current heat wave sapping energy!
Our last eBulletin of 2025 was in mid December, only days before the shocking events at Bondi which has cast a nasty pall over the Holiday Season around Australia. My heart goes out to the victims and their families and to the whole Jewish Community who are reeling at such a targeted attack. I join the chorus of Australians who are calling for solutions to turn around the antisemitic sentiments that have increasingly found foothold in Australia. We are a multicultural society which has rightly celebrated our diversity and revelled in the unique elements each group of Australians brings to Australia. Every Australian deserves to be free to peacefully and proudly celebrate their own culture and religion.
It seems to me that Australia is starting to fragment under the weight of individualism and the social cohesion which was once a feature of our society is under threat. I don’t pretend to have the answers but feel strongly that each of us are responsible for ensuring that our own lives are marked by respect for all, and that where possible we draw others’ attention to aspects of their conduct which are divisive or disrespectful. This also applies to the ongoing scourges of ageism, sexism, and elitism … and the list goes on!
AFMW exists to promote the professional development of Medical Women and to improve the health and welfare of all persons but especially women and children. I welcome suggestions as to ways that we can support our fellow Medical Women, especially those who are currently feeling targeted because of their ethnic or religious identity.
The first edition of our weekly eBulletin of 2026 is relatively lean, and I appreciate contributions from members around Australia for future editions. Deadline for inclusion is close of business on the Wednesday of the week of publication.
Happy New Year to you all.
Dr Brenda Masters
President, AFMW
Dr Brenda Masters is a Canberra GP, President of the AFMW (2024-2026).
Brenda grew up in rural SA, studied Medicine in Adelaide, and has worked in Practices around the country before settling in our beautiful National Capital over 20 years ago.
Brenda is keenly involved in the Medical Women’s Society of ACT and Region, a group who provide both networking and peer support. She believes that everyone should be given the opportunity to realise their full potential in life and applies this to both her work and her relationships.
Brenda enjoys gardening and singing in her spare time and tries to make the most of Canberra’s proximity to the snow.