Chronic ear disease takes centre stage as global gathering returns to Newcastle

The 7th Otitis Media Australia (OMOZ) conference is officially sold out, bringing hundreds of delegates to Awabakal and Worimi Country. This global event will shine a spotlight on chronic ear disease, uniting top researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals from around the world to address this critical health issue. 

OMOZ 2024 aims to raise awareness and promote a holistic approach to improving ear health. The conference provides a valuable platform for professionals dedicated to investigating and treating chronic ear disease in Australia. The event’s diverse program blends cutting-edge science with grassroots health initiatives, featuring keynote addresses and presentations from world-leading experts in ear health, public health, and Indigenous health.  

Representatives from a wide range of Australian research institutes in Australia, along with several prominent global institutions, are converging on Newcastle; testament to the esteemed reputation of University of Newcastle Professor Kelvin Kong and the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) among delegates. 

Notable speakers include:   

• Dr Shelly Chadha, Technical Lead for Ear and Hearing Care at the World Health Organization, who will discuss global strategies for improving ear health.   

• D. Celestine Aho, Acting Head of the Infection and Immunity Unit at the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, who will share insights from her extensive research on acute respiratory infections and otitis media in Papua New Guinea.   

• Professor Amanda Leach, leader of the Ear Health Research Program at the Menzies School of Health Research, presenting the latest research on vaccines and ear disease.   

• Associate Professor Dr Rob Eisenberg, Supervisor of Surgical Training for ENT, Head, and Neck Surgery in the Hunter-New England region, who will explore the link between otitis media and climate change.   

• Tracey McCosker PSM, CEO Hunter New England Local Health District who will open Wednesday’s lineup.  

“This is a pivotal moment for us to come together at OMOZ 2024. We are bringing in the best minds and collaborators from around the globe to tackle the persistent challenge of chronic ear disease. This conference is a golden opportunity to showcase research, foster connections, and discuss strategies to address this significant health issue that affects so many, particularly in Indigenous communities,” said Professor Kelvin Kong AM, OMOZ 2024 Chair. 

Federal Health Minister, the Hon Mark Butler MP, praised the significance of the event and the leadership of Professor Kelvin Kong.  

“There’s no denying that Professor Kelvin Kong is a trailblazer. As Australia’s first Indigenous surgeon and one of the country’s leading ENT specialists, his dedication to improving hearing outcomes for all Australian children, especially First Nations kids, is unparalleled. His work, both in research and in remote communities, is a testament to his commitment to healthcare in Australia.” 

“The OMOZ 2024 conference, under Professor Kong’s leadership, will be a wonderful opportunity for professionals to network, share their knowledge, and learn from each other. It’s through gatherings like OMOZ that we can continue to improve ear and hearing health outcomes across Australia,” said Minister Butler.  

He added, “We are working closely with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and leading First Nations researchers, including Professor Kelvin Kong, through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ear and Hearing Health Partnership Committee. Together, we are identifying ways to prevent hearing loss and improve ear health for First Nations people, reflecting our commitment under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.” 

The conference will provide a comprehensive platform for researchers, clinicians, and health workers to share their experiences, explore best practices, and discuss innovations across science, technology, public health, surgery, and community engagement.  

A key focus of OMOZ 2024 is the health and wellbeing of First Nations communities, who experience disproportionately high rates of chronic ear disease. Prominent Indigenous leaders, including Nathan Towney, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Indigenous Strategy and Leadership at the University of Newcastle, will emphasise the importance of Indigenous leadership in healthcare. 

Professor Kong reiterated the significance of Indigenous voices attending the conference.   

“We want to ensure that Indigenous voices are not just heard but are central to the conversation. That’s why we’re dedicating the first day of the conference as a ‘Mob Only Day.’ It’s crucial that our communities lead the way in shaping solutions to the ear health challenges we face.” 

Newcastle’s Federal Member, the Hon Sharon Claydon MP, also expressed enthusiasm for the conference”s potential. 

“OMOZ is a vital forum for addressing the ear health disparities faced by First Nations people. By bringing together leading experts and Indigenous voices, we can make significant strides toward closing the health gap.” ​

Daily Highlights of OMOZ 2024: 

• Tuesday, 27 August – Mob Only Day 

Featuring a Welcome to Country and sessions focused on Indigenous leadership and culturally safe discussions around ear health.    

• Wednesday, 28 August – Clinical Practice and Research 

Sessions on ENT health services, audiology, and AI/telehealth innovations, with interactive panels and networking opportunities.   

• Thursday, 29 August – Global Perspectives and Cultural Experience 

Sessions on global ear health, followed by an “On Country” cultural immersion experience on Worimi Conservation lands and Murrook Cultural Centre.  

• Friday, 30 August – Equity, Ethics, and Innovation 

Final day discussions on equity in otitis media, ethics, and innovative research, concluding with a panel session and closing remarks by Professor Kong.