The Foundation is honoured to announce that Fiona has been inducted into the 2024 Western Australia Science Hall of Fame. This recognition celebrates her lifelong dedication to science and exceptional contributions to the Western Australian community.
Originally from Yorkshire, England, Fiona began her medical studies in London before relocating to Perth with her Australian husband in 1987. Captivated by Perth's beaches and vibrant lifestyle, she has proudly made Western Australia her home.
In 1991, Fiona became WA's first female plastic surgeon and was appointed Director of the Burns Service of WA. Her pioneering work on the 'spray-on skin' technique (ReCell®) has not only revolutionised burn care in Western Australia but also globally. The intellectual property has been vested in the Foundation, which has sustained research in WA for over 25 years.
This honour reflects Fiona's enduring legacy as a pioneering plastic and reconstructive surgeon, medical researcher, clinician-scientist, and mentor. Most importantly, it recognises the profound impact she has made on the lives of so many.
As a leading expert, she has advanced burn research to explore burn injuries' physical, psychological, and physiological effects. Together with the Foundations research team and the Burn Service of WA, she has saved countless lives and significantly improved the quality of life for patients and their families.
We would also like to congratulate Professor Peter Quinn on his induction into the 2024 WA Science Hall of Fame, recognising his significant scientific contributions to radio astronomy and computational astronomy.
Thank you, WA, for being an integral part of this journey. Every generous donation, corporate partnership, involvement in research, and fundraising effort has been vital to our shared vision of scarless healing.