Dentistry
in Motion

ADAQ’s Dental Topics in the Tropics (DTT) event was recently held in sunny Cairns and once again reminded us of the strength, curiosity and collegiality that define dentistry in Queensland. For the first time since 2021, this event brought together clinicians at every stage of their careers – from students and recent graduates through to experienced practitioners and specialists – all with a shared focus on improving patient care and strengthening our profession. The energy across the program was unmistakable. Whether in hands-on workshops, clinical updates or conversations between sessions, there was a strong sense that our profession is actively engaging with change rather than simply reacting to it. DTT continues to be more than a CPD event; it is a gathering point for ideas, collaboration and renewal of professional purpose.

As we reflect on these moments of connection, it is also timely to acknowledge the importance of your ADAQ membership and what it represents. Renewal is not simply an administrative process; it is an ongoing commitment to belonging to a professional community that advocates for you, supports you and invests in your development. ADAQ provides a strong collective voice for dentistry in Queensland, as well as practical, everyday support through CPD, practice advice, wellbeing resources and professional guidance. I also encourage you to renew membership of ADA Federal. A stronger national membership base means a stronger national voice, one that carries greater weight with governments, regulators and the broader health sector. The work we do here in Queensland is amplified when it is part of a unified national effort, and that effort depends on the active participation of members like you.

In an increasingly complex regulatory and clinical environment, the value of being part of a unified association at both state and national levels has never been clearer. I am committed to deepening ADAQ's relationships with ADA Federal and our colleagues across the state branches, because a more connected association is a more effective one, for every member, in every jurisdiction. Your renewal ensures that this support continues, not just for you individually, but for the strength and sustainability of the profession as a whole.

Looking ahead, one of the most important pieces of work underway is the development of ADAQ’s new strategic plan. Led by our CEO Ben Stockwin in partnership with the Board, this process is about ensuring that ADAQ remains relevant, responsive and forward-looking in a rapidly evolving profession. We are engaging broadly with members to understand what matters most to you – whether that is CPD accessibility, advocacy priorities, practice support or student engagement. The goal is not simply to set direction, but to ensure that ADAQ continues to reflect the real needs of dentists across Queensland, from metropolitan practices through to rural and remote communities. This next chapter is about clarity of purpose and strengthening our impact where it matters most.

A particularly valuable initiative this year has been our ADAQ After Hours sessions. These gatherings provide a direct and open channel between members and the leadership of ADAQ, allowing for honest conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing the profession. What has stood out most is the willingness of members to engage constructively and the Board’s commitment to listening and responding. These evenings reinforce that ADAQ is not a distant organisation, but one that is built on dialogue and shared understanding. They will continue to play an important role as we shape our strategic direction together.

Alongside these broader initiatives, there has also been a renewed focus on strengthening our Sub-Branches and study clubs across Queensland. These local networks are the backbone of professional connection, particularly for members outside major metropolitan centres. They provide an accessible, familiar and practical way for dentists to engage in CPD, share clinical experiences and build supportive peer relationships. We are committed to investing further in these groups, ensuring they have the resources, structure and recognition they deserve. In many ways, it is within these smaller settings that the most meaningful professional conversations occur – where learning is immediate, relevant and grounded in day-to-day practice.

As we move toward the end of another busy membership year, I want to acknowledge the dedication of our members and the broader dental community. The profession continues to adapt to new technologies, evolving patient expectations and increasing regulatory complexity, yet it does so with remarkable resilience and commitment to care. ADAQ’s role is to stand beside you in that journey – to advocate, to support and to provide opportunities for growth and connection. With a new strategic plan on the horizon, a strong CPD calendar ahead, and continued investment in local engagement and member services, there is a clear sense that we are building something both stable and progressive.

Thank you for your ongoing engagement and trust in ADAQ. I look forward to what we will continue to achieve together in the year ahead.