Panel Discussion > I'm A Believer



Panel Discussion > I'm A Believer
IMAGES > [top left] Dr Carmel Crock. > [top right] Professor Beverley Vollenhoven. > [bottom left] Laura Brandon. Photograph: Lisa Katrina. > Dr Vincent Alessi, Linden's Director + CEO. Photograph: Suzanne Phoenix.

Join us at Linden New Art for a compelling panel discussion delving into dismissive language surrounding chronic health issues, with a focus on gendered nuances, access challenges, and erasure. Our esteemed panellists Laura Brandon, Dr. Carmel Crock and Professor Beverley Vollenhoven will unpack how language shapes perceptions and experiences, shedding light on the impact of dismissiveness in healthcare and society. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with critical insights and perspectives that challenge norms and advocate for inclusivity.

WHEN > Saturday 20 July 2024
TIME > 12PM to 1PM
VENUE > Linden New Art, 26 Acland Street, St Kilda
COST > Free, All Welcome


If you have any access requirements, please check our access page. 


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About the Speakers

Laura Brandon
Laura is an experienced Sydney based art consultant, artist mentor, arts educator, arts writer and specialist art archivist having worked in the art industry for over 20 years. As well as running an art consultancy, Laura also works with Guest Work Agency, Melbourne and Articulate, Sydney. Previously Laura has held roles with Guest Club Art, the Sherman Centre for Culture and Ideas (SCCI), Sherman Contemporary Art Foundation (SCAF) and the Australian Design Centre.

Laura has contributed to over 40 projects, exhibitions and publications of leading Australian, Asian, European and Middle Eastern contemporary artists. She has also worked closely within the fashion, design, applied arts and architecture industries, particularly in researching and archiving work for publication. As an arts writer Laura has contributed to multiple printed publications, including artist monographs and autobiographies, and has editorial experience as a structural and line editor.

Since establishing her own art consultancy in 2019, Laura has focused on fostering the practice of emerging artists and designers. She continues to work on a range of collaborative projects with Australian brands, producing events and products which highlight the intersection of art and design.

Laura holds a Bachelor of Design and Bachelor of Art Education and is a Recognised Professional with the Australian Society of Archivists (ASARP).

As someone who lives with multiple chronic health conditions, Laura is a passionate advocate for people navigating the medical system and the ongoing difficulties they face in day-to-day life. She speaks openly about her own experiences with a view to giving insight into those who suffer with chronic illness and as a support for others who face similar challenges.


Dr Carmel Crock
Dr Carmel Crock is the Eye and Ear’s Director, Emergency Department, Chair of the Quality and Patient Safety Committee of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine, and Chair of the Australia and New Zealand affiliate of the Society to Improve Diagnosis in Medicine. Dr Crock also received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) 2021 for service to emergency medicine and to medical education.

Associate Professor Crock has been part of the Eye and Ear team for over 20 years and is a passionate advocate of diagnostic excellence, shared decision-making, clinician wellbeing and the quality and safety of patient care.


Professor Beverley Vollenhoven
Professor Vollenhoven is a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility specialist. She is Head of Gynaecology at Monash Health, Deputy Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Monash University and a clinician at Monash IVF.

She has a sub-specialty qualification in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (CREI) with her areas of clinical interest being infertility including IVF and ovulation induction, polycystic ovarian syndrome, eating disorders, paediatric and adolescent gynaecology and menopause. She also has a clinical and research interest in the cause and treatment of uterine fibroids (leiomyomas).

Beverley Vollenhoven has more than 140 publications in both journals and books. She is the Head of the Contraceptive Counselling Clinic and has an appointment as a Reproductive Endocrinologist at the Menopause Clinic and Long Term Follow Up of Children with Cancer Clinic at the Monash Health.

She is a member of committees for the Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Safer Care Victoria and the Therapeutic Goods Administration.