Rick Speare Oration series

Established in 2022, the James Cook University (JCU) Rick Speare Oration honours the late Professor Rick Speare and his remarkable contributions to the field of One Health. This annual lecture celebrates the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health, and serves as a platform for renowned public health experts to share their insights.

Professor Rick Speare was a distinguished Australian public health physician and veterinary surgeon who dedicated his career to researching and combating infectious diseases, particularly in the tropics. He possessed extensive knowledge and expertise in human parasitology, amphibian diseases, and the interface between human and animal health. As an esteemed teacher and director of the JCU School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Professor Speare played a vital role in training postgraduate health professionals and strengthening research capacity in local researchers.

The Rick Speare Orations aim to carry forward Professor Speare's legacy by highlighting the importance of One Health research and its impact on the health of people in tropical regions. By featuring renowned external speakers in the field of One Health research, these orations not only contribute to the recognition and reputation of James Cook University but also commemorate Professor Speare's significant role in establishing and enhancing the research mission of the College. Through these annual lectures, the orations seek to inspire further advancements in One Health research and promote interdisciplinary collaboration to address the complex health challenges faced by communities in the tropics.

Rick Speare Oration Lecture 2026

With Dr Marianne Gale

This year, we are delighted to welcome Dr Marianne Gale, Chief Health Officer and Deputy Director-General, Population Health, as our guest lecturer. Dr Gale began her medical career as a Junior Doctor in Townsville Hospital after completing her medical degree at the University of Western Australia. She spent five years as a Field Doctor and Medical Advisor with Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) working with refugees from Myanmar on the Thai Border, then going on to support MSF programs in West and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Caucasus, South America and Asia Pacific.

Dr Gale has also worked as a consultant with agencies including the World Health Organization on Tuberculosis control in various countries, including the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.

Prior to joining Queensland Health, Dr Gale has held senior Population Health roles in New South Wales including as Acting Chief Health Officer and Deputy Chief Health Officer during the COVID-19 response.

EVENT DETAILS

• Date: Thursday 20th August 2026
• Time: Light refreshments served from 5pm. Presentation commencing at 6pm.
• Venue: The Science Place, Building 142, JCU, Bebegu Yumba campus, 1 James Cook University Drive, Douglas. The lecture will be live streamed via Zoom.

Register now