The RACS NT, WA & SA Tristate Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM), to be held from 27 to 28 August will feature a presentation from orthopaedic registrar Dr Sarah Gray. She will challenge delegates to rethink traditional perspectives on surgical culture, leadership and belonging.

Presenting as part of Session 6: Surgical Leaders Forum on Friday 28 August 2026 at Darwin Convention Centre, NT, Dr Gray will deliver her presentation, Outreach and reaching out. Breaking Bias and Diversity in Surgery.

Reflecting on her upcoming presentation, Dr Gray says:
"I'm thrilled to be presenting at the Tristate ASM about breaking surgical bias. For me, true outreach means opening our doors to real world diversity and grit. I'll be sharing my journey from a small country town to the orthopaedic scrub sink and why showing up exactly as you are—even if it's 'non-traditional'—isn't a professional liability, but our greatest asset in changing the face of Australian surgery."

Dr Gray's personal journey—from growing up in a small country town to pursuing a career in orthopaedic surgery—offers a compelling perspective on resilience, representation and the value of broadening the pathways into the profession. Her message reinforces that diversity of experience is not simply beneficial to surgical culture, it is essential to its continued evolution.

A passionate advocate for cultural change within healthcare, Dr Gray draws on her own experiences navigating surgical training and clinical practice. She explores the importance of challenging entrenched perceptions, fostering inclusivity and valuing diverse backgrounds and perspectives as strengths.

Her presentation will examine how the future of surgery depends not only on technical excellence, but also on effective leadership. She will discuss questioning assumptions, embracing authenticity and creating opportunities for all surgeons to thrive.

As the surgical profession continues to address issues of equity, workforce sustainability and leadership development, Dr Gray's presentation will explore how barriers can be dismantled and lasting cultural change achieved.

A highlight of the Tristate ASM 2026, Session 6: The Surgical Leaders Forum will bring together surgeons and Trainees to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of surgery. This session forms part  of a program aligned with the theme of Outreach and Reaching Out.

Registrations are now open for the Tristate ASM here: RACS NT, WA & SA Tristate ASM 2026.