Meet the AMA Queensland award winners

AMA Queensland's 2026 award recipients have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to medicine, healthcare leadership, rural practice, advocacy and service to the profession.

AMA Queensland is proud to recognise the recipients of its 2026 awards, honouring outstanding individuals whose leadership, innovation, advocacy and dedication have made a significant contribution to medicine, healthcare and the communities they serve. Presented at the 2026 Dinner for the Profession, these awards celebrate excellence across all stages of a medical career and acknowledge those who continue to shape the future of healthcare in Queensland.

The Gold Medal

The Gold Medal is the highest honour AMA Queensland can bestow. It is given to a member who has rendered outstanding services to the association, to the practice of medicine, or to the community.
The 2026 Gold Medal winner is Dr Christopher Pyke.

Known as Brisbane’s “godfather” of breast surgeons, Professor Pyke has treated more than 10,000 women with breast cancer since he began practising in 1991.

As a young man already on the way to becoming a surgeon, his focus and dedication to treating breast cancer was inspired by seeing his two sisters diagnosed with the disease.

His list of accomplishments include: Professor of Surgery at the University of Queensland, Chief Medical Officer at Mater Health Services, and Chair of Clinical Standards and Excellence at BreastScreen Queensland.

His career in breast and endocrine surgery has shaped care across Queensland, supported by fellowships in Nottingham and the Mayo Clinic and a PhD in breast cancer risk at QIMR.

In recent years, Professor Pyke has transitioned to treating patients exclusively in the Mater Public, further emphasising his dedication to helping all women get healthy and back to living their lives.

Professor Pyke is a surgeon of immense skill, a leader of integrity, and a colleague whose influence spans generations.

Excellence in Health Care Medal

This award recognises someone who has made a significant contribution to improving health or health care in Australia. In 2026 we have joint winners.

Professor James Nicklin established his practice as a gynaecologic oncologist in 1995 and became a cornerstone of care at the Wesley.

Professor Nicklin is now Professor of Gynaecologic Oncology at the University of Queensland and Director of Gynaecologic Oncology at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.

He is widely recognised for his expertise in gynaecological cancers, complex benign gynaecology and advanced laparoscopic surgery, as well as his commitment to teaching the next generation of specialists.

As a leading paediatric haematologist, Dr Lydia Pitcher has dedicated her career not only to caring for children with complex blood conditions, but also to advancing equity, representation and leadership within the medical profession.

Dr Pitcher has mentored generations of female doctors and medical students, championing equity, leadership and authentic career pathways.

She also co-convenes the Purple Bush Medicine Leaves Bursary Program, supporting greater First Nations representation in the medical workforce. Dr Pitcher is a compassionate leader committed to uplifting others.

Rural Health Medal

This award celebrates doctors working across rural and remote parts of Queensland. The 2026 winner is Dr Dan Halliday.

Trained as a Rural Generalist Obstetrician, Dr Halliday currently serves as Director of Medical Services at South West Health and Hospital Service.

He spent more than a decade as Medical Superintendent of Stanthorpe Hospital, delivering vital obstetric services and strengthening care for local and First Nations communities.

A passionate educator and supervisor, he has shaped the next generation of Rural Generalists, while his leadership roles have influenced rural health policy across the state and the country.

Doctor in Training Medal

This award highlights an AMA Queensland member who has made an outstanding contribution to leadership and advocacy during their time as a Doctor in Training. The 2026 winner is Dr Emma Hodge.

Dr Hodge is Chair of the AMA Queensland Committee of Doctors in Training, an AMA Queensland Councillor, and Queensland’s representative on the AMA Federal Council of Doctors in Training.

As Queensland’s only Medical Education and Wellbeing Registrar and Clinical Lead for the statewide Medical Wellbeing project, she has shaped major initiatives that improve culture, mental health and training conditions for junior doctors.

Her leadership has contributed to Bundaberg Hospital achieving the highest Resident Hospital Health Check grade in the state, and she continues to champion systemic improvements across Queensland.

An Associate Lecturer at UQ with multiple postgraduate degrees and international publications, she is a remarkable advocate for her peers.

Distinguished Supporter Member Award

This award recognises an individual who has given time, energy and expertise to promote the work of AMA Queensland. This year’s recipient is Melissa Impiazzi.

Melissa has worked across investment management, superannuation, disability services and the not‑for‑profit sector, partnering with boards and executives to deliver major transformations, mergers and cultural renewal.

She has brought this same strategic insight to AMA Queensland through her four years of voluntary service on the Finance, Risk and Audit Committee.

Her commercial and market perspectives have helped AMA Queensland strengthen governance and financial stewardship during a period of significant sector change.