As GI Cancer Trials enters its next chapter, we are pleased to welcome Geoff Parnell as our new Board Chair. Bringing a unique combination of lived experience and business leadership, Geoff steps into the role with a deep commitment to advancing outcomes for people with GI cancer both in Australia and internationally.
An oesophageal cancer survivor of more than a decade, his perspective is grounded in both personal insight and a strong belief in the power of independent, clinician-led research. Geoff has shared his unique perspective on the Community Advisory Panel for the last six years and served on the Board since 2023.
We sat down with Geoff and asked him about his new role and his future focus for GI Cancer Trials.
Q. What does stepping into the role of Chair mean to you, and how has your experience shaped your approach?
A. Stepping into the role of Chair is both a significant responsibility and a privilege. I’m excited by the opportunity to build on the strong foundations laid by those before me and to continue growing the impact of GI Cancer Trials in Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally.
As someone with lived experience of oesophageal cancer, and through my involvement with the Community Advisory Panel, I bring a strong patient-centred perspective to the role. Combined with my business background, this also gives me a clear focus on ensuring the organisation remains sustainable and able to deliver on its mission into the future.
I’m especially looking forward to working closely with our clinical leaders and GCT Ambassadors to strengthen partnerships and maximise opportunities across research, funding and collaboration.
Q. What excites you most about GI Cancer Trials right now?
A. What excites me most is the opportunity to build on the organisation’s strong track record and continue expanding our impact for people with GI cancer. We have an incredibly experienced and committed community across clinical, organisational and community leadership.
At the same time, we’re operating in a challenging environment, particularly when it comes to funding. A key focus for me will be ensuring the long-term sustainability of GI Cancer Trials through a mix of trial income, grants, fundraising and donations, so we can continue delivering meaningful outcomes into the future.
Q. Why is clinician-led, independent research so important?
A. Clinician-led, independent research is critical because it keeps patients at the centre. It allows us to focus on outcomes that matter most, like quality of life and survival, while also exploring areas that may not have strong commercial drivers.
It supports a more holistic approach to treatment, bringing together surgery, radiology, radiation oncology and medical therapies, and often looks at how we can optimise or repurpose existing treatments. Importantly, it also enables closer monitoring and care for patients throughout the trial process.
Q. What would you like to say to our members?
A. I’d encourage all members to stay actively involved in the work of GI Cancer Trials, whether that’s through committees, attending the Annual Scientific Meeting, submitting research concepts, or supporting fundraising initiatives. Your involvement plays a vital role in advancing research and improving patient outcomes.
Q. Why is lived experience important in shaping research and clinical trials?
A. Lived experience is essential in ensuring our research is practical, relevant and truly patient-centred. Involving patients, carers and community advocates throughout the trial process helps shape better research questions, improve trial design and participation, and ensure our communications are clear and accessible.
It also keeps a strong focus on quality of life and helps us better understand the broader psychological, social and financial impacts of cancer, ultimately leading to more meaningful outcomes.
Looking ahead
Geoff’s appointment marks an important moment for the group as we continue to strengthen our impact and reach. With a clear focus on sustainability, collaboration and patient-centred research, he brings both passion and perspective to the role.
Together with our members, partners and community, we look forward to the next phase of progress under his leadership and continuing to deliver research that improves outcomes and makes a real difference for people affected by GI cancer.