On Wednesday 26th November 2025 it was a privilege for our club to host Professor David David AC. Professor David guided us through the history of craniofacial surgery, his formative years studying under Dr Paul Tessier, and the eventual establishment of the Australian Craniofacial Unit (ACU) in 1975 — founded by Professor David here in Adelaide with the support of the Hon. Don Dunstan AC QC and significant fundraising efforts led by Apexian Jim Davis among others.
The ACU is one of only two such units in the world (the other located in Dallas, Texas) and maintains an extensive outreach program throughout Asia. Through its partners, it provides treatment, research, training, and essential support for patients and their families. Craniofacial surgery is a highly specialised and demanding field focused on correcting complex deformities of the skull, face, and neck. These conditions may arise from congenital differences, trauma, or tumours. The work often involves intricate reconstruction of bone and soft tissue, requiring a coordinated, multidisciplinary team. Its aim is not only to restore appearance, but also to improve breathing, vision, hearing, and overall quality of life.
Yet even this clinical description falls short of capturing the life-changing difference such surgery makes. Professor David shared deeply moving stories of patients who were born with severe and confronting deformities — individuals who, typically through no fault of their own, were met with fear, rejection, or hurtful labels from their communities. Families, too, often bore the burden of stigma. Through surgery, these individuals were given not merely treatment, but the chance to reclaim their dignity, identity, and future. Where others once saw their condition, a human being was restored — and with them, the hope of a full and connected life. It is work that exemplifies the very best of service, expertise, and compassion. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Professor David for sharing his life’s work with us. Author: President Dr Andrew Bradley
