GESA: 50 years of progress

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In this 50th anniversary of the Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA) edition special Supplement of the Journal, we are reflecting on the contributions of Australians to global knowledge in Gastroenterology and Hepatology over the last 50 years. This is a worthwhile endeavor because it reflects a story of remarkable achievement, and I doubt the founding fathers of the GESA could have foreseen the success of their pioneering efforts in establishing this Society. These early pioneers bought their ideals of the roles of an Australian National Society to the table 50 years ago and succeeding generations of gastroenterologists have stayed loyal to those laudable goals. One notable achievement, rarely emulated elsewhere, has been to keep ties between varying sub-disciplines intact, particularly the activities of Endoscopy, Pediatrics and Hepatology, which all remain under the aegis of GESA but are encouraged to promote the science and practice of their speciality with some degrees of freedom. The principles of dedication to professional service, an unyielding commitment to best clinical practice, and the fostering of basic and clinical research embedded in an atmosphere of fellowship, charity, and humanity underpin the outstanding success of this Society. The ongoing need for a National Gastroenterology Society is undeniable—but it is a fragile institution that needs the ongoing dedication of its members to succeed. The future of this Society lies therefore in the hands of our young colleagues. May they play their role and continue the great traditions so well established in the first 50 years. I offer my sincere thanks to those who have contributed to this edition of the Journal. To read of developments in diseases, diagnostic and therapeutic technologies and drugs that were not even thought of 50 years ago is very exciting—the imagination, persistence, skills, and outstanding team leadership of those who have written in these pages, and others should be instructive for our future researchers, clinicians, and leaders. We have much to be proud of with the record of Australian gastroenterology and hepatology, but also many remaining challenges to be undertaken. Finally, Australian gastroenterology, through GESA, has always been fully engaged with our Asia–Pacific region; we have exchanged with and learnt much from our colleagues in Asian countries. Nowhere are those ties more cogently evident than in our association with JGH, the top multi-national and regional gastroenterology and hepatology journal. The contribution of its Editor-in-Chief, Professor Geoffrey Farrell is an outstanding example of the spirit that is a prevailing characteristic of many members of this Society. This Special Golden Jubilee Supplement edition of the Journal is a wonderful record of achievement, progress, endeavor, and intellect and it will stand as an inspiration for the future generations of gastroenterologists in this country.