Nepean Gynaecology Laparoscopy workshop

16 July

Establishing the Nepean Gynaecology Lap Skills Workshop – Building the Next Generation of minimally invasive surgeons

One of the initiatives I am most proud of is founding the Nepean Gynaecology Laparoscopic Skills (GLS) Workshop, which commenced in 2024. What began as an idea to provide structured, practical laparoscopic training for Obstetrics and Gynaecology trainees has quickly evolved into a highly successful educational event. Following the success of our inaugural workshop, GLS 2.0 in July 2025 attracted more than 20 trainees, and my vision is for it to become an annual fixture in the training calendar.

The day was carefully curated to combine evidence-based teaching with hands-on experience. We covered a broad range of topics essential to minimally invasive gynaecological surgery, including pelvic anatomy, laparoscopic instrumentation, anaesthetic considerations, energy devices and surgical ergonomics. Between sessions, trainees had the opportunity to connect over morning tea and lunch before returning to the dry lab for practical skills training.

The practical component was designed to mirror the realities of the operating theatre. Beginning with fundamental warm-up exercises, trainees worked in pairs, developing not only their technical abilities but also the often-overlooked skill of being an effective assistant. Each session concluded with a friendly competition that rewarded teamwork rather than individual speed—a reflection of what truly makes an operating theatre function at its best.

The afternoon shifted focus to more advanced laparoscopic techniques, including needle dancing, intracorporeal suturing, precision skills and knot tying. Facilitators rotated through each group, providing demonstrations, sharing practical tips and offering personalised feedback to help trainees refine their technique. Watching participants gain confidence over the course of a single day was incredibly rewarding.

Of course, no GLS Workshop would be complete without what has become my favourite tradition—the GLS Trivia Challenge. From surgical anatomy to obscure laparoscopic facts and everything in between, the trivia brought out everyone's competitive spirit and plenty of laughter. It was the perfect way to end a day dedicated not only to learning, but to fostering collaboration, curiosity and a genuine passion for minimally invasive gynaecological surgery.

I'm incredibly grateful to all of the faculty, facilitators and trainees who made GLS 2.0 such a success. Seeing the enthusiasm and commitment of the next generation of gynaecological surgeons reminds me exactly why we started this workshop in the first place.

Now, the countdown begins... watch this space for GLS 3.0, 2026!