It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Emeritus Professor Stephen Myers late last week.
Stephen was a giant in the field of complementary medicine in Australia. He was not only a gifted naturopathic and medical practitioner, but a leading researcher and tireless advocate for our industry and professions. His qualifications in naturopathy, western medicine, and pharmacology uniquely positioned him as one of Australia’s foremost authorities in the field. He was committed to expanding the evidence base of complementary medicine through his own research and powerful advocacy efforts. His dedication extended beyond our borders, as evidenced by his work for the World Health Organisation as well as his generous volunteer work with the World Naturopathic Federation (WNF).
Those who knew Stephen remember him for his agile mind, immense knowledge, friendly demeanour, and unwavering commitment to improving patient care and self-determination. He played a key role in the establishment of the Australian Society of Lifestyle Medicine (ASLM). He led the groundbreaking School of Natural and Complementary Medicine at Southern Cross University in its pivotal early years, mentoring hundreds of young naturopaths still practicing today. Under Stephen’s mentorship, other graduates achieved Master and Doctoral qualifications, carrying his legacy into industry, research, Government and academia. Stephen was a great teacher, not only for his students but sharing his expertise and passion for complementary medicine widely through presentations and conferences.
The significance of his contribution to our industry was recognised in 2004, when he was awarded the prestigious Lady Cilento Award by CMA (or the Complementary Healthcare Council as we were known at the time). In recent years, Stephen remained instrumental to CMA as a Scientific Advisor, helping CMA achieve important changes to the Listed Assessed guidelines in 2023-24 that better recognise the clinical evidence and scientific standards relevant to complementary medicines, better supporting their research.
Stephen’s legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments. He leaves behind a community shaped by his dedication to health and wellbeing, and he will be greatly missed for his wisdom, his friendship and his unwavering commitment to these principles.
Vale Stephen Myers.
