Dr Semesa Matanaicake
Dr Semesa Matanaicake is the first local partner in the Pacific to have the title of Honoured Member conferred upon him.
Dr Semesa has consistently led and championed the development of plastic and reconstructive surgery in Fiji and across the Pacific Islands more broadly, including training and mentoring of other Pacific surgeons, and undertaking locum outreaches to the smaller islands to address skills shortages. He established Fiji’s first plastics and burns unit, identified, encouraged, and mentored many local junior clinicians, including championing the importance of the ‘whole team’ in surgical outcomes. Semesa plays a key role as local faculty for many of Interplast’s training programs, including Emergency Management of Severe Burns and the plastic skills workshops.
Importantly, Semesa advocates for Interplast’s programs and broader objectives at all levels in Fiji and the Pacific – hospital administration, government, community, medical workforce, and in Australia at global forums. When considering the title of Honoured Member, Dr Semesa Matanaicake is a notable recipient, highly regarded by all Interplast volunteers and staff who have had the pleasure of working alongside him. Although Semesa may have benefited from Interplast’s involvement in Fiji, he is a dear colleague, trusted friend and as of this moment, an Honoured Member of Interplast Australia & New Zealand.
Past District Governor Mr. Brian Guest
In recognising Brian Guest, the Board acknowledges his service to the organisation as a Company Member, current member of the Rotary Committee, current Interplast District Chair, former Chair of the Rotary Committee, former Board Director, and former Company Secretary.
Brian Guest is one of Interplast’s strongest supporters and public advocates for the work of the organisation. He has seen our work firsthand in Laos (2009) and Fiji (2011). He regularly travels throughout Western Australia to raise awareness of the organisation and our work across the Asia Pacific region.
Through the Rotary Club of Kenwick, Brian has championed the raising of close to $1m for Interplast through a series of fundraising initiatives including Climb for a Smile and the Rotary Regular Giving program.
As an experienced Interplast District Chair, Brian is regularly asked to support new IDC appointees, and many have had the pleasure of his leadership, guidance, and support. Brian is a most worthy recipient of the Honoured Member title, and we are delighted that the organisation is able to recognise him in this manner.
