PRC Annual Report 2019-202

Abstract

The publication of our annual report is the occasion for celebrating past achievements and visualising future impact. In 17 years as a Prevention Research Collaboration, we have proven to be a progressive group that actively seeks out new and effective ways of working alongside policymakers and practitioners to make lasting contributions. Our commitment to prevention work is reflected in our vision, ‘Collaborative solutions towards a healthier world’. As you read through this report, you will see many examples of how closely the PRC stands by this vision, advancing collaborative research to inform evidence‑based prevention policy and practice in New South Wales and globally. This report pays tribute to the enormous contribution of Emeritus Professor Adrian Bauman. As Director for over 15 years, Adrian has been integral to the PRC’s successes and a mentor to many. Although he has transitioned to an Emeritus status Adrian remains strongly engaged in PRC research and strategic leadership. In the past year, we have seen comprehensive collaboration in translational and policy- and practiceinforming research through major programs such as PANORG (Physical Activity, Nutrition and Obesity Research Group), SPRINTER (Sport and Active Recreation Intervention & Epidemiology Research) and PRSP (Prevention Research Support Program). We co-conducted and celebrated many research and policy achievements with our partners EPOCH (Early Prevention of Childhood Obesity Centre for Research Excellence) and TAPPC (The Australian Prevention Partnership Centre). During 2019-2020 we continued to foster the PRC’s most valuable asset, its people. Our early and mid-career researchers have headlined a series of initiatives to strengthen our capability, cultivating a more agile and responsive leadership in prevention research and education. A snapshot of such initiatives follows in these pages. In this report we have tried to give a sense of where we have been and who we are. The PRC personifies a rich tapestry of researchers from diverse cultural backgrounds and disciplines. This is at the very heart of our personality and empathy, underpinning our research scholarship and effective engagement with our stakeholders. To PRC staff we thank you for your commitment to prevention research and collaboration in the midst of challenging pandemic conditions. The inclusive and respectful way in which you work is impressive. To our partners and collaborators, we invite you to read the following pages. You will have an idea of the sort of place PRC is and why it is fondly dubbed Hotel California! - words you’ll hear often from staff and affiliates alike that express a genuine enduring connection with the PRC’s vision and practice.