Student success: From capstone project to publication and conference recognition

Danielle McReynolds, Rebekah Shiraz and Mary-Anne Tangey, with support from their project mentors, A/Prof Thorlene Egerton and Prof Helena Frawley, completed a systematic review with meta-analyses. The team commenced the project during the final subject of their coursework Masters course, but continued to work on their article in their own time following completion of their Masters degree, and earlier this year their systematic review was accepted for publication in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, a prestigious Q1 journal, with the full article published in November. This achievement represents not only a significant contribution to the pelvic health physiotherapy literature, but also a remarkable accomplishment for these dedicated, working women. The team's work subsequently gained further recognition when their abstract was accepted for oral presentation at the Australian Physiotherapy Association annual conference, where Prof Helena Frawley presented the study on behalf of the students. The presentation resonated strongly with the conference audience, and earned the abstract the award for best Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health abstract.

Danielle, Rebekah and Mary-Anne now hold their Master of Pelvic Health Physiotherapy qualification, have achieved APA Titled Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist status. This credential recognises career progression and reflects highly qualified, specialist practice. Now with a systematic review publication and an APA conference award to their names, they have established themselves as emerging clinical leaders in the field and set an inspiring example for future pelvic health physiotherapists. Their success demonstrates the quality and impact of their research and is a fitting acknowledgement of their commitment to advancing evidence-based practice in their field.