Tribute to Graham Collins FAIMS
On behalf of the Australian Institute of Medical and
Clinical Scientists (AIMS), we extend our heartfelt condolences to Graham's
family, friends and colleagues.
Graham was a dedicated medical laboratory scientist, a respected
leader in transfusion science, and a valued member of AIMS for over 25 years.
He joined the Institute in 1987 and was awarded Fellowship in 1993. He remained
an active Fellow of AIMS until his retirement from the Institute in 2012.
Graham will be particularly remembered for his instrumental
role in establishing and coordinating the AIMS Immunohaematology Quality
Assurance Program. Working alongside his team in Hobart, he helped create a
program that has supported blood bank and transfusion laboratories across
Australia for decades.
For almost twenty years, Graham served as Coordinator of the
program, guiding its development and ensuring laboratories had access to
high-quality educational and quality assurance activities. His commitment to
professional standards, education and continuous improvement helped shape a
program that continues to benefit the profession today.
When Graham stepped down from this role in 2010, the AIMS
Board formally recognised his remarkable contribution and expressed its sincere
appreciation for nearly two decades of dedicated outstanding service to the
Institute, and his resignation was accepted with great regret.
While many members may never have met Graham personally,
they have nevertheless benefited from his vision, expertise and commitment to
quality laboratory practice. His legacy continues through the ongoing success
of the Immunohaematology Quality Assurance Program and the countless
professionals who have learned from and participated in it over the years.
The medical laboratory science profession is stronger
because of Graham's contribution. We thank him for his leadership, his
generosity, and his unwavering commitment to advancing standards within
transfusion science.
On behalf of AIMS and the wider medical laboratory science
community, we acknowledge Graham's lasting contribution and honour his memory
with gratitude and respect.
Vale Graham Collins.