Get to know your walking and running leaders and research team.
We can’t wait to meet you.
Our walk & run leaders
Chris Swain
Chris is a researcher who likes running and dance. He does his local Park Run most Saturday’s with Martela, his border collie. Chris is leading the research part of Can Walk, Can Run as he aims to help build new ways to support physical activity after cancer. He will also help with delivery of the walking and running program.
Melanie
Mel is a breast cancer survivor who has found running and exercising to be her biggest support post diagnosis. She is an accredited Advanced Recreational Running Coach and is currently training to be a personal trainer to work with other cancer patients, in order to help them feel strong and have agency over their body. She has run more half marathons post-diagnosis, than pre-diagnosis as well as competed in triathlons - a feat she never thought possible. Mel is excited to help with the delivery of the walking and running program and to see Can Walk, Can Run participants thrive through movement.
Catherine
Catherine enjoys rowing, participating in triathlons, and walking with Ralph, her rescue greyhound. Catherine has been closely involved in cancer recovery and has witnessed firsthand the benefits of exercise in helping individuals feel more confident and empowered during or after their cancer journey. She is excited to join the Can Walk, Can Run team to help deliver walking and running programs that are enjoyable, accessible, and uplifting for all participants.
Molly
Molly is a final year student studying Exercise and Sports Science/ Psychological Science. Molly is interested in all types of exercise and the ways in which it can improve both mental and physical health.
Our research team
Rebecca Bergin, PHD
Beck is a researcher who enjoys walking her dog and cycling (non-competition cycling!). She is getting back into yoga after having a baby in January 2023. Beck’s works with cancer Council Victoria and her research is focused on patient experience and optimal care pathways.
Melissa Moore, PHD
Melissa is a medical oncologist with sub-specialty interests in cancers of the lung, breast and upper gastrointestinal tract. Her research interests include body composition in cancer patients and the role of exercise.
Melissa loves beach swimming, yoga and cycling. Her greatest sporting achievement (aside from a year 5 netball premiership!) is completing the 210km Around the Bay bike ride.
St. Vincent’s Oncology
Prof Linda Denehy, PHD
Linda is a professor in physiotherapy with the University of Melbourne & Peter Mac. She enjoys swimming and is currently leading trials in prehabilitation prior to cancer surgery and rehabilitation after bone marrow transplant.
A/Prof Brigid Lynch, PHD
Brigid is a cancer epidemiologist and the deputy head of the Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria. Brigid enjoys dance.
Marlena Klaic, PHD
Marlena is an implementation scientist, occupational therapist, and cyclist. She is based at the university of Melbourne and the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Harriet Koorts, PHD
Investigator & Implementation Scientist
Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University.
