The Bob Smith lecture is a coveted slot in the NZSSD timetable, and it was great to see it awarded to Dr Brandon Orr-Walker at the 2025 meeting in Kirikiriroa Hamilton. Our mahi with Dr Orr-Walker goes back many years, and he has demonstrated over and over again his commitment to people with diabetes, both in South Auckland, but also round the country. It was great to be reminded of many of the initiatives over the years that have come out of South Auckland, including "Lets Beat Diabetes", there was even mention of the long running DCSS audit and our first Summit "call to action" a few years ago! Congratulations Dr Orr-Walker, thank you for all of your hard work, and for reminding us all of how important all the parts are of the 'whole' to make progress.
