Saint Dunstan's House Press

Shining a Light on the Future: A Conversation with James Carroll This week, as part of my podcast  A Week at the Clinic , (a new series from An Englishman Downunder ) I had the privilege of sitting down with James Carroll, founder of THOR Photomedicine and one of the world’s leading advocates for photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy. What began as a simple interview,  evolved into a rich and spontaneous exchange that I believe many in our field—clinicians, researchers, and curious patients alike—will find illuminating. James shared his remarkable journey, from stumbling upon laser therapy in 1986 to building THOR into a globally respected name in PBM. Our conversation explored the evolution of laser and LED technology, the development of treatment protocols, and the ongoing challenge of navigating regulatory pathways that often lag behind scientific innovation. A key theme that emerged was the disparity between academic interest in PBM and its uptake in clinical settings....

“Trooping the Colour: Memories of a Young Lieutenant” by Kevin Harper – An Englishman Downunder As the Trooping of the Colour returns this week to Horse Guards Parade in London, I find myself recalling, with a mix of pride and poignancy, my first time in attendance—not as a tourist or television viewer, but as a serving officer. The year was 1982. I was a young Lieutenant in the Royal Army Medical Corps, newly pressed and marching tall. My mother and father were with me that day, seated among the guests, beaming. I remember glancing toward them just before the parade began and seeing something in their faces—love, yes, and pride—but also a quiet knowing that their son was now part of something older and greater than any one generation. Trooping the Colour is not merely ceremony. It is an inheritance. In those days, Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II would still take the salute on horseback, astride the ever-faithful Burmese. The music swelled, the regiments moved with clockwork ...

Review: Jesus Christ Superstar – Melbourne, Saturday 29 March, 2pm Matinee Starring Michael Paynter as Jesus Returning to Jesus Christ Superstar after more than five decades, my last encounter being the original London production in 1972, I was eager to see how this timeless rock opera had evolved. Accompanied by colleagues from the clinic—avid followers who’ve attended various Australian renditions featuring renowned local talents—I approached the 2pm matinee at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre with a blend of nostalgia and curiosity. This production was undeniably spectacular, yet it cast a darker, more somber tone reminiscent of medieval mystery plays. This stood in stark contrast to the original’s lighter, more minimalist approach. The emphasis on shadow and symbolism added depth but also a heaviness that diverged from the narrative clarity I fondly remembered. Vocally, the cast delivered powerful and dramatic performances. Michael Paynter’s portrayal of Jesus was emotionally charg...

“Fiat” In the hush of ruined stone and lilies’ breath, He kneels—bare feet upon cracked earth, Not for conquest, nor for praise, But to bear a message older than time. She, cloaked in quiet blue, No crown, no veil, no trumpet sound— Only the steady gaze of a girl Who listens, and then says: yes . No questions. No falter. Just the unshakeable stillness of grace. And he—Gabriel— Stilled not by the words he delivered, But by the wonder of her reply. He looks upward, Bathed in the golden beam of his Master’s light, And knows: He has pleased the One who sent him.

Following the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby, the process to appoint the next Archbishop of Canterbury is underway. The Crown Nominations Commission (CNC), comprising 17 voting members—including representatives from the Diocese of Canterbury, the General Synod, the Archbishop of York, and five members from the global Anglican Communion—will oversee the selection. Several bishops are considered potential candidates for this esteemed position: • Stephen Cottrell : Currently serving as the Archbishop of York, Cottrell is the second most senior bishop in the Church of England. At 66, his age may be a consideration, but his experience and leadership are noteworthy. • Sarah Mullally : The Bishop of London and third in seniority within the Church, Mullally has a background as the NHS’s former Chief Nursing Officer. Her leadership in the diocese and public health experience make her a prominent figure. • Guli Francis-Dehqani : Serving as the Bishop of Chelmsford, Francis-De...

Here is the link to my interview with Paul GordonSmith on the subject of the proposed changes to promote accessibility  at the historic Ballarat Railway Station. Podcast interview with Paul GordonSmith is here