About Us

In 2018 the Western Australian Melanoma Advisory Service (WAMAS) merged with the Kirkbride Melanoma Centre to create the WA Kirkbride Melanoma Advisory Service. Local cancer researchers and a panel of melanoma specialists work together to offer support and advice to patients and doctors.

The Western Australian Kirkbride Melanoma Advisory Service provides comprehensive advice from a multi disciplinary panel of specialists regarding the management of complex, advanced and metastatic melanoma. Our aim is to ensure patients receive the best available advice on their treatment and prognosis. We also advise referring doctors about any future management and are available for further involvement if required.

Patients can be referred from a general practitioner or specialist. All clinicians involved in the service are experienced in the management of melanoma and come from a range of medical and surgical specialities. In addition, the nursing team provide support and if necessary referrals to a clinical psychologist can be arranged.

The information gained from melanoma patients will provide essential data for research programs aimed at expanding the understanding of melanoma and improving the outlook for patient by earlier diagnoses and improvement in treatment.

Our History

Western Australian Melanoma Advisory Service

Established in 2000 as a joint initiative between the West Australian Department of Health and St John of God Hospital Subiaco, WAMAS was created as an outpatient service based at SJOG Subiaco. WAMAS went on to become a critical pillar of the health system, offering vital support and advice to melanoma patients and their families.

The Kirkbride Melanoma Centre (formerly the Scott Kirkbride Melanoma Research Centre) was established following the death of Scott Kirkbride whose life was cut short by melanoma when he was just 27 years old. Ongoing fundraising efforts by Scott’s family, friends and generous donors allow dedicated scientists at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research to investigate and uncover a better understanding and new treatments for melanoma.

This service is free of charge.