Our Board Members

Our Board. Leadership with Lived Purpose

NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia’s board are passionate and skilled individuals from a cross section of the medical and professional community.

Michael Curtin

Chair of the Board

Michael, Chief Executive Officer of Digicall Assist Australia – a business that specialises in getting cars back on the road in the event of a breakdown. He is also a member of the Digicall Group Executive Committee (International), has comprehensive knowledge of the automotive industry built on over two decades’ experience in various roles working for vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. Michael holds an Masters in Business Administration BA from ACU, and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Michael is a strong believer in the “triple bottom line” approach to business, which seeks to build a sustainable…
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Simone Leyden AM

Co-founder

Simone Leyden co-founded NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia in 2009 after seeing a huge disparity in treatment and support for rare and less common cancers, compared to more common cancers throughout her sister Kate’s neuroendocrine cancer journey. After finishing her Bachelor of Business Management/Marketing degree from Monash University, Simone went into the field of Advertising/ Marketing and held various senior positions over 12 years. In 2011 Simone took on the full-time role of Chief Executive Officer of NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia (previously Unicorn Foundation). Simone advocates for greater access to treatments and diagnostics, raises funds for the Neuroendocrine Cancer Nurse Support Service and…
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Dr John Leyden AM

Co-founder

Dr John Leyden is the eldest brother to Kate Carr (Leyden). The journey that they shared during her battle with pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer inspired the formation of NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia. In light of the experience with his sister, Dr Leyden realised the issues surrounding rare cancers – isolation, ignorance, lack of support, knowledge and awareness. The ignominy that patients with rare cancers face is compounded by the overriding sense of disenfranchisement from the medical and general community. NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia endeavours to support and promote the needs of neuroendocrine tumour sufferers and their families. Dr Leyden graduated from Monash University…
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Ian George

Treasurer of the Board

With over 30 years of experience helping businesses and not-for-profit organisations navigate their financial obligations and plan for a sustainable future, Ian brings deep expertise and a strong sense of purpose to NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia. His commitment to the cause is personal – having a close friend affected by neuroendocrine cancer, he is passionate about using his financial expertise to support better outcomes for patients and their families. Director of Count North Sydney, Chartered Accountant and Registered Company Auditor.
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Dr David Chan

Board Member

David Chan, MBBS, FRACP, BSc, is a medical oncologist appointed at the Royal North Shore Hospital and North Shore Private Hospital. David is experienced in the management of gastrointestinal malignancies however he has a clinical interest in neuroendocrine tumours (Neuroendocrine Cancer). After completing his medical oncology training at Royal North Shore Hospital, he undertook overseas training in Neuroendocrine Cancer at Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto. He has authored more than 40 peer-reviewed research articles and has been invited to speak nationally and internationally. He is an active member of COSA, ASCO, ENETs and CommNETs. He was elected the chair of the Neuroendocrine…
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Kirsty Mead

Board Member

Kirsty Mead brings over three decades of healthcare expertise to the Board of Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia, combining hands-on clinical experience with strategic leadership across the health sector. Beginning her career as a Registered Oncology Nurse, Kirsty has worked across Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Vanuatu, gaining a deep understanding of consumer needs, public health, practitioner education, healthcare funding, and the complexities of integrating these elements. Kirsty is deeply passionate about advancing health equity, particularly for under-recognised and underserved populations. She co-developed and led the national rollout of the Periods, Pain, and Endometriosis Program (PPEP Talk®) and its tailored versions for…
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Philippa Morgan

Board Member

Philippa Morgan is a highly respected criminal advocate based at Liverpool Chambers in Tasmania, known for her expertise in criminal advocacy, coronial work, and associated legal matters. After graduating from the University of Tasmania with a BA LLB in 1999, Philippa completed the Legal Practice Course in Hobart and was admitted to practice law in 2000. Over her career, she has gained extensive experience in both prosecution and defence roles, including a decade at Tasmania Legal Aid. Since 2014, she has been focused on criminal advocacy at Liverpool Chambers while also contributing to legal education as the unit coordinator for…
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For its third year, March4NETs will run throughout March 2026.

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