Welcome!
We hope you enjoy exploring the conference information below.
If you would like to secure your place or have any further questions please complete the enquiry form or contact the team from Education at Sea, our conference partners, on:
- 02 7908 7774
- [email protected]
What this Conference is about
Pharmacology keeps developing and this conference is about staying in step with it.
This four-day conference delivers current, clinically relevant medication updates for nurses and midwives who already understand medicines and want to stay across what’s changing.
Each day focuses on a key area of development including pain management, cardiology, neurology and complementary products and supplements. The content is centred on contemporary medication use, emerging evidence, and evolving therapeutic approaches.
This is not a fundamentals refresher.
It’s an update on what’s new, what’s being used, and what matters now in everyday clinical practice.
The program is designed to build on existing knowledge, sharpen clinical thinking and support professional currency in an environment where pharmacology does not stand still. If medications are part of your daily work — and they are — this conference keeps you current.
And fabulously, the conference is held on a cruise ship.
You conference during the day, then the rest of the time is yours. Bring family, catch up with colleagues at our evening networking sessions, enjoy the ship, or simply switch off once the sessions finish. No rushing between venues, no conference centre fatigue, no feeling like CPD has taken over your life.
You get the best practice conference content, CPD hours for your evidence portfolio and professional resume, and an experience you’ll actually enjoy and never forget.
Conference Learning Outcomes
At this conference you will:
- Analyse current pharmacological developments across pain management, cardiology, neurology and complementary products and supplements
- Apply updated medication knowledge to support safe and contemporary clinical practice
- Integrate evolving pharmacological evidence into professional decision-making
- Critically reflect on how changes in pharmacology influence patient care within their scope of practice
You Will Also Learn
- Does the traditional pain management ladder approach still form the basis for pain management?
- Our understanding of the pathophysiology of pain
- How contemporary evidence and current practice have reshaped the use of the pain ladder
- Pain management extends beyond the recovery unit and remains a key component of ongoing surgical care
- Current analgesic strategies used in post-operative settings, including multimodal pain management, opioid and non-opioid therapies, adjuvant medications and evolving practice trends
- Contemporary understanding of central sensitisation, persistent pain and the brain’s role in modulating pain experience
- How pharmacological pain management intersects with neuroplastic processes
- Risks that are associated with NSAIDs and the patients who should and should not be using them
- The place of opioids in managing chronic pain
- Misconceptions about opioids used in a chronic pain setting
- How we use opioids safely to help patients manage their pain
- The often-invisible connection between mental health and cardiovascular risk
- Update to the use of GLP-1 agonists for medically supervised weight loss
- How best to use GLP-1RAs, and some of the day-to-day issues encountered by patients prescribed them
- Update on the current use of antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapies in cardiology
- The latest guidelines for drug management of heart failure
- the role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)–targeted therapies in migraine treatment
- The role of inflammation in atherosclerotic disease
- What has changed in current treatment approaches and what is emerging in Parkinson’s pharmacology
- Contemporary approaches to stroke prevention, focusing on current and emerging pharmacological therapies used to reduce primary and secondary stroke risk
- How evolving evidence and new medication classes are reframing the way migraine is managed
- The evidence for pharmacological options for muscle cramps and restless legs
- The role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)–targeted therapies in migraine treatment
- What claims, if any, can be substantiated for the use of collagen supplements
- Commonly promoted complementary substances that lack credible support for their use in clinical care
- Commonly used cosmetic ingredients, their proposed mechanisms of action, the quality of supporting evidence and the limitations of current research
Not your typical Nursing CPD Conference
Our Presenter:
Amy Gibson
Amy is a credentialed clinical pharmacist with experience across a range of sectors including community pharmacy, corporate pharmacy operations, multidisciplinary teams, residential aged care and general practice where she is currently positioned as a practice pharmacist and manager.
As a general practice pharmacist, Amy works with GPs to enhance quality use of medicines at both a patient and practice level. She has a strong patient-centred focus and believes in empowering patients to make informed choices about their healthcare needs through education and advocacy.
Amy has completed post-graduate studies in clinical pharmacy and education and has held her consultant pharmacist credentials for more than a decade.
Conference Program:
The Conference is delivered in two formats in the spirit of adult learning. The live presentations are delivered in the Conference Room, and the online library is open one month before the actual Conference dates. The library is an essential component of the entire Conference program.
The library consists of Conference material supplied by the Presenter/s, which can include any of the following:
- Research documents
- Links to external information
- Recorded Conference presentations
- Electronic Notepads
The research documents and recorded Conference presentations form part of the Continuing Professional Development activities. They are delivered to you before the commencement date so you can start your Conference Program early. If you choose not to undertake these activities prior, there is a two-week window post the Conference where the library remains open to you. You can also undertake the library activities during the actual Conference.
Below is a snapshot of the Conference Program
Day One:
05 Mar 27 | Depart Brisbane
1600: We set Sail – make sure you are on deck to say bon voyage.
1800 – 1900: Conference Registration and Welcome Function
Day Two:
06 MAR 27 | Conference Day
Sessions included today:
- Revisiting the Pain Ladder and Current Practice
- Post-Operative Pain Management Today: Current Pharmacology Beyond Recovery
- Neuroplasticity and Pain: How the Brain Influences Pain Experience
- Anti-inflammatories: Yes or No?
- Opioids: A Cautionary Tale
- Opioids in Cancer and Palliative Caree Impact on the Individual
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day Three:
07 Mar 27 | Conference Day
Session included today:
- Invisible Ties: Unravelling the Link Between Mental Health and CVD
- GLP-1 Agonist Update
- Anticoagulants vs Antiplatelets
- Heart Failure: From Symptom Control to Disease Modification
- SGLT2 Inhibitors Crossing Traditional Boundaries
- Cardiovascular Risk: Not Just About BP and Cholesterol
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day Four:
08 Mar 27 | Noumea, New Caledonia
0700 – 1700: Explore this port at your leisure.
Sunny Noumea is a vibrant mix of cultures and energy that’s hard not to love. As the capital of New Caledonia, it boasts some of the best weather in the South Pacific and a lively city vibe to match. Its rich cultural heritage comes alive in its museums, theaters, and art galleries—don’t miss the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre to dive into traditional Kanak culture. For stunning views of the island’s lush palms, hibiscus, and coconut trees, climb to the top of Noumea Cathedral.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day Five:
09 Mar 27 | Port Villa, Vanuatu
0930 – 1700: Explore this port at your leisure
In Port Vila, Vanuatu’s energetic capital, you’ll be greeted by friendly Bislama-speaking locals and bustling street-side markets. Discover the hidden waterfalls of the Mele Cascades, nestled in the lush rainforest of Mele village, with plenty of gently sloping hiking trails to explore.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day six:
10 Mar 27 | Conference Day
Sessions included today:
- Parkinson’s Treatment: What’s Changed and What’s Emerging
- Advances in Pharmacological Stroke Prevention
- Reframing Migraine Treatment: How Pharmacology is Changing Care
- Restless Leg Syndrome and Muscle Cramps: Minor Issues with Major Impact
- Calcitonin Gene-related Peptide–targeted Therapies for Migraine
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Day Seven:
11 Mar 27 | Conference Day
Sessions included today:
- Do Collagen Supplements Work?
- Issues with Common Complementary Medicines
- Complementary Products and Supplements: What the Evidence Actually Supports
- Complementary Products and Supplements: Where the Evidence is Lacking
- The Price of Beauty: Pharmacology, Evidence and Cosmetic Supplements
1800 – 1900: Farewell Function
Day Eight:
12 Mar 27 | Arrive Brisbane
0630: Disembark – Safe Travels!
Inclusions
- An extensive Conference program based on current best practice
- Education content that meets the same exacting standards as anything offered in an Australian land-based program
- Conference Presenter who is excited to be able to share her skill, knowledge, and passion with Conference Attendees
- An online Conference library filled to the brim with educational content that allows you to create your own learning experience by completing pre-conference education activities
- A Registration Reception including complimentary drinks where you can meet other Conference Attendees and network with Conference Convenors and Conference Presenters
- A Conference pack that includes pen and lanyard (this is important on a cruise ship to attach your room key, which becomes your lifeline on a ship)
- The opportunity to meet as a group in various Conference Networking sessions, in one of the many fabulous locations on the ship
- A complimentary Farewell Function held on the last night of the Conference to celebrate new friendships and information gained
- A Conference Transcript that identifies each session held at the Conference, including the session synopsis and session presenters
- A Certificate of Completion identifying the CPD hours attached to the Conference Program for you to include in your CPD Evidence Portfolio
Disclaimer: The opinions and statements of facts expressed in the Papers in these proceedings are those of the Authors and do not necessarily represent those of the Nurses for Nurses Network (NfNN), the editors, the organising committee or the supporters of this conference. No responsibility can be accepted by the organisers for errors or omissions in the individual papers. Sessions are correct at time of publication. Sessions are subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond the control of the organisers. NfNN reserves the right to alter charges, cancel, postpone, change or withdraw the product or service at any time.
Registration Costs
$1390.00
Please Note: Conference registration does not include accommodation or travel costs.
What are you waiting for?
This is a fabulous program – to secure your place at this Conference simply contact Education at Sea to find out about all the cabin options available.
Once you have paid your deposit, your registration is confirmed, and you can start planning your Conference getaway.
Need more info or a personalised quote?
The Nurses for Nurses Network strongly recommends customers take out travel insurance at the time of registration for an event to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may prevent them attending and thus incurring any financial loss.
The Venue:
Quantum of the seas
Cruising on the Quantum of the Seas is an excellent experience for those looking for a unique and high-tech cruise experience with plenty of amenities, dining options, and entertainment.
You will love the innovative amenities, high-tech features, dining options and the array of entertainment options available.
Let's talk about your accommodation
Relax in a style & smart sophistication. Our modern inside staterooms are highlighted with appointments like a TV, sitting area and more.
All you have to do is unpack and relax. Your room steward will clean and tidy your room every day all you need to do is get dressed, grab your bag and start your adventure.
Dining Options
You've got a foodie in you — everyone does! Awaken and delight yours on this cruise with delicious main dishes, tempting desserts and general yumminess everywhere you look.
There is plenty of choice but where to start? Including four new dining options - Windjammer Café, The Coast Kitchen, Café Promenade, Johnny Rocket's and Jamie's just to name a few.
Relax and unwind
Sometimes you just need to get away… from all that vacation. We know — sitting at home, it’s hard to imagine that, but trust us — it’s really, really nice to have a place to unwind from the day’s excitement.
Escape to a world designed, from the ground up, for relaxation. Vitality℠ Spa staff are masters (or, maybe more like artists) trained in the craft of simply helping you chill.
take in a stage show
Here's your chance to dip a toe into onboard entertainment, activities, bars and more… so that when you cruise, you're ready to dive headfirst into the fun.
There's stage shows, comedy bars, live music, and karaoke just to name a few of the entertainment choices you have to enjoy onboard.
How Do I dress on a cruise?
Most cruise lines offer a casual atmosphere onboard. Casual attire is the norm during the day, and there is no formal dress code at night. However, many passengers choose to change into something slightly less casual for dinner.
At least once per sailing, during which passengers are encouraged to dress up. While you rarely see tuxedos or evening gowns, suits and cocktail dresses are quite common.
Additionally, ships usually host several themed nights, such as White Parties, '70s, or '80s Night, Hawaiian or even Mexican during each sailing. It’s a good idea to bring along a few themed items.
NB: Closer to your sail date you will be able to see what the exact theme nights are being held via your cruise companies app.
faqs
Can I Bring the Family?
Because a cruise is a fabulous holiday experience, your family and friends can join you on your CPD Travel adventure.
Whilst you are attending lectures, there are many activities to keep them busy, including an exceptional kid's club program.
Talk to the Team at Education at Sea, and they can organise all your and your travelling companion's travel arrangements.
What if I need kid-free time?
If you only want to mix with adults, most ships have an adults-only area, with entry only available to people over 18.
Guests will jump for joy upon discovering this private retreat where they can connect with the ocean - and disconnect from everything else.
Can you give me some tips on Cruising?
We sure can! Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or this is your first time onboard a cruise ship, our Ultimate Guide to Cruising is sure to have some valuable tips and advice to ensure you have a fantastic time on this Travel CPD adventure.
Can you organise for me to share a room with someone?
We can't promise - but we can pop your name on a waiting list, and if another person asks the same question, we can put you in contact with each other, and you can decide if you are compatible with sharing a cabin.
Contact the fabulous people at Education at Sea on 02 7908 7774 for more information.
CPD Conference Partner
Education at Sea
Education at Sea is an Australian business founded by experienced Nurses who wanted to offer a better alternative for CPD education for their fellow Nurses.
Cruise your way
to professional development
WHAT OUR ATTENDEES HAD TO SAY
I highly recommended a cruising conference with nurses for nurses as it allows for you to obtain your yearly continuing professional development. Not only do you get to learn about your own field of nursing, but you also get to learn about other areas of nursing. In addition, networking is a great way to see opportunities.
Carla
Amy was great! Targeted at the correct level.
Jessica
This was my first time attending the conference, and it was such a unique experience. I’ve always loved traveling to different countries, but this time was different—I gained so much knowledge while growing in my nursing career. It showed me that it’s possible to learn, explore, and connect with like-minded nurses.
Roselle
Amy was a great presenter. Topics were well covered but still concise and not lost in science.
Adrianne
My first [cruise conference] experience - today I have booked for Alaska! Loved the whole conference. The organisation and support provided was 5 star. The presenters were excellent and gave food for thought. Well Done all and thankyou for a memorable trip incorporating a great conference whilst visiting a great destination.
Sharon
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