Clinicians and researchers gathered for first symposium to share new evidence and honour Dr Rob Loblay’s enduring legacy
 

Clinician researchers, industry, consumer groups and general practitioners came together on Saturday 8 November 2025 for the inaugural Dr Rob Loblay Allergy Symposium, hosted by the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA) Institute for Academic Medicine in partnership with the Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy. The full-day event brought together expertise from across the allergy community, reflecting the strong clinical and research foundations established at RPA.

Clinical Associate Professor Stephen Adelstein, Head of the Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, said the symposium reflected both the evolution of allergy practice and the strong professional community Dr Loblay helped build.

“This was a fantastic educational event that brought together former students and colleagues of Rob’s and the community to learn from each other about the practice of modern allergy and how things have changed over the years,” he said.

“I think Rob would have been proud.”

The program explored the latest evidence-based updates on common atopic conditions, beginning with sessions on food allergy delivered by Dr Shruti Swamy, Dr Isabelle Bosi and Dr Lara Ford. These presentations examined challenges in food allergy management, emerging treatment pathways and practical approaches in clinical care.

Further sessions covered drug and venom allergies, with insights from Dr Peter Bradhurst, Dr James Yun and Dr Alice Grey, followed by presentations on Eczema and Spontaneous urticaria by Dr Nicolas Urriola and Dr Sandhya Limaye. Later in the afternoon, Dr Alex Stoyanov and Dr Emma Gray led discussions on allergic rhinitis and asthma. Moderators A/Prof Roger Garsia, Dr Lisa Horgan and A/Prof Stephen Adelstein guided each session, encouraging thoughtful discussion and collaboration throughout the day.

The inaugural event acknowledged the legacy of the late Dr Rob Loblay, whose more than 40 years of service at RPA helped shape modern allergy practice. A pioneer in food allergy and intolerance research, he co-authored RPA’s Food Intolerance Handbooks and the bestselling Friendly Food, which became essential references for clinicians and patients around the world. His ability to translate complex science into clear, practical guidance made him a trusted educator and mentor, and his advocacy contributed to major advances in allergy management and patient safety. His influence continues to guide the work of the department and the broader allergy community today.

Planning is already under way for 2026, marking the beginning of a new annual tradition honouring Dr Loblay’s enduring impact.