Volume 6 Number 2

We are pleased to announce that Dr John Moloney has assumed the role of Editor-in-Chief of our journal. His leadership marks a new chapter in our mission to enhance the discourse surrounding tactical medicine.

We encourage you to mark your calendars for ATMC25, which will take place from October 7–10, 2025. For more details, visit the conference website at ATMC25.

Since its public launch in 2018, the Australian Tactical Medicine Association has made significant strides, with its inaugural conference held in Brisbane. The journal published its first edition in 2019, a pivotal moment in the establishment of a platform that truly embodies the diverse applications of first aid and medicine. As noted by Timothy Makrides in 2019, “JHTAM and ATMA encompass and represent a wide range of applications of first aid and medicine. The crossover between all these applications is significant, and collaboration will only allow for a larger evidence base to draw from, as well as opening communication channels and starting conversations that enable greater and more cohesive response capacity in wilderness, expedition, prehospital, tactical, military and austere applications.”

The association continues to grow, with annual conferences attracting increasing attendance and robust support from industry stakeholders. The journal, too, has shown an upward trajectory, thanks in no small part to the efforts of previous editors—Timothy Makrides, Aldon Delport, and Ben Mackie—who guided us through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Their dedication during a time of strained health systems, staff redeployment, and travel limitations has been invaluable.

As we evolve, the initial goals of both the Journal and the Association remain crucial. We are confronted with ongoing conflicts, the rise of organised crime, and increasingly sophisticated threats. Despite the tireless efforts of law enforcement, high-threat incidents persist. Concurrently, a growing segment of the community seeks recreation in remote and harsh environments, where challenges to human physiology are amplified. The expansion of entrepreneurial travel companies has made these areas more accessible, drawing individuals who may not be adequately prepared for the rigours they encounter.

The Journal remains committed to fostering research and dialogue in these critical areas of health. Our focus on planning, prevention, and preparedness continues to be paramount, as we strive to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of response capabilities in tactical and austere settings.

We look forward to your contributions and to an exciting future under Dr Moloney’s leadership.

Author(s)

Benjamin R Mackie RN PhD FACCCN
Former Editor-In-Chief JHTAM,
Nurse Unit Manager
Noosa Hospital, QLD, Australia