Retiring from the Editorial Board: Ian Gough, AM, FRACS

The success of ANZ Journal of Surgery as a scientific journal for surgeons is critically dependent on fellows giving of their time and expertise to contribute to the editorial process. This occurs at many levels: as researchers, authors, reviewers and editors. Few have given as generously as Ian Gough who is stepping down from the Editorial Board after 27 years of exemplary service. He was first appointed to the Editorial Board in 1989 and in sequence was the Specialty Editor for Endocrine Surgery 1997–2004, Managing Editor 2003–2007 and Senior Editor 2007–2016. He has over 50 publications in the journal, noteworthy given his many other responsibilities, particularly with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. When President of the College, Ian wrote, in an introduction to a series of articles on a surgeon's education, training and continuing professional development, that ‘surgery is the most satisfying discipline within the profession of medicine. It offers reliably rewarding interest and the opportunity to make real differences in patient care. Those of us privileged to be surgeons are challenged to attract young doctors into surgery, to inspire them to learn the art and science so that they also may practice competently and confidently. We have a responsibility to be effective role models and mentors to future colleagues’.1 Ian Gough's contribution to ANZ Journal of Surgery reflects those ideals.