Austin Health has reached a significant milestone, with 500 patients now treated using the MR-Linac at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre (ONJ Centre). 

The MR-Linac combines MRI imaging with radiation therapy, allowing clinicians to see and respond to changes in a patient’s body in real time during treatment. This enables more targeted treatment while helping to reduce the impact on surrounding healthy tissue. 

The ONJ Centre is the only hospital in Victoria to offer this technology, positioning the Centre at the forefront of cancer care. 

Professor Farshad Foroudi, Director of Radiation Oncology at the ONJ Centre, said the milestone reflects both the strength of the technology and the impact it is having on patients. 

“The MR-Linac allows us to treat cancer with a level of accuracy we haven’t had before. Being able to see and adapt treatment in real time means we can better protect healthy tissue while still delivering highly effective care. 

“Reaching 500 patients is a significant moment for the Centre, but more importantly it represents hundreds of people who have benefited from more personalised treatment and, in many cases, a better recovery experience.” 

One of those patients is Ian Campbell, who was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2022, just one week after retiring. Ian was one of the first patients treated on the MR-Linac and underwent multiple rounds of treatment. 

In 2024, his cancer spread to his lungs, and he underwent surgery to remove the lesions. 

Today, he is cancer-free. He credits the MR-Linac with helping minimise side effects and supporting his recovery during radiotherapy. 

Ian also accessed some of the Centre’s wellness services during his treatment, which supported his overall recovery. He now spends his time with his wife, children and three young grandchildren, and says the care he received at Austin Health has given him a renewed appreciation for life and time with his family. 

A recent visit from John Easterling, husband of Olivia Newton-John, highlighted how the Centre continues to honour Olivia’s legacy through both advanced treatment and patient-centred care. 

As more people are treated, the focus of the MR team and department remains on continuing to deliver high-quality care and improving patient outcomes across Victoria.