We’re proud to share that Surgery Gold Coast’s Dr Jason Free has officially taken on the role of President of the Australian & New Zealand Metabolic Obesity Surgical Society (ANZMOSS), following the organisation’s 2026 Annual Conference in Hobart.

ANZMOSS brings together surgeons, physicians and allied health professionals working across bariatric surgery, obesity medicine and metabolic health in Australia and New Zealand. For Dr Free, taking on the Presidency comes at an important time, as our understanding and treatment of obesity continues to evolve.

“It’s a privilege to take on the role of President of ANZMOSS. Medicine continues to evolve, and there is always something new to learn. Bringing people together to share knowledge, exchange ideas and continue improving obesity care ultimately benefits our patients,” Dr Free says.

Obesity care is changing

Obesity care has changed considerably over the past decade. Where conversations once centred largely around diet, exercise or surgery, today there is a much broader understanding of obesity as a complex, chronic health condition.

Encouragingly, there is also a growing range of medical, surgical, nutritional and psychological approaches available to help manage it.

These changes were reflected throughout the 2026 ANZMOSS Annual Conference, which brought together health professionals working across obesity and metabolic care to discuss emerging research, evolving treatments and approaches to long-term patient care.

Topics ranged from bariatric and revisional surgery to medical therapies, nutrition, behavioural health, weight stigma and multidisciplinary care. Emerging technologies, including robotics, artificial intelligence, digital surgery and data-driven approaches, were also explored.

For Dr Free, staying involved in these conversations is an important part of clinical practice.

“No matter how experienced you become, medicine continues to evolve, and I believe it’s our responsibility to keep improving for the benefit of our patients,” he says.

Dr Free regularly visits bariatric centres internationally to observe different techniques, exchange ideas and learn from colleagues working within the specialty. Through his role with ANZMOSS, he is also passionate about education and mentoring and creating opportunities for Australian and New Zealand clinicians to learn from international colleagues.

Moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach

One of the most significant developments in modern obesity care is the recognition that there is no single treatment pathway that will suit every person.

Medical weight management has expanded considerably, while established bariatric procedures including sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass continue to play an important role for appropriately selected patients. Revisional bariatric surgery may also be considered for some people who have previously undergone surgery and require further assessment or treatment.

Rather than viewing medical and surgical treatment as competing approaches, they can form different parts of an individual obesity management plan.

“I’m incredibly optimistic about the future of obesity treatment,” Dr Free says.

“We’re seeing a greater understanding that obesity is a complex medical condition rather than a personal failing. I’d like to see that understanding continue to grow, alongside better education, collaboration and improved access to treatment for people who need it.”

What does this mean for Surgery Gold Coast patients?

While Dr Free’s new role will see him contribute to obesity care, education and professional collaboration at a national level, our focus at Surgery Gold Coast remains firmly on providing individualised care here on the Gold Coast.

Our approach brings together surgical and non-surgical weight management options, with support from a multidisciplinary team.

Dr Free works alongside Nurse Practitioner Virginia Moore, our dietitians, psychology support and nursing team. Depending on your circumstances, your care may involve medical weight management, consideration of bariatric surgery, nutritional and psychological support, or a combination of approaches.

Most importantly, exploring weight management treatment does not mean you have already decided to have surgery.

The first step can simply be a conversation about your health, what you have previously tried, any obesity-related health concerns and the options that may be appropriate for you.

As treatments and technology continue to evolve, our goal remains the same: to provide evidence-based information, individualised care and ongoing support so our patients can make informed decisions about their health.

Considering your weight management options?
You can contact the Surgery Gold Coast team on (07) 5564 6501 to discuss an appointment with Dr Jason Free or Nurse Practitioner Virginia Moore.

All surgical procedures carry risks. A second opinion from a qualified health practitioner is recommended. Individual results vary. This information is general and does not replace personalised medical advice.