The Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine (ASLM) is proud to celebrate two of our members, Dr Sam Manger and Jody Bund, who were recognised at the 2025 HCANZA Awards of Excellence. These awards honour the impact health coaches and Lifestyle Medicine practitioners are making every day – transforming lives, supporting communities, and reshaping healthcare across Australia and New Zealand.

Dr Sam Manger – Outstanding Contribution to Health

This award recognises individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the health of communities. Dr Manger’s tireless work in advancing Lifestyle Medicine, his leadership within ASLM, and his dedication to medical education and advocacy continue to inspire practitioners and improve outcomes for patients across the region.

Sam is a clinical and academic GP, ASLM Vice President, and Academic Lead of the Postgraduate Degrees in Lifestyle Medicine at James Cook University. He is also the Immediate Past-President of ASLM, an Ambassador for the Federal Government’s Equally Well Australia initiative, a member of the RACGP Advisory Group, and host of The GP Show podcast. In 2021, he was awarded the RACGP Queensland GP of the Year.

Jody Bund – Business Achievement Award

This award recognises excellence in building sustainable, innovative health coaching practices. Jody’s recognition highlights her dedication to empowering clients through a holistic and scientifically-backed approach to health.

Jody is a Certified Health Coach with a background in commerce, private practice, training, and fitness. She collaborates with doctors and dietitians to support clients in making meaningful and sustainable lifestyle changes. Over the past 15 years, she has worked with hundreds of busy, professional women to create lasting transformations – drawing on her skills as a coach, speaker, and advocate for Lifestyle Medicine.

The HCANZA Awards of Excellence not only honour individual achievements but also spark collaboration and innovation within the health coaching profession. These recognitions encourage practitioners to continue finding new ways to achieve better health outcomes for all.

We extend our warm congratulations to Sam, Jody, and all of the 2025 finalists and winners. Your work is helping to transform lives, strengthen communities, and build a healthier future.

Read more about the awards and the finalists at the link below.