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Our very first Bariatric Surgery Support Group meeting was held on Monday 8th July in the Education Hub at The George Centre, Gregory Hills. It was a wonderful success.
A Welcoming Start
Around 40 people attended, creating a warm and supportive environment where everyone could connect, share stories, and realise they are not alone. Many participants made new friends, and it was clear that a sense of community is something many have been looking for on their weight loss surgery journey, including those who have had a  sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric bypass.
We shared tea, coffee, and a fresh fruit platter, and took time to chat and get to know each other. For many, just hearing that others are facing the same challenges, celebrating similar victories, or feeling the same doubts was incredibly reassuring.
Understanding What Matters Most
We invited attendees to fill out a short questionnaire to tell us what topics they most want to learn about. This feedback is helping us shape future meetings that are informative and relevant.
What’s Coming Up
Based on your responses, future support group sessions will feature expert guest speakers such as:
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Accredited practising dietitians
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Clinical psychologists
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Plastic and reconstructive surgeons
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Exercise physiologists
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Dr Ali Zarrouk and Dr Rachel Kirby (Bariatric Surgeons)
Each session will explore a key topic such as nutrition after gastric sleeve and gastric bypass , emotional wellbeing , body image changes, and staying motivated in the months and years after surgery. Whether you’ve had a gastric sleeve or bypass or are still considering surgery, these sessions are designed to support you at every stage.
Looking Ahead
We are excited to continue building this support group into a safe and welcoming space for everyone on their bariatric surgery journey or are simply exploring your options.
All are welcome, including partners, family members, and friends.
Thank you to everyone who made our first session so memorable. We look forward to seeing you at future meetings.
If you would like to receive updates about upcoming sessions or suggest a topic or speaker, please fill this form or speak to our team at your next clinic visit.
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