Please note: Images in this article were taken before current COVID-19 safety measures were in place.
Rochelle Avinu is a leading light in the production of cancer diagnostic instruments, and was recognised at the recent Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards.
Drawing on her experience gained over 19 years at Leica Biosystems in Mt Waverley, Rochelle is a key member of the company’s leadership team, ensuring the successful manufacture of cancer diagnostic instruments and devices.
"We’re a medical device company, designing and manufacturing diagnostic and research instruments in oncology, haematology and life sciences,” says Rochelle, who manages a team of 50 people and oversees five product lines.
Rochelle started her career working in the laboratory of a local hospital, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Immunology as well as an Associate Diploma in Medical Technology, all of which have created her award-winning path.
"I wasn’t expecting to win, it was a big surprise," says Rochelle, but it is already having a strong ripple effect.
"Winning has positively impacted my team. Although it’s an individual award, all associates contribute to our success in leadership and innovation. We’re very proud and thankful to be recognised by the Victorian Government."
The Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards recognise outstanding businesses and individuals across Victoria’s manufacturing industry. Greater than any other in Australia, our state’s manufacturing industry employs more than 270,000 people and contributes more than $30 billion to the economy annually.
Leica Biosystems has wide-ranging aims. "Products we manufacture here in Melbourne allow clinicians to run broad diagnostic tests – we don’t aim to target a particular cancer type, rather our philosophy is to allow clinicians to target as many cancer types as possible, including breast cancer, urological cancers (such as prostate cancer) and gastrointestinal cancers (bowel cancers)," says Rochelle.
Rochelle emphasises that the award acknowledges the passionate, dedicated people who work in manufacturing in our state as well as the opportunities the industry presents, and says, "it’s more important than ever to invest and develop our manufacturing capabilities. Manufacturing contributes to the state’s economic success and offers quality jobs."
Watch the above video of Rochelle’s work at Leica Biosystems.
