Vale Professor Stephen Myers

Torrens University recognises the tremendous legacy of Prof. Stephen Myers and his profound contribution to complementary medicine research, teaching and practice, which extends beyond Australia. Stephen passed away on 27 June 2024, and in honour of his life, we are proud to share the following thoughts he penned when asked about his experience as one of our ‘oldest’ alumni as part of the Southern School of Natural Therapies (SSNT) 60th anniversary celebrations in 2021. Stephen’s legacy and impact lives on in the lives of many – including the students who have walked in his footsteps. Vale Stephen.

Emeritus Prof Stephen Myers PhD BMed ND FACNEM FASLM

“My interest in natural medicine began in the 1970s when I moved to Darwin to work for the environment movement, armed with some natural medicines recommended by a friend and a biochemistry textbook. After successfully addressing one of my own health issues using natural medicines, and helping some colleagues, I earned a bit of a reputation as a barefoot healer, and at one stage I was doing 30 ‘footpath’ consultations a week. It was about that time I decided that I wanted to study natural medicine seriously.

While there were a few other naturopathic courses available at the time, none had the rigor or long-standing reputation that SSNT did, so in 1979 I commenced my studies at SSNT.

Studying at SSNT propelled me into a career in health care and really shaped me as a practitioner. I have exceedingly fond memories of my time there.

I remember the profound impact that the first year subject Transpersonal Psychology, had on me. Taught by a psychologist, it explored the theory and practice of the mind and behavior. It remains the best subject I have ever studied and was a key part of the reason I chose to go on to study conventional medicine.

The clinical placement with Alf Jacka during 4th year is certainly a standout. And I will never forget the moment a woman (Judy Jacka) in a multi-coloured dress ran into the clinic, grabbed Alf and joyfully swung him around because, after years of trying to have a baby, she was pregnant.

I went on to study and practice medicine alongside naturopathy, contribute to several books, including working on the Therapeutic Order with US naturopathic colleagues. I even had the privilege of being a core designer on the very first university-based degree in Naturopathy, which was offered at Southern Cross University from 1995-2013, and graduated 500 baccalaureates.

Throughout my career, my philosophical understanding of being a healer in the community has been driven by my studies in naturopathic medicine at SSNT.”

*Torrens University Australia is built on the shoulders of giants and SSNT became part of the Torrens University family when it was formed in 2014.