He completed his medical degree at the University of Queensland. His neurosurgical training was attained in Townsville, Brisbane, Perth and the United Kingdom. Dr Kahler acquired specialist training in spinal surgery techniques during 12 months advanced training at Frenchay Hospital Bristol, United Kingdom. This training was specifically directed at complex and computer-guided spinal surgery. He was also involved in research of spinal artifical disc surgery and Dr Kahler continues to focus on these techniques as well as minimal access ‘keyhole’ spinal surgery.