Six outstanding contributors to the health and medical research industry were recognised by Research Australia in its annual “Thank You” Day awards.

“The awards celebrate the achievements of individuals and organisations that have helped further research in Australia through corporate giving, philanthropy, advocacy or their own research contributions,” said Rebecca James, Chief Executive Officer, Research Australia.

This year’s winners are:

• Macquarie Group Foundation Great Australian Philanthropy Award: Clive Berghofer AM
  Clive Berghofer’s personal contributions, including one of $7 million, have helped make Queensland a leader in medical research.
• Victorian Government Leadership and Innovation Award: Professor Joseph Sambrook
  An internationally renowned cancer researcher, Professor Sambrook has led world ranking research into breast and other cancers.
• Griffith University Discovery Award: Dr Sarah Whittle
  Dr Sarah Whittle’s discovery on how the structure of teenagers brains relates to their personality and behaviour has significant implications for understanding a range of psychiatric disorders in adolescence.
• Advocacy Award: Professor Ian Hickie AM Ian Hickie has been instrumental in ensuring Australians understand the importance of addressing depression and nurturing our brains.
• Leadership in Corporate Giving Award: Macquarie Group Foundation The Macquarie Group Foundation has supported health and medical research for more than 36 years, currently through partnerships with Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Australia and MS Research Australia.
• Research Australia Lifetime Achievement Award: Elaine Henry OAM Ms Henry has an extensive record of community contribution and oversaw the establishment of many programs and fundraising events during her 12 years as Executive Director of the NSW Cancer Council.

Ms James said the “Thank You” Day campaign is important as it recognises the unsung heroes of the health and medical research sector.

“Thank You Day is about acknowledging the hard work of researchers, business leaders, advocates, and philanthropists who make our health and quality of life their top priority,” said Ms James.

Source: Melina Schamroth
Research Australia