New Australian lab exploring precision cancer treatments opens Posted on July 23, 2025July 23, 2025 by Lorel Colgin 23 July 2025: The ACRF Centre of Precision Medicine officially launched today at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) in Victoria. This groundbreaking Centre was established with a $2.1 million grant from Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) awarded in 2022. This cutting-edge Centre will use a ‘theranostic’ approach, combining advanced imaging and targeted treatment with radioisotopes – special radioactive substances that help detect and treat tumours. This innovative strategy will integrate imaging and treatment with novel drugs, aiming to enhance therapeutic responses, exploit new technology for tumour treatment, and expand treatment options. It is hoped new approaches like this can help patients like Chantelle, whose cancer journey began in January 2020, when she was admitted to the emergency department following a seizure. It was later revealed Chantelle had a Grade 2 oligodendroglioma – a type of brain cancer. At the time, her youngest child was only seven weeks old, and her eldest had just turned seven. “In those early days, the biggest questions weighed heavily on me. How long would I live? How quickly would my cancer progress? How would cancer and treatment impact who I was? They were questions no specialist could clearly answer – and ones I still carry with me,” Chantelle said. Treatment began soon after. Chantelle underwent nearly 30 rounds of radiotherapy and seven months of chemotherapy. Unfortunately, her body didn’t tolerate the treatment well. “I was hospitalised several times and continued to experience seizures throughout. It was an incredibly challenging time for both me and my young family.” Precision oncology can benefit up to 50% of cancer patients by determining the most effective treatment based on their cancer’s profile, rather than a one size fits all approach. The ACRF Centre of Precision Medicine is housed at ONJCRI. At the heart of the Centre is a cutting-edge radiochemistry lab that will support the development of radiopharmaceuticals for the diagnosis and therapy of cancer, ensuring that patients have access to emerging therapies as they are developed. Centre Director, Professor Andrew Scott AM, said “The ACRF Centre for Precision Medicine is a unique and exciting capability for translation of discoveries into the clinic and provides a key technology for theranostics for multi-centre clinical trials across Australia. It links outstanding researchers in cancer biology, drug development, radiochemistry and molecular imaging of cancer, and will lead to novel therapeutic approaches and clinical trials.” “ACRF is proud to enable transformative research that will be conducted at the ACRF Centre for Precision Medicine, accelerating translation of discoveries into the clinic to ensure optimal outcomes for cancer patients,” said Kerry Strydom, ACRF CEO. The Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation has also committed $300,000 to enable the Centre’s cutting-edge approaches to investigate new therapies for hard-to-treat ovarian cancers. “The ACRF Centre for Precision Medicine gives our researchers, clinicians, and partners the tools to develop and apply highly targeted diagnostics and treatments. It is embedded in a translational research environment, located in a health precinct, and purpose-built to bring scientific innovation closer to clinical care,” said ONJCRI CEO, Professor Marco Herold. Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) provided collaborative funding for the project, and OCRF CEO, Robin Penty said, “Precision medicine has the potential to transform ovarian cancer treatment because it is not one disease but over thirty different subtypes. The OCRF is pleased to offer adjunct support to the Centre, where state-of-the-art technology will drive innovation to deliver hope to cancer patients with limited treatment options.” “Living with cancer means facing a lot of unknowns,” Chantelle said. “Medical research helps me turn some of that uncertainty into hope. Even the smallest of breakthroughs may offer new treatment options and the possibility of more time with my family. “At some stage, my brain tumour is likely to grow again, and I’ll need further treatment. I hold onto hope that new research and clinical trials will lead to alternatives – options that are more effective and gentler than the treatment I went through the first time. “Cancer research gives people a reason to keep hoping that life will get better. My heart longs for a world without cancer, where no one hears that devastating diagnosis. Until that day, I hope we take big steps to advance cancer treatment. Where therapies are as unique as each individual – so the fight against cancer becomes kinder, more targeted and ultimately, more winnable. So, people have more time with their loved ones. “I’m genuinely excited about the ACRF Centre for Precision Medicine and what it means for patients. For people like me, who have had limited treatment options, this gives real hope. It means that when my tumour needs more treatment, there may be new therapies available. Treatments designed specifically for me. It feels like I’m getting a glimpse of a brighter future,” Chantelle shared. Infrastructure used at the ACRF Centre for Precision Medicine has been provided by the National Imaging Facility (NIF) under the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). The ACRF Centre for Precision Medicine was officially opened by Hon Mary-Anne Thomas, Victorian Minister for Health, 23 July 2025, hosted by Professor Marco Herold, CEO, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and ACRF Chair Dr Tim Cooper AM.
ACRF supporter Grace runs for Raya Posted on June 23, 2025June 23, 2025 by Lorel Colgin Sydney mum of three young children, Grace, is a schoolteacher and yoga instructor, but her hard won calm was shattered when daughter, Raya, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at the age of 4. It’s for Raya that Grace is supporting Australian Cancer Research Foundation by participating in the Real Insurance Harbour 10 run again this year. After 5 months of high levels of chemotherapy, Raya still had leukaemia cells detected in her bone marrow. “They said that if she didn’t respond to treatment, this was it – we had limited options,” Grace recalls. Raya’s outcome depended not only on finding a treatment that would eliminate the cancer cells but on a bone marrow transplant to give her healthy, new bone marrow cells. “So, we opted to use her father as her donor. As parents, we are 50% matches for Raya. We had no guarantee the transplant would work – we were told there was a risk of her dying during the transplant, a risk she would come out of the transplant with cancer cells … if this was the case – we were told to ‘make memories’ before we say goodbye. “We lived in a state of complete uncertainty, fear, and hope.” Their risk paid off, the transplant worked, and Raya went on to clear two years of bone marrow biopsies, cancer free. She is now 8 years old. She is living her best life with two older siblings by her side who were her greatest cheerleaders and support. “A true miracle that the transplant worked. I will never forget the morning I heard the news that she was finally cancer free. “It is also very clear to me that had Raya been born 20 years ago – she would not have survived. Advancement in research is absolutely necessary to help more challenging cases – and in fact, ALL cases of cancer. The better treatment we get, the higher the rate of survival and the better the outcomes, and hopefully, with fewer long-term side effects. “Chemotherapy and radiation are VERY harsh treatments given to young children,” Grace says. “The long-term effects are absolutely devastating. You save your daughter’s life, but it comes with a ransom. She will be monitored her whole life and will have lifelong issues. It is heart breaking. Better medical treatment, I hope, will bring less aggressive treatment. That is my motivation, alongside advocating for the bone marrow registry and blood donations and families who have suffered through childhood cancer. “I am running for children like Raya. I am running for the children who are in hospital who are going through treatment. I am running to get the word out that YOU could save a life by getting on the registry…I am running to help myself heal. I am running in honour of my little girl.” If you would like to show your support for ACRF-funded cancer research that helps families like Grace and Raya’s then donate here: Run for Raya in 2025 Real Insurance Harbour 10
Amid Australia’s $3.5 trillion wealth transfer, Michael is making an unusual choice Posted on May 1, 2025May 1, 2025 by Lorel Colgin Trillions of dollars in assets is set to be transferred between generations by 2050, but only a small portion will go towards good causes. One man who’s left a legacy to charity in his will hopes to inspire others. Michael Ow is donating to cancer research to honour his cousin who died young. Source: SBS / Spencer Austad Michael Ow is 55 and working full-time as a sales manager. He recently made a very important decision while finalising a new will. “I am gifting a small percentage, around 1 per cent of whatever I have left, when I pass,” he said. Ow works at the Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF), and has chosen to leave a bequest to support cancer research. “My wife and I discussed it with our children, and they are very happy for me to do this,” he said. But there’s another reason for his decision to support medical research. Michael Ow (right) with his cousin Pui Fun in Malaysia. Source: Supplied / Michael Ow A ‘heartbreaking’ loss As a teenager in a large Chinese family, Ow experienced the loss of a younger cousin to leukaemia while living in Malaysia. “Pui Fun was like a little sister to me,” Ow said while looking at photos. “It is still very hard thinking about her now.” He said Pui Fun passed around the age of 14. “It was heartbreaking. One day, she just wasn’t here any more,” he recalled. “Our parents hushed up about it because they didn’t think young people should know about death; it was a taboo subject.” He said bequeathing would help him remember her as someone dear to him. “And I hope that by leaving this gift, it will not just benefit my family. It will also help other families in terms of finding a cure through cancer research.” Amid Australia’s $3.5 trillion wealth transfer, Michael is making an unusual choice Michael Ow lost his cousin to leukaemia when she was 14 years old. Source: SBS / Spencer Austad How many people leave money to charity? But not everyone thinks the same way. Fewer than half of all people in Australia have a will. Of those, only 6.5 per cent make provisions for charity. JBWere, NAB’s private wealth company, predicted that $150 billion would be inherited in 2024, and only 1 per cent of that would go to charities — including cancer research. Australia ranks among the world’s wealthiest nations, yet the report revealed that gifts in wills lag behind those of other developed countries. In the United States, 4.4 per cent of inherited wealth ($69 billion) is donated through bequests, while in the United Kingdom, 3.7 per cent ($7.6 billion) is donated. New Zealand bequests are on par with Australia, at about 1 per cent of all inheritances. Australia is also entering the greatest wealth transfer in its history. The Productivity Commission estimates $3.5 trillion in assets will change hands by 2050, as baby boomers pass wealth to younger generations. ‘Unforgettable difference for generations’ Kerry Strydom, CEO of ACRF, said: “There are more research projects that we would like to fund than we can afford.” ACRF has so far funded 90 research projects across Australia totalling $204 million. Among those is seed funding for the development of a now widely adopted cervical cancer vaccine. Kerry Strydom, CEO of the Australian Cancer Research Foundation, says there are more research projects they wish to fund than their budget allows. Source: Supplied / Australian Cancer Research Foundation Charities, including ACRF and the Australian Red Cross (ARC), can assist people in drawing up a simplified will that includes a gift to charity. Penny Harrison, deputy CEO of the ARC, said: “A will reflects who you are, and if causes like charities are meaningful to you, this is one way to gift assets for the future. “A bequest can make an unforgettable difference for generations to come, both in Australia and around the world.” However, most charitable giving has declined in recent years, according to financial services company KPMG. Terry Rawnsley, an economist at the financial services firm, said about 30 per cent of Australian taxpayers — about 4.3 million people — make a charitable donation deduction when filing their tax returns. “Over the past 10 years, analysis of Australian Taxation Office data shows a decline of 275,000 households giving an annual donation,” he said. “As cost of living pressures bite, people are also making smaller donations with an average of $1,000 annually.” But those who can afford to give are digging deeper, according to KPMG. As Australia’s population ages, new trends are also emerging. Rawnsley said older Australians are changing the way they hold their assets, “selling homes, getting out of the share market and putting wealth into cash”. “This big generational transfer of wealth can actually worsen income and wealth inequality in the community,” Rawnsley said. “Yet, charitable donations can provide enormous value, whether by helping to reduce homelessness or supporting a particular cohort that donors feel very strongly about and want to assist after they are gone.” KPMG economist Terry Rawnsley warns that generational wealth transfer could worsen income inequality as people aged 64 and over shift assets into cash. Source: Supplied / KPMG ‘Cherish those around you’ For Ow, living well means talking about death and preparing for the inevitable. “Some people think making a will is a taboo subject. They don’t want to talk about death or leaving their assets,” Ow said. Michael Ow encourages others to leave a gift to charity in their will. Source: SBS / Spencer Austad However, Ow said leaving a legacy can mean more than just money. “My advice to everyone is to cherish those people around you when you have time with them. “Dance as if there’s no tomorrow. Live your life today and tell them how much you care,” he said. This article is general information. Please see a professional if you need financial or legal advice. This article was sourced from / originally published by SBS – original link: Australia’s $3.5 trillion wealth transfer: Michael’s unconventional choice | SBS Small Business Secrets
Old Blokes Rev Up Classic Cars for Cancer Research Crusade! Posted on April 30, 2025April 30, 2025 by Lorel Colgin Old Blokes 7-day road trip for Australian Cancer Research Foundation Dust off your driving gloves and fire up your engines, because The Old Blokes are back on the road, and this time, they’re gunning for a record-breaking fundraising haul! Screenshot This charismatic crew of classic car enthusiasts is embarking on a seven-day, tarmac-tearing adventure across NSW and Victoria, all for Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF), supporting ground-breaking cancer research. The Old Blokes, which includes Mario Nearchou, Harry Moustakas, Nick Harris, Michael Skyllas, John Assarapin, and Vince Thompson are a force to be reckoned with, both on the open road and in their mission to fund lifesaving cancer research. These gentlemen, united by their love of vintage vehicles and a shared desire to make a difference, are setting off on April 30th from Gymea’s Hazelhurst Arts Centre, with their sights firmly set on raising more than their previous record-breaking $102,000 for ACRF. In addition to their drive, The Old Blokes are hosting a charity function on October 17 at Doltone House, Sylvania Waters, to further support their lifesaving mission. “Cancer has touched us all,” says Mario Nearchou, the driving force behind the initiative. “Losing my father, father-in-law, colleagues, and friends has fuelled my passion to do something tangible.” “We dream of a world without cancer, and we’re determined to play our part in making that dream a reality.” He said. Last year, The Old Blokes’ inaugural fundraising drive was a revving success, and this year, they’re upping the ante. They’re not just hitting the road; they’re turning it into a rolling carnival of classic car charm and community spirit, with 12 cars and 20 classic car community members joining the adventure. The Route: April 30: Depart Gymea – Hazelhurst Arts Centre, bound for Narooma. May 1: Cruising to Eden. May 2: Heading for Tumut. May 3: Rolling into the historic town of Beechworth. May 4: Zooming towards Young. May 5: Arriving in Mittagong. May 6: Returning to Sydney. Along their scenic route, The Old Blokes will be stopping in each town to connect with locals, share stories, and raise awareness about the vital work of ACRF and importance of cancer research. “We’re not just driving classic cars; we’re driving change,” says Harry Moustakas. “Every dollar we raise brings us closer to a future where cancer is just a memory. We invite everyone to join us, whether it’s by donating, waving us off, or simply spreading the word.” Kerry Strydom, Australian Cancer Research Foundation CEO said it’s an honour to have the Old Blokes back on the road raising vital funds. “The Old Blokes’ passion and dedication are inspiring. Their support brings us closer to life-saving breakthroughs, and we’re incredibly grateful for their efforts in advancing cancer research.” For more information visit: donate.acrf.com.au/event/oldblokes
Macquarie University launches groundbreaking Cancer Research Centre with $2 million grant from ACRF Posted on April 24, 2025April 30, 2025 by Lorel Colgin Macquarie University has officially opened the ACRF Centre for Advanced Cancer Modelling, a state-of-the-art research facility dedicated to transforming cancer treatment. This landmark facility was made possible by a $2 million grant from Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) through its 2023 Grant Awards Program, marking the Foundation’s first major contribution to Macquarie University. The ACRF Centre for Advanced Cancer Modelling is set to revolutionise the way cancer patients are treated through the development of tailored, real-time treatment approaches. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and fostering collaboration between clinical, research, and bioengineering experts, the Centre will develop and recognise more specialised and personalised treatment options for every individual cancer patient. Macquarie University Associate Professor Jenny Lee The ACRF Centre for Advanced Cancer Modelling will initially focus on two key research themes: Theme 1: Real-time selection of effective therapies using lab-grown cancer models Scientists have successfully lab-grown cancer cells using the ACRF-funded Rastrum 3D cell printer. Scientists will now use an advanced automated system harnessing the power of AI to analyse these 3D models. This system will process images, remove background noise, and characterise cancer cell colonies, to measure how well cancer cells respond to different treatments. The goal is to use these lab-grown models to test potential cancer treatments to help doctors quickly and more effectively select the best therapy options for their patients. Theme 2: Examining mechanisms of treatment resistance and restoring treatment response Using advanced technology, including the ACRF-funded Lunaphore COMET platform, researchers will examine 3D-printed tumour samples to gain a deeper understanding of treatment resistance in melanoma and how the body’s immune system remembers and responds to cancer. With a focus on melanoma, researchers will investigate why some patients respond well to immunotherapy while others don’t, with an aim to understand immune cell behaviour and develop strategies to enhance immunotherapy effectiveness. “This generous grant from ACRF to facilitate the opening of the Centre for Advanced Cancer Modelling is a game-changer for cancer research at Macquarie University,” said Professor Helen Rizos, Chief Investigator of the Centre and lead of the Precision Cancer Therapy research team at Macquarie University. Macquarie Medical School Professor Helen Rizos “The Centre will allow us to develop clinical models of treatment efficacy, while also supporting fundamental research to enhance existing therapies and develop new treatments. The ACRF Centre for Advanced Cancer Modelling will allow us to push the boundaries of personalised medicine and bring hope to countless patients facing cancer.” Kerry Strydom, CEO at Australian Cancer Research Foundation said ACRF is thrilled to enable Macquarie University’s innovative approach to cancer research. “This project exemplifies our commitment to backing brilliant, world-class research that has the potential to transform the detection, treatment, and prevention of cancer,” she said. “Thanks to the generosity of our community, ACRF has funded more than 90 groundbreaking research projects across Australia, totalling over $204 million awarded in grants. We are excited to see what the dedicated team behind the ACRF Centre for Advanced Cancer Modelling can achieve for all Australians impacted by cancer.”
