Six outstanding contributors to the health and medical research industry are being recognised by Research Australia in its annual "Thank You" Day awards tomorrow (Friday 20 November 2009).
"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.