Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year
Carrie Bickmore has been honored as the 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year, recognizing her major contributions to brain cancer research. The award was presented at a heartfelt ceremony in Melbourne, spotlighting her tireless work in brain cancer advocacy and fundraising.
Personal Journey and Advocacy
Bickmore's activism began following the tragic loss of her husband, Greg Lange, to brain cancer in 2010. Motivated by this personal experience, she founded the Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation in 2015, raising over $27 million to support research into the disease.
The Brain Cancer Centre Initiative
In 2021, Carrie Bickmore launched The Brain Cancer Centre, aimed at linking researchers and clinicians to accelerate clinical trials and research projects. This center has secured more than $45 million in funding for brain cancer research across Australia, underscoring the critical need for improved treatments.
Importance of Research
"Brain cancer poses a significant health challenge in Australia, being the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among children and young adults under 40."
Summary
Carrie Bickmore's dedicated advocacy and leadership have significantly advanced brain cancer research funding and collaboration in Australia, offering hope for better patient outcomes.