Strathfield Golf Day
More than 60 intrepid ladies braved the less-than-perfect conditions to tee off for the Strathfield Committee’s Annual Golf Day held at Concord Golf Club on 29 February 2013. Torrential rain over the previous days threatened postponement but the weather cleared in time. Even though numbers were down on previous years due to the weather, more than $5,000 was raised on the day and all are now looking forward to the 2014 day.
Hills Mother’s Luncheon
The Hilton Hotel on George Street, Sydney opened its doors to 600 mothers and daughters for the annual Hills Committee’s Mother’s Day Luncheon in May. Among them was CMRI scientist, Dr. Megan Chircop, a mother and a cancer researcher who spoke about her work. Congratulations to the Hills Committee for their hard work in organising such an amazing day. Thanks also to guest speaker, Australian journalist and television presenter, Lisa Wilkinson, and the MC for the eve nt, Australian news presenter, John Mangos. Lisa Wilkinson and John Mangos
Colleagues recognise 60th birthday
The Hong Kong Society for Developmental Biology held a special symposium in November 2012 to mark Professor Patrick Tam’s 60th birthday. CMRI’s Prof. Tam was made a Fellow of the prestigious Royal Society in 2011, joining the Patrick Ta ranks of scientists m including Sir Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein. For his birthday, eminent researchers in the field of embryology and birth defects came together from all around the world to honour Patrick and talk about their current research and plans for years ahead.
Earle Page College loves to run
Founder of the Earle Page College Coast run, Brent Gregory, once debated with friends whether one person could change the world. In 1980 he established the Coast Run, which along with other fundraising efforts by the college has raised more than $250,000 for research into genetic diseases and cancer at CMRI. A prelude to this year’s coast run was held on the University of New England grounds, called the Coast Run Goes Bush Run, and Gregory joined in, just as he has done every year since 1980. The Earle Page College charity runs continue to grow every year, making Gregory’s point – yes, one person can change the world. Brent Gregory (left) and fellow runner
CMRI gender equality
CMRI lodged its first annual public report with the Workplace Gender Equality Agency on 17th May 2013 in accordance with the requirements of the Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012 (WGE). CMRI has a long history of encouraging female researchers, and today 56% of our scientists are women. In fact, 57% of all CMRI staff are female. To access a full copy of the report, please contact [email protected]
WELL DESERVED: Bruce Wilson receives Freeman of the City award
Bruce Wilson is one of the rare individuals recognised by the City of Cessnock for his lifetime services within the community, including his on-going work to help raise much-needed funds for Children’s Medical Research Institute. The former managing editor of The Advertiser newspaper was awarded the Freeman of the City, joining just five others to have received the award, which dates back to the 13th Century. It carries no privileges, but recognises an individual’s outstanding sense of duty. Mayor of Cessnock, Bob Pynsent, and Bruce Wilson
Farewell George and Isabella
Isabella Butler died peacefully in April after suffering a brief illness. She was eighty-eight years old and was surrounded by family and friends in her last days. George Howe, a recent past President of CMRI’s longest-serving committee, Kangaroo Valley, also passed away in January, aged 99 years and 51 weeks! In line with their wishes, both families requested that instead of flowers, a donation may be made to the Children’s Medical Research Institute for which they volunteered so tirelessly.
Isabella Butler
Sydney FC auction raises thousands for CMRI
Sydney FC’s annual shirt auction raised more than $16,000 thanks to the generosity of Sky Blues Members and fans, with half of proceeds going to CMRI. The specially designed jerseys were all worn by the Sydney FC team in the 2-1 win over Brisbane Roar in February, before being put up for auction. Shirts worn by Alessandro Del Piero and CMRI ambassador, Brett Emerton, had the highest bids of $4,800 and $1,420, respectively. CMRI is very grateful for Sydney FC’s ongoing support.
Dates for your diary
Upcoming events
For more details on committee events, contact Jennifer Philps, Community Relations Manager, Children’s Medical Research Institute, on (02) 8865 2819 or 1 800 436 437 (toll free). Details on Jeans for Genes® and other events can be found at jeansforgenes.org.au and cmri.org.au
14 September for Genes Race Day at Rosehill Gardens, Jeans
hosted by The Hills Committee. 11:30am
25-26 October Wagga Wagga Christmas Fair.
Over 90 stalls, fine handicraft, specialty plants, clothing, jewellery, Christmas gifts and more. Entry $5.
8-10 November Gerringong Quilt Show.
Gerringong Town Hall, Fern Street. 9-5pm Friday-Saturday, 9-3pm Sunday. Entry $5.