Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year
Radio host and former television presenter Carrie Bickmore has been honored as the 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year for her impactful work in brain cancer research.
Contributions to Brain Cancer Research
Since 2015, Bickmore has raised over $27 million to support brain cancer research. Her dedication is driven by the personal loss of her husband, Greg Lange, who passed away from brain cancer in 2010.
Founding of Key Organizations
- She established the Carrie’s Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation, which has significantly transformed funding for brain cancer research in Australia.
- In 2021, Bickmore founded The Brain Cancer Centre. This initiative connects researchers and clinicians through clinical trials and collaborative projects to improve treatments and survival rates for patients.
Impact and Funding
The Brain Cancer Centre has secured an additional $45 million in funding for brain cancer research nationwide, advancing the fight against the disease.
Emotional Acceptance of the Award
“I feel like there are so many people, not only in the brain cancer space but in the world, that are doing incredible things. It made me deeply uncomfortable,” Bickmore said at a Melbourne ceremony, expressing humility about her nomination.
Author’s summary: Carrie Bickmore’s tireless advocacy and fundraising efforts have transformed brain cancer research funding and fostered collaboration to improve patient outcomes across Australia.