Media Identity Carrie Bickmore Named Victorian Australian of the Year
Radio host and former television presenter Carrie Bickmore has been honoured as the 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year for her outstanding work in supporting brain cancer research. Her efforts have drawn significant public attention and funding to the cause that personally affected her family.
Advocacy in Brain Cancer Research
Bickmore began her mission after losing her husband, Greg Lange, to brain cancer in 2010. In 2015, she founded the Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation to boost research and awareness efforts across Australia. Since its creation, the foundation has raised more than $27 million to support vital studies and clinical developments.
In 2021, she launched The Brain Cancer Centre, designed to unite researchers and medical professionals through collaborative clinical trials and projects focused on improving patient outcomes and treatment accessibility. The initiative has already secured $45 million in additional funding for nationwide research programs.
Other Victorian Honourees
- Bryan Lipmann – Named the Victorian Senior Australian of the Year for his long-standing advocacy for elderly homeless communities.
- Abraham Kuol – Recognised as the Victorian Young Australian of the Year for his impactful mentorship within the community.
- Linda Widdup – Selected as the 2026 Local Hero for Victoria for her leadership in organising support among farming communities.
“Carrie Bickmore has raised more than $27 million for brain cancer research since 2015 — the year she established the Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation in memory of her late husband, Greg Lange.”
Author’s Summary
Carrie Bickmore’s personal loss inspired her to build a legacy of hope through groundbreaking fundraising and research initiatives, now reshaping brain cancer treatment in Australia.