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 efforts in brain cancer fundraising and research.
Contributions to Brain Cancer Research
Since 2015, Ms Bickmore has raised over $27 million for brain cancer research. That year, she founded Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation to honour her late husband, Greg Lange, who passed away from the disease in 2010.
In 2021, she launched The Brain Cancer Centre, aiming to unite researchers and clinicians through clinical trials and projects designed to enhance treatment options and improve survival rates for brain cancer patients.
"The Brain Cancer Centre has secured an additional $45 million of funding since its creation for research projects across Australia."
Other Victorian Awards
- Victorian Senior Australian of the Year: Bryan Lipmann, an advocate for elderly homeless people.
- Victorian Young Australian of the Year: Abraham Kuol, a community mentor.
- Local Hero for Victoria 2026: Linda Widdup, a farming community organiser.
Each award celebrates remarkable individuals dedicated to improving their communities and supporting vulnerable groups.
Author's Summary
Carrie Bickmore's dedicated work has significantly advanced brain cancer research funding and collaboration in Victoria, highlighting her impactful community contributions.