Georgina Long and Richard Scolyer named Australians of the Year
Richard Scolyer AO 补苍诲鈥�Georgina Long AO聽from the University of Sydney and co-medical directors of the Melanoma Institute Australia.
University of Sydney Professors鈥�Georgina Long AO鈥共曰邂��Richard Scolyer AO, co-medical directors of the have jointly won the prestigious Australian of Year award for their pioneering work in the treatment of melanoma.
The pair have been recognised for their revolutionary approach to treating melanomas with the prominent honour, announced by the Governor-General tonight.
鈥淲e never imagined our life work would lead us here,鈥� they said in a joint statement.
鈥淲e stand here tonight proudly representing every melanoma patient and their families, all those impacted by brain cancer, and indeed, all cancers.
鈥淲e are immensely proud of the work we do at Melanoma Institute Australia and our laboratory at the University of Sydney.鈥�
We stand here tonight proudly representing every melanoma patient and their families, all those impacted by brain cancer, and indeed, all cancers.
Professor Long and Professor Scolyer's enduring partnership has saved thousands of lives.鈥�
Less than a decade ago, advanced melanoma was fatal 鈥� but thanks to their immunotherapy approach, which activates a patient鈥檚 own immune system, it has become a curable disease.聽
They are also sought-after media commentators and prominent advocates for sun-safe behaviour and melanoma prevention.鈥�
In June 2023, when Professor Scolyer was diagnosed with incurable grade 4 brain cancer, he and Professor Long developed a series of world-first treatments based on their melanoma breakthroughs.鈥��
Professor Scolyer became the world鈥檚 first brain cancer patient to have pre-surgery combination immunotherapy. By undertaking an experimental treatment with risk of shortening his life, he has advanced the understanding of brain cancer and is benefiting future patients.
Their life-changing research, unwavering commitment and leadership in revolutionising melanoma treatment have not only earned them this honour but have also saved thousands. Their work is a genuine inspiration to us all.
University of Sydney Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Mark Scott AO congratulated Professor Long and Professor Scolyer聽on the honour.
鈥淭his award is extremely well deserved, and I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Professor Long and Professor Scolyer for their remarkable achievements,鈥� he said.
鈥淭heir life-changing research, unwavering commitment and leadership in revolutionising melanoma treatment have not only earned them this honour but have also saved thousands. Their work is a genuine inspiration to us all."
