NRF Supporters Celebrated at Government House Reception After Record $2.1 Million Year for SA Brain Research

A group of dedicated supporters of the NeuroSurgical Research Foundation (NRF) were thanked for their service by Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, at a Reception held at Government House Adelaide on Wednesday 25th February 2026.

The biennial event acknowledged the outstanding contributions of a number of individuals, families, corporate partners and community fundraisers whose support underpins advances in brain tumour, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke and Parkinson’s disease research, driving neurological research progress in South Australia.


Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC presents an NRF award to Kate and Paul Cenko at Government House Adelaide.

Their generosity has enabled the NRF to deliver its largest funding year in the Foundation’s 63-year history.

In 2025, more than $2.1 million was awarded across 47 research projects, 24 scholarships and critical research equipment. Over the past five years, NRF seed funding has helped South Australian researchers secure more than $58 million in competitive national grants, demonstrating the significant return generated through community investment in medical research.

NRF President and neurosurgeon Dr Nick Vrodos said the Foundation’s achievements are a direct reflection of its supporters.

“Better research leads to better lives — and that work has only been possible because of the dedication of our clinicians, researchers, supporters and families who continue to stand with us,” Dr Vrodos said.

“Your support allows us to champion new ideas, nurture rising researchers and invest in work that makes a genuine difference.”


The Mercurio Family of Bache Bros, SA Cherry Queen Donna Mercurio pictured centre

The Reception also highlighted the tangible impact of donor support to advance patient centered care. In 2025, the NRF helped establish South Australia’s first Statewide Brain Cancer Nurse Consultant role. In its first six months, the position has supported more than 75 families navigating a brain cancer diagnosis. The initiative has since expanded to include a McGrath Foundation brain tumour support nurse at Flinders Medical Centre.

As neurological disease continues to affect thousands of Australians each year, the NRF remains focused on accelerating research, strengthening clinical translation and ensuring South Australia remains at the forefront of neurosurgical innovation.

Michael Wilkins, Kerry de Lorme, Amanda Jones and Sandy Wilkins

Full list of Award Recipients:

FRIENDS OF THE FOUNDATION

• James & Diana Ramsay Foundation

• Wilkins Family Foundation

• Medtronic

• Mercurio Family of Bache Bros

• Fred Caruso

• Jones Radiology

MAJOR BENEFACTORS

• Brave for Dave

• Radiology SA

• Running for Richard

• Calvary Adelaide Hospital

• Device Technologies

• Memorial Hospital

• Shimmi for Immi

• Tony Tony Tony

• The Honourable Catherine Branson AC

• Melanie Cooper AM

• Foodland Munno Para

• Cecilia Pascale

• Pat Scalzi