Running for Olly: A Legacy Supporting Brain Tumour Research

When Cat and Matt Thornett lined up for the City-Bay Fun Run in 2025, they were running for someone very special — Catherine’s dad, Olly.

“Dad was diagnosed with multifocal glioblastoma IDH wild type in December 2024,” Catherine says. “He had four tumours in his right frontal lobe, which meant surgery wasn’t possible. What was most shocking is Dad had no symptoms until it was too late.”

Determined to honour him and help others facing the same devastating diagnosis, Cat and Matt joined NRF Team Neuro and rallied family and friends to support their fundraiser.

Together they raised an incredible $16,000 for brain tumour research.

Sadly, Olly passed away on 25 October 2025, but his family’s determination to create something positive in his memory continues.

Recently Cat, Matt, Cat’s mum Judy and their two-year-old son Ollie visited the Centre for Cancer Biology brain cancer labs to see the impact of their fundraising.

Their efforts helped purchase a Thermo Fisher NanoDrop Ultra, a small but powerful device that allows researchers to measure genetic material using just a tiny drop of sample.

This technology is especially valuable in brain tumour research, where patient samples are often extremely limited and incredibly precious. Within minutes, the device can determine whether a sample is suitable for research, helping scientists avoid failed experiments and ensuring these valuable samples are used as effectively as possible.

During the visit, the Thornett family were presented with a plaque, honouring Olly and his legacy. In a touching moment, young Ollie spotted his Grandpa’s photo and gave it a hug and a kiss — a powerful reminder of the love and legacy behind the research this equipment will support.

We are so grateful to the Thornett family and everyone who ran, donated and supported their fundraiser. Olly’s legacy will now help accelerate brain tumour research to develop better treatments and give hope to those facing brain cancer.

If you would like to help fund vital brain tumour research, you can join us and be part of NRF Team Neuro at the 2026 City-Bay Fun Run.

Or you can donate to support the team — 100% of every dollar fundraised goes towards vital research.