World Cancer Day 2026

World Cancer Day 2026 – 4 February 2026

On World Cancer Day, the NeuroSurgical Research Foundation (NRF) highlights the vital role of research in tackling brain tumours, one of the most complex cancers. Glioblastoma, the most common malignant primary brain tumour in adults, has a median survival of just 15 months. Every tumour, every patient, and every story is unique – and this drives our commitment to funding diverse brain tumour research across South Australia.

"Research is the lifeline for every patient affected by a brain tumour. Your support powers discoveries that will lead to better options and better outcomes." – Ginta Orchard, NRF Executive Officer

---

Over $1.1 million invested in brain tumour research in 2025/26

Thanks to the generosity of supporters, donors, and partners, the NRF has committed $1,116,726 in funding to brain tumour research and support initiatives in 2025/26 – reinforcing our position as South Australia’s largest funder of brain tumour research.

To help sustain and grow this research impact please donate today

---

Targeting brain tumours from multiple angles

NRF’s current research portfolio spans laboratory science, clinical trials, immunotherapy, advanced technologies, workforce support, and patient care – reflecting the many angles needed to address this devastating disease.

Clinical trials

• Prof Cedric Bardy (SAHMRI / Flinders University) – Clinical Trial: Trifluoperazine for Recurrent Glioblastoma ($300,000)
• Dr Adam Wells (Royal Adelaide Hospital) – CAR-T Therapy Clinical Trial for Glioblastoma (2026–2027) ($250,000)

Glioblastoma, immunotherapy, and translational brain tumour research

• A/Prof Hien Le (SAHMRI) – Glioblastoma research ($50,000)
• Dr Helen Palethorpe (University of Adelaide) – Glioblastoma research ($50,000)
• Prof Cedric Bardy (SAHMRI) – Low-grade glioma research ($50,000)
• A/Prof Lisa Ebert (Centre for Cancer Biology) – Glioblastoma research ($50,000)
• Assoc Prof Pascal Duijf (University of South Australia) – Glioblastoma research ($42,000)
• Dr Briony Gliddon (University of South Australia) – Glioblastoma research, funded by Munno Para Foodland ($50,000)
• Dr Olivia Morris Hanon (University of South Australia) – Glioblastoma research, in memory of Phil Matalone ($49,959)
• Dr Nirmal Robinson (University of South Australia) – Glioblastoma research ($49,964)
• Prof Stuart Pitson (University of South Australia) – Glioblastoma research, in memory of Elise Ross ($40,340)
• A/Prof Lisa Ebert (Centre for Cancer Biology) – Glioblastoma research, funded by the James & Diana Ramsay Foundation ($100,000)
• Dr Mel Tea (Centre for Cancer Biology) – Brain tumour research ($50,000)
• Dr Chloe Shard (University of South Australia) – Brain tumour immunotherapy research, in memory of John Griffen ($49,963)
• Prof Stuart Pitson (University of South Australia) – Brain tumour research assistant (immune profiling / immunotherapy) ($50,000)

Clinical fellowships, training and workforce support

• Dr Edward Mignone – Abbie Simpson Clinical Fellowship ($50,000)
• SETL PhD – Dr Dione Gardner-Stephen
• Neurosurgical Training Service ($65,000)

Specialist equipment

• Dr Tessa Gargett (Royal Adelaide Hospital) – Grex Closed-System Flask & GatheRex Cell Harvest Pump for CAR-T manufacturing ($50,000)
• Prof Jose M. Polo (University of Adelaide) – 3Brain AG BioCAM DupleX for neural and brain organoid electrophysiology ($50,000)
• A/Prof Quenten Schwartz (University of Adelaide) – EVOS M3000 Imaging System ($20,000)
• SONOCA 300 Generator (WCH) – Surgical equipment, funded by the Wilkins Family Foundation ($76,345)
• LEVICS Instruments (WCH) – Surgical equipment, in memory of Imogen Cenko ($18,200)
• A/Prof Guillermo A. Gomez (SAHMRI) – LumiPore™ Platform for brain cancer research ($50,000)

Support services improving quality of life

• Brain Cancer Support Nurse ($25,000)
• Brain Cancer Support Service ($45,500)

Learn more about these cutting-edge projects on our Current Brain Tumour Research Page

---

United by Unique: A story that inspires

Every brain tumour is unique, and so is every journey. Dave’s story reminds us of the courage and resilience of those affected, and the impact research can have on patients and families. Though Dave has sadly passed away, his journey continues to inspire hope and the drive for breakthroughs.

Chloe shares her husband Dave's story, and the platform she created to help raise awareness and funds to support other families impacted by brain cancer Brave for Dave - Never out of the Fight.

Dave’s Story

---

Stand with us

Progress in brain tumour research is only possible through collaboration and support.

Donate today to help fund future breakthroughs.