acrf Sign Up Information

Hi there,

We warmly invite you to experience ACRF’s Behind The Science year-end celebration. An exclusive event that will give you an inside look at cutting-edge cancer research across Australia.  

These projects are only possible because of you. Thank you for your support. 

Hosted by comedian and mathematician Adam Spencer, you’ll hear first-hand from the scientists who are finding new and improved ways to tackle this brutal disease.  

Date: 10th December 2020 

Time: 5 PM. This virtual event will require registration. 

As we head into the last months of the year it’s normally a time we want to come together, share a hug, cheers and say thank you to ACRF’s incredible supporters who make sure that each and every year we can fund the best cancer research in Australia.  

Whilst this year has been focused on the pandemic, we all know diseases do not take turns. The need for us to continue to support bold and pioneering cancer research has not gone away. 

We want to ensure that we can still come together and celebrate the science, and the work that’s been made possible thanks to your generosity.  

The Behind The Science event will showcase the projects awarded ACRF funding in 2020. Adam''s entertaining and understandable interview with the amazing grant recipients will unveil their innovative ideas and explore the potential impact that these projects will have in advancing to a world without cancer. 

We hope you will join us.  

NEWS & RESEARCH

Research Update: The ACRF Centre for Imaging the Tumour Environment

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the ACRF Centre for Imaging the Tumour Environment was officially opened on 4 October 2019 and is used by researchers at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) and La Trobe Institute of Molecular Science (LIMS) to examine how cancer cells interact with neighbouring populations to create micro-environments supportive of tumour development. 

Since the first piece of instrument was commissioned in late September 2018, more than 40 individual researchers from five Melbourne Research Institutions have utilised the equipment and research support provided by the facility at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute.

Research Update: The ACRF Cancer Ultrasound and Function Facility

In 2016, the Institute for Molecular Bioscience located in Queensland was awarded a grant for $2.3 million to establish The ARCF Cancer Ultrastructure and Function Facility (ACRF CUFF).

We are pleased to share with you a research update from the facility, to share the incredible cancer research that has taken place since this grant was awarded. 

The ACRF CUFF contains complementary state-of-the-art equipment for examining the 3D ultrastructure of cancer cells, using the newest microscopes and high-performance computing for laser imaging of live cells. 

Throughout 2019, a growing number of users from UQ and from other universities, hospitals and institutes around Australia made use of ACRF CUFF for biomedical research aimed at understanding cancer biology, developing drugs and establishing new models for cancer research. 

Research Update: The ACRF Breakthrough Technologies Laboratory

Thanks to the support of people like yourself, In 2014, ACRF awarded $2.5 million to Walter and Eliza Hall Institute. The grant established The ACRF Breakthrough Technologies Laboratory, to analyse genetic mutations at the individual cell-level.

One of the technologies supported was CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat), which was awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize for Chemistry.

OPPORTUNITIES

Support Research this Women''s Cancer Month

“I chose to support ACRF to make the biggest possible difference. There are lots of charities helping women through the cancer journey – but I don’t want anyone to ever have to start that journey… The more research that’s done, the closer we get.” - Sharon, ACRF Supporter

Sharon was just 34, with four young children, when she was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer. October is Women''s Cancer Month at ACRF. Will you stand with us, and women like Sharon, by supporting world-class research? Read her story and donate now.

Honouring Special Supporter Holly Smith

This month we honour Holly Smith, a loyal and dedicated supporter whose spirit touched so many people. Holly passed away, aged 89. She has been a loyal and committed supporter of ACRF since 2006.  

Lee Christian, our Planned Giving Manager, reflects on getting to know Holly, her support, and their friendship.  

“I will remember Holly as being, quirky and hilarious and inspiring. Holly was an adventurer, a teacher, a writer and a lifelong learner. In her later years, she became a generous philanthropist, supporting among many other causes, cancer research. "

Leave A Legacy That Will Impact Future Generations

We believe a world without cancer is possible. Will you join us as we work to make this a reality?

By leaving a gift in your Will to Australian Cancer Research Foundation, you will help to provide the brightest minds in cancer research with the equipment and technology needed to help outsmart this devastating disease.

Every donation helps make an impact, no matter the size. Please contact Lee Christian today for more information at bequest@acrf.com.au.

SUPPORTER UPDATES

DANI

"If I could ever raise money to support a cause this was it - we all want it gone!"

THE READ FAMILY
“Parents do not expect a child of theirs will predecease them but on the 2nd April 2018, just three weeks before his 55th birthday, our son Darren died. It happened relatively quickly after- he was diagnosed with internal melanomas which had developed in his brain."

KRISTY

"The reality is, my life was saved because the doctors knew what to do."

NEWS & RESEARCH

Aiding the global research effort on COVID-19

A team of Monash researchers have determined the 3D-structure of a SARS-CoV-2 protein at atomic resolution using the macromolecular crystallography beamlines Australian Synchrotron. "Using the new ACRF detector on the MX2 beamline, it took approximately 18 seconds to acquire a data set, which was then used to quickly construct a crystal structure of Nsp9,” said Principal Scientist Dr Alan Riboldi-Tunnicliffe.

Remarkable progress: The ACRF Centre for Integrated Systems Biology

In 2018, ACRF awarded the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) together with The University of Adelaide $2.5 million in funding. The funding was used to establish the ACRF Centre for Integrated Cancer Systems Biology, housed within both SAHMRI and the new Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences (AHMS) building of The University of Adelaide.

Read the progress report on how your donations have enabled several promising research outcomes from this facility below.

World-leading research: ACRF Image X Institute

In 2014, thanks to the generosity of our donors, ACRF awarded $2.5 million to support three unique cancer imaging and targeted radiotherapy devices through the development of the ACRF Image X Institute.

Read the facility''s recently reported progress below. Your generosity has enabled exciting world-leading cancer research to take place here.

OPPORTUNITIES

Take on the No Hair Dare

With the current social distancing taking place, we''re pleased to announce our first entirely virtual fundraising event - the No Hair Dare!

Ask 20 of your friends to donate $20, and then shave your head whilst live streaming it on social media. All funds raised will go towards world-class cancer research. Find out more about this exciting challenge below and help us reach our fundraising goal of $20,000. 

Behind the scenes: Meet ACRF Staff Victoria and Lee

“I’m originally from England but a gap-year for a working holiday in Australia in 1988 turned into permanent residency and citizenship when I fell in love – with Australia and Australians! I have been at ACRF for nearly three years in Melbourne, helping the ACRF team engage with our supporters, some of whom are able to assist with significant gifts. But my favourite thing is when I can have a cup of tea with a loyal supporter and get to hear their story." Read more of Victoria''s story here

“After nearly 10-years working for ACRF, I still get excited when I meet a supporter in person for the first time. It’s like we are solidifying a friendship that until now has been carried out over the phone or via email. It’s truly an honour to meet them – many who’ve been donating to us for decades and have had deep personal experiences with cancer.  Luckily we have plenty of opportunities to do this – such as lab tours and our annual high teas." Read more of Lee''s story here

Volunteering at ACRF: Meet Michael and Anna

At ACRF we''re very lucky to have a dedicated group of volunteers who help outsmart cancer in so many ways. Michael and Anna Petersons have been volunteering with ACRF since 2014, and we couldn''t be more thankful for their help. Read their story below.

SUPPORTER UPDATES

HARRY

"It''s been just over three years since my last hair cut. During that time, hundreds of thousands of Australians were diagnosed with cancer."

KATH

"Like many people I have lost loved family members and friends to cancer and know a number of others currently living with cancer. People often say ''I wish I could do something, but there is nothing I can do''."

CAM

"My name is Cam and I’m an avid sportsperson. I have been involved in Surf Lifesaving for over 50 years. "

NEWS & RESEARCH

Blood Test Can Guide Treatment for Most Aggressive Prostate Cancer

Peter Mac scientists have developed a simple blood test that can show which men with the most aggressive type of Prostate Cancer should respond to conventional therapy and those who need other options.

From as little as 10mL of blood, the test can simultaneously profile the circulating DNA and RNA which is shed by cancer cells, offering important insights into the make-up of the cancer and treatments most likely work.

Blood Cancer Find Raises New Treatment Hopes

New QIMR Berghofer research has identified how an early genetic change in blood and bone marrow cells paves the way for the development of some blood cancers.

The discovery provides a new target for treatment of the Blood Cancers Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) and Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). MDS is often a precursor cancer to AML, a highly aggressive form of Leukaemia.

Research Update: June Webinar

Dr Eleanor Campbell discusses her work with the ACRF Detector at the Australian Synchrotron as a beamline scientist. Her research interests are predominantly based around molecular evolution; how and why proteins evolve in the ways that they do, both in nature and in laboratory experiments.

Ms Moana Simpson presents how the ACRF Centre for Compound Management and Logistics at Compounds Australia is providing cancer researchers with access to infrastructure and expertise around the biological characterisation of chemical compounds critical throughout the drug discovery pipeline.

OPPORTUNITIES

Thank you for Supporting Research this Tax-time

We''d like to extend our deepest thanks to all those who supported our tax appeal this year. Times like these are difficult, but knowing we all stand together in our shared goal of a world without cancer means so much. We truly appreciate your ongoing support. 

Behind the scenes: Meet ACRF Staff Mat and Liviana

“I’m the Community Giving and Philanthropy Manager, which means I work closely with our small and incredibly awesome Community Engagement team to help our supporters donate to, or fundraise for, ACRF. I am a proud father of three children (aged 2,7 and 10) who outside of work keep my wife and I very busy at our home in the lower Blue Mountains, NSW." Read Mat''s story here

"Being born in Romania, my Latin heritage has had a big influence on me. I am loud, I love people, I love having fun, I love fashion, I love to travel, to live life with passion, and let’s not forget my love for food. I moved to Australia when I was 21 years old and I’ve fallen in love with the beautiful places and people I’ve met. I feel so blessed meeting people from different parts of the world from different cultures and different backgrounds." Read Liviana''s story here

Will Writing During Social Distancing

Caldwell Martin Cox (CMC) Solicitors are very proud to have assisted the ACRF in establishing their Wills Days program when the idea was first conceived in 2016. Now in these difficult times, they shared with us information about writing or updating a Will. 

SUPPORTER UPDATES

KAREN

"To raise money for cancer research in honour of my best friend, Sue and my Dad, Bill is something I have wanted to do for a very long time. "

YVETTE 

"Obviously this is for an amazing cause but I have a personal reason to do it too."

Hi there,

We recently reached out to you about our ACRF Behind The Science year-end celebration - an exclusive event that will give you an inside look at cutting-edge cancer research across Australia.  

Thank you to those who have already registered, we''re looking forward to the evening and hope you are too!

With spots filling up quickly, we wanted to remind anyone who would like to join to register now to attend the virtual event. 

The Behind The Science event will showcase the projects awarded ACRF funding in 2020. Adam''s entertaining interviews with these grant recipients will unpack the potential impact of these projects in an understandable way.

We hope you can join us in celebrating how the support of people such as yourself will help bring us closer to a world without cancer. 

NEWS & RESEARCH

ACRF Research Update Webinar with Children''s Cancer Institute

We were delighted to have recently held a research update webinar with three leading scientists from Children’s Cancer Institute who, thanks to your support, are working hard to find better ways to detect and treat Children’s Cancers.

These included Associate Professor Paul Ekert, Translational Tumour Biology Group Leader of the Children’s Cancer Institute, Dr Fatima Valdes Mora, Team Leader, Cancer Epigenetic Biology and Therapeutics, and  Dr Emmy Fleuren, a senior scientist working within the Translational Tumour Biology group at Children’s Cancer Institute.

If you''d like to join us at a future webinar, please email zoom@acrf.com.au

Blocking Copper Uptake in Tumour Cells may be Clue to Boosting Immune System 

Australian researchers have discovered how an affordable and currently available drug - which removes copper from the blood can destroy some of the deadliest cancers that are resistant to immunotherapy.

While immunotherapy, a treatment that works through a patient’s immune system to kill the cancers, has proven to be a breakthrough for many cancer patients, offering real hope and for some even a cure – some cancers camouflage themselves from current immunotherapies by expressing the aptly titled Programmed Death Ligand or PD-L1.

Fresh Tumour Biopsies in World-First Technique for Cancer Treatments

An innovative technique to improve cancer treatments using tumour biopsies less than 30 minutes after they’re taken has been developed at The University of Queensland.  

The ‘Drug uptake in ex Vivo tumours’ technique was developed after researchers found fresh patient tumour biopsies responded differently to treatments than the tissue cultures traditionally used.

Its inventor, UQ Diamantina Institute’s Dr Fiona Simpson, said it could be used to show how long antibodies stayed active in patients, or when antibodies were taken into the tumour where they’re destroyed.

OPPORTUNITIES

Connected for a Cancer-Free Future

Our ACRF Luminaries are a special, connected community of visionaries who want every gift they make to have the greatest possible impact. By giving monthly, they help us plan ahead for a cancer-free future

“Mum’s diagnosis was a massive shock to us. We’d never had any history of cancer in our family.” Before surgery, Christina’s mum was offered the chance to undergo a brand-new trial procedure.

The impact was life-changing: “They injected Mum with a radioactive dye to see how her lymph nodes drained the tumour. They discovered it was only draining through four or five, so they could target and remove just those lymph nodes instead of taking them all. It has made a massive difference to her quality of life ever since. It really opened my eyes to research and what it means to people going through cancer.”

As Christina says, research changes lives. Every new breakthrough brings tangible hope to people going through cancer. That’s exactly why we cannot – will not – stop. It’s also why we hope you’ll choose to join our incredible Luminaries community – because every day in Australia, another 400 people will face cancer, and your support could save precious lives.

Pink Buns for Cancer Research this October

We''re pleased to announce a collaboration with artisanal bakers Brasserie Bread, who are turning pink to support cancer research this October! Limited Edition Pink Buns will be available in New South Wales, Queensland, ACT and Victoria. For every 6 pack of Pink Buns sold during October, Brasserie Bread will donate $1 to ACRF.

Watch out for these buns next month. Stay tuned for stockists and participating partners. Sydney-siders can order the Pink Buns online from October 1st at https://brasseriebread.com.au/shop/ or buy them directly from the Brasserie Bread Bakery Storefront at 1737 Botany Rd Banksmeadow, NSW.

Fundraising through Richie''s Supermarket 

Our Fundraising Partner Ritchies IGA are launching their new Ritchies App, incorporating the Community Benefit Program with savings for members and money donated to charities of choice.

This means that all shoppers using the app will need to re-nominate where they choose to direct their financial support. We would really appreciate all supporters who shop at Richies to please renominate ACRF as your charity of choice. It''s a small act with a big impact - to help fund life-saving cancer research.

You can download the Apps by scanning the QR codes below - or search for Ritchies in the Apple App Store or Google Play store. 

SUPPORTER UPDATES

RYAN

"Whoever donates the highest bid gets to choose what hairstyle I rock for a day. This could be a mohawk, clean shave, or even a bowl-cut; whatever you choose I''ll do it. "

CHANGJUAN

"I am shaving my hair for ACRF because I believe that a world without cancer is possible."

VANESSA

"I''m colouring my hair for everyone that is living with cancer and for those we have lost and to find a way to Outsmart Cancer."

NEWS & RESEARCH

Killing ''Sleeper Cells'' May Enhance Breast Cancer Therapy

The anti-cancer medicine venetoclax could improve the current therapy for estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer – the most common form of Breast Cancer in Australia – according to preclinical studies led by Walter and Eliza Hall Institute researchers.

Research Update: the ACRF Detector

In 2015 ACRF awarded $2 million to The Australian Synchrotron. The ACRF Detector funded would enable the shape and function of proteins to be analysed on the Australian Synchrotron’s Micro Crystallography (MX2) beamline in a fraction of the time taken, providing a ten-fold increase in capacity crucial to accelerating cancer drug development.

Read the research update on what''s currently being achieved by this project below.

Research Update: the ACRF Centre for Compound Management and Logistics

In 2018, ACRF granted $2 million to Griffith University to establish the ACRF Centre for Compound Management and Logistics at Compounds Australia – Australia’s only dedicated compound management facility. Read on for an update on the important work that has been done since that time.

OPPORTUNITIES

A Lifeline From the Lab

When Jo was diagnosed with a rare form of uterine cancer in 2016, she knew the road ahead was going to be difficult. During the next three years, as she faced round after round of gruelling treatment, cancer took over her family’s lives. Just when it looked like all hope was lost, Jo received an amazing lifeline. 

It came from a laboratory equipped by ACRF for Professor Clare Scott and her team of unseen heroes, who analysed a biopsy of Jo’s tumour and identified the specific deletion driving her cancer. 

Cancer researchers are doing their jobs, tirelessly searching for new ways to Outsmart Cancer. But to someone like Jo, they are true heroes. Donate before June 30 to our Tax Appeal and 100% of your tax donation will go to cancer research.

ACRF Digital Trivia Night

In response to the current pandemic, ACRF has been thinking of ways of helping our corporate supporters stay connected with their staff while working partially remotely and help them make a meaningful contribution to society during this challenging time. We have created a Virtual STEM-related Trivia Night and are very excited that comedian Adam Spencer has joined the project as an emcee.

Please contact our corporate partnerships coordinator Svenja if you are interested in hosting a digital trivia night.

Behind the scenes: Meet ACRF Staff Deb and Siddique

“May 26 was my sixteenth anniversary at ACRF. I’m the Direct Giving and Database Manager, which means I oversee our appeals and regular giving programs and also manage our Salesforce database. I believe my dual role is perfect for my ambivert personality. Someone once said ''find something you love, and you won’t work a day in your life''. I feel fortunate that I genuinely enjoy what I do and work for an organisation that makes an impact on people’s lives." Read Deb''s Story here

"Working for ACRF has added a new dimension in my career because it gives me the opportunities to engage with world-class cancer researchers and collaborate with the cancer research institutes in person. The combination of my professional skill as an accountant and interpersonal relationship within the cancer research field make this job full of contentment and endless satisfaction." Read Siddique''s Story here

City2Surf Superstars

Are you a superstar in the making? Join TeamACRF at the Sydney City2Surf and run to outsmart cancer in one of our special ''superstar'' spots.

Get faster and fitter as you train in isolation and receive free entry when you reach the fundraising goal. Raise vital funds for cancer research. With limited places only, apply now.

Leaving a legacy of Cancer Research 

For those in NSW, the state government has recently introduced the ''Electronic Transactions Amendment (Covid-19 Witnessing of Documents) Regulation 2020'' which broadens the legalities around how documents (like wills and powers of attorney) can be signed/witnessed - during this time.

This regulation enables those needing to have important documents signed - to do so over an audio-visual link - rather than in person.  Some law firms are now allowing clients to enter their offices, with staggered appointments and all parties kept at strictly regulated physical distances.

If you need to update or create a Will at this time and do not wish to wait, it is highly recommended you seek out the guidance of a lawyer - and discuss with them how their office is operating during this time. 

SUPPORTER UPDATES

KAREN

"The impact of cancer motivated me to take action when we lost my dear mum, Ann, to cancer six years ago. "

JAMES 

"Last year my Uncle was diagnosed with late-stage Melanoma. He basically had a few days maybe a week or two at most. Fortunately, a new drug was available which gave him a few extra months.."

"Very thankful to my friends and family for your support. I chose the 22nd of May as the day to shave my hair off. The 22nd is the 12 month anniversary of my fathers passing."

NEWS & RESEARCH

Research Update: The ACRF Molecular Oncology Translational Research Facility 

The Molecular Oncology Translational Research Facility (MOTIF) was established in 2014 with an ACRF grant thanks to the support of our generous community. The centrepiece was a state-of-the-art PET-CT instrument, housed within the Herston Imaging Research Facility (HIRF) on the campus of the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.

This grant has had a significant impact on both human health and scientific research outcomes, thanks to people like you.

New Hope for Vulnerable Bowel Cancer Patients

An innovative clinical research project coordinated by SAHMRI’s Precision Medicine Theme has revealed new avenues to attack Bowel Cancers that don’t respond to initial treatments. 

Dr Woods, the leader of the Gut Cancer Group at SAHMRI and the University of Adelaide, says the project involved taking tumour samples from 19 metastatic bowel cancer patients and growing tumour cells for direct testing in the laboratory. 

Research Update: The ACRF Detector

In 2015, thanks to the generosity of people like yourself, ACRF awarded $2 million to the Australian Synchrotron for the creation of the ACRF Detector.

The ACRF Detector would enable the shape and function of proteins to be analysed on the Australian Synchrotron’s Micro Crystallography (MX2) beamline, in a fraction of the time taken. This would mean a ten-fold increase in capacity, crucial to accelerating cancer drug development.

The brilliant light of the MX2 beamline allows researchers to investigate the arrangement and activity of molecules in cancer cells (and cancer treatments) at a level of detail that is not possible at any other Australian research facility. Your support has enabled not only more research to take place, but the production of data of greater accuracy and quality.

OPPORTUNITIES

ACRF and Budgy Smuggler Collaboration

We’re so pleased to have officially launched a collaboration with the iconic Australian brand Budgy Smuggler - including our very own ACRF Smugglers and Smugglettes! Turn heads whilst helping fund the boldest cancer research in Australia - shop for them here.

Plus for the bravest of the brave - take on the Budgy Smuggler Winter Swim Challenge and Swim 2km over the month of August! Raise vital funds needed to help outsmart cancer. 

We’d like to thank Budgy Smuggler for this incredible opportunity and for their dedication and passion for making this collaboration a success.

Behind the scenes: Meet ACRF Staff Svenja & Alicia 

“My work has always been very important to me and something that I put a lot of effort and time into, but since I started working for ACRF in October last year, I feel my professional career has fallen into place. I love finding new ways of growing ACRF’s corporate partnerships as well as connecting with our supporters on a more personal level. I am passionate about creating opportunities for businesses and their teams to make an impact to a better future." Read Svenja''s Story here

“I have been with ACRF for almost two years, and I love the different challenges my role brings. In a single day, I can go from designing collateral to writing a press release and then creating automating email journeys. I also pull together the newsletter each month, so hello from behind the scenes!" Read Alicia''s Story Here

Leaving the Legacy of a Cancer-Free Future

Solicitors across Australia are kindly supporting ACRF by allowing us to leave our latest Bequest Booklets in their waiting rooms for clients to peruse.  These booklets are available for any individual or business owner who wishes to help ACRF promote leaving a legacy for a cancer-free future. 

If you would like more information, please contact Lee Christian at bequest@acrf.com.au or (02) 9223 7833

SUPPORTER UPDATES

JORDY

"In 2020 the more who see, the more who do. I hope that you are inspired, I’m sure for many of you our family story will resonate with experiences of your own. "

MEMZ 

"I don’t want anything for my birthday this year but you to donate $10.00 towards beating cancer."

CLAIRE 

"In 2019 approximately 2,599 men and women were diagnosed with Liver Cancer, and approximately 2,161 people died from it."

NEWS & RESEARCH

Technology helps in hunt for new cancer drug combinations

Researchers from Walter and Eliza Hall Institute are using a revolutionary new technology to reveal the inner workings of individual cancer cells – potentially identifying more effective treatment combinations for people with cancer.

New drug combination could support better cancer treatments

Researchers from the University of Queensland have identified a promising new drug combination that could significantly help the immune system target cancer cells and kill them.

Breastfeeding linked to lower Ovarian Cancer risk

An international study involving researchers from QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute has found women who breastfeed their babies may lower their risk of developing Ovarian Cancer by almost 25 per cent. The research also shows the longer a woman breastfeeds, the greater the reduction in risk.

OPPORTUNITIES

ACRF Luminaries: Connected for a cancer-free future

ACRF is pleased to announce the launch of the new ACRF Luminaries. This incredible community provides tangible hope to those impacted by cancer every month through regular donations. At a time when supporting each other is needed more than ever, we truly thank each and every Luminary for supporting research into all types of cancer. Interested in joining them? Find out more below.

Wills Day 2020 

This year, ACRF set out to host four Wills Days across Sydney & the NSW South Coast. We are so grateful to our wonderful legal firms who provide their time pro bono to support these events.

Sadly two of the four had to be cancelled due to COVID-19, but thanks to the flexibility of our legal partners, appointments for those whose urgent Wills were accommodated. If you have any questions about ACRF Wills Days or wish to learn more about including a gift in your Will, we invite supporters to contact our Planned Giving Manager, Lee Christian on lchristian@acrf.com.au.

Impact Philanthropy 2020 Launch Webinar

Tuesday 24 March saw the ACRF Philanthropy team breaking new ground online by transitioning an event scheduled for the Melbourne CBD to a Zoom webinar. The launch of Impact Philanthropy 2020 – Aspiring to a World Without Cancer – for 50 minutes on a Tuesday evening had people watching, listening and participating from the comfort and safety of their homes, while top researchers explained the critical role essential funds play in cutting-edge cancer research projects. 

Behind the scenes at ACRF: Meet Renee and Michael

With the need for connection being more important than ever before, we’re pleased to share with you some behind-the-scenes action from the ACRF team. We’re a small but dedicated group committed, as we know you are, to helping to create a world without cancer. Meet Renee McCarthy – our Regular Giving Coordinator, and Michael Ow, our Planned Giving and Database Coordinator.

SUPPORTER UPDATES

The ACRF Shave program is an amazing way to support cancer research whilst staying safely at home. Participants are encouraged to livestream their shave to family and friends. 

EMILY & CARLOTTE

"Hi, my name is Emily and this is my beautiful 9 year old daughter Charlotte. Together we will be shaving our hair for cancer research!"

JOSH

"The time has come to get rid off this mop on my head that I call my hair and I thought that there’s no better way to do it than to raise some money for a more than worthy cause!"

ELIZA

"I''ve decided to shave my head because, well, at least it''s a decision I can make...many don''t have the choice. My hair will grow back when others won''t get to see theirs grow back."

Improving Treatment for Metastatic Breast Cancer

Research led by Peter Mac is helping to explain the broader effects of a new and powerful class of anti-cancer drugs, in the hope of making them work for longer in breast cancer patients.

Innovative Research Centre to Image ‘Dark Space’ of cancer

Based at Sydney''s Garvan Institute of Medical Research, the ACRF Centre for Intravital Imaging of Niches for Cancer Immune Therapy (ACRF INCITe Centre) will house two Australian-designed microscopes. This will enable researchers to see immune cells and molecules at the cancer site move and interact in real-time – below the surface of tumours and deep inside tissues.

Behind the Science

Despite the challenges of 2020, we wanted to ensure that we could still all come together and celebrate the science and the work that’s been made possible thanks to our donors’ generosity. This year, our celebration was a virtual one, called Behind the Science.

Behind The Science, hosted by comedian and mathematician Adam Spencer, showcased the projects awarded ACRF funding in 2020. Adam’s entertaining and understandable interviews with the amazing grant recipients unveiled their innovative ideas and explored the potential impact these projects will have in advancing to a world without cancer. Watch it here.

100% of Your Donation Before December 31 Will Go Directly to Cancer Research

Jude was a mum of four, a grandmother to six grandkids (with one on the way) and the love of Alex’s life. She had a lot more living to do and a lot more love to give. But cancer had other plans and only a few years after her diagnosis Alex lost his Jude.

“You were the centre of our universe. Your family meant everything to you, and you were always the glue who brought us all together”.

"I know I can’t promise you that will never happen – but I’ll do everything I can to try and make sure it doesn’t. Starting with sharing your story, to raise much-needed funds for the research that could one day put an end to cancer.”

Thanking our Generous Corporate Givers 

We are so thankful that our incredible supporters continue to see the value in supporting world-class cancer research through corporate giving programs. 

From the entrepreneurs and small businesses who support ACRF through proceeds of sales, to our large corporate supporters who stand with us such as EnergyAustralia, Lion, Deloitte, Morgans and Countrywide. Your support by generously matching workplace giving donations, through skilled volunteering and corporate donations and fundraising, continues to provide tangible hope to those impacted by cancer.

This year we also launched our ACRF Luminaries at Work program for workplace givers. Thank you to all who have joined and are standing connected for a cancer-free future. Find out more about workplace giving here.

Thank you so very much for your ongoing support.

Over $250k raised by #teamACRF Shavers in 2020

We’d like to extend a huge thank you to all those who have shaved, cut, or coloured their hair for us in 2020. Thanks to your efforts, we have raised over $250,000 which will help fund research into better ways to prevent, detect, and treat all types of cancer.

To those who have bravely taken the plunge to provide hope for those impacted by cancer, you are incredible! And to all those who have supported a Shaver by donating, we really appreciate your generosity.  

We invite you to join #teamACRF and shave, cut or colour your hair for cancer research! Find out more below.

Start 2021 with Peace of Mind

ACRF is hosting our fifth annual Wills Day in March 2021. Those in need of a Simple Will can have one created by a legal professional for just $75 for an individual, or $100 for a couple.

Join us across NSW in March: 3rd Sydney CBD, 10th Central Coast, 17th The Hills, or 24th Camden. All funds raised will contribute to world-class cancer research. 

For more information on ACRF Wills Days, please phone Lee Christian on 1300 884 998 or email lchristian@acrf.com.au

THE WIGG FAMILY

“Thank you to everyone who is cutting, colouring or shaving their hair for cancer research and for raising money to support the scientists that have given Frankie this chance at life, which to us, is priceless.” ​

LYNN

"It has been wonderful to watch ACRF grow and see all the amazing advancements in cancer research"

ANDREW

"If you have any spare dollars, I’m sure that would be gratefully appreciated by ACRF no matter how big or small. This would give you as an individual a great sense of pride and wellbeing, knowing your contribution may help save somebody’s life or will help someone in need."