$1 Million Boost for Brain Cancer Research Collaboration in Newcastle

In a significant step towards combating brain cancer, the Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) has announced a $1 million investment aimed at uniting two of Australia’s premier brain cancer research centres. This collaboration seeks to expedite the search for a cure for this devastating disease.

The newly formed alliance between the MHF Centre for Brain Cancer Research at the University of Newcastle and The Brain Cancer Centre in Melbourne marks a pivotal moment in the fight against brain cancer. This joint effort comes at a crucial time, as brain cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among children and adults under 40 in Australia.

Established by former Newcastle NRL player Mark Hughes and his wife Kirralee, following Mark’s diagnosis with a high-grade brain cancer in 2013, the MHF has always prioritised collaboration. This latest initiative is a testament to their commitment to bringing together the brightest minds in the field to find a cure.

Professor Mike Fay, Chair and Director of the MHF Centre for Brain Cancer Research, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, “More than 50 brain cancer researchers have engaged through the MHF Centre over the past 18 months. But we know we can’t do this alone, and in 2024 we are focusing on expanding and deepening our research partnerships to fast-track a solution for brain cancer.”

The announcement follows the success of the 2024 Beanie for Brain Cancer campaign, particularly supported by the NRL through the Beanie Round. The $1 million funding includes the establishment of a National Collaboration Seed Fund, which will support various shared projects addressing immediate research needs.

Mark Hughes expressed optimism about the collaboration, saying, “By embracing a ‘one team’ mentality where competition gives way to collaboration, we will make progress in the fight against brain cancer.”

Sam McGuane, CEO of The Brain Cancer Centre, echoed these sentiments, noting the importance of a united approach. “The Brain Cancer Centre unites phenomenal talent from leading hospitals, research institutes, and universities from around the country. Yet, we understand that no single institute, laboratory, or hospital will solve this. We need to work together,” he said.

The first project funded by the Collaboration Seed Fund will see the MHF Centre join The Brain Cancer Centre’s Brain Tumour Registry Australia INnovation and Translation Registry (BRAIN Registry) as an official collaborative partner. This initiative aims to collect real-world data to enhance brain cancer research approaches.

Professor Fay added, “We know that brain cancer outcomes have improved only slightly in the past three decades. Sadly, around 1,600 Australians are diagnosed with brain cancer each year, and around 1,200 die from the disease. By working as one team with others, both nationally and globally, such as The Brain Cancer Centre, we will deliver better outcomes for brain cancer patients.”

The BRAIN Registry, the first large clinical cancer registry dedicated to brain tumour patients in Australia and New Zealand, captures comprehensive clinical data on patients diagnosed with brain tumours from diagnosis throughout their journey.

This partnership reflects the University of Newcastle’s commitment to improving lives through research and collaboration. The Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) also plays a key role in this effort, acting as a bridge between the University, Hunter New England Health, and the community.

The Mark Hughes Foundation and The Brain Cancer Centre’s collaboration is poised to make significant strides in the search for a cure, offering hope to patients and their families.