Carrie Bickmore Named 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year
Radio host and former television presenter Carrie Bickmore has been honoured as the 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year for her outstanding fundraising and advocacy in brain cancer research.
Advocacy and Fundraising Achievements
Since 2015, Ms. Bickmore has raised over $27 million through the Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation, which she founded to honor her late husband Greg Lange, who died from brain cancer in 2010. In 2021, she helped establish The Brain Cancer Centre to unite researchers and clinicians, aiming to improve treatment and survival rates for brain cancer patients.
"The Brain Cancer Centre has secured an additional $45 million in funding for research projects across Australia since its inception."
Other Victorian Award Recipients
- Victorian Senior Australian of the Year: Elderly homeless advocate Bryan Lipmann
- Victorian Young Australian of the Year: Community mentor Abraham Kuol
- 2026 Local Hero for Victoria: Farming community organiser Linda Widdup
Summary
Carrie Bickmore’s dedication to brain cancer research has made a significant impact, earning her the prestigious 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year award.