Media Identity Carrie Bickmore Named 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 impactful work in brain cancer research fundraising.
Contributions to Brain Cancer Research
Since 2015, Carrie Bickmore has raised over $27 million for brain cancer research. This effort began with the establishment of Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation, created in memory of her late husband, Greg Lange, who succumbed to the disease in 2010.
In 2021, she founded The Brain Cancer Centre, which fosters collaboration between researchers and clinicians through clinical trials and projects aimed at improving treatments and survival rates for brain cancer patients.
The centre has secured an additional $45 million in funding for research projects throughout Australia since its inception.
Other Victorian Australian of the Year Awards
- Victorian Senior Australian of the Year: Bryan Lipmann, advocate for elderly homeless
- Victorian Young Australian of the Year: Abraham Kuol, community mentor
- Local Hero for Victoria 2026: Linda Widdup, farming community organiser
These awards highlight the significant contributions of individuals dedicated to diverse community causes across Victoria.
"Media identity Carrie Bickmore has been named the 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year for her contributions to brain cancer research."
Ms. Bickmore's commitment continues to inspire progress in medical research and support for those affected by brain cancer.
Author's summary: Carrie Bickmore was named Victorian Australian of the Year in 2026 for raising over $27 million to advance brain cancer research and creating The Brain Cancer Centre to improve patient outcomes.