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 dedication to advancing brain cancer research.
Contributions to Brain Cancer Research
Since 2015, Ms Bickmore has raised over $27 million to support brain cancer studies. That year, she founded the Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation in memory of her late husband, Greg Lange, who passed away from brain cancer in 2010.
"The Brain Cancer Centre connects researchers and clinicians to improve treatment options and survival rates for brain cancer patients."
In 2021, she launched The Brain Cancer Centre, which facilitates collaboration through clinical trials and projects. The centre has secured an additional $45 million in funding for research initiatives Australia-wide.
Other Victorian Award Recipients
- Bryan Lipmann, advocate for elderly homeless, named Victorian Senior Australian of the Year.
- Abraham Kuol, community mentor, awarded Victorian Young Australian of the Year.
- Linda Widdup, farming community organiser, honoured as the 2026 Local Hero for Victoria.
These awards reflect outstanding achievements across diverse areas of community service and advocacy in Victoria.
Summary: Carrie Bickmore’s tireless efforts have significantly boosted brain cancer research funding and collaboration, earning her the 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year title.