The Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon Mark Butler, today announced the recipients of the 2024 Jeannie Ferris Award, which recognises outstanding achievements in improving equity of outcomes for people affected by cancer in Australia.
The Award recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to improving equity in cancer outcomes for people affected by cancer in two categories: Members of the Community and Health Professionals and Researchers.
In Category 1, which celebrates members of the community, the award goes to Ms. Kathryn Vines, Co-Founder of Rare Cancers Australia. Ms. Vines has made significant strides in advocating for and supporting those affected by rare cancers, providing vital resources and raising public awareness.
Category 2, dedicated to health professionals and researchers, has two recipients this year. Professor Deborah Bateson, Professor of Practice at The Daffodil Centre, University of Sydney, and Adjunct Professor at the University of NSW, is recognised for her exceptional work in cancer prevention and education.
Dr. Florian Honeyball, a Medical Oncologist and Clinical Lecturer at the University of Sydney School of Rural Health, and Chair of Cancer Services at the Western NSW Local Health District, is honoured for his contributions to oncology care and rural health services.
The Award ceremony was held on 19 August 2024 at the Australian Parliament House in Canberra, with Mr. Jeremy Ferris, son of the late Senator Jeannie Ferris, presenting the awards alongside Minister Butler.
Since its inception in 2013, the Jeannie Ferris Award has commemorated Senator Ferris's legacy in raising awareness of cancer. This event marks the first year of the award's expanded scope, acknowledging efforts to improve equitable outcomes for all Australians affected by cancer.
