The University of Western Australia (UWA) has announced the creation of a new position dedicated to blood cancer research, following a significant investment of $3 million from the Leukaemia Foundation. This funding marks the largest independent contribution to blood cancer research in Western Australia’s history. The newly established role, named the Leukaemia Foundation Tony Fini Endowed Chair in Blood Cancer, will focus on preventing and detecting blood cancer, as well as improving diagnostic techniques.
Tony Fini, a prominent businessman and philanthropist, has been a long-time supporter of the Leukaemia Foundation, contributing to its initiatives for over 15 years. The announcement, made on October 3, 2023, highlighted Fini’s personal connection to the cause. Having lost friends to blood cancer and living with myelodysplastic syndrome himself, he expressed a deep commitment to improving outcomes for those affected by the disease.
“I was lucky enough because it was cured, so that’s why they say if you get hurt, you have to use it,” Fini said, reflecting on his journey and the inspiration behind his charitable efforts.
Creating Opportunities for Innovative Research
The new position will be situated within the School of Medical Health at UWA and is expected to be filled by 2026. Bill Stavreski, Head of Research at the Leukaemia Foundation, described the funding as a transformative moment for blood cancer research. He emphasized the urgent need for advancements in early detection, noting that blood cancer is the leading cancer among children.
“Without significant intervention, the number of Australians diagnosed each year is expected to double within the next 10 to 15 years,” Stavreski stated. He highlighted the importance of early detection, which can lead to more effective and less invasive treatments. “One in two kids diagnosed with blood cancer will miss out on school, friends, and childhood experiences. Through the support of UWA and the Tony Fini Foundation, we can change that.”
The investment aims to foster a new research program that attracts both local and international scientists, ultimately creating a lasting impact on blood cancer prevention and treatment.
A Vision for Sustainable Research Growth
Professor Romola Bucks, Pro Vice Chancellor for Health and Medical Research at UWA, shared her hopes for the new position to cultivate a vibrant research community. “By mentoring and training students and other researchers, we can build a community that will sustainably target the earlier detection of blood cancer,” she explained.
Bucks acknowledged the challenges faced by researchers in securing grant income and pursuing scientific endeavors. She likened the new position to a seed that will grow into a “large, long-lived, beautiful oak tree” that will eventually support numerous other initiatives.
The establishment of the Leukaemia Foundation Tony Fini Endowed Chair in Blood Cancer represents a crucial step forward in addressing the growing incidence of blood cancer and improving the lives of those affected. With the support of dedicated individuals and organizations, the potential for groundbreaking research and enhanced patient outcomes is on the horizon.
