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 dedicated fundraising to advance brain cancer research.
Contributions to Brain Cancer Research
Since 2015, Ms. Bickmore has raised over $27 million through her initiative, Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation, established in memory of her late husband, Greg Lange, who passed away from brain cancer in 2010.
In 2021, she also founded The Brain Cancer Centre, which facilitates collaboration between researchers and clinicians through clinical trials and projects aimed at improving treatment options and survival rates for patients.
The centre has successfully secured an additional $45 million in funding for brain cancer research across Australia since its inception.
Other 2026 Victorian Australian Honourees
- Bryan Lipmann – named Victorian Senior Australian of the Year for his advocacy for elderly homeless people.
- Abraham Kuol – recognised as Victorian Young Australian of the Year for his work as a community mentor.
- Linda Widdup – awarded 2026 Local Hero for Victoria as a farming community organiser.
"She has been recognised for her work to raise money and further research into brain cancer, which caused her husband Greg's death in 2010."
Author's summary: Carrie Bickmore’s tireless fundraising and leadership in brain cancer research have earned her the title of 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year, reflecting her lasting impact on medical progress and awareness.