CONDOLENCES

Mr BUTLER (Hindmarsh—Minister for Disability and the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Minister for Health and Ageing and Deputy Leader of the House) (14:09): I thank the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition for their fine and fitting words. Professor Scolyer's contributions to cancer research, to treatment and to advocacy simply can't be overstated.

His work to improve outcomes for Australians living with cancer has saved and improved countless lives, and his courage inspired Australians from all walks of life. Tragically, melanoma is Australia's national cancer. We lead the world in melanoma rates—not a race we want to win—but we also lead the world in finding new treatments and one day a cure.

Richard was universally recognised as the world's leading melanoma pathologist and the highest ever published scientist in this area on the planet. Over the past decade, he has taken the Melanoma Institute to the forefront of global efforts to beat this disease, alongside his fellow Australian of the Year, Georgina Long. Richard was known not only as a brilliant scientist and clinician but also for his generosity, his optimism and his unwavering commitment to others.

In 2023, Professor Scolyer, as we've heard, faced the greatest challenge of his life when he was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Rather than retreat from the world, he chose instead to confront the disease with the same courage and determination that had defined his career. Drawing on decades of melanoma research, Professor Scolyer became the first person in the world to receive combination immunotherapy before surgery for glioblastoma, alongside a personalised cancer vaccine.

In doing so, he became both a patient and a research participant determined to keep contributing to the world of medical research and making a difference. Like many in this House, I felt privileged to spend time with Professor Scolyer over recent years. This included, as the Prime Minister said, honouring his legacy through the establishment of the Richard Scolyer Chair in Brain Cancer Research at the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, ensuring that his commitment to advancing brain cancer research will continue to inspire future generations of clinicians and scientists, a fitting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to improving outcomes for others.

I also extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife Katie, his children Emily, Matthew and Lucy, whose hearts must still be breaking, and to his family, his friends, his colleagues and the so many patients whose lives he touched. Richard Scolyer's remarkable legacy will endure through those lives he saved, through the research he championed and the hope that he gave to others.

He was a brilliant, warm and deeply generous man. But perhaps the best way we can remember him is through his own words. He described himself as: … a proud everyday Aussie who 'gave it a crack', and in doing so, inspired others to pursue their dreams and passions with humility, love and compassion.

Vale Richard Scolyer. The SPEAKER: As a mark of respect to the memory of Professor Richard Scolyer AO, I ask all present to rise in their places. Honourable members having stood in their places— The SPEAKER: I thank the House.

Debate adjourned.