20 years of Gallipoli Medical Research: a night to remember
On the evening of 1 November, more than 400 guests gathered at the historic Brisbane City Hall for the Gallipoli Medical Research 20-Year Anniversary Gala, a landmark celebration of two decades of pioneering medical research and the community that has made it possible.
The evening honoured GMR’s history, showcased its impact, and raised vital funds to enable the next 20 years of research with impact.
The gala was proudly supported by our naming sponsor, Bupa, along with silver sponsors, Ord Minnett and Aspen Medical, bronze sponsors Sullivan and Nicolaides, Healthcare Australia and Novartis, and numerous corporate and clinical table sponsors. Their generosity, together with that of our supporters on the night, ensured the event not only marked an important milestone but delivered lasting impact through fundraising for our research programs.
The guest list reflected the deep respect and wide reach of GMR across Australia. The gala brought together GMR’s much beloved patrons Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO and Major General Emeritus Professor John Pearn AO GCStJ RFD, Australian Defence Force personnel including Lieutenant General Natasha Fox AO CSC, as well as ambassadors Pat Welsh (Master of Ceremonies) and Tim Thomas, GMR’s Veteran Ambassador, members of the GMR Board, the executive and many long-term supporters, partners and sponsors.
The evening featured an inspiring keynote address from Daniel Keighran VC, who drew on his incredible service in Afghanistan to highlight the enduring importance of GMR’s research in supporting veteran health. Guests also heard from government at the federal and state level, including Member for Griffith Renee Coffey, MP on behalf of the Hon. Matt Keogh, MP, Minister for Veteran Affairs and Dr Christian Rowan MP, Assistant Minister to the Premier on Matters of State and New Citizens, Leader of the House, State Member for Moggill on behalf of the Premier of Queensland, The Hon. David Crisafulli MP. GMR Chair Dr Amanda Dines OAM and CEO Miriam Kent also addressed the audience, reflecting on GMR’s journey from its humble origins in 2005 to its position as a renowned leader in lung and liver research, veteran mental health, and clinical trials.
Top: Daniel Keighran VC, Keynote Speaker. Above, clockwise from top left: Lieutenant General Natasha Fox AO CSC, Chief of Personnel, Australian Defence Force; Ms Renee Coffey MP, Member for Griffith; Ms Liz Curran, Managing Director- Health Services, Bupa; and Dr Christian Rowan MP, State Member for Moggill.
The program was filled with moments of energy, generosity, and celebration. A live auction, facilitated by Evan Bancroft and featuring a special guest appearance from rugby league great Wally Lewis, created a palpable buzz in the room. Guests also took part in a raffle, with prizes including an amazing Margot McKinney pearl bracelet, a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Gallipoli for the 2026 ANZAC Day Dawn Service, and other unique items and experiences.
One of the most memorable moments came during the pledge appeal, when guests were invited to make direct contributions to GMR’s future. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity in the room, GMR raised almost $250,000 on the night. This support will fund new breakthroughs in medical research, ensuring GMR continues to improve health outcomes for veterans, their families and the wider community.
The 20-Year Anniversary Gala was more than a celebration. It was a promise to the future. By recognising the achievements of the past two decades and uniting to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, the gala demonstrated the strength of the GMR community and the vital role of medical research in transforming lives.
We extend our deepest thanks to all who attended, donated, bid, pledged, or otherwise contributed to the night’s success. As GMR looks to the next 20 years, one thing is clear: with the support of our community, we are poised to continue leading research with impact.
Top: Miriam Kent, GMR CEO; Evan Bancroft, Auctioneer, with rugby league champion, Wally Lewis AM; and band, Franky Smart, entertaining guests.