Carrie Bickmore Honoured as Victorian Australian of the Year for Brain Cancer Advocacy
Big news out of Melbourne last night, as radio and television presenter Carrie Bickmore has been named the 2026 Victorian Australian of the Year. This recognition celebrates her tireless efforts to raise awareness and funds for brain cancer research, a cause that has been deeply personal to her since the passing of her husband, Greg Lange, in 2010. Greg’s battle with brain cancer inspired Carrie to take action, and what began as a personal mission has grown into a nationwide movement making real differences in research and patient care.
Since 2015, Carrie has raised over $27 million through her Carrie's Beanies 4 Brain Cancer Foundation, an initiative she started to honor Greg’s memory. But she didn’t stop there. In 2021, she founded The Brain Cancer Centre, which brings together researchers and clinicians from across Australia to collaborate on clinical trials and projects aimed at improving treatment options and survival rates for patients. Since its inception, the Centre has secured an additional $45 million in funding, fueling groundbreaking research that could save countless lives. Brain cancer, as Carrie emphasizes, kills more children than any other disease in Australia and claims more lives under the age of 40 than any other cancer—a stark reality that has fueled her dedication.
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Carrie’s acceptance of the award was emotional. She admitted that she initially hesitated to accept the nomination, feeling there were many others doing incredible work. Ultimately, she chose to accept it on behalf of everyone involved in her foundation and those affected by brain cancer. Reflecting on her late husband’s decade-long battle, she shared how the experience shaped her determination to use her platform to prevent others from facing similar heartbreak.
Alongside Carrie, other Victorian Australians were recognized for their extraordinary contributions. Bryan Lipmann was named Senior Australian of the Year for founding Wintringham, a welfare organization providing safe housing and care for elderly people at risk of homelessness. Community mentor Abraham Kuol was named Young Australian of the Year for his work mentoring at-risk youth through sport and community programs. Farming community organiser Linda Widdup received the Local Hero award for her work with Aussie Hay Runners, delivering vital livestock feed during times of drought and natural disasters.
All four recipients will now join state and territory winners for the national awards, which will be announced in Canberra on January 25, 2026. Carrie Bickmore’s recognition serves as a powerful reminder of how personal loss can be transformed into meaningful action, and how one person’s dedication can create lasting change for communities across the country.
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