20 DONOR 18REPORT

Join us in the fight at fecri.org.au Vision To help us move closer to a cure, About us Fiona’s legacy The Institute has published Through world-class research, to bring hope to those touched by cancer. 50+ The inspiration for a regional to go through what she was going publications to date. Each day 396 Australians will be diagnosed with Victorian cancer research through - insightful and brave from a Mission young girl battling a terminal disease. cancer. Families and friends facility came from a young are shattered by the way a cancer patient, Fiona Elsey, Speaking about the death of a To advance the understanding and treatment of young child is particularly difficult. challenging illness affects who planted a seed in the cancer by making an internationally recognised mind of her oncologist, her It represents every parents’ worst their loved ones and each nightmare and every doctors’ most contribution to cancer research. family and her community. 14 day people continue to die. challenging situation. But in 1991, From Fiona’s dream, a garden community fundraisers held in 2018 Diagnosis and treatments are the statistics around Fiona’s illness of hope has grown in the improving all the time. But meant that the likelihood of surviving form of a world-renowned this illness was remote. What a while this disease kills, we research institute in Ballarat. doctor needs to do is continue trying Thank you for your support must continue our part in to outwit the disease, remaining researching for a cure. Fiona grew up in Ballarat in regional hopeful, but also being practical. Victoria and attended Ballarat High Fiona needed care, particularly during Because of the generosity of our donor community, School. In 1990 she was diagnosed 6 The Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute the final stages of her illness and with Ewing’s sarcoma at the age of we have been able to develop an internationally is making a world class contribution to George Kannourakis provided that next generation scientists 13. She underwent treatment at the recognised research program in Ballarat cancer research, with recent recognition care. Royal Children’s Hospital, where she participated in our work for achievements into immunotherapy was treated by Ballarat paediatric Fiona lost her fight for life in 1991, experience program held in 2018 targets for ovarian cancer and histiocytic As a non- government funded organisation, the oncologist and haematologist Dr aged 14, but she inspired all those disorders. Institute relies on the community’s support to George Kannourakis. Ewings Sarcoma around her, including her local community. The community rallied to maintain and build the research program. This is Our research team are working hard to at this time had a survival rate of 5% Tissue bank of over unlock the riddles of cancer. We are well and despite treatment Fiona’s disease raise the initial funds to support the done through wonderful donations of money and positioned to do this, with world class progressed. establishment of what was known as time. facilities at the Ballarat Technology Park, the Ballarat Cancer Research Centre. The relationship between doctor and and a tissue bank of over 3000 patient In 1998, the Fiona Elsey Cancer patient is particularly intimate and samples, that is facilitated through Research Laboratory, named in Fiona’s 3,000 especially when the patient is dying. memory, was officially opened. the support of medical clinicians that George Kannourakis was pivotal in patient samples recognise its importance. Additionally, our Advancing the understanding and treatment of enabling Fiona to remain at home team maintains an extensive program of cancer by making an internationally recognised in her final weeks. During this time, local and international collaborations with Fiona asked George why cancer contribution to cancer research other research centres. research only occurred in capital cities. She made him promise that he would 189 to make her dream of a regional research centre a reality and work volunteers helped in 2018 so that other people would not have

Over “This was her dream, to see research 10,000 happen in her home town.” Gail Elsey registered supporters

1 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 1 Contents Message from Our Chair

Message From Our Chair 3 our donors and volunteers with the recognised by awarding him Governor confidence that their gifting is managed of the Institute. I thank my fellow responsibly and put to best use. members of the Board, who freely donate 2018 at a Glance 4 their time and expertise to guide the We are a lean but agile organisation Institute. My gratitude is extended to with a clear focus on our mission. The our Honorary Institute Director Professor Institute’s brand is associated with George Kannourakis who generously Message From Our Honorary Director 6 excellence in research and professionalism gives his time and energy, overseeing of researchers and students. Our the day-to day activities of the Institute, reputation continues to strengthen with whilst running a very busy professional Our Research 8 the publication of several significant oncology and haematology practice. research papers and presentations at national and international symposiums On behalf of the Board I am Senior Research Staff 13 in 2018. We enjoy unique collaborative delighted to present our 2018 relationships with highly respected Donor Report. national and internationally significant research organisations and a strong As I write this report, we enter our twenty Our team continues to Collaborative Partnerships And Networks 14 partnership with Federation University. first anniversary of the establishment deliver at the highest of the Institute. It is a time to reflect The Institute Director has articulated level in all that they do Research Team 10 with pride on how we have grown and his aspirational view of the Institute developed a boutique cancer research with the Board and I am excited to see organisation located in regional Ballarat what the future brings as we continue into a nationally and internationally to shape our future with your support. Lastly, I want to express my sincere Publications 16 recognised cancer research identity. Research takes time and money, and as gratitude to our donors, supporters and a non-government funded organisation Cancer is a national health priority and volunteers, who each year contribute so we are dependent on the generosity of our primary objective is to identify much to our cause. Your contribution be it the community to provide the necessary Board of Directors 17 causes of cancer via breakthrough financial dollars or your time, is crucial to funding to continue our work. Into the discoveries and translate these into new our existence and is highly valued. future we will need to grow our funding ways to diagnose, treat and prevent base to ensure a consistent influx of cancer. Our research continues to focus Financial Commentary 18 funds to advance our research. We need on immunotherapy initiatives to deliver to identify new sources of funding, recruit better outcomes for people affected a new generation of donors and apply by cancer. Our progress over the last Donor Contribution 20 novel ways to build our presence beyond twelve months has been remarkable, our traditional funding base. This work is our collaborations with research essential to ensure that the organisation teams nationally and internationally can manage growth and innovation into Fundraisers And Events 24 continue to increase and our standing the future. in the international research community Graeme Dixon continues to grow I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to former Board B Bus, FCPA, FCIS, FGIA The Institute’s success is all about its Chair, Board of Management Chairman, Emeritus Prof Wayne Robinson people; our team continues to deliver for helping to make the Institute the at the highest level in all that they do, well governed, accountable and vital backed by our engaged and passionate organisation it is today. It was a pleasure Board. The Institute’s Board of Directors to have worked with him on the board oversees the proper governance and during his 14-year tenure. His service was sustainability of the Institute, providing

FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 3 2018 at a glance July August George Kannourakis published drug delivery systems for the new research findings into treatment of aggressive ovarian the immune response of cancer.’, in the journal, Applied Chemoresistant Ovarian Cancer Materials & Interfaces- July Stem Cells. This was published 2018 Jan Feb in journal, Seminars in Cancer Biology. Visiting Post Doctorial 1900 participants raised over International Journal Molecular Researcher and Clinician, $185,000 at the 2018 Ballarat Science. Graeme Dixon appointed the A collaboration including, Dr Prashanth Prithviraj in New Institute website was Cycle Classic. In collaboration with a team from new Chair of the Board on the Institute researchers Professor collaboration, published launched www.fecri.org.au retirement of Emeritus Professor Nuzhat Ahmed and Ruth results in ‘Monitoring Immune Ruth Escalona- PhD Candidate, the University of Melbourne, Special screening event of Wayne Robinson. Escalona- PhD Candidate Checkpoint Regulators as Professor Nuzhat Ahmed, and Professor Stuart Berzins Mama Mia 2- The Movie held in Professor George Kannourakis published results, ‘Human blood published a paper ‘Paclitaxel- Predictive Biomarkers in Professor Nuzhat Ahmed, Ruth Horsham raising $2,800.00 for published a review of ‘The MAIT cell subsets defined using loaded self-assembled lipid Hepatocellular Carcinoma.’, the Escalona- PhD Candidate, Dr. the Institute. many facets of metzincins and MR1 tetramers’ in the journal of nanoparticles as targeted Frontier Oncology. Dilys Leung, and Professor their endogenous inhibitors: Immunology and Cell Biology. The Institute was charity partner The Institute promoted Ovarian perspectives on ovarian cancer of the 2018 FedUni Road Cancer Awareness month to progression, chemoresistance National Cycling Championships shine a light on our research. and associated recurrence.’ In the September October November held in Ballarat. PhD candidate Jenee Mitchell, with her supervisors Professors RESTAURANTS Stuart Berzins and Professor FOR George Kannourakis, published a RESEARCH March paper “A potentially important role to T cells and regulatory Donate as part model of human ovarian cancer Professor Stuart Berzins Anne Dansick turned her of your meal T cells in Langerhans cell today and help in International journal. contributed to research birthday party into a Good Friday raise money for Histiocytosis” in the Journal of cancer research. published, ‘Temporal Regulation an event, raising $4000.00 in Clinical Immunology. The Fiona Hosted an International of Natural Killer T Cell Interferon memory of her daughter Ainsley. Professor Nuzhat Ahmed was Inaugural Restaurants for Elsey Cancer Research Institute is PARTICIPATING RESTAURANT Special screening of Bohemian Women’s Day fundraising event, Gamma Responses by -Catenin- guest speaker at the 12th Research month held across the only research lab in Australia @FionaElseyCRI #restaurantsforresearch Rhapsody at the Regent Cinemas celebrating women and life. Dependent and -Independent Professor George Kannourakis, Biennial Ovarian Cancer Research Hepburn and Western Victoria doing such work by looking into Ballarat to raise funds for the Over 70% of Institute staff and Wnt Signaling’ in the Frontiers in Institute Director attended the Symposium organised by the The raising over $8000.00 for the LCH. Fiona Elsey Cancer Research women. Immunology journal. 12th World Immune Regulation Rivkin Centre for Ovarian Cancer Institute. Meeting in Switzerland. Institute. and the American Association for PhD candidate, Jason Kelly, Professor Nuzhat Ahmed and Dr Dilys Leung commenced as Tom O’Toole (Founder of Professor Stuart Berzins Cancer Research (AACR). “Cancer presented findings from his Premier screening of East to Professor George Kannourakis, the John Turner Post Doctorate Beechworth Bakery) and Keith awarded a CASS grant of Stem Cells: Distinct Seeds for Bowl Cancer project at the West -The documentary was published research results in Fellow at the Institute to work on McIntosh set off on a drive East $53,000.00 for his teams work Recurrent Ovarian Cancer”. Melbourne Immunology Meeting held capturing the adventure the decreased cancer stem ovarian cancer and CLL projects to West across the country in in Colorectal cancer. cell associated tumor burden in Marysville. of Tom O’Toole, (Founder of In an Australian wide an A Model Ford. The trip raised Beechworth Bakery) and Keith and prolonged disease-free over $30,000 for the Institute. Tom O’Toole (Founder of remission period in a mouse immunology collaboration, Beechworth Bakery) spoke at McIntosh’s trip in a A Model Ford the Girls Night Out event at the from Byron Bay NSW to Shark Howlong Golf Club that raised Bay WA raising funds for cancer $5000.00 for the Institute. research. PhD candidate Jason Kelly April May June presented findings from his Ballarat Vintage & Classic Car recent publication; Chronic Club again hosted its annual December inflammation and bowel cancer; morning tea raising over are your MAITs involved? at Langerhans cell histiocytosis Society for Immunology $1000.00 for cancer research. the Federation of Immunology project (LCH)-Altered Incorporated (ASI) Conference Societies of Asia-Oceania (Fimsa) Professor George Kannourakis, Populations of Unconventional in Perth. Tamekha conference in Thailand. Institute Director, visited T Cell Lineages in Patients with PhD candidate Jenee Mitchell Professor James Ferrara’s Langerhans cell histiocytosis in 2019 Ballarat Cycle Classic Laboratory at the Mount international journal, Scientific presented research findings into The Ballarat District Women’s John Turner Visiting Professor, Ballarat Chinese Community launched with sponsors Sinai School of Medicine, New Reports Langerhans cell histiocytosis Golf Association presented and event Ambassadors Professor Paul Jubinsky from York. Professor Ferrara is a Association presented a at the American Society of a cheque for $8873.75 the Albert Einstein College donation of $5000.00 in Michael Malthouse and Steve leading researcher on immune Federation University Australia Through the wonderful Hematology Annual meeting in raised for the Institute from of Medicine in New York, wanting to support local causes. Moneghetti. abnormalities of graft versus Children’s Centres, host a support of customers, Ballarat San Diego, USA. their fundraising activities visited the Institute to speak hairdressing salon, The host disease. Collaboration, Professor George Kannourakis, Christmas party, raising Annual outlet shopping tour throughout the 2017 golfing and strengthen research Cutting Shop, held a Christmas Long term Chair of the Board learning and sharing are Institute Director attended the $3,475.00. held by the Dansick Family of season. The group have to date relationships. fundraiser raising $520.00. Emeritus Professor Wayne fundamental to growing our American Society of Clinical Geelong, long term fundraisers raised over $140,000 for the Institute team, Jenee Mitchell- Robinson and Professor Celebrated the Twentieth research. Oncology meeting in Chicago. for the Institute in memory of Institute. PhD Candidate, Professor PhD candidate Tamekha Leigh Sullivan retire from the Anniversary of the Institute sister and daughter Ainsley. Stuart Berzins and Professor Develyn presented her research Institute’s Board of Directors with a black-tie dinner with George Kannourakis published on MAIT Cells in Multiple supporters and donors at The new research findings of our Myeloma the Australasian Boatshed Restaurant.

4 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 5 Message from Our Honorary Director

Professor Stuart Berzins, appointment is interested members of the community to funded in partnership by the Institute and Invaluable community tour the facility. In 2019 we look forward Federation University. Professor Berzins connection to hosting the community at an open continues to expand his research into evening at our facility. Through the Institute I have had the immune cells. He is an internationally great privilege of meeting many people We are an affiliated Institute of recognized expert in NKT and MAIT from our community who are doing Federation University Australia. Our cells and team is actively studying extraordinary things to support cancer facility houses the study of 9 Federation haematological and solid malignancies. research. Some of these supporters University PhD students, who are Stuart is the Dorevitch Principal Cancer are Tom O’Toole (Founder Beechworth supervised and mentored by our senior Research Fellow. Bakery) and his best mate Keith McIntosh, staff. With our work experience program, The John Turner Cancer Research Fund who drove across the country, East to we host budding scientists of the future has made a significant difference to West in an A Model Ford. Our largest through our work experience program. our research programs during the last community engagement event is the These students are typically in Year 10 Our research team continues to learn year. This fund was established by Annual Ballarat Cycle Classic held in and we welcome the active involvement how the immune system can fight cancer, Businessman and philanthropist, John February. This event continues to be of many secondary schools in the district with this approach becoming the future Turner to allow for an expansion of our successful and grow, having celebrated treatment alternative to chemotherapy The research output of the Institute research program, including additional its eleventh year in 2018. This event and radiotherapy. Our key projects are continues to increase its momentum and researchers and equipment. Significant is supported by over 150 registered in Immunology, Ovarian cancer, Chronic gain recognition with 35 peer-reviewed gifts, such as this allow, for great leaps in volunteers. Lymphocytic Leukaemia and Langerhans publications accepted in the last 5 our quest for a cure for cancer. Cell Histiocytosis. The Institute currently years in high profile journals, with 23, has 9 PhD students from Federation This fund has also provided the John in the last 2 years. The publication of University Australia and 10 senior Turner Professorial Cancer Research our research cements the relevancy and scientific staff. Fellowship, held by Professor Nuzhat importance of our work here in Ballarat. Ahmed. Professor Ahmed is an Over the past year, we have seen our Thank you for your ongoing support of international recognised cancer The research output of team grow and great developments have cancer research. The Institute continues researcher in ovarian cancer and is taken place in our key research projects. the Institute continues to to be well placed to undertake leading leading our team to undertake ground- The outcomes of the community support cutting-edge research in the role of breaking research into the Immunology increase its momentum of our research program have resulted immune cells in cancer treatment of ovarian cancer. This has been and gain recognition in multiple scientific publications and development. Help us to continue world instrumental to several publications presentations from our scientific staff and with 23 peer-reviewed class research to bring hope to those relating to the Chemotherapy resistance students at national and international publications accepted in touched by cancer. of the disease and possible new meetings. treatments for patients, with ovarian the last 2 years. We are Australia’s only regionally based cancer. cancer research facility, we are non- Dr Prashanth Prithviraj has commenced government funded and work with his work in the study of kidney and our community to sustain our research bladder cancer, with particular reference program based in Ballarat. We are an The Institute continues to strive to to the role of immune cells in these example that internationally recognised maintain and develop a strong connection cancers. Professor George Kannourakis research can be done outside of the with the community. As a community MBBS, B(Med)Sci, PhD, FRACP metropolitan centres. supported research Institute, this is vital Honorary Director of Research to our longevity. Our doors are open to all

6 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 7 Research

Absent: Dr Prashanth Prithviraj, Dr Morcan Wallace, Maurice Alcantara, Ruth Escalona

8 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 9 Key Research Projects

Immunology Ovarian Cancer

Recent research from our Our research is focused team, has identified a possible on the role of the immune new treatment option for system and how it relates patients with chemotherapy- and can be used to treat resistant ovarian cancer. cancer. In the future, cancer A drug available for blood will predominately be treated disorders, has shown to with the activation of the reduce the size of tumours immune system, without given in combination with chemotherapy and radiation. chemotherapy. This research PROFESSOR GEORGE KANNOURAKIS, may lead to improved Institute Honorary Director treatment outcomes for patients with relapse ovarian cancer.

PROFESSOR NUZHAT AHMED, John Turner Professorial Cancer Research Fellow

This research is focused in empowering the immune system to fight disease, and Every 11 hours one woman dies John Turner Professorial Cancer Research cancer. We are undertaking studies on the of ovarian cancer in Australia. Fellow, Professor Nuzhat Ahmed and immunology of cancer and the role of T cell Approximately 1400 Australia women her team are studying how ovarian subsets, NKT cells, MAIT (mucosal associated are diagnosed with the cancer each year, cancer patients become resistant to invariant T) cells and gamma-delta T cells. It and nearly 800 die annually, making chemotherapy and is working to identify is hypothesized that defects in the immune ovarian cancer the fourth most common novel molecules which can be used in system may predispose to cancer, or allow cause of cancer-related death in women combination with chemotherapy to it to progress, and that treatments that in Australia. The high mortality rate in eradicate the resistant disease. This enhance immunity may improve outcomes in ovarian cancer patients results from the is being done by studying the protein patients with cancer. diagnosis of the disease at an advanced- profiles of tumour samples from stage. Devastatingly, the five-year patients before and after chemotherapy We are studying new proteins on the surface survival period of ovarian patients has treatment. By identifying the proteins of cancer cells, in particular CLL and ovarian remained unchanged and as low as 40% involved in chemo-resistance, we hope cancer - with the aim of producing antibodies for the last thirty years. to develop therapies that will specifically against these proteins. This may lead to An estimated target the pathway involved with chemo- novel treatments to allow the immune resistance. system to attack cancers. 140,000 This research covers Colorectal, Ovarian, new cases of Breast, Renal, Lung, Melanoma and cancer will be Pancreato-Biliary cancers, as well as haematological cancers. diagnosed in Australia this year* *Australian Institute of Health and Welfare - Cancer in Australia Report 2019

10 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 11 Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Senior Research Staff

We are studying genetic changes that occur during progression of disease in patients with long- standing Chronic lymphocytic leukemia. These studies have the potential to identify immune- targets and antibody mediated therapies to prevent disease progression.

PROFESSOR STUART BERZINS, Dorevitch Principal Research Fellow Professor George Kannourakis Professor Stuart Berzins Professor Nuzhat Ahmed MB, BS, B(Med)Sc, PhD, FRACP BSc(Hons) PhD GCUT BSc Hons (DU), MSc (KUL), PhD (ANU)

HONORARY DIRECTOR DOREVITCH PRINCIPAL RESEARCH JOHN TURNER PROFESSORIAL FELLOW FELLOW CLL is the most common type of This project is studying the role of immune cells in these patients. This George oversees all research and leukemia in adults in the Western immune cells in the regulation of disease work has the potential of identifying administration at the Institute. He has Stuart has previously conducted research Nuzhat joined the Institute in April 2015 world. There is evidence that genetic progression. The Institute is in a unique new immune checkpoints that may a wealth of experience in cancer cell at Monash University, the Harvard Medical and is the John Turner Professorial Cancer components contribute to the aetiology position to study over one hundred lead to future immune treatments for biology, having obtained his PhD from School and University of Melbourne. Research Fellow. She holds an adjunct of CLL but no definitive susceptibility patients with sequential blood samples. leukaemia’s and other cancers. The University of Melbourne for his He now leads a research group at the professorial position with Federation genes have been identified. Preliminary data have demonstrated research at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, investigating human immune University Australia, Ballarat which interesting results in the analysis of Institute of Medical Research. George is responses to cancer. He collaborates strengthens links between the Institute Adjunct Professor of Cancer Biology at with national and international and the University. Professor Ahmed Federation University Australia and has research groups and is working with is an experienced cell and molecular Histiocytic Diseases been a practising oncologist and clinician Professor George Kannourakis and other biologist and brings a wealth of haematologist in the Ballarat community researchers at the Fiona Elsey Cancer experience to the Institute, particularly in for many years. George has worked at the Research Institute and Federation cancer biology. She has a long-standing Dana Faber Cancer Institute in Boston, as University Australia to establish a interest in understanding the molecular LCH is a rare cancer-like disease that a Research Fellow at Harvard University, regional hub of biomedical research. His mechanisms of ovarian cancer spread. mostly affects infants and children but and he headed the Cancer Research research group studies specialised cells She did her postdoctoral research training can also occur in adults. Lesions can Unit at the Royal Children’s Hospital in and molecules that regulate immune in Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, infiltrate any organ of the body, which Melbourne. responses against cancer. Higher research New Zealand, University of Newcastle, can result in bone lesions and scarring goals are to determine if there are defects Kanagawa Cancer Centre, Japan and of vital organs. Our research has the in immune regulation that contribute to BC Cancer Agency, University of British potential to unlock broad new findings different forms of cancer, and to identify Columbia in Canada. From 2002-2014 to better understand LCH and other immune cells and molecules that could Nuzhat led the Cancer Metastasis Group diseases involving the immune system, become targets for new immune-based in Women’s Cancer Research Centre, Royal such as cancer and autoimmunity. therapies. Women’s Hospital, Melbourne.

JENEE MITCHELL, Her significant contribution has been in LCH Researcher and PhD candidate at the Fiona In 2019, an establishing novel interactions of cell Elsey Cancer Research Institute. estimated adhesion molecules with the signalling pathways in cancer, identifying early- stage biomarkers for ovarian cancer A major field of our research is directed towards understanding 396 screening and understanding the mechanisms of chemoresistance in the basic biology of histiocytic diseases. We have been new cases of studying a human form of histiocytosis called Langerhans ovarian cancer patients. These studies cell histiocytosis (LCH) for many years. In this disease, cells cancer will be have led to several international patents, called Langerhans cells accumulate in various tissues to form diagnosed each competitive international and national cancer-like lesions. The causes and mechanisms controlling the day in Australia, grants and publications (>65) in development of LCH are presently unknown. on average reputable cancer journals. Nuzhat has a long-standing interest in understanding the immune cell irregularities in ovarian cancer patients.

12 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 13 Collaborative partnerships Our Network and networks

KAROLINSKA INSTITUTE, ALBERT EINSTEIN STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, Our research team are working hard to unlock the riddles of cancer. We are well positioned to do this, NEW YORK, USA MASARYK UNIVERSITY, with world class facilities, and a tissue bank of over 3000 patient samples, that is facilitated through the CZECH REPUBLIC support of medical clinicians that recognise its importance. Additionally, our team maintains an extensive program of local and international collaborations with other research centres.

Collaborations

>> Professor Jan-Inge Henter >> Associate Professor Tom Jobling Karolinska Institute, Stockholm (LCH project). Monash Medical Centre and Epworth Hospital >> Professor Peter Moore (Ovarian cancer project) University of California (LCH project) >> Professor Fadi Charchar UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, USA >> Professor Paul Jubinsky Federation University Australia (Immune studies) Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York. >> Dr David Greening (Chemo sensitivity testing) LIMS, Latrobe University (Ovarian Cancer Project) >> Dr Marty Campbell >> Dr Jock Findlay Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne. (LCH project). Hudson Institute of Medical Research >> Professor Dale Godfrey (Ovarian Cancer Project) Doherty Institute (LCH project >> Dr Nick Williamson >> Dr Daniel Pellicci Bio 21 Institute (Ovarian and CLL Projects) Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. (LCH project) >> Dr Nheim Tran >> Professor Damian Purcell RMIT (Ovarian Cancer Project) Doherty Institute. (Murine HCV project). >> Dr Rodney Luwor BIO 21 INSTITUTE UNIVERSITY OF >> Associate Professor Daniel Gray University of Melbourne (Ovarian Cancer Project) MELBOURNE Walter and Eliza Hall Institute. (Immune studies) >> Dr Christopher Burns Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (Ovarian Cancer Project) >> Prof Rob Ramsay WALTER AND LATROBE UNIVERSITY Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute. (Chemo resistance) >> Professor Richard Boyd DOHERTY INSTITUTE ELIZA HALL INSTITUTE >> Dr Laura Mackay Hudson Institute of Medical Research (Immune studies) ROYAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Peter Doherty Institute. (Immune studies) >> Professor James McCluskey >> Dr Stephen Daley University of Melbourne (Immune studies) ST VINCENT’S MEDICAL Monash University. (Immune studies) >> Professor Jaroslav Sterba RESEARCH INSTITUTE >> Dr Stuart Mannering Masaryk University, Czech Republic (Immune studies) St Vincent’s Medical Research Institute (Immune studies)

RMIT PETER MACCALLUM In May 2018, we welcomed long term collaboration project partner, CANCER INSTITUTE EPWORTH HOSPITAL Professor Paul Jubinsky, from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York to the Institute. The visit was a wonderful opportunity for the team to share projects and strengthen relationships. This Visiting MONASH UNIVERSITY Professorship was funded as part of the John Turner Cancer Research HUDSON INSTITUTE OF Fund and is a beneficial relationship and connection for the Institute. MEDICAL RESEARCH

14 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 15 Publications Board of Directors Governance as to 31 December 2018

Our research is making an international contribution To date the Institute has published over 50 publications, to the fight against cancer and our new findings that help us move closer to a cure. The research output of the Institute continues to increase, with 35 peer-reviewed GRAEME DIXON are regularly published in reputable scientific and Emeritus Professor Professor publications accepted in the last 5 years. Of those 23 papers BBUS medical journals. WAYNE ROBINSON LEIGH SULLIVAN were published in the last 2 years. CHAIR OF THE BOARD BVSC, MVSC, PHD, BSCAGR (HONS) PHD, Board member since: MACVSC, DACVP CPSS MAICD 2013 The following is a list of the publications in 2018. BOARD MEMBER BOARD MEMBER Board member since: Board member since: For a complete list and to view the research, please visit fecri.org.au. 2004 March 2016

DAVID FISKEN KERRYN SHADE CRAIG LIGHTFOOT BAGSC, MBA AFAIM, FLGP, PSM DIP APP SC, GRAD DIP Altered Populations of Unconventional T Cell Lineages in Patients Paclitaxel-loaded self-assembled lipid nanoparticles as targeted APP SC. DMU (CARDIAC), DEPUTY CHAIR OF THE BOARD MEMBER with Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis. drug delivery systems for the treatment of aggressive ovarian GAICD BOARD Board member since: Mitchell J, Kvedaraite E, Greenwood TB, Henter JI, Pellicci D, Berzins SP, cancer. Board member since: 2014 BOARD MEMBER Kannourakis G. Zhai J, Luwor R, Ahmed N, Escalona R, Tan F, Fong C, Ratcliffe J, Scoble J, 2004 Board member since: Scientific Reports, Dec 2018 Drummond C and Tran N. 2017 Applied Materials & Interfaces- July 2018

A potentially important role for T cells and regulatory T cells in ROBERT TOMMASINI GEORGIA YANNER Professor Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Momelotinib decreased cancer stem cell associated tumor burden LLB, GAICD BA. LL.B and prolonged disease-free remission period in a mouse model of GEORGE KANNOURAKIS Mitchell JM, Berzins SP, Kannourakis G. COMPANY BOARD MEMBER human ovarian cancer. MBBS, B(MED)SCI, PHD, Clinical Immunology. Sep 2018 FRACP SECRETARY Board member since: Chan E, Luwor R, Burns C, Kannourakis G, Findlay JK, Ahmed N Board member since: 2017 HONORARY DIRECTOR Oncotarget - March 2018 2017 Tumour Microenvironment and Metabolic Plasticity in Cancer Stem OF RESEARCH Cell: Perspectives on Metabolic and Immune Regulatory Signatures Board member since: in chemo resistant Ovarian Cancer Stem Cells. Human blood MAIT cell subsets defined using MR1 tetramers. 2004 ROB GLASS LISA HAYDEN BAPPSCI Ahmed N, Escalona R, Leung D, Chan E, Kannourakis G. Gherardin N, Souter M, Koay H, Mangas K, Seemann T, Stinear T, Eckle Doctor BEC DIPAGSCI FCA (SPEECH PATH) Seminars in Cancer Biology-July 2018 S, Berzins S, d’Udekem Y, Konstantinov I, Fairlie D, Ritchie D, Neeson P, DAVID DEUTSCHER Pellicci D, Uldrich A, McCluskey J and Godfrey D. TREASURER BOARD MEMBER BSC, MBBS, FRACS, MAICD Immunology and Cell Biology-March 2018 Board member since: Board member since: BOARD MEMBER Tailoring Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy for Premenopausal Breast 2005 January 2013 Board member since: Cancer. September 2018 Francis PA, Pagani O, Fleming GF, Walley BA, Colleoni M, Láng I, Gómez Temporal Regulation of Natural Killer T Cell Interferon Gamma HL, Tondini C, Ciruelos E, Burstein HJ, Bonnefoi HR, Bellet M, Martino Responses by -Catenin-Dependent and -Independent Wnt Signaling S, Geyer CE Jr, Goetz MP, Stearns V, Pinotti G, Puglisi F, Spazzapan S, Kling J, Jordan M, Pitt L, Meiners J, Thanh-Tran T, Tran L, Nguyen T, Mittal Climent MA, Pavesi L, Ruhstaller T, Davidson NE, Coleman R, Debled M, D, Villani R, Steptoe R, Khosrotehrani K, Berzins S, Baxter A, Godfrey D, Lisa Hayden sadly passed away January 2019. Buchholz S, Ingle JN, Winer EP, Maibach R, Rabaglio-Poretti M, Ruepp Blumenthal A. B, Di Leo A, Coates AS, Gelber RD, Goldhirsch A, Regan MM. SOFT and Frontiers in Immunology-March 2018 Professor Leigh Sullivan and Emeritus Professor Wayne Robinson, TEXT Investigators and the International Breast Cancer Study Group (Kannourakis G) retired from the Board Dec 2018 Investigators and the International Breast Cancer Study Group. The many facets of metzincins and their endogenous inhibitors: New England Journal of Medicine-July 2018 perspectives on ovarian cancer progression, chemoresistance and associated recurrence. Escalona R, Chan E, Kannourakis G, Findlay J, Ahmed N Scientific Advisory Committee Monitoring Immune Checkpoint Regulators as Predictive Biomarkers International Journal Molecular Science- Feb 2018 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Shrestha R, Prithviraj P, Anaka M, Bridle KR, Crawford DHG, Dhungel B, The Institute maintains a Scientific The panel meets biannually and consists of the following recognised experts: Steel JC, Jayachandran A. Human blood MAIT cell subsets defined using MR1 tetramers Advisory Committee panel to provide Frontier Oncology-July 2018 Gherardin N, Souter M, Koay H, Mangas K, Seemann T, Stinear T, Eckle guidance and good governance to our Professor George Kannourakis Dr Daniel Pellicci S, Berzins S, d’Udekem Y, Konstantinov I, Fairlie D, Ritchie D, Neeson P, research projects. This ensures our Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. Pellicci D, Uldrich A, McCluskey J, Godfrey D. projects are externally scrutinised and Immunology Cell Biology. Feb 2018 Professor Damien Purcell Professor Richard Boyd conceptually endorsed to be of legitimate University of Melbourne Adjunct Professor Monash University. grounding. Hudson Institute.

16 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 17 30 JUNE 2018 the 2018 year. Extra research staff have been employed and additional resources FINANCIAL COMMENTARY. acquired to fulfil this commitment and FIONA ELSEY CANCER RESEARCH INSTITUTE this has contributed to the loss for the year ended 30th June 2018. Graphic Presentation of Financial Operations for the year While the Institute continues to actively ended 30 June 2018 pursue grants from a range of sources, it is not expected that grants will ever completely provide the funds it needs to operate, so to maintain its ongoing 1 in 2 While the financial position of the 2018 2017 research program, the Institute will Australian men Institute was greatly improved in the continue to rely on significant community $ $ and women will 2017 financial year through the receipt support. be diagnosed of significant bequests and donations, CURRENT ASSETS with cancer by INCOME the age of 85.* the 2018 financial year has proven to be Cash 1,984,170 2,760,629 6% 3% a year in which the Institute has had to Receivables 137,494 364,502 8% once again draw on its cash reserves to Other Current Assets 8,823 18,912 17% maintain its ongoing research programs. TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 2,130,487 3,144,043 During the year ended 30th June 2018, the Institute received bequests totalling $20,413 and a further $242,097 in donations from a range of NON-CURRENT ASSETS individuals and organisations. Direct fundraising Property, Plant and Equipment 731,242 573,538 raised a further $228,728 and this year we Other Non-Current Assets 8,123 8,123 32% 34% were able to attract a grant of $60,000 from TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 739,365 581,661

TOTAL ASSETS 2,869,852 3,725,704 Corporate contributions of BEQUESTS CORPORATE CONTRIBUTIONS $116,772 along with interest CURRENT LIABILITIES DONATIONS FUNDRAISING income of $28,518 and government Trade & Other Payables 206,843 283,890 GRANTS OTHER Provisions 96,851 51,435 employment subsidies of $12,492 Tax Payable 67 1,061 helped generate income totalling EXPENDITURE

$709,201 for the year. 3% TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 303,761 336,386 16%

Federation University to help support the work of NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES the Institute. Corporate contributions of $116,772 Provisions 19,857 46,328 6% along with interest income of $28,518 and 5% government employment subsidies of $12,492 TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 19,857 46,328 70% helped generate income totalling $709,201 for the year. TOTAL LIABILITIES 323,618 382,714 After spending $1,053,531 on laboratory wages and expenses, $86,681 in providing the facilities, NET ASSETS 2,546,234 3,342,990 $81,449 on general administrative expenses, DEVELOPMENT OFFICE $235,398 on our development office and incurring EQUITY FACILITY &PROPERTY GENERAL ADMIN depreciation charges of $48,898, the Institute Corpus 480,412 480,412 LABORATORY DEPRECIATION recorded a loss before tax of $796,755. Retained Profits 2,065,822 2,862,578

A good portion of the loss for the 2018 financial year was incurred due to the Institute expanding TOTAL EQUITY 2,546,234 3,342,990 For further information and details on its research activities to meet the agreed objective the Institute, please visit the website of of the John Turner Cancer Research Fund donation the independent national regulator of received in the 2017 financial year. This donation charities, the Australian Charities and of $1,000,000 was for the purpose of accelerating This statement is an extract from the audited financial statements of the Fiona Elsey Cancer Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) or Research Institute for the year ended 30 June 2018 lodged with the Australian Charities the Institute’s current research programs during and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and available for viewing on the website of the visit www.acnc.gov.au. Commission. www.acnc.gov.au

* Australian Institute of Health and Welfare - 18 Donor Report 2018 Cancer in Australia Report 2019 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 19 Donor Contributions

We gratefully acknowledge the generosity of the following donors

OVER $1 MILLION Slater & Gordon Asbestos Research Shirley Harvey Graham Dixon Lake Wendouree Luxury Apartments 3BA/Power FM Southern Cross Aus Stereo Lake Imaging Dolls Cleaning Laminex Industries John Wade John Turner St John of God Hospital In Memory of Kevin Morrow Pam & Grant Douglas Lawrie Family Trust MP Williamson Estate of Leslie Kennedy Titeline Marion Popplewell Charitable Trust Bruce & Vicki Edward Gerald Meagher Bert Wilson Trust

Troon Family Australian Community Foundation Eclipse Ford Mininera Ball Committee OVER $100,000.00 Women’s Golf Ballarat & District Regent Multiplex Estate of Arthur Senior c/-Murray National Australian Bank Byrne BJT Legal Bill & Sue Wood Ryans IGA O & S Holdings P/L Estate of Gerald Casey Millie and Jack Borbidge Crowe Horwath Ballarat In Memory of Dawn Shade Ray Oates (Part of Findex) Estate of Beryl Doreen Davis City of Ballarat Bruce & Julie Stafford Andrew Oliver Gaunt Family Foundation Estate of Father John Martin DNA Ball Lake Bolac Walsh Quarries Pty Ltd Pepper Brand Managers Estate of Desmond R Oates Over Dorevitch Pathology Petstock OVER $50,000.00 Estate of Arthur Francis Saunders Estate of Christine Joy Hawksworth OVER $10,000 Pipecon Estate of Alfred T. Saunders Protect Estate of Gloria Jean Hadfield Arthur J Gallagher Atmosphere Events Estate of Aubrey William Wye Bill & Michelle Ricciardi 200 Estate of Harry & Peggy Maddocks Ballarat Community Enterprises Australian Mud Company Eureka Concrete Rivers Estate of Isobel Jean Tom Ballarat Courier Foundation registered Ballarat & District Trotting Club Inc Federation of Veteran, Vintage and John & Mary Ross Estate of Ivy May Dunstan Bendigo Bank Classic Vehicle Club volunteers Ballarat Courier Rotary Club of Ballarat South Estate of Joyce McGregor Andrew & Murray Byrne & Family Freemasons Victoria Ballarat Foundation Smartpix Estate of Joyce Winifred Golden Cancer in Children & Adults Gems & Jewels Ballarat/Sebastopol Cycling Club Hillary Willow Smith Estate of Mary Fletcher Johnston The Canny Family GMHBA Limited Ballarat Vintage Car Club Pam & Grant Smith Estate of Patricia White Dansick Family & Friends Hair Today, Bare Tomorrow Beechworth Bakery Nathalie Stevens Estate of Peggy Sinclair McCoy Dennis Family Homes Hardcore Diamond Products John & Glanda Blay Tanya Daniels - The Good Guys Estate of Robert Edgar Clemence Estate of Alice Jaques Jende Hayden Real Estate Blenkiron Electricial Telstra Countrywide Fulton Hogan Estate of Anne Maree Rodoni Heritage Garden Party Bob Borbidge The Show Stoppers Concert NL Gribble Estate of Barbara Dorothy Williams Hettich C E Bartlett Kathleen & Joseph Tuddenham Trust Stuart & Suzanne Gull Estate of Gladys May Brown Lin Huddleston Charitable Fund Carpet Gallery Ballarat Valmai Brown JG King Homes Estate of Isabel Judith King Barry & Louis James & Family Chip for Charity Vaughan Construction June Wilson Trust Estate of Janet LeMarshall Jenman Group Claytons Ballarat Jean Vergeer George & Trudi Kannourakis Estate of John Green Kevin Joy Architects Claytons Melbourne W H Sarah Pty Ltd Percy Baxter Charitable Trust Federation University Australia Labrador Indulgence Day Cyclescape 1000 lap swimmers Jim & Val Selkirk Gekko Systems Lake Learmonth & District Ball (in memory of Rachel Block) Dentistry Ballarat Committee

20 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 21 Corporate partners

Media partners

BALLARAT

Estimated that there were more than

Affiliated Institute 48,000 deaths from cancer in 2018*

22 Donor Report 2018 *Australian Institute of Health and Welfare - Cancer in Australia Report 2019 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 23 Fundraisers and Events

“Driving East to West in our 1930 A Model for the FECRI, was one of the best things that Many supporters and organisations continue to we have done. Over the years we have raised money for different groups and FECRI has attend events and host functions in our name. been by far the most appreciative. They were These wonderful events raise much needed funds, supportive and were fantastic to work with. whilst also raising awareness of our work. Keith and I feel very privileged to have been able to help.”

Tom O’Toole & Keith McIntosh Australian Road National Cycling Championships Girls Night Out’- Howlong Golf Club

Ballarat Cycle Classic Restaurants for Research

International Women’s Day Event East to West Documentary screening

East to West in an A Model Drive Dansick Family Shopping tour

Twentieth Anniversary Gala Dinner Bohemian Rhapsody movie night

Ballarat Vintage & Classic Car Club Ballarat Morning Federation University Australia Children’s Centre Tea Christmas party

Mamma Mia movie night- Horsham The Cutting Shop Christmas fundraiser

24 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 25 Thank you to the following sponsors

PLATINUM

GOLD

2018 Ballarat Cycle Classic Fulton Hogan

MEDIA PARTNERS SILVER The event saw a variety of road and mountain bike events, and the Channel 9 Ballarat Lake Imaging growth of family events on and off The Courier Dennis Family Homes There is an event in this the bike. Significant media attention for everyone: you can be a PowerFM and 3BA National Australia Bank for the Institute was also generated serious bike rider, a fast rider, JG King Homes by a strong radio, television and a slow rider, a club rider or Regent Cinemas print media partnerships. out there walking or running. It’s for all ages. BRONZE A magnificent total of over $185,000.00 was raised because of the 2018 Ballarat Natures Cargo Central Highlands Water Cycle Classic. This annual event celebrated its MICHAEL MALTHOUSE eleventh year having raised more than $1.8 Lake Wendouree Luxury ITSEA million for the Institute since its inception. Apartments Mr Brakes The event saw more than 1900 cyclists and walkers take part. Due to the strong support Eureka Concrete Goves Cycles of local businesses 100% of all entry fees were directed to cancer research. Atmosphere Events Arthur J Gallagher

26 Donor Report 2018 FIGHTING CANCER THROUGH RESEARCH 27 THE FIONA ELSEY CANCER RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Suites 23-26|106-110 Lydiard Street South Ballarat Technology Park Central

PO Box 549 | Ballarat, Vic 3353

(+61) 3 53 313 101 [email protected]

@fionaelseycri

Join us in the fight atfecri.org.au