THE FLOREY
BRAINS TRUST
Concerned. Committed. Curious.
ADDICTION
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
MENTAL ILLNESS
EPILEPSY
HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE
MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
PARKINSON’S DISEASE
STROKE
SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME
TRAUMATIC BRAIN AND SPINAL CORD INJURY
THE FLOREY I BRAINS TRUST
THE FLOREY
BRAINS TRUST
The Florey Brains Trust is a select group of people from diverse
walks of life, industries and professions whose work or other
interests make a positive contribution to society.
They are inquisitive people and
have a thirst for new knowledge.
They like to be ahead of
the game, in touch with the
latest developments in science
and medicine.
They are unselfish and generous,
always willing to help a friend and
to share their own good fortune
with others. They are philanthropic
and are likely to be supporters of
many organisations that make a
difference to society.
They understand the value of
sound long term investments
that offer a measurable return on
investment. But from time to time
they are willing to take a risk on
the exciting, the innovative and
the imaginary.
We invite you to be a member of
the Florey Brains Trust today.
The primary function of the Brains
Trust is to raise funds for Florey
Brain research through member
financial pledges that will provide
a significant impact on our work
and give our team the confidence
to plan and look ahead. We also
see the Florey using the Brains
Trust cohort’s expertise to grow
community awareness of the
Florey’s work and to develop our
researcher’s close contact and
relationship with the community.
Your thoughts and ideas will
provide a valuable insight and
resource for our work.
We will thank you with special
opportunities to network with
like-minded people and to learn
from our scientists at exclusive
briefings. We will ensure that you
always have a great seat at our
lectures and seminars with local
and international speakers. And
because you are excited by new
discoveries, we will make sure
you always receive news of the
latest developments.
Graeme Billings, Brains Trust Chair
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THE FLOREY I BRAINS TRUST
A SHATTERED YOUNG LIFE IS RESTORED
When Rachel Vella was diagnosed with epilepsy at 14, she finally had an
explanation for years of nightly seizures that had reduced her life to homebased rest. She was too tired to socialise, learn to drive or to study. For the
next four years, medication caused drowsiness and lethargy.
Enter Professor Graeme Jackson, the Florey’s head of the Epilepsy Division
and a neurologist with a passion for imaging technology. Using a new
technique, the Florey’s team was able to isolate the exact source of Rachel’s
seizures – but the seizure activity was near the speech and language centre.
After listening carefully to Prof Jackson’s honest account of the risks of
surgery, Rachel decided to go ahead, tentatively confident that the clear
MRI images of her brain would offer an accurate roadmap for the surgeon,
protecting her speech and preventing a stroke.
The imaging technique has been hailed
as a game-changer, revealing previously
invisible epilepsy centres and allowing
precise and minimal intervention
during surgery.
The imaging technique has
been hailed as a gamechanger, revealing previously
invisible epilepsy centres and
allowing precise and minimal
intervention during surgery.
The surgical team was able to
remove a tiny slither of tissue
from Rachel’s brain from just
above the ear.
Rachel is now seizure-free and looking forward to living independently –
studying to be a teacher and contributing to the nation’s future. Rachel
says: “I hope my story encourages other people with epilepsy to feel brave
and to realise there is help available.”
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THE FINAL FRONTIER
Major brain or mind disorders affect millions of Australians every year. You may suffer from
one yourself, care for someone who does or simply see how these devastating conditions
can blight the lives of young and old.
The nature of brain and mind disorders changes
across the human lifespan. Young people have a
higher incidence of psychiatric disorders including
depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and substance
abuse. In contrast, the elderly suffer particularly from
neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s
disease, Parkinson’s disease and stroke.
Currently the burden of neurological disease
and mental illness comprises almost one third of
the total disease burden in Australia and this is
projected to increase with the ageing population
at the same time as the ratio of carers to those
needing care is reduced.
“Brain and mind diseases will
have the greatest impact on rising
health care costs in the next
decade as our population ages.
The rising tide of mental illness
in the younger population will
compound the problem”
- Harold Mitchell AC
Chairman The Florey
Fortunately, neuroscience today is on the cusp of major breakthroughs and is equipped
with an exciting array of powerful tools. Knowing the complete sequence of human DNA
enables our scientists to identify gene sequences associated with particular disorders.
Detailed work on specialized cells and electrical connections within the brain is making
it possible to understand them better. The development of magnetic resonance imaging
or MRI, and similar technologies allows us to see inside the living brain and to watch how
it works in health and with disease.
The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health is a global leader in neuroscience
research. Our unique mix of laboratory research and clinical trials ensures a bench to
bedside approach where basic scientific discoveries are translated into new therapies
and improved clinical care. Our collaboration with local and international peers produces
innovative and ground-breaking outcomes.
You can play a vital role in our march towards a healthier future by joining the Florey Brains
Trust. You will be making a valuable and much appreciated contribution.
Mr Harold Mitchell AC, Chairman
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THE FLOREY I BRAINS TRUST
HOPE THROUGH HUNTINGTON’S RESEARCH
Tony, a 36 year old Melbourne man (pictured above left), was tested for the
Huntington’s disease gene in 1998, and was found to have inherited it. For
Tony, and many other Australians, it was a devastating diagnosis. “Because
there isn’t any sort of treatment or cure, being diagnosed with Huntington’s
can give you a feeling of disempowerment and isolation,” Tony says.
Conventional wisdom had always
presumed Huntington’s had a
pre-determined outcome with no
cure available. People carrying
the gene face years of terrible
symptoms as they progressively
deteriorate, suffering uncontrollable
movements, psychiatric symptoms
including depression, and cognitive
deficits, culminating in dementia.
In effect, Florey research shows that
the brain can change to develop new
pathways, and give patients a sense of
control over this and other complex
degenerative brain conditions.
The Florey’s Professor Anthony Hannan (head of the Neural Plasticity
laboratory, pictured above right) has challenged these assumptions through
his research. Prof Hannan’s work shows that an enriched environment,
with enhanced cognitive stimulation through physical and mind challenges,
actually helps delay the onset of symptoms.
Further research has also shown that chronic stress, or even just elevated
levels of stress hormones, can bring forward particular symptoms.
By knowing what can escalate the symptoms, it is possible to work on
treatments and activities for patients.
In effect, Florey research shows that the brain can change to develop new
pathways, and give patients a sense of control over this and other complex
degenerative brain conditions.
Although there is not yet a cure for Huntington’s, research into
neuroplasticity has given Huntington’s sufferers something they may not
have thought possible when first diagnosed: hope.
THE FLOREY I BRAINS TRUST
ABOUT THE FLOREY
Since its formation 50 years ago, the Florey
has evolved to become part of a sector
that is a world class asset to Australia,
delivering significant economic dividends
through highly successful academic
activity and biotech ingenuity.
“Despite comparatively low operational
funding in global terms, the Florey
is ranked as the world’s third most
influential neuroscience
research institute.”
Spread across two campuses - one in the
- Prof. Geoffrey Donnan AO
heart of the Parkville medical research
Director The Florey
precinct , the other at the Austin Hospital
Heidelberg - today’s Florey accommodates
600 people including more than 120 top
students. We work with neuroscientists
from 34 countries. Lead by a team of extraordinary scientific leaders and supported with
imaging and genetics to provide fundamental insights to modern medicine, the Florey is
strategically positioned to confront the future health challenges faced by Australia.
The Florey’s work has already provided health benefits to countless people. In fact,
research conducted in 2013 has had an international impact by influencing the way
people are treated within hours of stroke. Also our researchers have identified the
genes responsible for epilepsy and have refined imaging techniques that not only
identify types of epilepsy but help neurosurgeons operate with incredible accuracy.
Our Alzheimer’s researchers have contributed a major advance that takes us one step
closer to developing a blood test that will identify biological markers that could identify
those at risk of dementia up to many years before symptoms appear. With scanning and
cognitive testing, this opens the way for therapies which may delay disease progression.
These achievements would not have been possible without the generosity of our
founding philanthropists and those who have contributed over the last 50 years.
Please join the Florey Brains Trust and lend your support as we head into the next fifty.
Professor Geoffrey Donnan AO, Scientific Director
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THE FLOREY’S RESEARCH –
ANSWERING THE CHALLENGE
STROKE
EPILEPSY
There are 50,000 strokes in Australia each
year – almost 1000 each week, one every
10 minutes – and the annual cost of stroke is
almost $50 billion.
Over 225,000 Australian are living with
epilepsy. Up to 3.5% of Australians will
experience epilepsy at some point in
their lives.
By 2035, the Florey aims to reduce the
incidence of stroke by 10%, that’s 5,000 fewer
each year. We will learn to diagnose earlier and
offer lifesaving treatments to an additional
6,500 people each year. We will better
understand the mechanisms of stroke so that
more stroke survivors return to a productive
life, free of disability.
By 2035 the Florey aims to cure at least 10%
of patients with intractable epilepsy each year.
This would save 10,000 young Australians from
lifelong disability annually. We will develop better
diagnostics & treatments for genetic epilepsy; use
advanced imaging to help guide neurosurgeons,
and partner with the pharmaceutical industry to
develop novel therapies.
MENTAL ILLNESS AND DEMENTIA
I in 5 people will have a mental illness in their lifetime. The personal cost of these diseases is huge, but the
financial cost of diseases such as anxiety and depression alone is estimated at over $40 billion annually.
Three in every ten people over the age of 85 have dementia. It is the third most common cause of
death in Australia. There is currently no cure.
Within 10 years, the Florey will develop biomarkers for early detection of suicide risk and dementia
to allow targeted intervention at an earlier stage. We will develop more effective treatments with
fewer side effects, and treatments to alter the profile and course of dementia and mental illness.
THE FLOREY I BRAINS TRUST
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I’D LIKE TO SEE THAT!
Sport, especially football, has been central to my life both as a player and as
an administrator. But I have another passion and I want to share it with you.
When I took over the running of the then
VFL in 1986, the league was in an entirely
different shape to what it is today. As the
new CEO, I was faced with a complex
task needing innovative ideas. But with
a good team around me, I’m proud to
say that we laid the foundations of the
powerhouse Australian Football League
we have today.
My other passion is brain research and
the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and
Mental Health – named in honour of
Howard Florey, the Australian scientist
who transformed penicillin from an
interesting laboratory observation into
a lifesaving drug.
“Just imagine if in our lifetime we could
beat Alzheimer’s disease or depression or
stroke. I’d like to see that !”
- Ross Oakley OAM
Chair Florey Foundation
Medical advances like Florey’s penicillin have helped millions of people to live
longer, healthier lives. These improvements don’t happen overnight – they are
the result of decades of medical research. The human brain however remains
largely a mystery. The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health is a
world leader in this final frontier of medical research.
It is fascinating to be part of an organisation at the forefront of brain research,
making major discoveries to unravel these mysteries. Being part of the Florey Brains
Trust gives you a way to support the Florey and its dedicated team of innovators
as they face the most complex task of all – better understanding the human brain.
Please consider joining today.
Ross Oakley OAM, Chair Florey Foundation
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THE FLOREY I BRAINS TRUST
THE FLOREY INSTITUTE
OF NEUROSCIENCE AND
MENTAL HEALTH
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE FLOREY FOUNDATION
Mr Harold Mitchell AC, Chairman
Mr Ross Oakley OAM, Chairman
Mr Andrew Abercrombie
Mr Stephen Spargo AM
Prof James Angus AO
Mr Graeme Kelly
Prof Geoffrey A Donnan AO
Mr Graeme Billings
Mr Craig Drummond
Mr Julian Clarke
Mr Rob Gerrand
Emeritus Prof Andrea Hull AO
Mr Mark Jones AM
Dr Brendan Murphy
Mr Stephen Spargo AM
THE FLOREY I BRAINS TRUST
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“
We will ensure that you always have a great
seat at our lectures and seminars with local
and international speakers.
”
THE FLOREY BRAINS TRUST
PLEDGE
You have been invited to be a part of this
select group so please complete the form
included with this brochure and return
it to the Florey, or call 03 8344 1824 for
further assistance.
Your first of three annual donations is made
on joining. The following two payments can
then be made at a time of year that suits
your personal financial circumstances. You
may of course also decide to continue with
your pledges after the first three years of
being a Brains Trust member.
LEVELS
You may select one of the four levels listed
or nominate your own level.
VISIONARY $5,000 p.a
RESEARCH
One hundred percent of your donation will
empower our scientists to make groundbreaking discoveries. And yes, you may also
ask that your contribution be directed to a
specific research area.
RECOGNITION
CHAMPION $2,500 p.a
LEADER $1,000 p.a
FOUNDATION $500 p.a
As part of the Brains Trust you will be
presented with a gold “brain shaped” lapel
pin to wear with pride as a symbol of your
valued involvement and you will be listed
in our Annual Report. You may decline this
listing if you wish to remain anonymous.
We welcome you to the Florey Brains
Trust and thank you for your support
for brain research.
Please complete the form below and
return it in the envelope provided.
;
First name:
Surname:
Address:
State:
Postcode:
Email:
Mobile:
I pledge an annual donation, for three years, of:
VISIONARY GIFT $5,000 p.a
CHAMPION GIFT $2,500 p.a
LEADER GIFT $1,000 p.a
FOUNDATION GIFT
$500 p.a
Please accept my payment by:
Enclosed is my
cheque
money order
or debit my
Mastercard
Amex
Visa
Card number:
Name on card:
Expiry date:
1
2015
Signature:
To add signature, please complete one of the following options:
ҩҩ POST: Print form, complete all fields and mail to
30 Royal Parade Parkville, Victoria 3052
ҩҩ EMAIL: Type name in signature box, save
document and attach in email to [email protected]
PRINT
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Parkville campus
30 Royal Parade
Parkville, Victoria 3052
Australia
T +61 3 9035 3000
F +61 3 9035 3107
E [email protected]
Austin campus
245 Burgundy Street
Heidelberg, Victoria 3084
Australia
T +61 3 9035 7000
F +61 3 9035 7301
E [email protected]
FLOREY.EDU.AU
ABN: 92 124 762 027