Hunter Children's Research Foundation was formed in 1996 to raise much needed funds for research into children's terminal and debilitating illnesses. HCRF works in association with HMRI and is affiliated with Kaleidoscope - the Hunter Children's Health Network. Its work is overseen by an independent committee, the Hunter Children's Research Executive.

The current HCRF Committee is:
Janelle Shakespeare - Chair
Lorraine Gardner - Secretary/Treasurer
Natasha Beyersdorf
Sheridan Ferrier

Judy Hogan
Helen Ancuk
Sheryl Nisner

 

Money raised in the Hunter by HCRF stays in the Hunter to establish new and continue existing research projects in such areas as asthma, cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes and sleep disorders - illnesses that can affect any family at any time.

HCRF aims to provide funds for essential research equipment, employ research support staff and fund research grants for new and ongoing research.

Support HCRF by attending one of our events, including the highly regarded HCRF Ladies Luncheon Series. Take a peek at our event gallery or check out what is coming up!

HCRF is also a beneficiary of the Cash Housie conducted weekly at Wests Mayfield and Wests New Lambton.

Please click here if you would like to make a donation to HCRF.

HCRF Grants
To date, HCRF has raised more than $1 million for research grants and equipment. CLICK HERE to view project grants awarded by HCRF from 2005-2011.

HCRF grants are called at the same time as the HMRI Grants Round. Please check the Awards and Grants section of this website regularly for updates.

CLICK HERE to view the latest HMRI Award and Grant recipients.

 

HRCF Patrons

In 2011, Australian fashion icon Jennifer Hawkins and retired paediatrician (turned artist) Dr Cliff Hosking were announced as dual Patrons of HCRF.

Jennifer Hawkins

If ever a young woman has led a fairy tale life it is Jennifer Hawkins, the former Knights rugby league cheerleader who was crowned Miss Universe in 2004.

Born in Newcastle as the youngest of four children to Gail and Robert Hawkins, Jennifer won the Miss Universe title at the tender age of 20.

Suddenly her world revolved around a luxurious apartment in New York and global travels as an ambassador for HIV/AIDS awareness.

Jennifer has since graced the cover of every major fashion magazine in Australia. She is a guest presenter for Channel 9’s Getaway program, founder of her own swimwear label and the marketing face of department store Myer among other international fashion and beauty houses.

At the same time, Jennifer remains conscious of her public responsibilities and has supported many worthwhile charities, including Sydney Cancer Foundation, The Sydney Children’s Hospital, Canteen and Make-a-Wish Foundation.

"I really wanted to support HCRF as they do so much for community. I grew up in Newcastle so it’s very close to my heart and it’s amazing to see the medical advances being achieved by researchers in the region, particularly for young children," Jennifer said.

"It can be heartbreaking to see kids in hospital or suffering long-term illnesses, but also reassuring to know that brilliant people are working on positive solutions and better clinical care.

"As a HCRF patron I hope I can help in some way to build recognition and their fund-raising profile."

Cliff Hosking

You enter the world of Dr Cliff Hosking through the low-slung doors of his aptly named Duck Down art studio in Mount Hutton, Lake Macquarie.

Inside, dozens of his moody watercolours vie for attention on the walls, while nearby is a long table and easel where nowadays he teaches painting and drawing.

Three years ago, at the age of 70, Cliff retired from a distinguished 45-year paediatric career to devote full attention to his long-held artistic passion, though he still dabbles in medical research.

As the former Director of Paediatrics at John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Cliff played an integral role in establishing the Hunter Children’s Research Foundation in 1996 after being approached by volunteer fundraisers Janelle Shakespeare and Lorraine Gardner.

His wife, Professor Trish Davidson, is currently the Director of Children’s Services for Hunter New England Health and also actively involved with the Foundation.

Cliff is thrilled to be named Patron of HCRF, along with Jennifer Hawkins.

"They obviously chose the two most beautiful people from the Hunter," he quipped.

"I see the role as being a figurehead, attending charity events and helping to promote the Foundation.

Paediatric work has been my life so I am delighted and honoured to continue my involvement."

Cliff studied medicine in Queensland then worked at the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, for 20 years, before taking up a post at John Hunter Children’s Hospital in the early ’90s.

He is still following a Victorian cohort study dating back to 1991 looking at food allergies.

How can you help HCRF?
You can help HCRF by joining the committee, supporting HCRF charity functions, donating a piece of equipment or prizes for raffles and having a speaker come to the next meeting of your group. You can also join ReaCH 200, a group of 200 local businesses and individuals who wish to contribute to Research for Children in the Hunter.

For more information about HCRF, please call:
Lorraine Gardner, HCRF Secretary/Treasurer, on 0416 044 754 .