On the afternoon of Tuesday 29 July, the NORTH Foundation gathered donors, clinicians, patients and supporters for the NORTH STAR VNP Cancer Clinical Trials Showcase – an inspiring event celebrating progress, partnerships and the patients at the heart of it all.
Hosted by Sophie Scott OAM, ex-ABC medical journalist, local resident and proud NORTH Foundation Ambassador, the event was both informative and deeply personal. Sophie opened by reflecting on her connection to the community and her passion for amplifying stories that matter.
“As a local resident and ambassador of the NORTH Foundation, I feel incredibly proud to be part of something so important happening right here,” she said.
Professor Bruce Robinson AC, Chair of Research for the Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD), spoke next about the strategic vision behind NORTH STAR VNP, its international scope and collaborations with world-leading centres, including those in Vietnam and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
“The vision of Kay and Greg was a grand one,” Bruce said, referring to philanthropists Kay Van Norton Poche AO and Greg Poche AO, whose landmark donation launched the program. “It was to try and expand access to clinical trials for patients across the country and globally.”
He acknowledged the many partners that are needed to make this a reality, “but first and foremost are our patients.”
That sentiment continued with Professor Stephen Clarke OAM, Medical Director of NORTH STAR VNP, who spoke with pride about the calibre of clinicians within the NSLHD.
“We have some of the best cancer specialists in the country,” he said. “And our outcomes for patients reflect that. We are truly leading the way in cancer care.”
A dynamic panel discussion, facilitated by Sophie Scott, followed. Four leading researchers shared the cutting-edge clinical trials and innovations taking place across the district. A/Professor Connie Diakos highlighted advancements in breast and gynaecological trials, including the promise of liquid biopsies. Professor Nick Pavlakis spoke about lung cancer treatment and the importance of genomic testing. Dr William Stevenson outlined work happening with the cooperative lymphoma study group and helping patients in rural NSW. Professor Cameron Turtle spoke about exciting plans to advance cell therapy and CAR-T trials and the creation of a new cellular cancer immunotherapy service, which will deliver genetically modified immunotherapies to patients at Royal North Shore Hospital.
The afternoon continued with a passionate Q&A session, with attendees eager to engage the clinicians in meaningful discussion about what’s next for cancer care.
One of the most moving moments came next from Joanne Goyen, who shared her personal journey as a patient. Joanne spoke with warmth. emotion and gratitude for the care she received, especially from A/Professor Connie Diakos.
“I felt like I was treated as a whole person,” she said.
Her reflection on the emotional journey of cancer resonated deeply with the audience.
“This experience has changed a lot of my assumptions about having cancer. I thought it would make me feel weak. Instead, it’s shown me how strong I am, even while vulnerable. I thought it might make me feel alone. Instead, it’s brought people closer.”
The event closed with remarks from Gilbert Lorquet, CEO of the NORTH Foundation, who highlighted the importance of the transformational gift that made NORTH STAR VNP possible.
“When Kay Van Norton Poche and Greg Poche made their extraordinary $20 million gift to the NORTH Foundation, it was the largest donation ever received in our charity’s history,” Gil said. “A gift of that size is more than just generous – it’s visionary. It’s a legacy of compassion and we are so grateful to them both.”
The event sparked valuable conversations and new connections as guests stayed on to network and continue the dialogue over refreshments.
The NORTH STAR VNP Cancer Clinical Trials Showcase was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when philanthropy, research, and compassionate care come together in pursuit of a shared vision.
To learn more about NORTH STAR VNP and how you can support the future of cancer care, please click here.
