A Long Lunch with a big heart: NSW event rallies support for Brain Cancer Awareness Month

The Kids’ Cancer Project is celebrating the success of its 2025 NSW Long Lunch, hosted by media personality Renee Gartner at Sydney’s iconic Woollahra Hotel.  

Coinciding with Brain Cancer Awareness Month, two key speakers joined us to share their experiences with the aggressive disease. 

Marion Corbett - mum Fred, a 13-year-old medulloblastoma survivor. A staunch advocate of finding less harmful and more effective treatments, Marion emotionally detailed the challenges Fred faces in the wake of his treatment. 

"After we received the diagnosis, I did so much research, I’d refer to myself as a ‘Mumcologist’,” she says. 

“Fred is 13 now. This week alone he's seen an occupational therapist, a physiotherapist, a psychologist and a speech therapist. The week before he saw an audiologist, a paediatrician and an oncologist. He injects himself with growth hormones every day, if he grows to be as tall as me, he’ll be lucky, but ultimately, he's here with us. 

"We know that research and funding of that research is truly making an impact in childhood cancer, and it's about now applying that not only to children today but also in the future,” Dr Mateos says. 

With the support of a group of incredible volunteers from corporate partners Binnari Property Group, over $23,000 was raised, equivalent to what it costs to support the long-term clinical trial monitoring of 12 children. 

The Kids’ Cancer Project Chairman, Kazuma Naito concluded the formalities by acknowledging the generosity of The Kids' Cancer Project supporters as something to behold.  

“During these challenging times, as Australians face rising living costs, it was heartening to see such a strong turnout today — from individual guests to small business owners, their teams, and our family ambassadors—all united in support of The Kids’ Cancer Project and the vital work Dr. Mateos spoke about. 

"We are deeply grateful—not only to our guests here today, but also to our broader community of corporate partners and everyday donors. Your continued support inspires us to keep hosting events like this, bringing together our community, researchers, and families who have been profoundly affected by childhood cancer."