Professor Henry Brodaty, Senior Australian of the Year and a global titan in dementia research is a guest speaker at the St George and Sutherland Medical Research Foundation annual dinner. Picture Keegan Carroll

The community is invited to an evening of inspiration and discovery at the annual St George and Sutherland Medical Research Foundation (SSMRF) dinner, hosted at the Southern Sydney Event Centre in Hurstville on May 15.

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This cocktail event serves as a vital bridge between clinicians, researchers, and the public, showcasing progress in fields ranging from cancer and immunotherapy to women's health.

The highlight of the 2026 gala is guest speaker Professor Henry Brodaty, the reigning Senior Australian of the Year and a global titan in dementia research.

Mr Brodaty's dedication to the field is personal, rooted in the early loss of his father to Alzheimer's disease.

Attendees will hear first hand how his work is shifting from laboratory theory into real-world impact, focusing on earlier detection, improved care, and practical ways to support brain health.

With dementia affecting more than 430,000 Australians, Mr Brodaty's insights offer a rare glimpse into a future of prevention and hope.

"Our annual dinner is one of the most meaningful nights in our calendar," Pam Brown, chief executive of the SSMRF said.

"It's a chance to bring together the people who make local medical research possible and celebrate what we're achieving together.

"This year feels particularly special. We are truly honoured to have Professor Henry Brodaty as our keynote speaker.

"As 2026 Senior Australian of the Year, he is one of the great champions of dementia research and care in this country."

The evening serves as a platform to honour the brilliant minds working within hospitals.

Awards will be presented to several Research Grant Recipients who are driving groundbreaking studies.

These include Dr Michelle Fitzmaurice, for her work on early biomarkers for gestational diabetes; Dr Joyce Chiu, who is investigating ways to boost immunotherapy success; Dr Jennifer Wen Ying Lim, for her insights into neuroendocrine tumours; and PhD student Thisun Jayawardana, for his "SUPERKIDS" study into pediatric gut health.

"Every year, I'm in awe of the calibre of research happening right here in our local hospitals," Ms Brown said.

"Medical research doesn't happen without community support, and that is exactly what SSMRF is built on.

"Every person who joins us on May 15 is playing a part in something bigger - funding discoveries that will change lives."

Tickets for the event are $150, which includes a two-course meal and drinks.

In a special offer for supporters, Leader readers can access a 10 per cent discount by using the code SOUTH10 at checkout.