Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation Annual Report 2024-25
Report 2024-25
25 years of progress and hope
Acknowledgement of Country
The Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands upon which we work, strive, and learn, the Wurrundjiri Woi wurrung and Bunorung Boon wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation. We pay our
to Elders past and present and extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia and beyond.
this strategy, we use the term ‘women’ in recognition of the significant burden of ovarian cancer on women’s health. However, we acknowledge that ovarian cancer can affect all people with ovaries, including but not limited to transgender men, non-binary people, gender diverse, and intersex individuals.
Front cover: OCRF Ambassador Suki Paddington and son Kai for the Georg Jensen campaign 2024.
About the OCRF
Established in 2000, The Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) is Australia’s leading independent funder of ovarian cancer research, dedicated to transforming outcomes for the most lethal gynaecological cancer.
In Australia, fewer than 50 percent of women and girls diagnosed with ovarian cancer will survive more than five years – a figure unchanged for decades, highlighting disparities and gender inequities in research and care that demand urgent action.
OCRF is rewriting this story. Our vision is a future where those impacted by ovarian cancer can live healthy vital lives. To achieve this, we are catalysing change and accelerating progress by increasing awareness, advocating for greater investment and equity, collaborating nationally and internationally, and strategically funding high-impact medical research.
Every dollar we raise comes from the Australian community, driven by a shared determination to make our vision a reality.
25 years of progress and hope
2025 marks 25 years since the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) was founded to fill a critical gap and provide ovarian cancer researchers with access to funding that simply wasn’t available elsewhere.
The goal was to attract more researchers to focus on ovarian cancer and to investigate early detection targets as a primary method to improve survivability.
OCRF is 100 percent focused on a future in which everyone affected by ovarian cancer can, and does, survive and thrive.
Since that time, thanks to dedicated community and corporate partners and generous individuals, the OCRF has expanded its research remit, and become the largest independent funder of ovarian cancer research in Australia, a leading advocate for change, and a key voice for raising awareness of this insidious disease.
Values
These values guide the OCRF’s mission while fostering trust, innovation and compassion across all our work.
Collaboration Ambition
To learn how we apply these values in practice, please refer to our Strategic Plan and Donor Promise on the OCRF website.
Ovarian cancer –the challenges we face
Ovarian cancer is still the most lethal gynaecological cancer in Australia. Every year, more than 1,800 women are diagnosed in this country. Far too often, those diagnoses come late – when treatment options are ineffective or scarce. Every year, we lose more than 1,000 women in Australia: mothers, daughters, sisters, partners, colleagues and friends. The reality is that fewer than half of the women diagnosed with ovarian cancer today will be alive in five years’ time. While survival rates for other cancers have improved significantly, this statistic has barely shifted in three decades.
1800+ women diagnosed annually in Australia, and more than 1000 deaths
For too long, this disease has suffered from underfunding, underrepresentation, and systemic inequity in medical research.
We are not content to let the next generation face these same bleak statistics. We are demanding change, driving it, and working collaboratively to shape the future of ovarian cancer research, support, and advocacy in this country.
40% of diagnoses are in women under 60 years of age
49% of women with ovarian cancer will survive more than five years from diagnosis
30+ different subtypes make ovarian cancer a very complex disease
70%+ diagnoses are made in the advanced stages of disease (stages 3 and 4)
28% five-year survival from advanced disease
According to the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition, 66% increase in diagnoses is expected in our region in the next 25 years
No method or test available to screen for or detect ovarian cancer – yet
$9M total income
$0.6M other income
$1.7M pro bono
$6.8M revenue
36,500 unique donors
Research projects
16 research projects (currently funded) in 10 research institutions
Social connections
$3.5 M in new grants awarded across eight research projects
40,200+ active social media followers
12.54M impressions on social media (OCRF-owned channels)
55,700+ e-news subscribers
107,300 engagements
Chairperson report
Exceptional progress
Celebrating the 25th year of the OCRF has been particularly inspiring and motivating for me, and I’m sure the other Board Directors would say the same.
It’s been a year of exceptional growth and development for our staff team, strategic focus, national and international collaborations and partnerships. We awarded our highest ever funding for research grants, raised more than ever before, and built a raft of new partnerships. As an organisation, OCRF has really matured over the past few years and I believe we have reached a flexion point, from which we can now take the next big leap.
As we grow however, it’s important to reflect on how we got here. From the very beginning, the OCRF has been fuelled by the unwavering support of our corporate partners, including Witchery, who have been with us since the start and have been pivotal to our success to date.
The engine of our progress is our incredible and diverse community. So, in this milestone year, I would like to thank everyone who has Frocked Up for Frocktober, run a marathon, walked for us in the Mother’s Day Classic, organised a community
event, bought a Georg Jensen pendant, shared our message, conducted research – or simply spread the word: thank you. Your contribution has made progress possible.
Over these 25 years, we have distributed over $33 million in grants to ovarian cancer research. That is an extraordinary achievement by any measure. More than that, we have turned hope into action, funding over 60 pioneering research projects in research institutes across Australia –each one shining a light in the darkness of ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer remains one of the most challenging and devastating cancers.
It is research that gives us hope. It’s research that has delivered key discoveries – promising new treatments, potential early detection tools are in development, and we have a deeper understanding of the disease. Australia is recognised as a world leader in ovarian cancer research – we truly punch above our weight. Australian researchers lead with ideas, push boundaries, and inspire the global scientific community.
With ongoing community support, bold thinking, and unity of purpose, I am filled with optimism for the next 25 years. The day will come when ovarian cancer is no longer a life sentence for most women, a time when every woman diagnosed can expect a future she dreams of.
Julie Toop
CEO report
It’s been a privilege to lead the OCRF in our 25th anniversary year. As I reflect on what’s been achieved in this time, I’m proud of the ambition, energy and national presence of our organisation.
25 years young
This report highlights the team’s key achievements across the year, leading with the launch of our fiveyear OCRF Strategic Plan ‘Transforming outcomes’, a clear plan with focused targets to achieve the changes we all wish to see.
We refreshed our visual identity with a bold colour palette and new brandmark - an organic ‘O’ signifying ovaries, optimism and opportunities. The new-look OCRF involved a great deal of creative thinking about what we stand for, and it’s been warmly welcomed by our community. Thank you.
We were leading partners in two significant consortia this year. First, the Gynaecological Cancer Transformation Initiative (GCTI) advocacy bid with ANZGOG and Ovarian Cancer Australia. A thorough business case is before the Australian Government for a much-needed injection of government support for this underfunded cause.
The OCRF also expanded its horizons internationally. In October, we travelled to the Helene Harris Memorial Trust Forum on Ovarian Cancer, which
brought together 40 top researchers to discuss a roadmap for high-grade serous cancer. A terrific outcome was creation of a new alliance with philanthropic peers in the UK, USA and Canada. Grantees for our first initiative, the $1M USD AI Accelerator Grant with Microsoft, will be announced early in 2026.
In February, I was honoured to represent the GCTI at lunch with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. It was a highlight of many meetings this year with Ministerial offices, advisors and department heads. The Prime Minister listened attentively to our case for support, and I was encouraged by his response.
I’m exceedingly proud of the OCRF team’s results. These include completion of our comprehensive consultation for the soon-to-be-released Research Impact Strategy; highest ever fundraising and communications outcomes by all metrics; plus the largest grant round in our history. They are a talented group, and it’s a pleasure to work with every single one.
And our major partners, Witchery, Georg Jensen, and the Mother’s Day Classic, delivered superb campaigns this year, with fantastic nation-wide engagement.
There is much more in this report to celebrate. Important progress is being made yet survival rates for ovarian cancer continue to languish, and treatment options are not yet keeping pace with the ‘cancer revolution’ – we have so much more to do, and the wherewithal to do it.
So, watch this space. With the support of our community, there’s much more to come in 2026!
Robin Penty
OCRF Strategic Plan 2025-30
New Strategic Plan 2025 -2030
In June 2025 we launched a new five-year organisational strategy to guide our work and help us achieve our ambitions.
Central to the strategy is our new vision – a healthy vital future for all those impacted by ovarian cancer. This is underpinned by a clear purpose statement: we drive step-change in research undertaken, awareness and funds raised, for the most lethal gynaecological cancer in Australia.
Our updated strategy reflects the maturing of our organisation, and our increasing influence. It guides us to lift our gaze higher than ever before, and to lead the change we seek in ovarian cancer research.
It is essential that we advocate for, and with, the ovarian cancer community, and do everything we can to boost investment in medical research. In tandem, we will continue to amplify women’s voices and call out structural inequity for women’s health and disease.
The OCRF Strategic Plan 2025-30 is our roadmap –greater recognition of the issues, greater investment in solutions, and faster, more impactful results.
In addition to the refreshed vision, purpose, values, and principles of practice, the plan sets out four strategic aims and 12 clear goals that drive the overall health of the organisation and our community, as well as a blueprint for success and our vision for 2030.
“For too long, the survival rates for this disease have stagnated. It simply doesn’t have to be this way. It’s time to unite and agitate for greater investment, greater equity, and, finally, better outcomes for ovarian cancer.”
– Robin Penty, CEO
Discover the OCRF Strategic Plan 2025-30 here.
New brand identity
A new brand identity marks a new chapter
To mark our 25th anniversary and propel us into a new chapter, we unveiled a bold and beautiful new visual identity in January 2025. At the heart of the brand is the letter ‘O’ – referencing our focus on overcoming ovarian cancer, seizing opportunities for progress, and our enduring optimism for the future.
The design reflects both science and humanity: an imperfect, organic, circular ‘O’ shape alluding to cells, eggs and ovaries, paired with a confident, modern typeface. We increased the use of teal in the brand identity to align the OCRF with the internationally recognised colour signifying ovarian cancer, complemented by silver, mint green and purple, to represent strength, renewal, a connection to women’s rights and the broader connection to gynaecological cancers.
The round O shape is also reflected in overlapping and fluid organic shapes applied in the visual identity that communicate the complexity and the interconnected nature of our work.
Developed in partnership with Marlin Communications, this revitalised identity is dynamic, versatile and memorable. It cleverly encapsulates our purpose and helps to set the stage for an exciting next phase for the OCRF, guided by the new five- year Strategic Plan and new Research Impact Strategy that will launch in late 2025.
Research and advocacy
Another record-breaking year, with new national and international connections forged, and major collaborative initiatives setting the scene for transformational change in the years ahead.
Guided by lived experience, driven by strategy: the OCRF’s new Research Impact Strategy
Following facilitated workshops with the academic research sector in autumn 2024, in September we undertook a national consultation process with our lived experience community. We wanted to hear diverse perspectives on ovarian cancer research, what types of research the OCRF should be prioritising, and in what ways people with lived experience would like to be involved.
We sought to gather both depth and breadth of opinion and perspectives. Supported by the OCRF’s Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP) and the generous assistance of peer organisations, we reached out to the wider community via a survey, receiving 362 responses, followed by online focus group sessions involving 42 participants with lived experience together with researchers.
The information and insights we gained from these extensive consultations have informed OCRF’s new Research Impact Strategy 2025-30. The Research Impact Strategy will be launched in late October 2025. It is a hopeful and ambitious shared vision for transforming ovarian cancer outcomes. The new strategy outlines:
• The research objectives that will guide our grant-making focus and priorities
• The research programs that will enable and accelerate progress
• Ongoing collaborative efforts and partnerships that will ensure best practice decision-making and program delivery
• An evaluation framework to ensure the OCRF remains accountable to our community, our supporters and partners.
The OCRF is committed to championing innovative, best-practice ovarian cancer research, whether it is funded by us or not. The new strategy emphasises the importance of bringing people together, providing researchers with opportunities to share learning and ideas, and to be guided and inspired by people with a lived experience of ovarian cancer.
This will be our research roadmap for the next five years – guiding our decisions and ensuring we deliver the impact that our stakeholders and community have told us they want to see.
Discover the OCRF Research Impact Strategy 2025-30.
Left: Prof Brian Gabrielli and team member at Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland.
International connections
In October 2024, members of the OCRF team travelled to Surrey, England, to meet with delegates from peer charities in the UK, USA and Canada for the 15th Helene Harris Memorial Trust (HHMT) International Forum on Ovarian Cancer, convened by Ovarian Cancer Action UK.
For over four decades, the prestigious HHMT meeting has brought together top scientists from the international research community to share knowledge and coordinate research efforts toward better outcomes for high-grade serous ovarian cancer.
This was the first year that international philanthropic organisations were invited to sponsor and attend as Global Partners. The OCRF welcomed the opportunity to connect and strategise with our peers in a two-day shoulder meeting that included senior leadership, and the research leads from Ovarian Cancer Action UK, Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (USA) and Ovarian Cancer Canada.
The 45 invited delegates included researchers from across the globe. Our CEO, Robin Penty, and Senior Research Advisor, Dr Amy Wilson, attended along with OCRF-sponsored researchers Associate Professor Jason Lee from the University of Queensland and Dr Nikki Burdett from Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne. The Forum gave researchers a platform to develop a tangible roadmap of recommendations which has since been accepted for publication in Nature in 2025-26.
Global philanthropic collaboration leads with ground-breaking AI grant
The 2024 HHMT forum also gave rise to a new international collaboration. In May 2025, we announced the launch of the Global Ovarian Cancer Research Consortium (GOCRC), bringing together the four global partners to form a major new international philanthropic collective. The Consortium’s inaugural initiative is an incredible $US1 million AI Accelerator Grant, supplemented by another $1 million in computational support from Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab using the power of artificial intelligence.
AI has already profoundly impacted diagnosis of other cancers; however ovarian cancer is yet to feel the benefit of this revolutionary technology. The GOCRC wanted to mobilise the world’s brightest minds to harness AI to change this and make a real impact on key measures including survival rates, which stubbornly remain below 50%. Applicants formed teams featuring a representative from each of the four countries included in the GOCRC to compete for the grant. The call out received an excellent response with some impressive and ambitious proposals put forward. The successful grant award will be announced early in 2026.
Further GOCRC initiatives are already in planning and development for launch next year.
Left: Senior Research Advisor, Dr Amy Wilson speaking at Helene Harris Memorial Trust International Forum.
Above: Cary Wakefield, CEO Ovarian Cancer Action (UK), Robin Penty, CEO OCRF, Tania Vrionis, CEO Ovarian Cancer Canada and Audra Moran, President and CEO OCRA (US).
A record funding injection for ovarian cancer research
In March, the OCRF set a new record for our research grant-making, committing $3.5 million to cutting-edge ovarian cancer research projects. This history-making distribution surpassed the 2024 figure of $2.4 million and reflects the foundation’s growing success in awareness – and fundraising.
With peer review by the International Scientific Advisory Committee and Lived Experience Advisory Panel, eight projects received funding in our 2025 round of the National Research Grants Program. Awardees include Australian researchers who are among the few in the world with programs dedicated to rare ovarian cancer subtypes.
The five major grant recipients include:
• Assoc. Prof. Simon Chu, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Monash University, $724,293 over three years: study focusing on adult granulosa cell ovarian tumours to develop a new treatment for this rare subtype
• Assoc. Prof. Kylie Gorringe, The University of Melbourne and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, OCRF Mother’s Day Classic Foundation grantee, $481,667 over three years, to examine mucinous ovarian cancer to identify ways to therapeutically target the disease, and screen drugs to find new treatment approaches for this rare subtype.
• Dr Emma Bolderson, Queensland University of Technology, $460,552 over two years to investigate foundations for an effective treatment approach for rare ovarian cancer clear-cell carcinoma.
• Dr Dale Garsed, The University of Melbourne and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre: $299,584 over three years to examine the immune response to cancer in long-term survivors of high-grade serous ovarian cancer to develop new treatments
• Dr Nicole Campbell, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, OCRF Mother’s Day Classic Foundation grantee: $892,212 over three years, to study a new immunotherapy that targets high-grade serous ovarian cancer, which can help activate the immune system.
In addition to the five major grants to new projects, the OCRF announced support for three ongoing projects:
• $473,458 to Professor Michael Jennings, Griffith University, investigating a promising sugar-based biomarker early detection approach (final year).
• Two collaborative grants to support research at the Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) Centre for Optimised Cancer Therapy at QIMR Berghofer and the Advanced Image-Guided Cancer Therapeutics at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, each valued at $100,000 (both one year).
One of the most challenging aspects of ovarian cancer is the diversity and complexity of the disease, so it’s vital to support research into the rarer types, to ensure better outcomes for everyone who receives an ovarian cancer diagnosis.
Below: Dr Emma Bolderson, Queensland University of Technology.
Australian government grant gives major boost to OCRF early detection project
Prof Carlos Salomon Gallo from The University of Queensland, a longtime collaborator with the OCRF was awarded $1.46 million through a National Health and Medical Council grant from the Australian Government. This directly leveraged an OCRF grant of $940,000 awarded in March 2024 to support the OCRF-7 test to detect high-grade serous cancer. A previous study of the OCRF-7 test suggested that the test had over 90% accuracy identifying stage I and II High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer in a 465-sample case-control cohort making it one of the most promising prospects for an effective early detection test. The test is expected to enter phase I clinical trials in late 2025.
Dr Amy Wilson announced as an official member of ‘Superstars of STEM’
Superstars of STEM is an Australian Government program fostered by the Department of Industry, Science and Resources through Science and Technology Australia. The program is designed to foster and celebrate science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) talent, investing in knowledge translation, diversity and inclusion. In December 2024, OCRF’s Senior Research Advisor, Dr Amy Wilson was announced as one of 60 stellar ‘superstar’ scientists inducted into the prestigious professional development program which aims to break gender stereotypes about who can work in STEM and build the public profile of participants.
Leader cells research by Hudson Institute published in Cell Reports
Dr Maree Bilandzic and her team at the Hudson Institute of Medical Research have conducted a study that has revealed a potential novel approach to the treatment of ovarian cancer. A diagnosis of ovarian cancer carries with it two significant risks: the damage inflicted by the disease itself and the possibility the cancer spreads. Dr Bilandzic’s team believe their work with ‘leader cells’ could hold the key to addressing both. When leader cells are eliminated the cancer’s ability to spread is disrupted and the immune system has an easier time identifying it. Maree and her team are now entering the next phase to develop a treatment designed to specifically target leader cells.
Understanding risk and prevention
In June, the OCRF sponsored a public symposium in Adelaide as part of in-kind support for a University of South Australian research project. The symposium, titled Prediction and Prevention in Ovarian Cancer, brought South Australian researchers, clinicians and patients with lived experience together to discuss the latest research across risk and prevention.
The work of researchers like Prof Elina Hypponen at the University of South Australia has revealed fascinating insights into the factors that lead to ovarian cancer development, including the lifestyle factors that increase or decrease the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer.
Table 1. Ongoing OCRF-funded research projects, funds paid 2024-2025
Functional genomic approaches for identifying new therapeutic targets
A new treatment that increases immune recognition of ovarian cancer
Early detection using liquid biopsy circRNA
Early detection using novel serum glycomarkers
Ron Firestein
Prof Brian Gabrielli
Jason Lee
Michael Jennings
New therapies for lowgrade serous ovarian cancer Dr Dane Cheasley
SIERRA study: Specificity of a new test for ovarian cancer Prof Carlos Salomon
A novel therapeutic vaccine for ovarian cancer Prof Kristen Radford
Tissue Bank Dr Maree Bilandzic
of Melbourne/ Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
4
OCRF-supported projects currently in clinical trials
Table 2. Ongoing Collaborative Research Project payments 2024-2025
A new radio-imaging agent to guide targeted therapy for epithelial ovarian cancer MRFF Prof John Hooper
Ovarian cancer early detection, monitoring and therapeutic intervention using extracellular vesicles MRFF
Towards a New Era in Granulosa Cell Tumour research
Machine learning genetic epidemiology study
Enabling early ovarian cancer diagnosis and platinum resistance prediction
Implementing a multivariate index assay for ovarian cancer early detection MRFF
novel follistatin nanobody for improved ovarian cancer treatment
Institute of Medical Research
Co-funding partners
• Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF)
• Cancer Australia
• Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF)
• National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
kindDetect
Underfunded Collaborative advocacy at work
This year, the OCRF joined forces with the Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG) and Ovarian Cancer Australia (OCA), to develop a landmark national collaborative initiative that aims to revolutionise the diagnosis, treatment and care pathway for women with gynaecological cancers. Ovarian cancer accounts for a quarter of all gynaecological cancer diagnoses and half of the deaths.
The Gynaecological Cancer Transformation Initiative (GCTI) is a comprehensive response to the complex challenges that we face in our drive to change the story for gynaecological cancers. Led by ANZGOG, the proposed plan resulted from months of extensive work by researchers, clinicians, peer organisations, government, and women with lived experience. In December 2024, the business case for the GCTI was submitted to the Australian government and since then we have been advocating actively for federal government investment to ensure this vision becomes reality.
A national advocacy campaign Underfunded ran in April - May 2025, including a petition letter to the Prime Minister that secured almost 10,000 signatures.
Gynaecological cancers remain underfunded and under-researched despite being the fourth most common cause of cancer-related death in Australian women. Fifty-five per cent of these cancers are rare or less common, leaving many women with limited or no treatment options. Women and their families urgently need better access to personalised, evidence-based care and coordinated research that accelerates new treatment discoveries.
The GCTI aims to deliver on this need by focusing on three critical areas: the woman’s journey, the clinical team, and the research community. Key outcomes include expanding access to molecular profiling and precision medicine, strengthening clinical capability across metropolitan, regional and remote Australia, establishing a national data portal and virtual biobank, and supporting innovative clinical trials. Central to this is ensuring women receive equitable access to world-class care, improved survival outcomes, and specialist supportive services.
Contributing to this initiative as a lead partner demonstrates the OCRF’s strong commitment to working collaboratively to transform the trajectory of gynaecological cancer research and care, ensuring Australian women and their families are given the options, treatments, and hope they deserve.
Below: OCRF CEO Robin Penty, OCA CEO Debbie Shiell, ANZGOG CEO Alison Evans at Teal Parliamentary Breakfast event, hosted by Ovarian Cancer Australia.
#StrongerTogether this Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Uniting and
collaborating
for impact
The OCRF was proud to again join peer organisations Ovarian Cancer Australia (OCA) and the Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG) in a shared call for action to bring ovarian cancer into the national spotlight and dialogue. This was the second year the three organisations have united in a shared message for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, continuing a commitment to greater impact and action on ovarian cancer.
To further commemorate and celebrate OCAM, CEO Robin Penty attended the annual Teal Ribbon Parliamentary Breakfast organised by Ovarian Cancer Australia. This annual event provides a key touchpoint for the ovarian cancer community to connect with politicians and policy makers, to highlight the issues facing those impacted by ovarian cancer and advocate for urgently needed investment. Together with OCA CEO Deb Shiell, ovarian cancer advocate, Georgie Beck, delivered a moving and powerful keynote address about her personal diagnosis, treatment, fears and hopes for the future. The event was supported by representatives from all sides of politics.
Amplifying with Women’s Agenda
To extend reach, awareness and impact throughout OCAM, we partnered with Women’s Agenda, an independent, female owned-and-run news website. Women’s Agenda worked with the OCRF team to develop and publish a series of four thought-provoking articles, and interviews with OCRF-funded researchers, staff and ambassadors. These stories examined the personal impacts of a diagnosis; a historical look into why ovarian cancer has been overlooked and underfunded; progress and opportunities in collaborations; and an exploration of risk factors and prevention.
The weekly articles saw just over 5,000 users read the content on the Women’s Agenda website. Social media posts across LinkedIn and Facebook from Women’s Agenda accounts achieved a total of 135,900 impressions.
Flexion point
This year the OCRF leadership team was active and vocal in our public advocacy with government, civil society, industry and peers.
We attended numerous meetings and key briefings and fostered or deepened numerous important connections for our cause. The CEO represented the OCRF at Ministerial and departmental briefings for the Gynaecological Cancer Transformation Initiative with Minister for Health, The Hon Mark Butler and Assistant Minister for Health and Women, The Hon Rebecca White. We met with senior staff at the Department of Health Disability and Ageing, National Health and Medical Research Office, and Medical Research Future Fund. The CEO also represented the GCTI and our cause at a briefing with the Prime Minister in February, a highlight of this full year.
Other highlights include CEO and staff attendance in support of the Australian Cancer Research Foundation’s 40th Anniversary event at Government House with Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor of Australia; the [W] Health National Women’s Health Roundtable hosted by Kearney Group; interstate visits with OCRF ambassadors; ANZGOG’s Scientific Meeting in Canberra; and keynote speeches as part of the Mavis Robertson International Women’s Day Luncheon and other presentations to Women in Super.
Throughout the year, we were delighted to have forged stronger bonds with our sister organisation, Ovarian Cancer Australia and the Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group; with Jean Hailes for Women’s Health through their engagement of OCRF’s Senior Research Advisor to write the Jean Hailes resource on ovaries and ovarian cancer; and with valued colleagues at Inherited Cancers Australia, discussing medically induced menopause and more.
Above: Inherited Cancers Australia, Programs and Advocacy Manager Robyn Smith with CEO Robin Penty in Canberra.
Below: CEO Robin Penty at Australian Cancer Research Foundation’s 40th Anniversary event at Government House.
Corporate partnerships
The OCRF’s major partners enhance and amplify our work, helping us to raise more funds and reach new and broader audiences, as well as sharing our determination to see change for a disease that has been overlooked for too long.
FEATURE
Mother’s Day Classic success puts a spring in our step
In 2025, the much-loved Mother’s Day Classic (MDC) once again included the OCRF as a beneficiary, alongside the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Across the country, over 80,000 participants at 85 events laced up their shoes on Sunday 11 May, all with a shared commitment to improve outcomes for breast and ovarian cancer.
It’s an amazing event to be part of, and incredible to witness the warmth, camaraderie and enthusiasm that makes this such an exceptional occasion for the OCRF community and for everyone involved. Participation was up 20% on the previous year as the MDC community expanded to welcome the ovarian cancer cause to the fold.
Even better, the final fundraising tally reached new heights, with $3.5 million raised by the MDC community, of which $1.37 million was donated to the OCRF. This is an incredible result and makes a huge difference to our ability to invest in innovative and promising research projects.
Beyond this generous contribution, the MDC plays a powerful role in raising the profile of ovarian cancer and placing this ‘silent cancer’ in the national conversation. Every participant, donor and volunteer contributes not only to fundraising totals, but also to increasing awareness of ovarian cancer, and the need to change the story.
The OCRF acknowledges with gratitude the Mother’s Day Classic Foundation, its partners and participants. Together, we are building momentum and creating change.
Left: Melissa Leong in the White Shirt Campaign 2025.
Right: Participants at Mother’s Day Classic events across Australia.
Weaving hope: 17th Witchery White Shirt Campaign
Iconic Australian women’s fashion brand and longstanding principal partner, Witchery, launched the 17th annual campaign on 8 April, in partnership with the OCRF.
This year’s White Shirt was designed by Margie Woods, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Viktoria & Woods, a collaboration that was made even more special by Margie’s personal connection to ovarian cancer due to her mother’s diagnosis in 2023. For the first time, the shirt was complemented by an exclusive white jean as well.
The beautifully crafted campaign story was built around the theme of ‘weaving hope’ - something the Witchery White Shirt Campaign excels at.
Ovarian cancer survivors and OCRF ambassadors Lavania Parker and Jemima Leydon, our CEO Robin Penty, and OCRF-funded researcher Prof. Kristen Radford, represented the OCRF in the national media campaign. They starred alongside 33 high profile ambassadors from sport, business, music, fashion, entertainment and media industries, including Olympians Jess and Noemie Fox, actors Kat Stewart, Claudia Karvan and Yael Stone as well as long term supporters such as Sarah Abo, Melissa Leong and Lauren Phillips.
At an emotional media launch event in Sydney, Lavania and Jemima shared their personal stories and there was not a dry eye in the room. Reflecting on the event and campaign, Prof Kristen Radford said,
“This was such an amazing and special experience to be part of... I was very honoured and proud to be involved, and my team and I are so committed to delivering the innovative research advances that this community so desperately deserves... I feel so privileged to be part of this wonderful community.”
The campaign’s iconic status is a testament to Witchery’s long-term commitment and the generosity of influential women using their voice and platforms to amplify the message and promote Witchery’s OCRF White Shirt sales in aid of ovarian cancer research.
The 2025 White Shirt Campaign concluded on 8 May which is World Ovarian Cancer Day and White Shirt Day. It was again celebrated with a special and heartfelt thank you event at the Witchery head office in Melbourne bringing together staff, ambassadors, supporters and media.
Above: Margie Woods of Viktoria & Woods and mum Mona for the White Shirt Campaign 2025.
Jaggad helps change the tide for ovarian cancer
During Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in February, Australian activewear brand Jaggad launched a specially designed two-piece collection for the OCRF. The collection featured the Turquoise Bay sweater in a signature teal with silver Jaggad brand embroidery, and the Turquoise Bay t-shirt, with a graphic designed by OCRF staff member Aimee-Cherie Kendall, in honour of her mother Lisa, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2022.
This was our inaugural campaign with Jaggad. The campaign story featured OCRF team member Aimee, and her brother Mitch, telling the story of their late mum Lisa’s experience with ovarian cancer, honouring her strength and positive disposition, even in the face of a devastating diagnosis. The collection sold incredibly well, with the t-shirt selling out within a week of launching. Sales resulted in Jaggad generously donating $30,000 to the OCRF.
Above: Mitch and Aimee Kendall for the Jaggad campaign 2025.
Darrell Lea ‘Eggs for Ovaries’ returns
Easter was once again a little sweeter, with beloved Australian confectionery company Darrell Lea partnering with the OCRF for the second year to produce a special OCRF Australian-made milk chocolate Easter egg.
The egg was sold in IGA and Myer stores nationwide and 20 cents from the sale of each egg was donated to the OCRF. To bring the ‘Eggs for Ovaries’ campaign to life OCRF Ambassadors Amy Rein, Rosie Madaschi, Tracy Walker, Shabnam Gujadhur and Lindy Spicer visited local oncology wards to hand out delicious Darrell Lea eggs to delighted patients and nurses.
Cards with purpose
Our long-term partnership with Simson Cards continued throughout 2024 and 2025, with the sale of two special OCRF branded card ranges – one for Mother’s Day and the other for the December holiday season. Since 2010, Simson Cards have donated more than $600,000 to the OCRF. The back of the cards features a message about the OCRF and ovarian cancer, also supporting vital awareness-raising efforts.
Above: OCRF Ambassador Dr Shabnam Gujadhur delivering Darrell Lea easter eggs to her local hospital.
Celebrating 10 years of partnership with Georg Jensen
In September, Georg Jensen and the OCRF commemorated a decade of partnership with a special campaign entitled Untold Stories.
The campaign centred on the heartbreaking story of OCRF ambassador Suki Paddington and the loss of her beloved mother, Margy, to ovarian cancer. The special 2024 OCRF pendant featured a Forget-Me-Knot design – a timelessly elegant heritage piece that embodies the unbreakable bond between a mother and daughter.
Margy tragically lost her battle with ovarian cancer in 2023 after being diagnosed with advanced stage ovarian cancer in 2019. Her story poignantly represents the women and girls’ lives lost too soon to ovarian cancer.
Suki said she was so proud to share the story of her incredible mum, Margy, in the 2024 Georg Jensen OCRF campaign. “We miss mum every single day, so keeping her memory and legacy alive in such a moving national campaign is a true honour,” she said.
The 10th anniversary campaign launch was celebrated with an intimate lunch at Sydney restaurant, The White Horse. Past campaign ambassadors, OCRF ambassadors, key Australian fashion and lifestyle media representatives, and OCRF-funded researchers came together for a moving event that included a panel discussion with Suki Paddington, CEO Robin Penty, and Creative Director Eleanor Pendleton of Gritty Pretty productions.
The campaign attracted considerable national media coverage, with stories featured in Vogue magazine, The Daily Telegraph, Australian Financial Review, Marie Claire, Belle Magazine, Sun Herald Sunday Life, and more.
A decade from its inception, the Georg Jensen and OCRF partnership brings the untold stories of ovarian cancer into the national spotlight to shed a light on the real-life impact of this dreadful disease.
Over the last ten years, Georg Jensen has raised awareness and more than $500,000 for ovarian cancer research via donations to the OCRF.
OCRF Ambassador Suki Paddington with husband Kevin and son Kai for the Georg Jensen campaign 2024.
Donor engagement, appeals and fundraising
The OCRF community of ambassadors, supporters and donors – large and small – are the lifeblood and driving force of our mission and purpose. From Frocktober’s sequins to the sweat of a marathon, these stories are the heart and soul of why we do what we do.
New look Frocktober delivers $1 million result
In 2024, eight years since the first OCRF-led Frocktober campaign, we re-launched with a strategic makeover to capitalise on the campaign’s potential as a ‘movement’ with the aim of raising more money, more awareness, and a greater profile for the cause.
The 2024 Frocktober campaign was brought to life with a bold new look in partnership with creative agency, Silver Lining Agency, paving the way for our new corporate brand colour palette.
The campaign starred inspiring OCRF ambassadors Glenda Hill-Baulch and Amelia Higgs, alongside leading Australian fashion designer and stylist, Lana Wilkinson and OCRF team members including our CEO, Robin Penty. Behind the camera was fashion and street-style photographer extraordinaire, Dan Castano, with talent styled by celebrity stylist Paul Versace.
The campaign was amplified nationally across radio, print, digital and billboards ads, thanks to the generous support from ongoing media partners of the OCRF, Nova, Ooh! Media and frankie magazine.
Frocktober is a unique campaign – accessible to everyone, and a special opportunity for people across the community to wear their support for the cause through style, colour and selfexpression. The stories and the passion that the ‘Frockers’ bring to their fundraising are simply extraordinary.
The 2024 campaign raised over $1m, thanks to the efforts of 782 registered Frockers, including 210 workplaces, and the support of over 8,000 donors.
Top: OCRF fundraiser Sam Pidgeon at a Frocktober event.
Bottom: Prof Brian Gabrielli and Prof Kristen Radford support Frocktober at Mater Research.
Left: OCRF Ambassadors Amelia Higgs and Glenda Hill-Baulch for the Frocktober campaign.
CASE STUDY
Frocking on for Tammy
Tammy was diagnosed with Stage III ovarian cancer in 2017 and passed away four and a half years later at just 44. Even in her final days, her focus was on helping others. She believed in the power of research and encouraged friends and family to support the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), inspiring her loved ones to mobilise for treatments that work and early detection tests that could save lives.
Tammy’s family carry on her legacy each year through their Frocktober event, “Frock you cancer, Freo Tammy Style.” What began as an intimate farewell party has grown into an annual afternoon tea attracting 250 guests, with raffles, pre-loved frock sales, and guest speakers raising funds and increasing awareness. In 2024, they frocked up once again, raising $37,000 and bringing their total contributions to more than $150,000 for life-saving ovarian cancer research.
Tammy’s sister Kristen says, “For us, Frocktober is not just a fundraiser. It is a way to keep Tammy’s legacy alive, surrounded by the people who loved her, and to work towards the day when we can say ovarian cancer no longer takes lives too soon.”
End of Financial Year Appeal 2025
This year’s tax appeal shared the story of 20-yearold Chelsea Regan, a survivor of one of the rarest forms of ovarian cancer, Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumours. Diagnosed as a 16-year-old whilst still at school, Chelsea endured her surgery, treatment and recurrence during Covid lockdowns, adding an extra challenge to a very difficult scenario.
Through generously sharing her story and her poignant photos, Chelsea helped us to achieve our most successful EOFY result yet! Chelsea’s story was complemented by the compelling work of Assoc Prof Simon Chu, who has made it his life’s work to focus his research on another rare form of ovarian cancer, Granulosa Cell Tumours.
The EOFY Appeal has become one of the OCRF’s leading fundraising initiatives each year, and we extend our gratitude to those donors who give generously at this time each year, and to all the new donors we welcomed in 2025.
Frock
Above: OCRF ambassador Chelsea Regan (centre) with family. Left:
you Cancer, Freo Tammy Style afternoon tea event.
Community fundraisers shine
Countless fundraising activities took place all around Australia again this year. From barbeques and bake sales, raffles and rattling tins, to head shaves and huge hikes, it was another extremely successful year of community fundraising for the OCRF. We welcomed two incredible new fundraisers. Christopher Ho hosted the inaugural Shine Ball in Sydney, honouring the memory of his late wife Melanie and raising more than $200,000. In Queensland, the O-vary Long Walk for Tora – 100 km from the Gold Coast to Byron Bay in just 24 hours, was spearheaded by Hewson Perry, raising more than $38,000 in the name of his fiancé Tora Murphy. The inaugural event took place just months before Tora’s death from a rare form of ovarian cancer on Christmas Day 2024, at just 25 years of age.
Many long-standing fundraisers continue to support the OCRF, including the Cabal Club, led by Sue Wallis, hosting another successful lunch raising more than $20,000.
For the first time this year, the OCRF partnered with Inspired Adventures which saw a group of fundraisers trek the Larapinta Trail for ovarian cancer research. Walking in memory of lost loved ones, as survivors, and for better outcomes to women’s health – this incredible group raised more than $80,000, shared a spectacular experience and made lifelong friends. We hope this will be the first of many annual OCRF Inspired Adventures.
Multi-charity events
Every year, marathons and other physical challenges raise millions for charities, inspiring participants to go the extra mile for their favourite cause. Known as multi-charity events, these have become a strong source of fundraising growth for the OCRF. In 2024–25, nearly 650 fundraisers collectively contributed $200,000 to the OCRF for ovarian cancer research. Although each participant had their own motivation for taking on these physical challenges, together they united behind a shared commitment to supporting vital research.
The 2024 Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival had another successful year with participants raising over $43,000. This included three standout fundraisers who each raised more than $7,000 individually. OCRF staff were also present at the event, providing on-the-ground encouragement
and support to participants. HBF Run for a Reason 2025 had a record-breaking year for OCRF raising over $12,000, with 124 fundraisers taking part.
A new stair climbing event, Towers 4 Change in Melbourne generated strong media engagement and community interest. Alongside three other charities, we were selected for Tower 1, the RitzCarlton in Docklands which saw 138 fundraisers participate in the challenge of climbing 1,476 stairs. Their collective efforts successfully raised over $40,000, making the event both a fundraising and awareness-building success.
This fundraising stream has demonstrated consistent year-on-year growth, with an $80,000 uplift from the last financial year. A new multicharity event strategy is coming into effect, with early signs pointing to increased participation and strong fundraising outcomes.
Below: Kevin Cho running in Point to Pinnacle event for OCRF.
25 years of progress and hope
Community and connections
The OCRF has built a profile and standing that belies its size. Throughout the year, we strive to ensure the issues around ovarian cancer are talked about and acted upon in the media, the community, industry and government.
OCRF Ambassadors are central to our ability to tell our story and raise both awareness and funds at every level.
OCRF in the news
Raising awareness of ovarian cancer and the urgent need for greater research investment are central to the OCRF’s mission. Our marketing, social media, PR and publicity activations are critical in driving the success of our campaigns, partnerships and fundraising initiatives.
Editorial PR and social media play an important role, providing a platform for the stories of our ambassadors and community, while ensuring the OCRF’s voice reaches a broad and diverse audience. These channels not only raise awareness of the disease but also highlight the OCRF’s role in funding vital ovarian cancer research.
In 2025, the OCRF attracted significant media traction across print, digital, radio and television. Highlights included the Witchery White Shirt Campaign, the Georg Jensen campaign and Frocktober garnering national news coverage, ambassador interviews in leading outlets, and wide-reaching social campaigns that collectively reached millions of Australians. This breadth of coverage strengthens recognition of the OCRF and ensures ovarian cancer remains part of the national health conversation.
In the media
Our marketing initiatives are further amplified through a strong network of advertising and promotional partners, whose in-kind support extends the impact of our major campaigns. This year, we partnered with Women’s Agenda for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and long-term supporters, including Nova Entertainment, oOh! Media and frankie Magazine which continue to generously provide advertising space and coverage, multiplying the value of our investment many times over.
1,400+ mentions 19M reach
Silver Anniversary Gala Dinner –a dazzling night of remembrance and recognition
To celebrate 25 years of progress and hope, the OCRF’s Silver Anniversary Gala Dinner was a memorable, moving, and inspiring night to commemorate all we have achieved alongside our community – the driving force behind our continued success and growth.
Hosted at The Glasshouse, Melbourne, OCRF Board and committee members, ambassadors, major donors and patrons, corporate and principal partners, fundraisers and supporters, came together for a night of fine food, special guest performances, inspiring awards, and connection.
We were honoured to welcome the Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Indigenous Health, and Women, Rebecca White MP, and OCRF co-founder Prof. Tom Jobling. Both spoke compellingly about the complexity and urgency of the ovarian cancer challenge, the impact of the disease on individuals and families, and the importance of funding for research and care. Long-term OCRF Celebrity Ambassadors, Clint Stanaway and Lauren Phillips, conducted the evening as our Masters of Ceremony and the audience was treated to wonderful performances
by The Royal Melbourne Hospital Scrub Choir and recording artist and singer, George Maple.
We celebrated some significant contributors to the OCRF’s success with special 25th Anniversary Community Recognition Awards. These highlighted the extraordinary power of community in the fight against ovarian cancer. From corporate partners to grassroots fundraisers, from trailblazing advocates to young changemakers, each recipient represents the collective spirit that has driven the OCRF forward for 25 years – and will continue to power its mission into the future.
The night was also a chance to highlight new multiyear donation commitments from the Quinn Femelle Foundation and the Scoleri family, plus we shared the news of the Mother’s Day Classic Foundation’s sensational 2025 donation of $1.37 million.
In her rousing speech, CEO Robin Penty delivered a call to arms: “Change takes time and persistence. It takes investment and prioritisation at the highest levels. But it also takes courage to speak out, to demand more, to put ourselves and our cause at the centre of public conversation,” she said. The women and girls we honour tonight – the survivors in this room, and those who have passed away – deserve nothing less than our absolute commitment. So, as we look forward to the next quarter century, let’s not settle for gradual change. Let’s deliver transformation, and let’s do it together.”
This message was reinforced by an uplifting short film that brought to life the essence of the OCRF, what we do, and why and how we do it.
The evening was made possible by the generous support of our event sponsors: Bvlgari, Blackhawk Network, Georg Jensen, Ostro, The Big Group, Bird in Hand Wines, and AMPR.
This gala event was a chance to celebrate our collective achievements, give thanks to our dedicated and passionate community, and look forward to the next 25 years as we strive to realise our vision of a healthy vital future for all those impacted by ovarian cancer.
Left: Julia Busuttil Nishimura, Lana Wilkinson and Olivia Molly Rogers attend 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner.
25th Anniversary Community Recognition Award recipients
Outstanding partnerships
Witchery
oOh! Media
Fundraising Champions
Sam Pidgeon
Graham Winbank
Sue Wallis
Advocacy Trailblazers
Jordan Turner
Vali Crues
Jemima Leydon
Unsung Heroes
Lindy and Maurice Spicer and family
Heart and Soul
The Flynn Family
The Herbert Family
Young Changemakers
Chloe McKenzie and Tirion Wilkinson
(Teal 4 Tirion)
Larson Parker
Right, top to bottom: Recipients of Outstanding Partnerships, Heart and Soul and Young Changemakers recognition awards.
In memoriam
It is with great sadness we acknowledge all the women and girls around Australia who lost their lives to ovarian cancer in this year. We carry their spirits with us in our work and the loss of their lives spurs us on to accelerate the rate of progress and change.
Among those lost this year were four beloved OCRF Ambassadors and supporters, women who were determined to fight for better, for themselves and for others.
Vale
Jennifer Estrada: Jen died in August 2024, aged 39 - just 18 months after her stage 4 ovarian cancer diagnosis. She endured extensive surgeries, chemo, a targeted trial drug, and became passionate about raising awareness and funds for ovarian cancer. Jen rallied the support of her extensive network of finance industry friends and colleagues to raise more than $10,000 for ovarian cancer research in celebration of her 39th birthday and in her memory after she passed. Jen is survived by her husband Kevin, who continues to support the OCRF in her memory.
Paige Hayward: Paige passed away in October 2024, aged 56, a little more than eight years after her stage 3C ovarian cancer diagnosis. She was a cherished member of the OCRF Ambassador network, sharing her professional communication skills to drive ideas for improving fundraising, support and growth for the Ambassador program and more. Paige is survived by her teenage son. It was for him that she so vocally and fiercely fought ovarian cancer, determined to survive and see him grow into a young man.
“We carry their spirits with us in our work and the loss of their lives spurs us on to accelerate the rate of progress and change.”
Tora Murphy: Tora was diagnosed at age 24, just seven weeks into a backpacking trip of a lifetime with fiancé, Perry. She flew home to have extensive treatment, including having an 18cm tumour removed and a full hysterectomy. Her family and friends, led by Perry, established O-vary Long Walk for Tora – a 24 hour, 100km walk between the Gold Coast and Byron Bay to raise funds for the OCRF, with Tora herself joining the OCRF Ambassador program and sharing her story via countless media opportunities. Just a few short months after the walk, Tora passed away on Christmas Day, 2024, her life cut tragically short by ovarian cancer.
Olivia Curtis: Liv was a much-loved member of the OCRF Ambassador program who captured the hearts of the OCRF community after sharing her harrowing ovarian cancer story as part of the 2024 EOFY Appeal. A passionate participant in Frocktober, Liv’s sparkling personality shone most brightly for the OCRF during this month, where she donned colourful, fun frocks and fiercely advocated for research and better outcomes for women and girls diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Liv fought bravely for five years post-diagnosis, losing her life in September 2025, aged 41. She is survived by her husband Kevin and three young children, Lilly, William and Violet.
We fight on in their names and express our sincere condolences to the loved ones of these cherished Ambassadors and supporters, and to all those in the community impacted by the loss of loved ones to this terrible disease.
An overview
General information
OCRF is a not-for-profit entity for the purpose of preparing the financial statements.
The Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation Limited (‘OCRF’) is incorporated under the Corporations Act. The address of its registered office is U2 - 59 Keele St Collingwood Victoria 3066. These financial statements are general purpose financial statements which have been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures made by the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) and the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission Act 2012
Explanatory
notes
Significant changes in state of affairs
No significant changes in the state of affairs of the OCRF occurred during the financial year.
Events subsequent to reporting date
In August 2025, The Mother’s Day Classic Foundation announced the outcome of the 2025 campaign with OCRF being the grateful recipients of $1.37 million. Management has deemed the announcement as an adjusting subsequent event in response to conditions that existed prior to year-end i.e. the August 2023 agreement in place as well as the main fundraising event taking place in May 2025.
Notes regarding forward research grant commitments
As part of the ongoing research grants program, as at balance date, the OCRF has forward commitments of $5.735 million to the following:
• University of Queensland (QLD)
• Griffith University (QLD)
• University of Melbourne (VIC)
• University of Adelaide (SA)
• Queensland University of Technology (QLD)
• Monash University (VIC)
• Hudson Institute (VIC)
• Australian Cancer Research Foundation
• Cancer Australia
Operating result
Total revenue for the OCRF for the year ended 30 June 2025 is $9,090,919 including pro-bono of $1,676,030 (2024: $7,685,731 incl pro bono $1,688,978). The operating surplus for the year ended 30 June 2025 is $803,872 (2024 was an operating surplus of $860,428).
Board of Directors’ Declaration Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation Limited For the year ended 30 June 2025
The Directors of Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation Limited (OCRF) declare that in their opinion:
(a) the attached financial statements and notes, comply with the Corporations Act 2001, the Australian Accounting Standards - Simplified Disclosures, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, the Corporations Regulations 2001 and other mandatory professional reporting requirements.
(b) the attached financial statements and notes give true and fair view of the OCRF financial position as at 30 June 2025 and of its performance for the financial year ended on that date; and
(c) there are reasonable grounds to believe that the OCRF will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.
Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Directors made pursuant with subsection 60.15 (2) of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Regulations 2022
Julie Toop (Director) 6 October 2025
Philip Herbert (Director) 6 October 2025
Left: Assoc Prof Simon Chu, Hudson Institute of Medical Research.
Statement of Financial Position
Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation Limited. As at 30 June 2025
8,421,075 7,617,203
Statement of Profit or Loss and Retained Earnings
Corporate partners and donors
Sincere thanks to our corporate and media partners, donors and supporters for their generous contributions. This continued generosity from Australian and international businesses enables the OCRF to maximise our research investment and amplify our message, reaching more Australians than ever before.
Transformation Partners ($500k+)
Major Partners: $50-$99k
Corporate Donors: $25-$49k
Corporate Donors: $10 - $25k
Media Partners: (in-kind value $50k+)
Media Supporters: (in-kind value $10-$50k)
Major Corporate Donor
Mother’s Day Classic Foundation
Witchery
AIA Insurance
Georg Jensen Macquarie Bank
Jaggad
Simson Cards
Lending Associates
Blackhawk Network (BHN)
Digga Australia
Noisy Beast
Nova Entertainment
oOh Media
AMPR
frankie magazine
Silver Lining agency
Donors, fundraisers and supporters
Thank you to our valued private and individual donors and supporters, without whom none of our work is possible.
Principal Patrons ($100k +)
Quinn Femelle Foundation
OCRF Patrons ($50k - $99,999)
Grace Scoleri & Family
Kevin Keohane
Syliva Pavlovich
Major Donors ($20k - $49,999)
Hamid Daghighi
Johnstone Foundation
June Hunter
Loz Copley
Ren Barlow
Robert Howman-Giles
Wales Family Foundation
Bequests
Estate of the late Alexis Joan Rolston
Estate of the late Betty Gooch
Estate of the late Rachel Bamber
Volunteers
Bronwyn Gough
Fiona Farmer
Lauren Brooker
Kate Wyatt
Lindy Spicer
Candice Hung
Misia Hung
Amanda Chew
Abi Lau
Khristy Choo
Simone Gianarelli
Pam Bellette
Lori Phillips
Lyn Johnson
Daniele Soloman
Suzi Klisanin
Sarah Chandley
Danielle Zomer
Rachel King
Allanah Latham
Anna Frisch
Hannah Gough
Heather Miller
Susan Robb
Larry Robb
Reid Mahoney
Emma Antas
Lisa Crocker
Fiona Zito
Nini Govind
Melanie Hayden
Jake Hayden
Tina Foti
Martina O’Connell
Grainne Mullen
Kevin Cho
Suki Paddington
Martin Sexton
Individual and institutional donors ($5k - $20k)
Alistair Forge
Anne O’Neil
Anne-Marie O’Loghlin
Ann-Maree Wubben
Anthony Smith
Catherine Wegener
Cindy and Terry Lissiman
Daniel Shanahan
David McManus
Em Campbell-Pretty
Harry Cohney Charitable Foundation
Hupert Family Foundation
James Family Foundation
Jane Rich
John Beck
John Holding
Ken Cooper
Louise Parsons
Mark Adamson
Mark Hayden Giving Fund
Moroney Foundation
MCCA and Bendigo Bank Charitable Fund
Pat Booth
Paula Pala
River Birch Foundation
Robert and Jasmine Dindas Charitable Fund
Rosemary Hastie
Samantha Butt
Spinifex Trust
Tanya Mendel
The Yorke Family Foundation
Therese Wales and Agnes Legacy
Tracey Adcock
Hall of Fame Frockers
Amy Brown
Bridget Noonan
Bronwyn Clarke Parry
Eilis Hughes
Jasmine Hunt
Jen Sheridan
Jill Berry
Katherine Archer
Kristi Day
Lisa Drake
Liz Lorecnz
Louise Robertson
Megan English
Sam Pidgeon
Tegan Johnson
Corporate supporters ($5k - $10k)
Bunnings Group
Bromelton Market PTY
Darrell Lea
Deloitte
Loan Market Direct
Reliance Worldwide Corporation
Costas Biskotery
Acoustic Logic
Lifestyle Commnities LTD
SA Power Networks Employee Foundation
TwoScots Recruitment
High achieving community fundraisers ($10k +)
Phillip Island Golf Club
Julian & Pete Muldoon
BUMP Dee Why Frock Cancer Event
Chelsea Regan
Jen Estrada (in memory)
Frocktober in the Ballroom 2024
Cabal Club 2024
Frock You Cancer, Freo Tammy Style
Ruth Nortcott - Main Ridge Bowls
Grateful4Daughters
Justin Flynn
Love Your Ovaries
Eidsvold Campdraft Committee
Marilyn Steel
St Paul’s College
Silver Lining Long Lunch
Wear Teale High Tea
Jules and Narelle
O-Vary Long Walk for Tora 2024
Bald for the brave (Jody Euler & Melanie Grenier)
Shine Ball
Juliet Pryke
Sam Pigeon
Grace and Olive style
Anna Kelly
Sylvana Tropeano
Amelia Higgs
Michelle Thatcher
Governance and executive
The OCRF is governed by a Board of Directors, supported by three expert subcommittees. We are grateful to all our Board and Committee members, who give their time freely and passionately to guide the OCRF.
Board directors
Julie Toop Director – Chairperson
Anne-Marie O’Loghlin Director – Deputy Chairperson, LEAP Chairperson
Dr Geraldine Goss – Director
Sharon McCrohan – Director
Philip Herbert – Director, FRAC Chairperson
Colleen Maguire – Director
Dr Nicole Krzys – Director
Dr Paul Kenny – Director, ISAC Chairperson
Karleen Radford – Director
Melanie Hayden (Board observer)
Finance, Risk and Audit Committee (FRAC)
Phillip Herbert – Chairperson
Julie Toop
Ren Barlow
Michael Elsworth
Justin Flynn
Menchi Schneier
Maurice Spicer
International Scientific Advisory Committee (ISAC)
Dr Paul Kenny – Chairperson
Prof Matthias Ernst
Dr Geraldine Goss
Dr Nicole Krzys
A/Prof John Liao
Prof Iain McNeish
A/Prof Anirban Mitra
Prof Samual Mok
A/Prof Honami Naora
Prof Kenneth P. Nephew
Prof Sandra Orsulic
Distinguished Prof Magdalena Plebanski
Lived Experience Advisory Panel
Anne-Marie O’Loghlin – Chairperson
Daniella Brasacchio
Vali Creus
Jemima Leydon
Francine Marques
Sirin Steele
Jordan Turner
OCRF Staff Team
Robin Penty, Chief Executive Officer
Operating, finance and governance
Lisa Panetta – Finance, Risk and Governance Manager
Liceth Rios Monsalve – Office Administrator
Kat Chishkovsky – Database Administrator Research
David Hunt – Research Director, Policy and Programs
Caitlin Leishman – Knowledge Translation Lead
Dr Amy Wilson – Senior Research Advisor
Liam O’Luanaigh – Digital Coordinator
Donor and Partnerships
Georgie Herbert – Donor and Partnerships Director
Aimee Kendall – Business Development and Partnerships Lead (maternity leave)
Ann Marie Carolan – Business Development and Partnerships Lead (maternity leave cover)
Adel Botfield – Donor and Events Advisor
Abigail Russell – Fundraising Marketing and Engagement Coordinator
Communications
Avalee Weir – Senior Communications Director
Jemma Gomularz – Communications and Engagement Lead
Bernaba Balili – Digital Marketing Lead
Kate Grant – Communications Coordinator
Left: See the website for Board and staff team bios.
Right: OCRF staff at the 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner. Back cover: Ovarian clear cell carcinoma.
