Bootes Foundation recognised for medical research impact

The Gretel and Gordon Bootes Medical Research and Education Foundation (Bootes Foundation) has continued their incredible impact on early-career researchers, donating a staggering $1 million to the John Curtin School of Medical Research over their 14-year association with The Australian National University (ANU).

Their philanthropic efforts have not gone unnoticed, with the Bootes Foundation recognised and awarded 'highly commended' in the 2022 Great Australian Philanthropy Awards by Research Australia. The award is testament to the value of supporting emerging talent in medical research, ensuring the next generation of scientists have the tools and resources they need to make breakthrough discoveries.

Grants from the Bootes Foundation, which range from $10,000 to $15,000, have been invaluable to young researchers at ANU, giving them the opportunities and confidence needed to make a difference in the field of medical research.

Dianne Garner, Director of the Bootes Foundation, says it is the Foundation's mission to support and encourage young people to pursue their academic dreams, just as Gordon had wished for himself.

"Gordon had eyesight difficulties from an early age and this closed off a lot of opportunities for him," says Dianne. "But he was a man who loved to learn. He never had the opportunity to go to university and he wanted to sponsor and encourage young people to try.

"[Gretel and] Gordon firmly believed that early-stage career researchers needed opportunities and confidence to continue with their research, and that research that has 'failed' was still knowledge worth having."

The Bootes Foundation's contributions to ANU have made, and will continue to make, an indelible mark on the world of medical research.