A pioneering pathologist who died too soon has been remembered for adding years to the lives of others through his melanoma research.
The 2024 Australian of the Year Richard Scolyer, who died aged 59 on June 7, was farewelled at a moving state memorial service at the Sydney Opera House on Monday, which included a performance by Midnight Oil's Peter Garrett.
Among the more than 1500 people in attendance at Monday's state memorial service were Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, NSW Premier Chris Minns and Governor-General Sam Mostyn.
Professor Scolyer was remembered as a researcher who not only turned melanoma from a common death sentence into a largely curable disease, but risked his own existence to drive forward brain cancer treatment research.
John Thompson, a surgical oncologist and good friend of Prof Scolyer, reflected on his mate's final contribution to improving the lives of others.
Prof Scolyer undertook world-first experimental treatment based on his and fellow Australian of the Year-winner Georgia Long's melanoma research, despite the risk it could cut his life further.
Immunotherapy before surgery to remove the tumour and a personalised vaccine helped stave off the disease.
"The treatment appeared to greatly slow progression of his brain tumour, and although he ultimately succumbed, he survived much longer than would normally be expected," Prof Thopmson said.
"This novel experiment probably advanced research in brain cancer treatment by at least 10 years in one giant leap … formal clinical trials of this therapy are now in progress and I know this gave Richard enormous satisfaction."
Prof Scolyer was given as little as six months to live in 2023 but survived for almost three years.
He shared his battle on social media in content entitled My Uncertain Path.
Tributes from members of the online community were read during the service, where many thanked him for inspiring them in their own battles.
"Richard was so grateful to the broader community, for your support and kindness … this support would often help to make a difficult day a little easier, and helped him to feel less alone," wife Katie Nicoll said.
"He was proud of the contributions he made to the public health system and to medical research over many decades, and when doctor became patient, Richard experienced firsthand the professionalism and high level of care."
The prime minister reflected on Prof Scolyer's melanoma research, forming part of the more than 1000 peer-reviewed articles he had published through his career.
"We mourn a life cut far too short, but we also give thanks for every life extended and every life still being lived, thanks to the work of which he was such a central part," he said.
Peter Garrett, frontman of the late professor's favourite band Midnight Oil, and singer-songwriter Kate Miller-Heidke performed at the service.
His Australian of the Year medal, scientific instruments, sporting club merchandise, road bike and Akubra-style hat were just some items placed on stage to represent various elements of his life.
Governor-General Sam Mostyn remembered how Prof Scolyer gifted King Charles an Akubra when the monarch visited the Melanoma Institute on his Australian tour in 2024.
The King, along with Queen Camilla, were spotted wearing their new hats on the rest on the trip, Ms Mostyn said.
"Richard lived his life with passion, purpose, joy, pride in others, and an infectious belief in the power of compassion, kindness, and care for others," the governor-general said.
Ahead of the service inside the Sydney landmark, Professor Scolyer's family watched from the steps as cyclists from the Tour de Cure charity rode in.
Prof Scolyer rode 500km for the charity raising money for cancer research while in the final stages of his own fight with brain cancer.
Prof Scolyer penned a letter to all Australians to be published upon his death, where he urged governments and the wider community to continue funding science and medical research.
"To my research and clinical colleagues, I implore you to stay inquisitive and brave and keep striving to break new ground," he wrote.
"To all cancer patients, I encourage you to consider enrolling in research and clinical trials, if on offer."
