A pre-game event held on March 15, 2024, showcased the significant efforts of the Yerbury Lab, drawing attention from alumni and guests before the Illawarra Hawks’ victory against the Brisbane Bullets. The event, organized in collaboration with the Illawarra Mercury and researchers from the University of Wollongong (UOW), aimed to garner support for the lab’s vital work in motor neurone disease research.
Among the attendees were many former Hawks players and their families, who gathered to celebrate the alumni round and honor the legacy of Professor Justin Yerbury, a former player and a pivotal figure in the lab’s mission. Max Lu, Vice Chancellor of UOW, addressed the crowd, expressing pride in the lab’s work, which holds international significance.
Kathy Sharpe, the editor of the Illawarra Mercury, emphasized that the campaign supporting the Yerbury Lab transcends mere financial contributions. “Yes, research costs money, and while we are appealing to Hawks fans and the wider community to donate to the lab through the MND Research Fund, it’s also important for us to use our platform to create awareness,” she stated.
Sharpe highlighted the transformative potential of the research being conducted in Wollongong, continuing the momentum started by Professor Yerbury. “Many people don’t realize that the research taking place right here has the potential to change people’s lives,” she added.
The event successfully raised awareness about the Yerbury Lab and its critical initiatives in the field of motor neurone disease. As the crowd cheered on the Hawks, they were reminded of the importance of community support in advancing crucial medical research.
This appeal coincided with the Hawks’ alumni round, a fitting tribute to a man who not only made his mark on the court but also dedicated his life to finding a cure for a debilitating condition. The collaboration between the Illawarra Mercury and UOW exemplifies how sports and community can unite to foster significant advancements in health research.
For those interested in supporting the Yerbury Lab’s mission, further information can be found through the MND Research Fund, encouraging contributions that can make a real difference in the lives of many. The Hawks’ victory on the court was celebrated not just as a sporting achievement but also as a step towards a brighter future in medical research.
