Scientists at Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) had a rare opportunity to get out amongst their supporters and meet the inspiring young university students who held a gala event in their honour.

For more than 25 years, the students in the University of New England’s Earle Page College have held a fashion parade to raise money for the research done at CMRI. This month, a group of scientists visited the Armidale campus to attend the event and meet the students.

Aisling O’Connor works in CMRI’s Genome Integrity Unit and said it was a fun night with dancing, modelling, auctions, and raffles.

“I have a lot of gratitude for these young students who worked hard to organise the show and spent a lot of time learning their dance routines,’’ she said. “They were so thankful to us when it really is us who should be thankful to them. They are an inspiration.’’

Anton Hsu who works in CMRI’s Telomere Length Regulation Unit described the experience as humbling.

“The amount of effort they put in to raise money for our research is second to none, and I know I speak for all the researchers when I say we are beyond grateful to have them as supporters,’’ he said. “Going up to see the show is a highlight of the year, and I highly recommend it to anyone who has not yet been. Reciprocally, we very much look forward to having the organisers down soon to see our research in person.”