After a year apart, it was very special to have all CMRI’s Fundraising Committees back together again to celebrate the Annual Meeting of Committees – with an extra special surprise.

The Fundraising Committee members travelled from far afield across NSW and ACT to attend the sit-down lunch at Oatlands House. Their annual meeting is a chance to come together to discuss how they have fundraised for research over the last year and to exchange ideas.

This year’s guest of honour was CMRI’s Patron: Governor-General His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley. His Excellency presented a medallion for outstanding service to CMRI’s beloved Community Relations Manager, Jennifer Philps, who was also made a Life Member of CMRI.

CMRI’s Director, Professor Roger Reddel, had referred to Jennifer as “our national treasure’’ and His Excellency said he felt delighted to be in her company.

He then talked about the importance of volunteers.

“Your contribution is critical’’ he said. “You are supporting researchers who are opening up the world for us and to people in other countries. Don’t every think ‘I’m just doing my little bit’. What you do is changing the world. I know there are families out there who are offering silent prayers for your work.’’