Children’s Medical Research Institute’s Canberra Committee were officially recognised for their decades of service last month with a special ceremony hosted by our patron, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley, Governor-General of Australia, and Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley at Government House.

The Governor-General paid tribute to the “care and compassion that is manifest in the work of all in this room’’.

“The many conversations Linda and I have with people and organisations across the country make me optimistic about our nation’s future,’’ the Governor-General said. “There are many challenges. But we are a people who work hard and who are not afraid to take on big challenges.

“The Children’s Medical Research Institute team and its fundraising committee members and supporters epitomise that.

“CMRI gives hope to so many. That is why your work is important.’’

One of the Canberra Committee’s long-standing members is Carolyn Forster OAM, who is also Vice President of CMRI’s Board. She thanked His Excellency for their support of the Canberra Committee, which was founded in 1960.

“As Patron of Children’s Medical Research Institute, His Excellency has taken a great interest in the achievements and successes of the Institute,’’ Mrs Forster said. “His recognition of all that CMRI has achieved, and continues achieve, is most encouraging and rewarding.

“This recognition allows us to know that His Excellency understands the value of CMRI, appreciates the work and dedication of its Committees, and the organisation’s continued contribution to the health of our children here in Australia. We are very grateful to His Excellency for this acknowledgement.

“Having Her Excellency as the Canberra Committee’s Patron and her support of all that we do, along with her understanding of what it is to be a volunteer, is most gratifying and certainly assists in our determination to raise further funds for the important and vital work of the Institute’s world renowned scientists.

“We are most grateful that Their Excellencies are hosting a reception for the Canberra Committee, our members, donors, and supporters. To be recognised in this way is an honour and one that we all greatly value and appreciate.’’