It was an extraordinary celebration when one of CMRI’s biggest events, the Hills Fundraising Committee Mother’s Luncheon, returned this month with guest speaker Lady Lynne Cosgrove.

The annual event was not held during lockdown for the past two years, so it was wonderful to have the Hilton Hotel’s Ballroom full of mothers once again, including Committee President, Patti Payne, who also sits on CMRI’s Board.

Accompanying Lady Lynne to the event was her husband, former Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove. She shared stories of raising her three sons as Sir Peter rose through the army ranks to eventually become Chief of the Defence Force, before then becoming Governor General.

“I thank everyone at CMRI for their amazing work, it really is incredible.’’

CMRI's Director, Professor Roger Reddel, spoke about the latest scientific advances in the labs before a young mother, Liz Burfitt, spoke the recent experience of her daughter Sophia being diagnosed with cancer.

“The only factor that differs between a child that survives and a child that tragically dies is research,’’ Ms Burfitt said.

“Research saved our Sophia, and not a day goes by that I am not grateful for it. Thank you to CMRI for all the work you do in finding treatments and understanding children’s genetic illnesses and thank you to everyone here for supporting this incredible organisation.’’

Mrs Payne thanked all the generous businesses and individuals who donated prizes for a raffle, MC John Mangos and all those who attended to support CMRI - describing it as a “wonderful and magic event’’.