Some gifts make an impact today. Others have the power to help shape what comes next.
That was the spirit of a special Friends for the Future gathering hosted by the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation, bringing together members of the Foundation’s bequest community with Her Excellency the Honourable Caroline Wells, Governor of Tasmania.
Friends for the Future is a bequest community created by the Foundation to recognise and connect people who have chosen to leave a gift to the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation in their Will. It is a way for us to thank these generous supporters and share the difference their gifts can help make for generations to come.
A gift beyond your lifetime
The Royal Hobart Hospital is part of all our lives. From the first moments of life through to some of our most difficult days, it is there for Tasmanians when they need care.
The Foundation raises funds to support the hospital and the wider healthcare community, funding medical research, vital equipment, education, innovation and patient care initiatives.
Every dollar raised stays here in Tasmania.
At the gathering, Her Excellency reflected on the impact of the Foundation’s work.
“Just this year, the Foundation has already invested more than a million dollars in healthcare and medical research in our state. This has included medical research projects focused on cancer, multiple sclerosis, neurological disorders, heart disease and other major health challenges.”
It is this kind of work that a gift in your Will can help continue - supporting the research, resources and ideas that could shape healthcare for Tasmanians in the years ahead.
Planning for what matters
Having a valid Will is one of the simplest ways to make your wishes clear and give greater certainty to the people you love.
It can also be a chance to think about the things you care about and the kind of future you want to help create.
The Foundation’s vision is a Tasmania where everyone has a valid Will. For those who choose to include the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation in their Will, that planning can also become a lasting contribution to the health and wellbeing of future generations.
A gift does not need to be large to be meaningful. What matters is choosing to leave something behind for a cause that matters to you.
Shaping the future, together
The Friends for the Future community is a powerful reminder that the future of Tasmanian healthcare is something we can all play a part in shaping.
A gift made today may not be felt for years to come. But one day, it could help fund a researcher pursuing a new discovery, give a clinician access to vital technology, support better care for a child, or help a Tasmanian family receive the care they need close to home.
To everyone who has chosen to leave a gift in their Will to the Foundation, thank you.
Your generosity is a gift to the future - and to generations of Tasmanians who will rely on our healthcare system in the years to come.
Learn more about leaving a gift in your Will below.
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Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation
In 2022, the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation invested $450,000 in a Tasmanian research project exploring whether tiny changes in the way we move could reveal the earliest signs of dementia.
This week, that research took a major step forward.
The digital assessment tool at the centre of the project, TasTest, has received a further $2.5 million to accelerate its development and move it closer to becoming a commercially available tool for assessing dementia risk.
It’s a powerful example of why early investment in medical research matters. A research idea that began with support here in Tasmania is now being developed towards a tool that could one day help identify people at increased risk of dementia 10 to 20 years before cognitive symptoms appear.
At the centre of the research is Professor Jane Alty, neurologist at the Royal Hobart Hospital and Professor of Neurology at the University of Tasmania. Her team brings together clinical neurology, dementia research, artificial intelligence and digital technology to investigate whether subtle changes in movement and other functions could provide an earlier indication of dementia risk.
And it all starts with a deceptively simple question:
What if the first signs of dementia aren't in your memory?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease of the brain, involving the build-up of abnormal proteins and the loss of brain cells and their connections. It is responsible for around 60–70% of dementia cases.
One of the challenges with Alzheimer’s is that changes in the brain can begin many years before someone notices problems with their memory or thinking.
Professor Alty’s research is exploring whether subtle changes in movement and other functions could provide an earlier signal - potentially 10 to 20 years before cognitive symptoms appear.
“We know that movements at the speed of your walking, the speed of your hand movements and so on, they're gradually slowing down,” Professor Alty explained during her recent interview on 7HOFM’s Your Hospital.
Previous research has found that the speed and rhythm of hand movements can change during the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s-related brain changes.
The question was: could those tiny changes be measured using technology?
Meet TasTest
The answer is being explored through TasTest - designed to investigate whether subtle changes in movement and other cognitive functions can help identify people at increased risk of dementia.
One part of the assessment involves a person tapping their fingers and thumb together while a computer or smartphone records their movements.
The technology can analyse details such as the speed and rhythm of the tapping - changes that can be too subtle for the human eye to reliably detect.
But TasTest goes beyond movement.
The technology combines clinical neurology, dementia research and artificial intelligence to analyse a range of functions, including hand movements, reaction time, memory, visual processing, speech and language.
Artificial intelligence can then help identify patterns that may be difficult to detect through observation alone.
The aim isn't to diagnose dementia from a smartphone.
Instead, TasTest is being developed as an additional source of objective information that could help clinicians identify people who may need further assessment, or support conversations around modifying dementia risk.
For the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation, it’s an exciting example of what can happen when promising research is supported in its early stages and given the opportunity to grow.
Thousands of people are helping to build the evidence, and the technology hasn’t been developed in isolation.
More than 5,000 research participants across Tasmania and interstate have helped the team develop and test TasTest, including around 2,000 people who have completed the assessment each year over the past six years.
"All of the team are very grateful for all the support the foundation has given us, and I think people would like to see that the money they donated to the foundation's Major Project grant has been used wisely and carefully to take a Tasmanian-developed tool to a global population and turn research innovation into a commercial product," Dr Alty said.
Researchers are comparing TasTest results with established measures of dementia risk, including blood biomarkers, clinical diagnoses and cognitive assessments.
This allows the team to investigate whether the patterns detected by TasTest correspond with other established indicators of dementia risk.
The research has also attracted wider recognition, with TasTest selected as a finalist in the 2026 Australian Museum Eureka Prize for Excellence in Interdisciplinary Scientific Research.
The recognition reflects the project's combination of artificial intelligence and clinical neurology - two very different fields coming together to tackle a complex health challenge.
Why earlier detection matters
The potential significance of earlier detection is that it could create a much larger window for action.
Professor Alty says evidence suggests that up to 45 per cent of dementia cases may be preventable or delayed, highlighting the potential importance of identifying risk earlier, when there may still be an opportunity to address modifiable health and lifestyle factors.
“Changes associated with dementia begin in the brain many years before a person notices problems with their memory. TasTest is designed to detect subtle movement changes during this period,” Professor Alty said.
“The greatest opportunity in dementia is prevention.”
But TasTest is not intended to replace doctors or provide a diagnosis.
“If you are concerned for yourself or for somebody else, the first stop should really be going to your GP,” Professor Alty said.
A GP may arrange cognitive screening and further assessment if appropriate.
Instead, TasTest is being developed to complement clinical expertise by giving doctors another source of objective information that could help support clinical decision-making and identify people who may need further assessment or focused risk modification.
If you would like to support incredible projects like this one, click the button below.
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Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation
The start of 2026 has already been an incredible period for the Royal Hobart Hospital Foundation, with more than $1 million invested into vital healthcare initiatives and research at the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH).
Thanks to the generosity of our community, this funding is already making a meaningful difference - supporting life-saving research, delivering essential equipment, and improving care for patients across Tasmania.
Advancing Life-Changing Research
A major focus of this investment has been supporting local medical research, with over $762,000 committed so far this year.
These projects are tackling some of the most serious and complex health challenges affecting Tasmanians, including brain cancer, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, RSV, Alzheimer’s disease, and prostate and lung cancers. Funding is also supporting innovative new approaches to challenges such as respiratory monitoring for pre-term babies.
Each of these research initiatives brings hope - helping to deepen our understanding of disease, improve treatments, and move us closer to better outcomes for patients and families.
Delivering Essential Equipment
In addition to research, more than $258,000 has been invested in new medical equipment that is already improving day-to-day patient care.
Recent purchases include an X-ray chair for scoliosis patients, two Airvo 3 breathing machines for children in the Emergency Department, and an ultrasound machine for older persons’ acute care. A cardiac stress treadmill and an intestinal ultrasound machine are also enhancing diagnosis and treatment, while a high-frequency oscillatory ventilator is supporting critically ill children.
These tools are empowering clinicians to deliver faster, safer, and more effective care when it matters most.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning. In the second half of 2026, the Foundation will continue to invest in the incredible work of RHH researchers, clinicians, and volunteers.
Together, these efforts reinforce one simple truth - there are more than a million reasons to celebrate the impact of the Royal Hobart Hospital and its Foundation.
Thank You for Making This Possible
Every donation to the Foundation plays a crucial part in improving healthcare for Tasmanians.
With your continued support, we can fund the next breakthrough, provide life-saving equipment, and make an even greater difference in the lives of our community.
Together, we are changing lives.
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Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation
Here at the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation, we are excited to start the year funding a raft of incredible medical research projects, with more than $310,000 going to local research teams. The funding will support four new projects focusing on:
Together with our support of existing longer-term research projects, brings our total investment in Tasmanian medical research to more than $760,000 this year alone.
Uncovering the genetic drivers of brain cancer in Tasmanians
One of the new projects being funded this year investigates potential genetic links to glioblastoma , the most aggressive form of brain cancer. Tragically, there is only an average survival rate of 15 months for those who develop this disease.
This research will help provide much-needed answers to families, identify those at risk of developing the condition, highlight areas of treatment and methods of prevention.
This project is funded by a special grant established in honour of Luke Cunningham, a much-loved young Tasmanian who lost his life to brain cancer last year. Luke’s family, friends and the wider community united to raise $25,000 to continue Luke’s legacy and commitment to support brain cancer research. You can read more about the Luke Cunningham Grant here.
The Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Stephanie Furler, said the Luke Cunningham Grant was a powerful example of community-driven impact.
“Luke’s legacy is now helping drive cutting-edge brain cancer research in Tasmania,” she said. This project honours his memory and brings hope to families facing one of the most devastating diagnoses.”
Support research that benefits all Tasmanians
The Foundation is thrilled to provide funding to four incredible research projects this year.
“Together, they show the breadth and depth of medical research happening in Tasmania. These investments support patients, families and future generations of Tasmanians who will benefit from better diagnosis, treatment and care.” Steph Furler explained.
If you are interested in helping fund more amazing research you can:
We would be thrilled to hear from you and would like to thank you for your continued support.
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Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation
For nearly 30 years, the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation has proudly supported world-class medical research that has delivered life-changing outcomes for Tasmanians and beyond. From funding the development of pioneering technology that helps preterm babies breathe, to supporting projects that have unlocked breakthroughs in cancer care and dementia detection, and so much more in-between. Thanks to the generosity of the community along the way, people like you have helped shape advances in healthcare that truly matter.
Now, the Foundation is entering a new chapter. We are proud to announce that the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation is now the official fundraising charity for the Royal Hobart Hospital.
Uniting research and patient care
This exciting change brings together innovative Tasmanian medical research with exceptional patient care, enabling the Foundation to enhance the RHH’s already outstanding service and elevate it to new heights.
By managing all donations on behalf of the Hospital, the Foundation can ensure that every donation is used where it is most needed and has the greatest impact.
With your support, we will continue to fund world-leading research, while also expanding into areas that directly enhance care at the RHH, including:
A coordinated approach to giving
By combining hospital fundraising with research support, donors now have a clear, simple way to contribute. Gifts can be directed to specific areas of care, such as cancer or cardiac services, or allocated to where the need is greatest. Every donation strengthens care and fuels progress for Tasmanian patients.
We have a dedicated committee of Hospital and Foundation leaders who will oversee the distribution of funds, ensuring strong governance and alignment with the Hospital’s most urgent clinical priorities.
A milestone for Tasmanian healthcare
“This is a significant step forward,” said Steph Furler, Foundation CEO. “Tasmanians have always been generous in supporting medical research, and now gifts can be directed to improving care at the bedside. Together, we can make the Royal Hobart Hospital even stronger for our community.”
How you can help
Every donation makes a difference, whether large or small. You can contribute online at rhhresearchfoundation.org, by calling (03) 6166 1319, or by visiting the Foundation’s reception desk at Royal Hobart Hospital, Main Reception, Ground Floor, 48 Liverpool Street, Hobart Tasmania 7000.
Together, we can continue to improve health outcomes for all Tasmanians now and into the future.
As we observe World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly on July 28, it's a fitting time to recognise our older population's vital role in our communities and the importance of supporting their health and well-being. The Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation is deeply committed to this cause, with one of our key strategic goals focusing on "Aging Well." Here, we highlight some of the groundbreaking research we've funded to improve the lives of older Tasmanians.
Advancing trauma care for older adults
Thanks to the Foundation's generous support and its donors, the "Older Trauma Under Triage Study" (OTUTS) led by Dr. Adam Mahoney has made significant strides in improving trauma care for elderly patients. This project evaluated the effectiveness of an Older Trauma Screening Tool at the Royal Hobart Hospital, aiming to reduce the under-triage rates of older trauma patients.
Dr. Mahoney's research found that older trauma patients were often under-triaged, leading to more extended emergency department stays and increased complications. By implementing a new trauma call system and developing a tailored screening tool, the study set the stage for better triage and treatment protocols, ultimately enhancing outcomes for older patients.
Reducing medication risks in hospitalised older adults
Dr. Mohammed Salahudeen's project focused on reducing the use of anticholinergic drugs, which can pose significant risks to older adults, including increased hospital admissions, falls, and dementia. This innovative study designed and implemented an intervention to lessen the use of these drugs in hospitalised older adults.
The project significantly reduced the burden of prescribing anticholinergic drugs and improved medication safety for older patients at the Royal Hobart Hospital. The success of this intervention paves the way for ongoing improvements in medication management, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of elderly Tasmanians.
Integrated care for older surgical patients
Professor Richard Turner's project aimed to improve care for older patients undergoing emergency surgery by integrating General Medicine and General Surgery services. Recognising the high risk of complications, and the need for coordinated care, this project evaluated the impact of a new model of care at the Royal Hobart Hospital.
The study found that proactive medical input significantly reduced in-hospital complications and improved functional recovery for older patients. By providing comprehensive and coordinated care, the project enhanced patient outcomes and demonstrated potential cost savings for the healthcare system.
These projects highlight the Foundation's dedication to advancing research that directly benefits our aging population. As we celebrate World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, we are reminded of the importance of investing in research that supports the health and well-being of our elders.
Join us in our mission to improve the lives of older Tasmanians. Your support can lead to innovative solutions and provide hope for our elderly community. To contribute to our groundbreaking research, contact the Foundation's office at (03) 6166 1319 or donate online.
In the heart of Tasmania, extraordinary tales of survival and scientific innovation remind us of the power of hope and the importance of advancing medical research.
Today I'm reaching out to share with you a story of incredible courage and a groundbreaking study that promises to transform stroke care and recovery for individuals like James Mackey.
James, a vibrant and active Tasmanian, suffered a severe haemorrhagic stroke at the age of 29. His sudden affliction and the harrowing journey that followed highlights a stark reality: a stroke can strike anyone, anytime, with life-altering consequences.
James was diagnosed with a severe haemorrhagic stroke—an unexpected bleed within his brain that left doctors scrambling to save his life. The prognosis was grim, and as James lay in an induced coma in the ICU for three weeks, his family faced the harrowing possibility of losing him forever.
Thanks to swift medical intervention and the relentless spirit of James and his loved ones, he embarked on a remarkable recovery journey, overcoming immense odds to regain aspects of his independence.
James's story is not just one of survival; it's a beacon of hope and a testament to the urgent need for innovative stroke research and care.
The sad reality is, Tasmania faces a unique challenge, sharing the highest incidence of stroke per capita in Australia. This unfortunate distinction means our community also leads in navigating the long road of stroke recovery.
The need for local, groundbreaking research has never been more critical.
It underscores our collective responsibility to support initiatives that promise better outcomes for our fellow Tasmanians confronted with this daunting journey.
The Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation is at the forefront of such innovation. We are excited to fund and support a pioneering study focusing on continuous blood pressure monitoring in severe acute stroke patients.
This research, led by Ms. Felicity Charlier and under the guidance of Professor Prue Morgan from Monash University, aims to uncover critical insights into how blood pressure fluctuations during early post stroke therapy, which includes mobilisation activities like rolling, sitting and standing, affect recovery outcomes.
With the potential to better understand stroke rehabilitation, the study leverages a novel Monash Engineering continuous blood pressure prototype device, with the future aim to guide clinical practices towards enhancing functional recovery in severe stroke patients.
Imagine the impact of this research on patients like James and countless others across Tasmania and beyond.
By identifying optimal mobilisation strategies, we can improve recovery trajectories, reduce the incidence of secondary complications, and elevate the quality of life for severe stroke survivors.
Your support can directly contribute to the success of this vital study and the development of new therapeutic approaches that will benefit individuals grappling with the aftermath of a stroke.
The journey ahead is filled with promise, but we need your help to make it a reality.
Your generous donation to the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation this tax time will enable us to continue funding essential research like Ms Charlier's study, bringing hope and tangible improvements to stroke care and recovery.
Please consider donating to the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation before June 30.
Together, we can harness the power of medical research to create a future where stories like James's are not only about survival but about thriving after a stroke.
Your support does more than fund research; it elevates the wellbeing of Tasmanians dealing with these health issues, enhancing the quality of life across our community.
Thank you for your continued support and generosity.
Warmest regards,
John Stubley
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation
P.S. The urgency to advance stroke research and care has never been greater. Can you join us in this critical mission with a tax-deductible donation today? Let's work together to save lives and transform the future of stroke recovery.
The Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation's Research Matters speaker series returned on Wednesday, 15 May 2024 to spotlight kidney health during Kidney Health Week. Local specialists Dr Mathew Wallis, psychologist Carolyn Baker, and nurse practitioner Lisa Shelverton joined our expert panel to lead a dynamic seminar to a room full of Foundation supporters keen to find out more about the latest advancements in kidney disease.
In a focused session, the panel covered the latest kidney research, innovative prevention strategies, and advanced treatments emerging in Tasmania. Their discussion aimed to educate on supporting those with chronic kidney disease, emphasising new lifesaving advancements.
The speakers provided essential insights on recognising kidney disease symptoms, understanding its progression, and the latest therapeutic approaches to enhance patient outcomes. This informative seminar underscored the significant local contributions to kidney health, equipping attendees with the knowledge to make impactful changes.
We thank St Lukes for their continued support of the Research Matters series and for providing a perfect setting at their new Wellness Hub.
If you enjoyed this Research Matters seminar, don't miss out on our future events! Secure your spot for our upcoming Research Matters - Pain Week event on 24 July 2024.
Are you just discovering our Research Matters speaker series? Check out our other talks on dementia, prostate cancer, and heart health.
I am delighted to be introducing myself to you all – I’m John Stubley and I will be joining the Foundation as Interim CEO, while Steph Furler is on maternity leave.
Over the past few years, I’ve held leadership roles at Hobart City Mission and Optia Disability Services. These were rich and rewarding roles thanks to the incredible support of people within our community who helped us transform lives.
My experience has shown me that Tasmanians are some of the most compassionate and caring people, who are always happy to chip in to help others. As I join the Foundation, I can already see that our community of supporters are just as giving and are really committed to improving the health of others.
I look forward to meeting many of you at our upcoming events, which are listed on the back page, and to hear your inspiring stories. Together, I know that we will continue championing groundbreaking research projects that make real differences in people's lives.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime if you would like to chat. I can be reached on 03 6166 1319 or at john.stubley@ths.tas.gov.au.
Warm regards
John Stubley
Are you ready for an incredible challenge? The Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation has an exhilarating opportunity for you! The Foundation is thrilled to announce that it is the charity partner for the 2024 Cadbury Marathon and we’re inviting you to join in the fun.
The Cadbury Marathon is held on 7 January 2024 in Hobart and offers a range of running events to suit everyone’s fitness levels, from 1km to full marathons, so anyone can take part.
Here’s how to get started:
Sign up: Click here to register for the 2024 Cadbury Marathon
Fundraise: Create a fundraising page and share it with your networks to support your efforts
Train and prepare: Start your training journey and get ready to make a difference
Impact: Every step you take gets us closer to our goal of improving the health and wellbeing of Tasmanians
So, get ready to lace up those runners and set yourself a new challenge for 2024.
If you would like tips on how to fundraise while you run, please reach out to the Foundation team on research@rhhresearchfoundation.org.
We look forward to seeing you on race day!
For years, the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation has been dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of our community by funding innovative medical research. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we have been able to make incredible strides towards a brighter and healthier future for local Tasmanians.
It was through this generosity that a Tasmanian doctor was able to pioneer a less invasive way to treat premature babies with breathing problems. In 2012, the Foundation provided funding for Professor Peter Dargaville and his team at the RHH Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to develop this novel procedure, using a catheter instead of inserting a breathing tube, to treat newborns in respiratory distress. Now known as the Hobart Method, it has since changed the lives of thousands of the most vulnerable babies around the world.
Twins Emmy and Mila, who were born 10 weeks early, had their lives saved by this revolutionary treatment. Looking at them now you couldn’t tell them apart from any other nine year old!
The twins' mum Lauren said that “It was an easy choice to opt for the Hobart Method as opposed to the more invasive alternative.”
She explained that the traditional method would have “required intubation, which is a tricky procedure in itself, and carries risks of pneumonia, as well as possible damage to the lungs and vocal cords.”
The revolutionary and less invasive Hobart Method “left no short-term damage and we’ve seen no long-term issues in the girls,” a delighted Lauren explained.
The Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation urgently needs your help to keep funding ground-breaking research to change the lives of local Tasmanians like Emmy and Mila.
Your gift to the Foundation will allow us to develop new treatments and cures for heart and lung conditions in premature babies, cancer, cardiac disease, dementia, and other conditions that impact our local community. Your support will be vital to improving the quality of life for Tasmanians living with a variety of health conditions.
So, this tax time, please donate to the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation and allow us to keep funding innovative research right here in Tasmania. Your local gift can truly make a difference and help save lives.
P.S. The Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation needs your help, now more than ever, to fund medical research that directly benefits the health and wellbeing of Tasmanians. Can you make a tax deductible donation today to help save lives?
On Friday 7 April over 2000, people descended on Hobart’s Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens to take part in the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation’s 11th annual Easter Egg Hunt. Despite a slightly gloomy forecast families eagerly flocked to the gardens early to make the most of their Good Friday.
Enthusiasm wasn’t in short supply as children deciphered the clues that led them on a quest throughout the gardens until they stumbled upon a hoard of chocolate Easter Eggs. The children were greeted with appearances by Freddo Frog, Caramello Koala, and even the Easter Bunny!
Special thanks to the incredible partners and sponsors that helped make this event possible - Chemist Warehouse, Optus, Pulse Hobart, and the Spirit of Tasmania.
We are delighted to announce that the event raised over $30,000 for local medical research which means that the Foundation will be able to fund three more incubator grants in 2024. This is a phenomenal effort and something that the Foundation couldn’t have achieved without the support of the Hobart community!
Congratulations to the following people who won prizes in the Foundation’s raffle and ‘guess the quantity’ competitions on the day. Prize winners have been contacted directly.
We look forward to seeing you all again next year!
