Media Release

Breast Cancer Research Centre WA is pleased to announce Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC as patron of the organisation.

The Governor of Western Australia has accepted the invitation from BCRC-WA, saying she was ‘delighted’ to be patron of the not-for-profit organisation.

Professor Arlene Chan – founder of BCRC-WA and WA Australian of the Year 2017 – said it was a wonderful acknowledgement of the organisation’s pioneering work in the field of breast cancer research.

“With 1 in 10 WA women at risk of breast cancer diagnosis, it is incredibly encouraging to receive the patronage of our first female governor,” said Professor Chan.

“It is recognition for the tireless and important work undertaken by BCRC-WA since 2000 to continually improve and advance breast cancer treatment and patient care.

BCRC-WA operates the busiest trials unit in Australia, conducting more than 80 breast cancer trials involving more than 1000 WA patients since 2000. The result has been a 50% increase in the survival rate for more than 160 patients.

“As well as giving breast cancer patients in Perth access – for free – to the most advanced treatments years before they become widely available, our work is putting Perth on the global map for breast cancer research.

“BCRC-WA has participated in at least 10 trials which have resulted in improved standards of treatment internationally.

“My constant driver is a dedication to improve the lives and treatment journey of my patients, it’s not about the acknowledgments. However, having Her Excellency as Patron of BCRC-WA places valued recognition and publicly reinforced the importance of our mission.”

BCRC-WA is based at Hollywood Private Hospital in Nedlands. It is a clinician-driven practice, specialising in providing high-quality breast cancer treatment while concurrently undertaking high-quality, cutting edge resea