Co-founder of Rare Cancers Australia recognised for her dedication to health equity

The Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon Mark Butler, has announced the recipients of the 2024 Jeannie Ferris Award, which recognises outstanding achievements in improving equity of outcomes for people living cancer.

In Category 1, which celebrates members of the community, the award went to Kathryn Vines, Co-Founder of Rare Cancers Australia. Ms Vines has made significant strides in advocating for and supporting those affected by rare cancers, providing vital resources and raising public awareness.

Category 2, dedicated to health professionals and researchers, had two recipients this year. Professor Deborah Bateson, Professor of Practice at The Daffodil Centre, University of Sydney, and Adjunct Professor at the University of NSW, is recognised for her exceptional work in cancer prevention and education.

Dr Florian Honeyball, a Medical Oncologist and Clinical Lecturer at the University of Sydney School of Rural Health, and Chair of Cancer Services at the Western NSW Local Health District, is honoured for his contributions to oncology care and rural health services.

Minister Butler stated, “I am delighted to announce the recipients of the 2024 Jeannie Ferris Award, which highlights the remarkable contributions of individuals dedicated to improving cancer awareness, research, and support.

“Kathryn has demonstrated unparalleled dedication to advocating for those affected by rare cancers. Her efforts in providing essential resources and raising public awareness have made a significant impact on the lives of many Australians.”

He added, “Professor Bateson and Dr Honeyball are exemplary professionals whose work in cancer prevention, education, and rural health services is transforming lives. Their dedication to equity in healthcare is truly inspiring.”

Professor Dorothy Keefe, CEO, Cancer Australia, said “By celebrating individuals who have made significant strides in this area, we are reinforcing our commitment to ensuring that every Australian, regardless of their background or location, has access to high-quality cancer care.

“This year’s recipients exemplify the spirit of the Jeannie Ferris Award which aims to improve cancer outcomes across our diverse communities. Ms Vines, Professor Bateson, and Dr Honeyball have each contributed to advancing equity in cancer care through their exceptional work and dedication.”

“The creation and development of Rare Cancers Australia has been one of the proudest achievements of my life. From our “kitchen table” beginnings in 2012 we now support thousands of Australians living with rare cancers across the country. That we have been able to build a model of patient care that supports and empowers these patients is one of my greatest joys,” Ms Vines explained.

“I am so proud that the 360-degree care model that I created is now embedded in the DNA of RCA. This award is wonderful recognition for not only my work but for the whole RCA team now so brilliantly led by Christine Cockburn. My heartfelt thanks to Cancer Australia for this recognition, it is fantastic,” she added.

Reflecting on the recognition, Professor Bateson said “I am deeply grateful for this award and humbled by the way it recognises 25 years of working, together with dedicated and passionate colleagues, to help people of all backgrounds achieve their best possible sexual and reproductive health, most recently through supporting the equitable elimination of cervical cancer in our neighbouring Pacific countries and amongst people with disability across Australia.”

Dr Honeyball said “The Jeannie Ferris Award is a really important recognition of work being done to even the playing field for those who struggle to access cancer care and health care more broadly.

“It recognises the efforts of a huge group of people beyond myself. I am incredibly proud to receive this honour in recognition of the work that my colleagues and I have performed in Western NSW in many fields including telemedicine, remote cancer clinic co-design, tele-trials, and remote video assisted chemotherapy. We have measured that our work has improved access to cancer services in rural and remote Australia, but there is still a further deep gap to narrow until we achieve equal outcomes in cancer for all Australians.”

She added, “I hope that the Jeannie Ferris Award and its recipients will inspire governments, health districts, clinicians and researchers to further focus on equity in access and outcomes in health care for a fairer Australia.”

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