The Foundation, now in its 40th year,  having commenced in 1985, continues to make a difference in the field of Medical Research, and it is now the right time to finish the journey.

Research grants awarded in 2025 were increased to $50,000 each of eight. As usual with worthy recipients receiving a grant from the many applications received.  The quality of the submissions was of a very high standard with the assessment process conducted through the Medical and Scientific Research Committee headed by Professor Jeffrey Zajac. The continued support from the team in the Medical and Scientific Research Committee is very much appreciated.

In 2025 we held our fourth service within the Shrine of Remembrance. This was most advantageous and avoided the weather challenge. In 2025 the Service was conducted in the Sanctuary, and we are most grateful. At the conclusion of the Service wreaths were relocated to the statue of Weary. This was the final service held on 12 July 2025, as the Foundation wound up in 2025.  A unanimous Board decision.

The last Annual Symposium went ahead in August 2024 as an online presentation. The clinical presentations were well received. Compared to the face-to-face presentations of previous years, the new arrangements were far reaching and of significant advantage for spreading the word of grants awarded by the Weary Dunlop Foundation. The Symposium was formally opened by Mr Ross Cooke, OAM, Board Chair of Austin Health.

An initiative which commenced in 2020 saw the strengthening of ties between the Foundation and Sir Edward’s former high school Benalla P-12 College. In line with the Path to the Future planning, the school was provided with a grant of $10,000 to continue their scholarship program.

It is appropriate to acknowledge our donors and supporters with reference to regular supporters who are always there for Weary.

The ongoing support by the Foundation executive and members is appreciated and includes their promotion of the legacy of Weary Dunlop.

The Board continues in strong agreement with the wind-up process for 2025, the 40th anniversary of the Foundation with plans detailed in a document titled ‘A Path to the Future’.  The emphasis in recent years has been to increase research funding and this has been done.  Also, the emphasis has been to increase the footprint of Weary and support the wider Veteran Community and hence enhance his legacy.  This has also been done.

My position of Chair of the Weary Dunlop Foundation has continued to be both a delight and a challenge.  The Board has been totally cohesive in the planning process.

Robert Winther OAM
Board Chairman