State funeral for Richard Scolyer to be held at Sydney Opera House
Thousands of Australians will gather at the Sydney Opera House to pay tribute to former Australian of the Year Richard Scolyer.
Professor Scolyer’s wife, Katie Nicholl, confirmed details of the memorial service in a social media post on Sunday afternoon.
“We are honored to share that the State Memorial Service for Richard will be held at the Sydney Opera House on Monday 13 July at 11am,” Ms Nicholl wrote.
“Public tickets can be booked on the Opera House website starting tomorrow. Best regards, Katie.”
The announcement follows Professor Scolyer’s death earlier this month, aged 59, after battling glioblastoma, which he was diagnosed with in May 2023.
Following his diagnosis of glioblastoma, Professor Scolyer, who was named Australian of the Year 2024 with his colleague Georgina Long, received the world-first treatment they pioneered in the treatment of melanoma.
In a statement broadcast on Channel 9 following his death, Dr Nicholl said her husband wanted to live life to the fullest and was always devoted to his family.
“He had a real zest for life, an enthusiasm to try anything, and I think that continued throughout his life,” he said.
“He was very interested in the little things (with the kids): packing sandwiches if they were going for a bike ride or something like that during the day.”
Mrs Nicoll added that the legacy her husband left behind was simple but powerful.
“His legacy (for people) is to go out there and try and do what you can.
“Whatever happens, give it a try.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese previously confirmed Professor Scolyer would receive a state funeral and described him as one of the country’s “brightest lights”.
“Professor Scolyer, the 2024 Australian of the Year award winner, has taken his place in the national spotlight with grit and determination as he publicly tackles glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer,” Mr Albanese wrote.
“This extraordinary man, a cancer specialist who has become his own subject, reassured us every day and lifted us all up in the process.
“He showed us what it means to hope and seek solutions. He showed us how to stand tall against fear and how to stay true to ourselves.
“Now Richard’s journey is over but his legacy will always be with us.
In an open letter published posthumously, Professor Scolyer wants to be “remembered every day as a proud Australian who ‘gave it a chance'”.
“Thank you for the love and support you have shown me and my family,” he wrote.
“You, who I have met during my travels as the 2024 Australian of the Year co-honour, my amazing online community spanning many countries and of course my native Tasmanians, have laughed with me, cried with me and given me the encouragement and support to keep going just when I needed it most.
“I have not sugar coated my journey and I sincerely thank you for providing me with the opportunity and space to share it with you, warts and all.
“I hope I have somehow made the road ahead easier and smoother for others.
“If my legacy were to continue beyond these words, I would be delighted and humbled to be remembered every day as a proud Australian who ‘gave it a shot’ and in doing so inspired others to pursue their dreams and passions with humility, love and compassion.
“With great love and gratitude, Richard.”
Chris O’Brien Lifehouse patient advocate Gail O’Brien previously said the 59-year-old died while in palliative care in Concord, west of Sydney.
The Brain Cancer Research chair at the Chris O’Brien Living House was named after Professor Scolyer before his death.
Professor Scolyer wrote in his letter: “I have never exactly enjoyed such public praise, but I am delighted that much-needed brain cancer research will continue to be funded even after I die.”
“To my research and clinical colleagues, I implore you to remain curious, courageous, and strive to break new ground.
“I would encourage all cancer patients to consider enrolling in research and clinical trials if offered. To the government and the wider community, please continue to fund science and medical research. This is the most effective way for you to make a difference.”
“Perhaps the biggest lesson from these last three years is that cancer does not define us.
“This may be the path we are traveling now, but it is not our entire journey. But a terminal cancer diagnosis provides clarity about what really matters.”
“It shines a light on the importance of relationships, true friendship, and selflessness. While cancer does not define us, our ability to empathize and have compassion for others does.”
