Sydney Pathologist & Former Australian Of The Year Richard Scolyer Dies Age 59

Former Australian of the Year and world-renowned cancer researcher Professor Richard Scolyer has died aged 59, following a nearly three-year battle with an aggressive brain tumour.

The Sydney-based pathologist, who transformed the treatment of melanoma and later became known around the world for volunteering himself as “patient zero” in a groundbreaking experimental treatment for his own cancer, died on Sunday surrounded by family.

Scolyer was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, in 2023. Rather than accept the limited treatment options available, he worked with colleagues to adapt immunotherapy approaches previously used in melanoma treatment, becoming the first person in the world to receive the experimental therapy before surgery for glioblastoma.

The treatment significantly extended his life beyond the prognosis he was initially given and has helped advance research into one of the deadliest forms of cancer.

Alongside fellow researcher Professor Georgina Long, Scolyer helped revolutionise melanoma treatment in Australia and internationally through decades of work at the Melanoma Institute Australia. The pair were jointly named Australian of the Year in 2024 in recognition of their contributions to cancer research.

In a final message released by his family after his death, Scolyer thanked Australians for their support throughout his illness.

“My final message to all Australians is to say thank you for your outpouring of love and support for me and my family,” he wrote. He said he hoped that by publicly sharing his experience he had “made the road ahead easier and smoother for others”.

Family members said his death had left a “big hole” in their lives, describing him as a devoted husband, father and friend. Scolyer is survived by his wife, Dr Katie Nicoll, and their three children.

“His family meant everything to him and his passing has left a big hole in our lives,” said his brother-in-law, Charles Nicholl.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led tributes on Monday, describing Scolyer as “one of our brightest lights and one of our biggest hearts” and a man who faced his diagnosis with extraordinary courage.

Albanese also announced that a state funeral has been offered to honour of the former Australian of the Year, which Professor Scolyer’s wife, Katie Nicholl, has accepted.

NSW Premier Chris Minns was among the political leaders to pay tribute, acknowledging Scolyer’s immense contribution to medicine and the hope he provided to cancer patients across Australia.

“He faced his disease with optimism, with a smile, and with a deep sense of purpose,” said Minns. “In the end, life is the ultimate legacy. And thanks to Richard Scolyer, Australians have been given more life, more time, more hope.”

Beyond his scientific achievements, Scolyer became a public figure during his illness through his openness about living with brain cancer, regularly sharing updates about his treatment and advocating for greater investment in medical research. His journey attracted national and international attention, inspiring patients, researchers and clinicians alike.