The Judith Hyam Memorial Trust Fund for Cancer Research

Established 1996

Prior to her untimely death from cancer, Judith Hyam was the Lady Mayoress of Parramatta, as wife of Lord Mayor at the time Allan Hyam.

Judith was also a Councillor in her own right as a member of the Environment, Planning and Development Committee and the Works and Park Committee, and she was a delegate to the Western Sydney Organisation of Councils.  Judith was a Patron of numerous organisations, always giving her time, energy and support whenever she could.

Unfortunately the stress and strain took its toll on Judith’s health and her fine public career came to an abrupt halt on 21st August 1990 when she passed away at Mount Druitt Hospital following her long fight with cancer.  Her funeral was probably the biggest ever seen in the city and was attended by the State Premier, other politicians, Judges, Barristers and Lawyers, Senior Police and of course, hundreds of ordinary folk who she knew and loved so well.
 
The shock of this whole tragic affair brought together a small band of friends who resolved not to let her memory pass but to work to raise funds for cancer research in her name.  From this embryo of an idea was born the Judith Hyam Memorial Trust Fund for Cancer Research, which is committed to raising money as a Capital Fund and once sufficient moneys are held, then the earnings will go directly to cancer research.

Many leading citizens and organisations lend their support to the Fund.  These include The Parramatta RSL Club, The Parramatta Art Society, Neil Williams and The Riverside Theatre, and The Parramatta Leagues Club who together with the committee conduct a variety of fundraising functions and events.

The legacy of the committee has continued for many years, and is currently aptly driven by Des Kennedy and a band of tireless workers.  Recently, in late 2005, via their fundraising efforts over many years, with street stalls, concerts, dinners and the like their hard work has accumulated to reach $1 million in donations for cancer research.  What an achievement!  The dedication and energy of these brilliant fundraisers has helped the Children’s Medical Research Institute’s cancer research programs advance in so many ways.