Honouring Dedication at the HANCA Gala
Representatives from the Laryngectomee Association of New South Wales (LANSW) and the Hunter Valley Branch (HVB) were honoured to attend the inaugural Head and Neck Cancer Australia (HANCA) Gala on Saturday, 1 November, held at the Strangers’ Dining Room in the New South Wales Parliament House.
Our association was proudly represented by:
– Nigel Balm – Secretary and Treasurer, LANSW
– Binu Pankajakshy Raghavan – Supporter
– Glenda Tierney – Supporter
– Peter Tierney – Vice President, LANSW
– John Lovett OAM – Secretary, HVB
– Dawn Lovett OAM – Vice President, HVB
The Gala’s theme, “Honouring Dedication, Inspiring Generosity,” reflected its purpose—to raise vital funds for research and patient support while celebrating those who make a difference in the lives of people affected by head and neck cancer.
More than 200 guests attended, including cancer survivors and their families, healthcare professionals, donors, and volunteers. The evening began with arrival drinks in the Parliament foyer, followed by dinner and an engaging program of awards, auctions, and entertainment.
Acclaimed journalist and broadcaster Jenny Brockie served as Master of Ceremonies, while James Slattery, Auctioneer and Director at Slattery Auctions and Valuations, led spirited live and silent auctions, helping to raise over $130,000 through auctions, raffles, balloon bursts, and pledges.
Awards were presented to recognise excellence and advocacy in the head and neck cancer community:
– Community Awards – Excellence in Patient Advocacy: Marty Doyle and Tiel Lillenhagen
– Health Professional Awards – Excellence in Patient Care: Assoc. Prof. Dion Forstner and Tracey Nicholls
Beyond the impressive fundraising, the evening highlighted an important message—the journey for head and neck cancer survivors continues long after treatment ends. Ongoing, coordinated support is vital to help survivors manage the complex, lifelong effects of their cancer and recovery.
Head and Neck Cancer Australia remains the only national charity dedicated to providing free, reliable, and easy-to-understand information, education, and support for those affected by head and neck cancer. Each year, HANCA represents over 5,300 newly diagnosed Australians and more than 17,000 people living with the lasting effects of treatment.
To learn more about HANCA or to offer your support, visit https://headandneckcancer.org.au/.